A West Bexington restaurant has received a pleasant surprise after being awarded a major award after less than a year of trading.

The Club House, which has been open for eight months, has received its first AA Rosette.

To get the rosette, restaurants must achieve high standards that stand out in their local area.

They must serve food prepared with care, demonstrating good use of skill and using good quality ingredients.

Marketing manager Kate Newman, of the Hive Beach Company Ltd, said: “We’re absolutely over the moon to have been awarded such an achievement after being open such a short period of time.

“We’re so proud of what we’ve accomplished down here in West Bexington with such a great team and a brilliant network of local suppliers such as Tamarisk Farm, that help to ensure our produce is of top quality.

“We’re looking forward to a successful second year as our name slowly begins to go further.

“Our focus is on local produce, our chefs are proactive and passionate about foraging and growing our own where possible.”

The Hive Beach Company Ltd runs three properties in West Dorset.

The Watch House Café on West Bay and Hive Beach Café at Burton Bradstock are all owned by the company.

The Club House is a 1930s inspired eatery, featuring an upmarket theme,showcasing sustainable seafood and local produce.

The name, ‘The Club House’, is the originally from 1932 when it first opened.