Diane Dobson told us that the venue was built back in 1737and even was the local coroner’s court in the mid-1800s.

It is a listed building and continues to have bags of character and personality.

Diane said: “It would be fascinating though if walls could talk and tell us about what has happened there in the last 300 years or more.

“The building will be 300 years old in 2037 and we hope to still be here to throw a BIG party.”

In the meantime, they are celebrating the news that they are in the top six pubs in the area, as voted by our readers.

She added: “We are absolutely thrilled as we work hard to give our customers the food and service they want and are delighted that we seem to be pleasing them.

“Without the lovely customers we have there would no point carrying on.

“We appreciate all their feedback and are so grateful that they have put their appreciation into practice by voting. As long as people are enjoying our food and drinks we are happy to carry on putting our efforts into doing our best and hope that their support continues for many years to come.”

Bosses at the pub say last year they invested in improving the kitchen and made additions to produce consistently good food.

When asked what makes the pub unique, Diane said: “It is tucked away off the main road, we are located right next to a park and on walking route and are ideally placed for people to pop in for a drink or meal whilst also enjoying some exercise with their dogs or children.

“In bad weather the open fire and cosy atmosphere offer refuge from the outside elements. We actually have a couple of walking groups who set off from outside and return to us to have a drink, rest and, if necessary, dry off afterwards.

“We love the character of the building and so do our customers. We want people to feel welcome, almost ‘at home’.”

Steak nights, grill nights, curry nights and even a Tastes of the World culinary adventure on a Saturday night are just examples of how they try to offer something different.

One thing that sets Duke William apart is that it was the location of a world film Premiere.

Diane said: “Two customers had, during the pandemic, written and then later produced a short film: The Girl in the Yellow Dress.

“Several customers and members of staff had parts in the film. The premiere showing was held in our marquee in front of 50 invited guests with a party to follow. Anything Hollywood or Cannes Film Festival can do, Ainsworth can do as well!”

Diane says their most popular drink is Moorhouse’s White Witch which is accompanied by Sharp’s Doombar and, at the moment, Timothy Taylor’s Boltmaker.

Diane added that winning the Pub of the Year would be great.

“As this title is awarded on votes from our customers it would mean the world to us to be crowned Pub of the Year, It would be confirmation that we are on the right lines in our efforts to provide the best possible service to our customers.”