A RESTAURANT'S Sunday lunch has been crowned the best in the country in The Observer Food Awards 2007.

The Fence Gate Inn, Fence, was praised for its value for money.

It was also commended for its commitment to using local produce and using ingredients which come fresh from the farm.

The award, which was voted for by the public, was announced on Sunday.

The newspaper had said that customers had chosen the Pendle pub because of the low costs in comparison with the large helpings of roast beef, potatoes, root vegetables, greens and Yorkshire puddings.

The accolade is the latest in a string of awards for the Fence Gate Inn, which won five major awards in just two days.

The awards include Best Sunday Lunch 2007 in The Observer Food Awards, National Free House of the Year 2007 from The Publican, and three awards in the North West Fine Food Awards 2007 including Best Cumberland Sausage, Best Sausage with Natural Additives and Supreme Champion in the sausage category.

Proprietor Kevin Berkins, a former butcher, said: "It has been an amazing few months for The Fence Gate.

"These awards are our Oscars, and we are extremely proud of what we've achieved.

"This is a huge accolade to the team and a true reflection of the hard work that everyone's put in."

He added: "In the last ten months we have won 19 awards.

"It is my 25th year at Fence Gate and this is certainly a great way to celebrate."