A PUB in Christchurch has been awarded a new prestigious rating.

The Bear of Burton in Salisbury Road has now been given a four-star rating by AA.

Owners say it gives “even more reason” for people to visit the pub this autumn.

General Manager Tania Cook said: “I’m so pleased the AA has recognised this and now we are all focused on getting an AA rosette.”

The Bear of Burton has also announced a fresh schedule of events for the autumn.

The fun starts on Thursday, September 28, with a MacMillan coffee morning running between 10am and 12 midday.

New for October is the Five O’Clock Club – a networking event aimed at members and friends of the Dorset Chamber of Commerce.

The Bear of Burton is also continuing its Locals Morning Markets which are held on the last Saturday of the month, starting at 9.30am.

Every other Tuesday, the pub hosts Bumps and Bubs – a drop-in coffee morning for expecting or new parents.

Then, each Thursday, Jiggy Wrigglers sees children aged six months to five years old take part in singing, dancing and storytelling.

Finally, on October 19, the pub is holding its first Wedding Fair.

Tania added: “We are a little off the beaten track – so we have to go that extra mile to create even more reasons to visit, and I think our packed diary of events proves how hard we have worked to get things just right.

“Whether you are a local resident or a visiting tourist, I challenge you to find a place in Dorset that works harder to keep you entertained.”