THE Stonecross Brewers Fayre restaurant on Stonecross Lane, Golborne has achieved a top score in a national, kitchen quality awards scheme, operated by the pub chain restaurant.

Completely unbeknown to the restaurant managers a mystery auditor monitored everything from the delivery, storage and handling of food to the presentation of the dish before it reached the customer.

The inspections form part of the Brewers Fayre's ongoing kitchen standards programme entitled 'Kitchens of Excellence'.

Area manager for the Stonecross John McGrath said: "The kitchen of excellence programme, now in its fourth year, plays a crucial part in ensuring that our restaurants maintain the highest standards and continue to deliver Britain's best pub food."

Colin and Pauline Moore, managers of the Stonecross, add: "We are thrilled that we have achieved such a high score. It is a credit to all our team members who have worked hard to maintain the highest standards throughout the kitchen. Our kitchen teams are often the unsung heroes of the restaurant and this award recognises their achievements."

Colin and Pauline will attend a regional presentation lunch, where they will receive a commemorative plaque and each member of the kitchen team will receive a monogrammed apron.