AFTER four years running their own Dales restaurant, its owners now have a further reason to celebrate.

Michael and Sarah Mc Bride bought a Leyburn pizza restaurant in August 2014. After moving from Italian dining to an unashamedly British seasonal menu they rebranded as Thirteen several months later.

Last year their gastronomic gamble paid off when they received a prestigious AA one rosette award for culinary excellence. Now, 12 months later, they have received a second AA one star award.

The couple, married for 12 years, met whilst working in York; Mrs Mc Bride is a local girl having been brought up in Coverdale. Her husband Michael hails from Bishop Auckland and has worked in some of the best kitchens across North Yorkshire. They were also once given a favourable review by D&S foodie Malcolm Warne. Thirteen has two other members of staff: Kay Carless and Megan Dent who have been with them since they opened.

Mr McBride said: “We have been recognised this way as we are consistent in what we do. It is a just reward for all our hard work.”

The award coincides with their wedding anniversary and Mr Mc Bride’s birthday. Although there won’t be any time off – it will be business as usual following their daily routine of an early start and late finish.

Thirteen is in Railway Street Leyburn.