BEST RESTAURANT AWARD LEAVES WALLED GARDEN ON A HI

The Walled Garden Bistro Wine Bar, at Barton Grange Hotel, has been named the best restaurant in the North West at the Hi-Life Dining Awards 2011.

The awards, held at the Hilton in Manchester on Friday 28 January 2011, are considered to be the leading food and drink awards in the industry, with nominees and winners voted for by members of the Hi-Life Dining Club.

The glittering ceremony, presented by Gordon Burns from BBC North West Tonight, recognised eleven winners and Walled Garden restaurant manager, Laura James, and head chef, Nick Hands, proudly received the accolade.

Ian Topping, managing director of Barton Grange, said: "I'm particularly pleased for Laura and Nick and their staff because this award is based on the votes of real customers. We understand that there were 100,000 voters, so to have won ‘Best Restaurant in the North West' is a great achievement.

"We've recently invested a significant sum in the Walled Garden to provide a more contemporary and stylish setting whilst retaining the cosy, welcoming atmosphere we are known for. We've also upgraded our daily menu which offers simple, perfectly cooked dishes using the best, local and seasonal ingredients.

"As wine lists can often be formal and confusing, we've included some handy tips to help our customers find something they like, at a price that is right for them. It's proving to be the perfect recipe for our customers who have voted for us."

The Walled Garden Bistro Wine Bar fought off tough competition from other high-quality venues in the region, including The Villa in Wrea Green. Lisa Lund, Hi-Life's commercial director, commented: "The calibre of entries this year has been exceptionally high with lots of new restaurant members of Hi-Life taking part.

"I would like to congratulate all winners and thank everyone for making this year's Hi-Life Dining Awards such a truly fantastic event."