A HISTORIC inn has celebrated another top food hygiene rating as it moves to providing takeaway meals during the coronavirus lockdown.

The Star Inn, in Sparsholt, near Wantage, was awarded five stars following an inspection by Vale of White Horse District Council on March 18, just days before the Government announced the temporary closure of pubs and restaurants.

The business's Facebook page states: “For over 300 years, The Star Inn has been at the heart of the village of Sparsholt, an idyllic village nestling at the foot of the ancient Ridgeway path with its world famous White Horse and its miles of unspoilt trails."

It added: "Housed in a converted barn a stone’s throw away from the main pub, the newly refurbished Star Barn offers eight en-suite bedrooms, offering twin, double and family accommodation.

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"Combining contemporary with rustic style, the emphasis is on comfort with each room furnished with the highest quality beds to ensure an excellent night’s sleep."

Due to lockdown the business has started doing a takeaway service, with the meals available shared weekly. Currently food is offered Thursday through Saturday between 5pm and 9pm, with lunch able to be ordered on Friday and Saturday, as well as a special Sunday lunch menu.

A note with this week's range of dishes, shared on the business's Facebook page, stated: "All dishes are freshly made in our kitchen. We can serve all dishes hot and ready to go. If you prefer we can supply a selection of these dishes chilled, ready to freeze to heat at home."

It said collection was preferable but for those who were 'isolated or in need' The Star Inn would try to deliver, 'if staffing allows'. It also mentioned its five star rating and added: "Our team follow strict protocols to reflect the recent coronavirus guidelines."

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On TripAdvisor, The Star Inn is rated as the number one restaurant in the area, with more than 150 top reviews. The latest, posted last month, was headed ‘your local pub needs you’. It said: “Had a takeaway from The Star last night which was terrific. Chicken breast delicious as was the burger (can’t remember the last burger I had with a proper bit if bacon). Rhubarb Crumble was delicious. Well done The Star for keeping going within these testing times and this service is terrific. Please support this endeavour.”

Another recent customer wrote: "Wanted to try somewhere different for Sunday lunch and The Star Inn certainly didn’t disappoint. Nice setting, friendly staff, and a very tasty lunch."