A Norfolk pub is celebrating a clutch of stars from the AA.
The 17th Century Chequers Inn at Thornham, near Hunstanton, has been awarded three AA Silver Stars and the restaurant received an AA Rosette for culinary excellence after an AA inspection.
The Chequers, on the A149 coast road, was completely refurbished 10 months ago by owners Agellus Hotels.
It now boasts 11 luxurious bedrooms, a rustic bar, contemporary dining room and an al fresco dining courtyard.
The AA Stars and Rosettes scheme was first established in 1908 and is one of the most prestigious awards recognised nationally.
It awards establishments based solely on AA hotel and restaurant inspectors' critical evaluation with no influence from hotels, restaurants or other guides.
AA Silver Stars recognise hotels that offer a superior level of quality within their star rating, high standards of hospitality, service and cleanliness.
The Chequers has achieved a very high 87pc merit score from the AA which helps compare properties with the same number of
Stars.
AA inspector Steve Jones praised the Chequers team along with service that exceeded expectations, well executed food and smart bedrooms that offer a high degree of comfort and excellent bathrooms.
Martin Edwards, general manager at the Chequers, said: 'We're delighted at the Chequers to be recognised with such a prestigious award, Silver Stars have only been awarded since late 2015 and therefore places us in a very special select group of wonderful
properties.
'All the credit must go to my team for their endeavour to exceed guest expectations and focus on what's important to each visitor we welcome.'
There were turbulent times at the Chequers two years ago, when previous owner Horatio Inns, of which celebrity chef Marco Pierre White was a director, went into administration because of 'cash flow problems'.
The Chequers was put up for sale, along with the nearby Lifeboat Inn, Wayford Bridge Inn, at Wayford Bridge, and the Bridge Inn at Acle.
Prior to its spell under Mr White, the Chequers was renowned for two things - its pizzas and a ramshackle piano which stood at the roadside outside. While the piano has gone, pizzas are still on the menu.
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