Pictured: (l-r) Owners Roger Narbett, Jo Narbett and Business Partner and Head Chef Paul Hohan

Quintessential English pub, The Bell & Cross in Clent has just been awarded two top accolades in the 2012 Good Pub Guide - one national award for the 'Heart of England Pub of the Year' and one regional award - for the fifth consecutive year - for the 'County Dining Pub of the Year' in Worcestershire.

The Good Pub Guide, now in its 30th year, compiles its rankings from numerous reports; entry to the Guide is based on reviews by 2,000 of the Guide's regular readership.  This year the Guide is divided into nine regions across the UK.  The Heart of England is one of the nine regions in the national awards representing the counties of: Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire. 

Bell & Cross owner, Roger Narbett said: "It's a fantastic achievement for The Bell & Cross, the team and for putting the beautiful village of Clent on the map once again. We were up against a lot of competition within the seven counties for the 'Heart of England' award and we're delighted to win; we're equally delighted to win the 'County Dining Pub of the Year' in Worcestershire for the fifth consecutive year. These awards recognise the hard work put in by every member of the team; without whose support these awards would not have been possible. 

"In the ten years we've been at the Bell Cross the tastes and eating trends of our diners has changed a lot; they have become much more sophisticated, whilst searching for a unique dining experience. During these years we've strived to consistently offer a quality dining experience, combined with friendly and attentive service and value for money and I believe these awards recognise this." 

Commenting on The Bell & Cross' latest accolades Fiona Stapley, joint editor of The Good Pub Guide said: "This charmingly well-kept place is clearly run with loving care and attention to detail.  Service is friendly and attentive, with everything geared to ensure that you have a most enjoyable visit." 

Based in the idyllic setting of Clent at the foot of the Clent Hills, The Bell & Cross is full of tradition freshened with a touch of the contemporary; a combination equally evident within the menu. With delicious dishes sourced from local produce, The Bell & Cross continues to be a favourite with locals and regulars alike with many diners travelling from miles around to experience its unique character.    

The Good Pub Guide 2012 is published by Ebury Press and is available now.