A FAMILY-run Bewdley pub and restaurant is in the running to scoop a collection of prestigious food awards.

The Hop Pole Inn, Cleobury Road, has been shortlisted for four gongs - “restaurant of the year”, “outstanding contribution to food”, “customer service” and “best use of local produce”.

The potential food honours are part of two separate awards co-ordinated by tourism body Visit Worcestershire and lifestyle magazine Worcestershire Life.

The pub is run by husband and wife team Daren and Louise Bale who said they were “thrilled” to be shortlisted having only just celebrated their first year in the pub.

Following a refurbishment programme it has been a busy 12 months for the couple who have brought new jobs to the area and established the Hop Pole as a restaurant renowned for its food and local produce.

Mr Bale said: “The whole team has played a huge role in what has been a whirlwind 12 months. To be in with a chance of winning up to four food awards is one of the proudest moments of my career.

“I am delighted as our customers have really embraced what we’re trying to do in terms of using local produce, supporting Wyre Forest farmers and offering an affordable menu.

“I hope that winning blend will turn into an award-winning combination later this month.”

The Hop Pole will be visited by a number of mystery diners in the coming weeks. They will be scrutinising a number of food and customer service-related areas and then feed back to the judging panels.

Mrs Bale added that the Hope Pole Inn had even bigger plans for 2013 to tempt more people from across Wyre Forest to the Bewdley pub.

“To be shortlisted for four awards is fantastic. To us, it shows we’re doing something right in terms of our service, the relaxed atmosphere and our food.”

Mr and Mrs Bale and the staff team will be attending both award ceremonies at the end of October.