A PUB run by three generations of the same family is up for a national award.

The Bears Paw in High Legh has been named as a finalist for Best Dining Experience at the 2024 English Hospitality Awards.

Having built up a stellar food reputation, with countless positive reviews on Tripadvisor, the nomination perhaps shouldn’t have come as a surprise.

But head chef Jason Craig and his wife, Mel, were left stunned when they received the email confirming their place in the final.

Jason said: “When we first saw the email we didn’t think too much of it, we thought at first that it could be a hoax so didn’t want to make too much of a fuss.

“It was when we received a few calls to congratulate us that we looked into it further.

“We were flattered and so pleased, we’re not sure who nominated us but we’re so grateful for the recognition.”

READ MORE: Every Cheshire finalist at the English Hospitality Awards 2024

Knutsford Guardian: Mel and Jason CraigMel and Jason Craig (Image: Punch Pubs & Co)

The Bears Paw currently employs three generations of the Craig family, with Jason and Mel having been at the helm for the past 22 years.

A trained chef, Jason’s menus aim to offer something for everyone, from pub classics to specials including fillet beef stroganoff, guinea fowl and Thai curries.

He continued: “This industry for us is a way of life, it’s all we’ve ever known, all we’ve ever done, and we love it. We’ve been in the area now for around 30 years and after running a managed house for seven years we took the plunge to run our own pub business.

“Consistency is what keeps us going. Our offer is very good, honest pub food. Our guests know just what to expect, they know our dishes are wholesome and good value which we believe is how we’ve retained so much of our clientele over the last two decades.”

Knutsford Guardian: The menu offers pub classics as well as a range of specialsThe menu offers pub classics as well as a range of specials (Image: Punch Pubs & Co.)

The English Hospitality Awards aim to shine a light on the very best of the industry, with hotels, restaurants, bars and more up for the prestigious prizes.

A spokesperson for the awards said: “We’re proud to get to showcase the remarkable talent and exceptional standards within England’s vibrant hospitality industry.

“Theses finalists have consistently demonstrated excellence, innovation, and dedication in their respective categories, setting the benchmark for quality and service within the English hospitality industry.

“We want to wish all of our finalists the best of luck.”

Knutsford Guardian: The Bears Paw is located on Warrington Road, High LeghThe Bears Paw is located on Warrington Road, High Legh (Image: Punch Pubs & Co.)