STAFF at a picturesque village pub were in high spirits after being told they had won a coveted award from customer review website Tripadvisor.

Glasses were raised at The Mug House in Claines after it received a 2014 certificate of excellence from the site which allows people to post reviews of restaurants, pubs, hotels and attractions.

Happy customers have given it an average of 4 and a half out of five stars and a 90 per cent recommendation.

The certificate of excellence is only given to businesses which consistently achieve outstanding reviews on the website.

Landlady Judy Allen said she was over the moon customers had left reviews calling the 700-year-old pub "A rare gem of a pub", "An oasis of calm and quality" and even "The best pub in Worcester".

Mrs Allen, who has run The Mug House for 25 years, said: "I'm thrilled, absolutely thrilled to receive the award because it just shows what a strong job we are doing with the pub

"People are always telling us we have a peaceful and friendly place and they just seem to enjoy themselves here.

"We're all very proud."

She has had the certificate framed and it will be given pride of place opposite the bar.

The pub, which sits within the consecrated grounds of St Baptist Church, Claines, was recently the venue for trainer Dr Richard Newland's celebrations after Pineau De Re's Grand National win earlier this year.

Almost 400 people enjoyed an open bar to toast the win.