A WELFORD watering-hole has been named best dining pub in Warwickshire in a prestigious annual rating book for the third time in three years.

The Bell Inn was recognised in the Good Pub Guide 2017 having previously placed in the book six times in 11 years.

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

The pair, who both have many years experience in the leisure industry, moved to the pub in 1995.

Mr Ombler said: "I am over the moon. I am so proud of my team and grateful to the people who nominated us.

"I was a surprise because you might think they would give it to other people as we have had it before. It does show that if you keep doing it right you will win it again.

"When we won the 2016 one I kissed the head chef on her forehead."

He added: "We have a very low staff turnover and this helps the consistency."

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 2017 edition of the Good Pub Guide, known as a national institution and bible for pub-goers, was published by Ebury Press on Thursday, September 8, and includes ratings for more than 5,000 pubs.