Two Shropshire restaurants have been ranked alongside eateries owned by Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal in a prestigious new guide, writes Andy Richardson.

The Good Food Guide says Mr Underhills, and La Becasse, both in Ludlow, are among the top 50 restaurants in the UK.

They feature prominently in an exclusive and illustrious list that is topped by Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay, Marcus Wareing and Raymond Blanc.

Today Judy Bradley, who runs the Michelin-starred Mr Underhills with her husband, Chris, said she was delighted that their venue was rated the 32nd best in the UK.

Mrs Bradley said: “We’re absolutely thrilled. We have appeared in this list for a number of years and continually strive to improve. We do not take our place for granted and are always looking for improvements. We’ve just taken on a new member of staff in our kitchen, so we’re developing a number of new dishes. We are very pleased with our inclusion in this list.”

Will Holland, head chef at the Michelin-starred La Becasse restaurant, said he was delighted to have made his first appearance in the list.

Mr Holland, who has received a number of accolades during the past two years, said: “We’re working really hard at La Becasse to give people interesting food using the best quality ingredients. It’s been an amazing year for us, with inclusion in the Michelin Guide and this. We’re working to improve all the time.”

• Mr Underhills and La Becasse will be participating in the Ludlow Food Festival, from Friday to Sunday, with its chefs giving demonstrations at Ludlow Castle. Order your Shropshire Star from Thursday to Saturday for a series of great Ludlow Food Festival offers and giveaways.