NESTLING in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, on the picturesque banks of the River Itchen, it is the perfect setting for a watering hole.

It would seem the county's drinkers agree, because they have just crowned The Bush Inn in Ovington, near Winchester, as Hampshire's best country pub.

Having been beaten finalists in the same magazine-run competition last year, it was a proud moment for husband-and-wife team Nick and Cath Young to scoop the prize at a glitzy ceremony.

They were presented with the Hampshire Life award by Meridian TV presenter Debbie Thrower.

The couple, who have run the Wadworth-owned pub for nine years, were especially pleased with the prize because it relies on members of the public to vote for their favourite.

"We haven't touted for it at all," said Nick.

"It is a case of the customers voting for you, and you get into the final on sheer weight of numbers, so we're truly very delighted.

"It's a very special place, and we try to provide what the customers want, and this award makes it all worthwhile."