The Wenlock Arms in Hoxton has won the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) North London’s Pub of the Year award - five years after its imminent closure looked likely.

Property developer Wenlock LLP withdrew its controversial application to convert the pub’s upstairs community room into two luxury duplex flats in July 2012.

Nearly 1,500 regulars and fans had signed a petition against the plans for the Wenlock Street boozer, where David Beckham used to go with his late grandfather.

The pub had become popular with real ale fans after Steve Barnes and Will Williams reopened it as a free house in 1994,

But a three-year battle against property developers ensued in 2010 when property developers took an interest in it.

The accolade was delivered after 1,600 CAMRA) members cast their vote between six shortlisted pubs.

Former owner Steve Barnes came to present the award to the current licensee Marcus Grant.

John Cryne, north London CAMRA branch chairman said, ‘This is a classic story of rags to riches then back to rags and finally riches.

“Since re-opening in 2013 the Wenlock Arms has gradually re-built its reputation for good beer and a warm welcome.”