When The Good Food Guide is published in a few days’ time, one Shropshire couple will be thumbing through its pages more quickly than most.

Chris and Judy Bradley are the doyens of the county’s culinary scene, having been around since the start of its rise to become a national hotbed for fine food and drink.

In recent years, they’ve been ranked the best restaurant in the West Midlands by the illustrious guide to cuisine.

And, with innovation and attention to detail a perennial on the menu of their Dinham Weir eaterie, there’s no reason to think that will change.

The couple have a passion for local food and drink that is unmatched. And they are also determined to create a legacy so that Ludlow continues to thrive for generations.

Chris Bradley says: “We keep going and doing our best. But one of the things that we are keen on is helping the younger generation.

“We are actively involved in Skillbuilders, for instance, a project that helps set young school leavers on the path to a career in food and drink. We have a 16-year-old with us presently, who shows great promise.”

Chris and Judy Bradley moved to the town almost by chance, after leaving a Michelin-starred eaterie in East Anglia.

Their restaurant was named after a cat, long since passed, though the duo remain firm fans of feline company.

Mr Underhills opened in Ludlow on Valentine’s Day 1998 and has become one of the UK’s most successful restaurants.

It’s spent a decade in the Michelin Guide, a feat that few restaurants have matched, while Chris’ innovative recipes have provided inspiration to other chefs, and been much copied.

The couple strive to improve each year, refusing to rest on their laurels, and making sure new recruits are trained in the Mr-Underhills-manner.

Judy says: “It’s all about hard work. We never get complacent and never take things for granted.

“We’ve got a great team that puts in a huge effort. We care that our customers receive the best experience possible.”

Chris adds: “We’re very consistent. We’re not a flash in the pan.”

After more than ten years at the top of their game in Shropshire, that rings truer than ever.

By Andy Richardon