CHAMPAGNE corks are popping at a popular East Lancashire hotel and conference centre which has scooped a prestigious award.

Astley Bank in Darwen was named Hotel of The Year in the Lancashire Life and Lake District Life Food and Wine Awards.

Managing directors Nigel and Helen Ainscow received a framed plaque, certificate and magnum of champagne at a presentation dinner held at Whitworth Hall in the University of Manchester.

A panel of judges, secretly visited the family run business and chose it for it's "fine cuisine, exquisite bedrooms and glorious grounds."

Mr Ainscow, who has been running the former ICI owned mansion house Astley Bank for two and a half years, said: "We are thrilled. It's a great honour.

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