A VILLAGE gastropub has been flying the flag for the North-East after scooping its fourth national accolade in less than six months.

The Bay Horse, in Hurworth, County Durham, is celebrating again after being named as one of 28 new Michelin BIB Gourmand restaurants.

The County Durham pub is in good company, with Heston Blumenthal's Hinds Head Hotel, in Bray, Berkshire, also a holder of the award, which is given for high quality cuisine at moderate prices.

The pub is the only establishment in County Durham and Cleveland to receive the honour and the first ever to be listed in the Darlington area.

This is the fourth national accolade for The Bay Horse in as many months, after it last year received listings in The Morning Advertiser's Top 30 gastro pubs of 2009; Michelin Eating Out in Pubs guide 2010; and Sawday Pubs and Inns Edition 7.

The grade II-listed coaching house, which dates back to the 1400s, was bought by business partners Marcus Bennett and Jonathan Hall 12 months ago. The pair gave the pub a 250,000 refurbishment, which included a new kitchen.

Mr Hall said: "We are absolutely thrilled with this award as we are the only new additions in Durham and Cleveland this year, the first and only venue in Darlington to receive it."

Mr Bennett added: "We are truly overwhelmed to receive this award, particularly as it highlights the quality and price of our food - factors that are so important in the current economic climate."