A PUB has won back its five-star food hygiene rating just in time to celebrate a decade based in East Oxford.

The Rusty Bicycle received the top score following an inspection by the city council’s health team last month.

The Magdalen Road business had dropped down to three stars last year after concerns were raised over how burger patties were being prepared.

Andy Holland, kitchen director for the Dodo Pub Company which owns the Rusty Bicycle, said: “We’re delighted to say that we have been awarded our five-star food hygiene rating.

“Our team at The Rusty Bicycle and all other Dodo Pubs take pride in serving the highest standard of food.

“With new restricted FSA regulations, the ability to serve our burgers pink has been difficult over the past few years.

“Myself, our suppliers and food safety advisors have worked tirelessly to be able to serve our burgers pink and we’re proud to say they are hands down the best in Oxford. We will continue to serve the best food to our customers in any Dodo Pubs.”

In the summer the Rickety Press, which is also owned by the Oxford-based company, was given a two-star rating after health inspectors raised concerns there over how burger patties were prepared.

At the time Dodo blamed the rating on a failure to update paperwork.

The company said this week that the Rickety Press had since been upgraded to a four-star rating, with inspectors 'fully sattisfied with burger patty cooking procedure'.

The group also pointed to the five star score at its other pub The Bottle of Sauce in Cheltenham.

The pub chain is also currently in the final stages of agreeing a deal to reopen the Somerset in Marston Road.

Despite last year’s lower rating The Rusty Bicycle, which opened in 2009, has proved popular with customers due to its relaxed atmosphere and food.

Manager Sam Thompson said: “We love being part of the East Oxford community and really value our customers. Regaining the stars now is perfect timing.”

In September the pub encouraged drinkers to enjoy uninterrupted conversation by volunteering to switch off their smartphones. The boozer also recently held a party themed around US President Donald Trump for New Year’s Eve.

To mark the pub’s 10th anniversary a birthday bash will be thrown on January 19. For full details of the party, which will have free entry and include live music, visit the Rusty Bicycle Facebook page.