A RESTAURANT near the Black Mountains has taken gold at a regional award ceremony.

White Hayward Farm Restaurant and Bar is the best in the West Midlands according to the Countryside Alliance (CA).

The family-run venue in Craswell beat a number of eateries to claim the local food award.

Philip and Pauline Goodwin opened the restaurant three years ago after converting a former cattle shed.

The pair use their own livestock and produce at the restaurant, which even acts as a fish and chip shop during some evenings.

“We are over the moon because it’s the first award we’ve won since we’ve started,” said Mrs Goodwin.

“We haven’t really pushed ourselves through advertising. We wanted to do it through word of mouth and reputation so that’s why were are so chuffed with this.”

Judges praised the “passion, drive and determination” of the family and said the community appreciated their efforts.

They insisted the couple deserved national success, and will get their chance at a grand final later this year.

Legges of Bromyard also tasted success at the CA Awards, taking silver in the Daily Telegraph traditional business award.