STAFF at a country pub are celebrating after winning a top accolade for the second time.

The Bear and Ragged Staff at Bransford, near Worcester, has been named Worcestershire Dining Pub of the Year by the Good Food Guide 2006.

the Guide says: "They make much use of local produce in the food here and readers are highly appreciative of both what comes out of the kitchen and the welcome from the friendly staff."

"The cheerful interconnecting rooms give fine views over rolling country. In winter you'll find an open fire and in fine weather, the garden and terrace are enjoyable places to sit."

The news broke while licensee Lynda Williams was away on holiday, but fellow licensee Andy Kane said they were delighted to have won the award for the second time in three years.

"It is a great achievement and a glowing testament of the hard work that goes on behind the scenes," he said.

"We use local produce from local suppliers as much as possible, including vegetables and salad from our own garden."

Mr Kane said the pub's two-tier menu included simple bar meals and a full la carte selection of special dishes.

"We pride ourselves on our fresh fish, which comes from Cornwall and the Birmingham fish market," he said.