"THINK of it as Stratford-upon-Avon, but nicer, and without the coach parties." That is the description Alcester has been given by the Guardian newspaper in a long-running series on the country's greatest places to live.

Every week, the broadsheet's 'Let's move to...' series chooses a new location and highlights why readers should consider moving to that particular place.

In the article, Alcester is described as: " The Nuneaton of the Roman empire, a lowly, lonely outpost of the civilised world.

"Alcester itself has all the Ye Olde Midlands-y prettiness you might want – crooked, half-timbered crocks, stout, ruddy-faced Georgian brick town houses, and a high street of butchers and sweet shops, and community spirit should you want it."

A special mention is given to the Bluebell pub and the Turks Head as well as the "delightful" Church Street, Priory Road, Evesham Street and Henley Street.

However, the article does warn that flooding might be an issue in the low-lying town.

A woman named Muriel Williams, who is quoted in the article, said that Alcester has: "A great community spirit, civilised and friendly folk and a wide range of activities and societies to join. The one drawback is no one wants to move, so property is hard to come by."

Alcester Mayor mark Cargill said: "I read the Guardian article with interest. I have always thought that Alcester was the best kept secret around, but perhaps not now.

"Alcester is and always has been a welcoming town and it's gratifying to see it recognised nationally. We pride ourselves on our inclusive nature and that people who come to visit our town, for example during the festivals we hold, may wish to relocate here.

"It is therefore important for everyone that the character of the town is not diluted through over-development and its attractiveness is maintained.

"We have a thriving community spirit and newcomers are welcomed to contribute to and benefit from the many events and societies in the town."

Owner of the Bluebell pub Duncan Taylor added: “We were delighted that the Guardian billed The Bluebell, Henley as ‘something special’ in their recent article.

"We feel very privileged to have been recognised over and above the other great places to eat out in the area. We have always had lots of customers from the Alcester and Redditch area and are sure that this will bring in even more.”

To view the article in full visit: theguardian.com/money/2014/mar/07/lets-move-to-alcester-warwickshire.