A Tooting craft beer shop is in the running to scoop Bar of the Year at the London Lifestyle Awards, it has been announced.

Craft Tooting, in Broadway Market off Tooting High Street, is one of 36 establishments across the capital who have been nominated for one of 14 categories.

Asked how he felt about being shortlisted for ‘Bar of the Year’, Mark Wescott, owner of Craft Tooting, said: “I was surprised and very flattered as there are some great bars in the same category as us!

“It was a nice feeling!” he added.

He also talked about what it means for a unique venue to be recognised as a contender for the category and said: “I guess all the years of 'research' I have spent in bars around the world soaking up the atmosphere and noting things I liked, things I didn't like so much have all come together in the way I wanted Craft Tooting to work.

“Firstly I just wanted a place I would like to go for a beer, a place that offered plenty of choice!”

Wandsworth Times:

IPA tasting at Craft Tooting. Photo: Mark Wescott

Aside from being nominated for ‘Bar of the Year’, Mark said Craft Tooting’s Oktoberfest last year was a “crazy, pivotal moment for us because we hadn’t been open too long” and both him and the staff felt vindicated for their efforts because many people turned up to party with them.

He added: “The same can be said for our first birthday party which was an amazing night with non-stop queues out the door.

“And the fun times is shared with the staff as we like to have a drink while working I think it's massively important, as long as the line isn't crossed!”

Two-time winners of the category, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town are in the running yet again among some very tough competition.

But while Mark appreciates that there is something on the line, he says they do not see it as being better nor worse than anyone.

He said: “We just try to get the best beers in we can and have a good chat both about beer and life whilst doing so.

“We do try to be as unique as we can, whether it's in the beers we offer of the events we put on.

“And of course having two draft taps in a bottle shop is pretty cool.”

Wandsworth Times:

Some of what's on show at Craft Tooting. Photo: Mark Wescott

But when asked whether he had future ambitions for Craft Tooting, regardless of what happens, Mr Westcott said he is focused on discovering new beverages.

“I'd also like to see my owned beers on our shelves, we already had two special ones brewed for our first birthday party and a further special coming for this year's Tootopia.

“Long may it continue!”

Voting is open until midnight on October 14 before the announcement of winners at The Brewery on November 14.

To vote, you can visit: www.londonlifestyleawards.com/vote

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