LUDLOW and South Shropshire has it off to a T when it comes to making a top class cuppa.

Three establishments have been recognised in the national awards run by the Tea Guild.

The awards, which are recognised as the Michelin star of the tea world, are in their 25th year and involve a team of judges putting premises through a strainer before awarding marks for a range of aspects.

Included in these are excellence and knowledge of the teas offered, together with the quality of food, service, décor, ambience and presentation.

De Greys in Ludlow is a recognised award-winning tea room noted for its waiters and waitresses in their traditional black and white uniforms.

However, residents and visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to top brews because just minutes away is the Castle Tea Rooms, which has also followed up the success of previous years with an excellence award.

The award has also been made to Rocke Cottage Tea Rooms in Clungunford to prove that it is possible to get a beautiful brew elsewhere in South Shropshire.

“The tradition of afternoon tea has never been stronger with Tea Guild members busier than ever,” said Irene Gorman, head of the Guild.