An anonymous gastronome has published a comprehensive guide to eating out in Shropshire’s best known known gourmet town – but his identity remains a mystery.

People in Ludlow have been trying to unmask the fearless critic, who calls himself Mr V Pernickety, without success. Attempts to unveil him have spilled onto the worldwide web with one local chef issuing denials that he is the culprit.

Henry Mackley, a former BBC Master Chef contestant, was rumoured to be behind the new guide but yesterday posted messages on Twitter denying any involvement.

Mr Pernickety’s guide pulls no punches in describing those that fail to match up to his high expectations.

He said: “All Mr Pernickety’s reviews of eating places are untainted by financial consideration and his identity is a fiercely guarded secret.

“It is unusual as a guide of this sort in that praise is given strictly when merited and clear disapproval expressed when deserved.”

Mr Pernickety is effusive in his praise for Ludlow’s two Michelin-starred restaurants, The Merchant House and La Becasse.

And he adds: “Mr Underhill’s is currently the reigning gastronomic champion of Ludlow, Shropshire and probably the whole of the Welsh Marches.”

However, he is damning about standards at others. He describes Aragon’s, of Church Street, as utilitarian and adds: “Mr P went for the Mexican Feast pizza and wished he had gone to Mexico instead, or even just the freezer aisle in Tesco.”

Today a spokeswoman for Aragon’s hit back and said: “We didn’t think very much of what he wrote. Our Mexican Feast pizza is popular and we’ve never had complaints.”

Mr Pernickety’s £2.50 guides are available at The Castle Bookshop, The Period House Shop, Price’s Bakery, The French Pantry, Deli On The Square, Material or by e-mailing info@misterpernickety.com