A BED and breakfast based in Bewdley has been ranked among the 25 “most friendly” establishments in the country.

Bank House, in Lower Park, was one of the 25 finalists shortlisted from more than 2,500 bed and breakfasts which were inspected by motoring association the AA. The overall winner was River Garth bed and breakfast in Penrith.

Bank House owner Fleur Nightingale received the award for being one of the finalists at a ceremony held last month at St Ermin’s Hotel in London.

Judges said guests at Bank House would “always find a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.” They added: “Fleur takes a personal interest in all the people she meets and is keen to help them in any way she can. Her love of cooking ensures they are treated to a good hearty cooked breakfast with fresh ingredients.”

Ms Nightingale said: “I am both surprised and honoured to have been nominated for this award. I have been running this business for 23 years and still love welcoming guests from all walks of life.”

Simon Numphud, head of AA hotel services, added: “The AA bed and breakfast awards is a great way for us to recognise and reward the dedication, passion and hard work of B&B owners throughout the country and to highlight all that is great about staying in a B&B.”

This year’s ceremony was the 21st annual edition of the AA awards – in which winners of seven categories including guest accommodation of the year, funkiest B&B and friendliest B&B are announced.