LUXURY Lainston House Hotel near Winchester has been named small hotel of the year for the South East.

The Tourism ExSEllence Awards 2006 recognised it as a hotel which "exudes quality without stuffiness, with friendly staff, enormous attention to detail and a real desire to get local produce on the menu."

The hotel hit the headlines earlier this tear when former US President George Bush senior stayed there for several days while fishing on the River Test.

Its bedrooms were described by the judges as being "of the very highest standard, where space was well utilised to give a luxury feelingbeds and bathrooms are enormous."

Special praise was given to the hotel's dining experience which features extensive use of local produce. Judges also highlighted the hotel's outstanding facilities and support for guests with disabilities; a real commitment to sustainability and the environment and a thorough investment in staff, including an ongoing Customer Delight' programme.

The hotel will now go on to represent the South East in the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence.