Pendle country pub lands tasty reward

The Fanny Grey, in Salterforth, received the coveted Les Routiers plaque after impressing a mystery diner from the national guide.

Staff at the country pub said they were “thrilled to bits” with the accolade.

They are now setting their sights on the even more sought-after Les Routiers rosette, which considers standard of service.

Landlord David Whiteside said: “We had no idea that someone had been, then a week later we got a phone call saying we had got the plaque.

“I was chuffed when I found out, but we’re old British so we don’t get too excited.

"The chef was thrilled to bits, it’s an ego boost for him!”

David and his wife Jean, both 41, took over at the High Lane pub in 2007 after having been occasional drinkers there.

David previously worked as a manager in the field of civil engineering.

He said the old landlord asked him if he fancied taking on the pub when he was there having a drink with his dad one evening.

After a discussion with his wife, he decided to go ahead.

The pub has gained in strength since the couple took over. David pulled off a coup by recruiting head chef Craig Simcoe, previously of the multi-award-winning Angel Inn, at Hetton, near Skipton.

The chef said he was used to winning awards, but it was nice to get one at a new establishment.

And he put the success down to having a “good boss” and team made up of people who get on well with each other.

David added: “We have got a maitre d’ now, so we’re hoping to improve our service and get a rosette.

“It might be difficult to get a Michelin star being a pub, but I’d like to give Gordon Ramsay a run for his money.”

Les Routiers has an extensive collection of UK establishments, from speciality food producers and farm shops to bed and breakfast establishments, hotels, restaurants, cafés, pubs and inns.

To qualify for membership, places must offer clean, comfortable facilities, good quality food or drink, good service and value for money.