A TAVISTOCK restaurant says it is in esteemed company after being named in the top 100 of the country's restaurants.

Browns came 97th in a list which included Heston Blumenthal's Michelin Star restaurant the Fat Duck in Berkshire and Gordon Ramsay at Claridges, London.

The top establishment in the National Restaurant Awards, run by the Restaurant Magazine —business magazine of the year — and Big Hospitality, was the Ledbury in Notting Hill, London, led by Australian chef Brett Graham.

This is the first time that Browns Hotel has been included in the list and owner Phil Biggin said: 'We are in esteemed company.

'It is the first time that we or any restaurant in Tavistock has been in the top 100 and this year we are the only one in the PL postcode area. Tavistock is promoting itself as a "foody" town and this award is massive for us and the town.'

Mr Biggin said he was delighted for everyone who was involved in the restaurant, which was shortlisted from 50,000 eating establishments.

Helena King, the hotel's director generale, said: 'It reflects on everyone from John Hooker, executive head chef and all his team in the kitchen, to the restaurant staff and the housekeeping and front of house team. Without the staff and our loyal customers we are nobody.'

Some 300 judges were involved in visiting restaurants, which were shortlisted on their reputation and customer references.

Mr Biggin said this sort of publicity did Tavistock the world of good and brought in new custom to his business and other food outlets and businesses in the town.