A PEEBLES Bar is celebrating a swift one-two this week, following success at a national awards ceremony.

Bartender Carris Donaldson from the Bridge Inn was named Bartender of the Year at the Scottish Licensed Trade Association's awards ceremony in Glasgow. The pub came second overall in the Community Pub of the Year category.

Over 200 premises across Scotland were assessed by judges prior to the awards night.

Speaking to the Peeblesshire News, Carris said: “It was great to be nominated in the first place, but I was shocked to win. It's nice for the pub to get the recognition too. It genuinely is a team effort.

“All our staff are a massive part of our success, all the guys here work really hard to build up that relationship with the customers that keeps them coming back.”

The bar arrange trips to the races and brewery tasting sessions for regulars and even host 'Techie Tuesday' nights at the venue, to help older customers with their phones, ipads and other devices.

Bar manager Nikki Cassidy said: “Younger people may take those kind of things for granted. But for some of our older regulars, it can be life-changing. It helps them to keep in touch with friends and family overseas. Through Skype, they can see and chat to grandchildren on the other side of the world. Michael Boyd hosts our tech nights, and they have had a fantastic response so far.”

The Bridge Inn are also heavily involved with local charities. They have raised money for Hay Lodge Hospital and are currently raising money for the Peebles Christmas Lights Association. Nikki has also recently abseiled off the roof of Murrayfield Stadium to raise money for The Stroke Association.

Nikki said: “As Manager of the Bridge I am extremely proud of our wee pub. I would like to congratulate my customers and team, especially Carris for putting Peebles on the map for great customer service and great craic.”