A RESTAURANT near Malvern has been awarded a coveted Michelin accolade.

The Inn at Welland has been given the Michelin Bib Gourmande, an award for excellence in the restaurant trade, which is only a rung below the prestigious Michelin star.

The inspectors from Michelin describe the venue at Hook Bank as "light, open and stylish, with charming features and designer touches," and of the food they say "Pub classics sit alongside more adventurous dishes - all tasty, generous of portion and sensibly priced".

David Pinchbeck, co-owner with his wife Gillian, said: "We're delighted to be honoured by Michelin this way. We and our staff have worked hard to make the Inn at Welland a success."

Before taking on the Inn at Welland, Mr and Mrs Pinchbeck ran the Verzons country house hotel near Ledbury.