AN Old Town bed and breakfast has been declared on a par with the best hotels in Europe.

Bill and Pat Ferris, who run Okus House in Bath Road, Old Town, are still reeling in shock from the lavish praise they received in The Times.

Columnist Caitlin Moran was so impressed with their hospitality skills that she felt compelled to share them with millions of readers.

She wrote: "There isn't a spendy hotel in Europe that's fundamentally better than the Okus B&B in Swindon, which is £50 for double bed and breakfast.

"The bed is comfy, they do kippers, cereal or fruit salad for breakfast, and there's a chippy down the road for your tea."

After declaring complete satisfaction, she concluded: "There isn't much more a guest needs if checking in at 7pm and out at 10am."

In business for 14 years, Pat, 64, said: "I cannot believe it and none of my customers have said anything. But it is very flattering to be considered on a par with The Ritz or The Savoy."

Unlike many B&Bs, Pat operates a takeaway friendly policy. She said: "I hate cooking so no evening meal is served here. Instead I let guests bring back food from the fish and chip shop or pizza parlour."

Ever the perfect host, Pat even provides the cutlery and plates.

Having consulted with cleaning staff, Pat thinks the journalist made her stay in June.

She said: "It was not our biggest room, but we pride ourselves on comfort and cleanliness."

A cleaner also found a short note in the room where she slept saying: "Breakfast and room spot on."

Said Pat: "It is a fantastic feather in our cap. I wonder what our competition will say."