A RIBBLE Valley pub is relishing being named winner of the best burger category in a top national competition.

The Three Fishes in Mitton walked away with the prestigious gong at Restaurant Magazine's 2007 UK Best Dishes competition, held in London on Sunday.

The event was attended by nearly 300 chefs and restaurateurs, to celebrate culinary excellence.

The Three Fishes won its category with a Ribble Valley rump steak accompanied by an English muffin, chips cooked in dripping, tomato relish and pickles.

Eighteen awards were presented at the ceremony held at the Honourable Artillery Company, near Shoreditch.

Simply Heathcotes in Wigan, owned by acclaimed East Lancashire chef Paul Heathcote, also picked up award for best fish and chips.

Paul Wootton, Restaurant Magazine's editor, said: "It is a great showcase for the culinary talent we have across the UK."