28847/1A PUB in Whitley is celebrating a double success after being judged top in its field by two leading food guides.

The Pear Tree, in Top Lane, was named Best Pub in the Country by the AA Pub Guide at a presentation at the Carlton Tower Hotel in London.

The news came just before owners Martin and Debbie Still learned they are to be awarded the title of Wiltshire Dining Pub of the Year by the Good Pub Guide.

Mr Still, 39, said: "We are obviously delighted because it's such a prestigious award and, being a national award, it takes us to another level."

The award, which is assessed by a mystery diner, looks at a range of criteria including quality of food, service and setting.

The title is highly coveted as it virtually guarantees an increase in trade for the winner.

Mr Still and his wife Debbie, 39, are well prepared for the imminent rush of new customers, with plans already in place to broaden their customer base beyond west Wiltshire.

"National coverage and press has taken us out to a wider audience. We need to take it out to a different market, not just a local one," he said.

"The food is a big pull but we do not play about with it too much. We are driven by seasons and very much by the local market."