links for 26-01-08

• Preston Farmers Market closes after money row

A sad loss for local produce

• Preston pub scoops national award for Quality and Service

Fantastic result for the Smiths Arms in Lea

Review: Local flavour at Parkers Arms, Clitheroe

Braving the wet and windy weather, The Parkers Arms, near Newton-in-Bowland, was a welcome reward at the end of the twisty road from Clitheroe. Set within the beautiful Forest of Bowland (it was dark, so I’m told it’s very beautiful), this traditional pub provides a great range of locally produced dishes to satisfy cravings for a winter warmer.

I skipped a starter due to being starving, and with a pint of Chipping Steamer I tucked into Cowman’s beef sausages and horseradish mash, which was delicious. It was served promptly and with a smile. The portion size was generous, but not so large as to stuff oneself.

Despite a good three options on the desert menu that tickled my fancy, I went for the Lancashire cheese board with a glass of the house red and this was delicious, although a few extra crackers could have been provided for the amount of cheese that was given.

The bill for two, including drinks, came to just under £40 which was good value for the portion sizes. The pub was a little quiet, probably due to the weather, although it was starting to fill up when we left. It has a friendly atmosphere and children seem very welcome. They also seemed bothered about customer feedback, including a feedback sheet at the end of the meal and mentioning future events they had coming up – good marketing.

There was a real commitment to local food (the pub is signed up to the Bowland Charter, which works to protect local farmers and ensure that local produce is used where possible) which shone through on a menu that was not too crowded, but very meat dominated. The Chipping Steamer ale on tap from Bowland Brewery is highly recommended, a light ale that has a fruity test.

Rating: Food: 4/5, Drink: 4/5, Service: 4/5, Atmosphere/decor: 3.5/5, Value for money: 4/5

Overall: 19.5/25

Need to book?: No, only for special events

Phone: 01200 446236

Email: enquiries@parkersarms.co.uk

Address: Newton-in-Bowland, Nr Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 3DY (map)