Staff at a pub in Stourport are "incredibly grateful" and "proud" after finishing in the top 10 at a prestigious awards ceremony. 

The Black Star on Mitton Street was one of only 10 establishments shortlisted for Best Traditional Pub in the Midlands at the Midlands Food, Drink and Hospitality Awards 2024. 

Members of the team, including pub owners Maria and Andy Gooding, attended the awards final last month and, although they didn't win, they said it was an honour to be shortlisted amongst such tough competition. 

Hand-painted shoes to represent the pub Hand-painted shoes to represent the pub (Image: The Black Star)

Ms Gooding, aged 48, said: "It was really good fun and we're just incredibly grateful to have been shortlisted. 

"It was a really proud moment and it was so lovely to be able to celebrate alongside the team who all work so hard. 

"It isn't always about winning and it was great for the whole hospitality industry to come together and get the recognition it deserves." 

The couple have been running the independent pub for about 10 years but officially bought the premises five years ago. 

As well as offering a variety of food and drink, the pub also supports the community by sponsoring local sports teams and loves "giving back to the town". 

The pub was shortlisted for the award after being nominated by customers with the team being grateful for all their support over the years. 

For the ceremony in Birmingham, Ms Gooding even had special shoes handmade by a seller on Esty. 

The hand-painted heels were full of symbols to represent Ms Gooding and the pub including the couple's dogs, prosecco, the pub building, logo and more. 

The Black Star in Mitton Street The Black Star in Mitton Street (Image: The Black Star)

Ms Gooding added: "I absolutely love shoes and an incredibly talented woman customised and hand painted my shoes for the ceremony. 

"The shoes were designed between the two of us and I hope I get to wear them to many more awards as it is fantastic for our pub to get national recognition. 

"It also helps us to give back to the community as by being nominated, it has helped put Stourport on the map and I hope it will help bring trade into the town."

For more information about The Black Star visit www.theblackstar.co.uk/