A MALMESBURY hotel chef has retained his Michelin two-stars for the seventh year in a row, making it Wiltshire's only restaurant to hold such an award.

The Michelin Guide Awards for 2015 were released at the end of September and Whatley Manor's head chef Martin Burge was absolutely thrilled to discover he had kept his two-stars for The Dining Room for another year.

Mr Burge joined Whatley Manor Hotel and Spa, based near Malmesbury, when it opened in July 2003. He set up the hotel's fine dining restarant The Dining Room and the causal brasserie Le Mazot.

He was awarded his first star in January 2005 followed by a second in 2009.

"I am absolutely thrilled that we’ve retained our second star for 2015," said the head chef. "I recognise that this achievement would not be possible without the complete dedication and passion of my team.

"Going forward, it’s about continuing the evolution of our modern dishes whilst keeping to their classic roots. It’s very important to me that we give our guests the depth of flavour in every dish."

The 2015 guide continues to be a benchmark for the finest cuisine in the UK, with almost 4,000 eating establishments included. Whatley Manor is one of only 21 establishments in the UK to have two stars.