A Welford-on-Avon pub has been named best dining pub in Warwickshire in a prestigious annual rating book for the fifth time.

The Bell Inn was recognised in the Good Pub Guide 2016 having previously placed in the book on four occasions since its opening.

The pub, managed by business partners Colin and Teresa Ombler, has about 1,200 visitors per week during summer.

The pair, who both having many years experience in the leisure industry, Colin having ran night clubs and Teresa working in hotels, moved to the pub in 1995 after viewing more than 80 properties.

Mr Ombler said he was “proud” with the award.

Everybody is passionate about what they do,” he said.

“We all want to please people. We have very loyal customers.

“Nobody gets it right all the time.

“We listen to customer feedback and we learn from it. I am never complacent -I think about how we can improve and maybe that is why we have won five times.

“We have a stable team, they do work very hard and I do push them.”

He added that consistency and training were very important and staff are often asked to try new menu items and eat in the restaurant.

The pub has exposed beams, flagstone floors, oak furniture, open fireplaces and a beautiful beer garden complete with a water feature.

According to local history, the 17th century pub in Binton Road was visited by William Shakespeare on his way back to Stratford- upon- Avon.

The 2016 edition of the Good Pub Guide, known as a national institution and bible for pub-goers, was published by Ebury Press on September 3, and includes ratings for more than 5,000 pubs.