A NORTH Yorkshire pub has been awarded a Michelin star in Europe's most celebrated awards for good eating.

The Star Inn, at Harome, near Helmsley, is one of only three pubs in the country to gain the accolade, and the only one in the North.

The pub is owned and run by chef Andrew Pern, 32, and his wife, Jacquie, 31. They took over in 1996, and set about creating a dazzling menu, mixing tradition and innovation.

"It's brilliant to win this award," said Andrew. "The whole team has worked very hard, and this recognition is an amazing reward."

Andrew said the key to the pub's success was using local produce, and putting a new spin on old favourites.

"In the menu, we've got things like terrine of gammon, with a fried quail's egg and spiced pineapple pickle," he said.

"It's a new spin on ham and eggs. But the truth is, you can come in and find whatever you fancy, from a bowl of soup to pan-fried foie gras."

Andrew and Jacquie's next challenge is an eight-bedroom residential area, due to open in August, where guests can enjoy cooking demonstrations and eat the outcome.

Updated: 09:19 Friday, January 18, 2002