A RESTAURANT which sits on the Herefordshire border is celebrating being awarded a Green Michelin Star.

Pensons at the Netherwood Estate has retained its Michelin starred status but in addition has been given the award which recognises restaurants with the best sustainable practices.

Only restaurants that combine culinary excellence with 'outstanding eco-friendly commitments' are awarded Michelin Green Stars.

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Pensons head chef Chris Simpson said: “It’s the pinnacle for any chef to be awarded a Michelin star and I’m honoured to have one for another year, not to mention winning my first Green Star.

“At Pensons I take great pride in showcasing local produce and it gives me great pleasure to work with the gardening team, not to mention local suppliers such as Little Pomona Cider, Legges, and Huntsham.

“Having an open kitchen means I get to see diners enjoying that produce and the meals my team has cooked for them.”

Michelin Stars are awarded for 'outstanding cooking, including flavour, technique, expression, and consistency both over time and across the entire menu'.

Restaurant owner Peta Darnley said: “Pensons prides itself on its admirable ‘estate to plate’ ethos.

"These Michelin awards are a testament to the talent and commitment of the entire team at Pensons and the Netherwood Estate.

“Where possible Pensons grows, forages, or farms much of its own produce and our kitchen garden allows chef Chris and his team to have the freshest ingredients possible, which is immediately noticeable in the flavours on the plate.

"It also eliminates packaging, food miles, and environmental ‘nasties’.”