A gastropub in Whitstable has been named the best in Britain for the second year running.

The Sportsman, in Faversham Road, picked up the title at the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs Awards.

The Shepherd Neame-owned establishment received the most votes as the top 50 food-serving pubs in the country were decided by industry experts, chefs and food writers.

The Sportsman, which has held a Michelin star for eight years, has climbed steadily up the gastropub list since entering in 2010.

It also took second place in last year’s National Restaurant Awards.

Head chef Stephen Harris runs the business with his brother Phil.

Stephen uses fresh produce from local farms and fishermen, bakes his own bread, churns his own butter and makes his own salt to prepare meals.

He said: “We are very happy to have received this award for a second year running, particularly as it is voted for by industry experts.

“It is well-deserved recognition for our dedicated team of staff as they work so hard throughout the year.”

The awards, held at Hermitage Road Bar and Restaurant in Hertfordshire, were hosted by BBC Two Food & Drink presenter and two-star Michelin chef Tom Kerridge.

Tom said: “Stephen is one of the most talented chefs in the country and it is a genuine honour to present him with this award for the second time.”

Stephen added: “It is hard to say why our pub stood out from the competition.

“We simply concentrate on making sure that everyone who visits us, whether it is for a light lunch or a full menu, has a nice time and the food is as good as it can be.

“It doesn’t feel like hard work as we absolutely love what we do.”