THE landlord of an award-winning Cricklade pub has been charged with assaulting a woman.

Mark Whittam, 54, was bailed and is due to appear at North Wilts Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Police were called to the Red Lion in High Street at around 3am on Sunday. Mr Whittam runs the pub with his wife Tracey, 37.

In June, the pub hosted what is believed to be the country's first vintage beer festival.

The 16th century inn has won numerous accolades.

Last year it beat off fierce competition to be named the best traditional pub in the South West region.

Wiltshire Police spokes-man Steve Coxhead said: "Shortly after 3am on August 15, police attended an incident at the Red Lion Inn. As a consequence a 54-year-old local man was arrested and subsequently charged with assault against a female."