AN Indian restaurant, which has almost doubled its capacity, has won national recognition for the quality of its food.

Recent demand persuaded the owners of Tandoori Nights, on Richmond's Castle Hill, to extend into adjoining premises, adding room for another 30 customers.

However, further evidence of the restaurant's high standards has come in the form of a Master Chef Five-Star Roll of Honour Award from the Association of High Class Food Establishments.

Richmond MP, William Hague, attended a celebratory meal to launch the new-look restaurant and to present the award to proprietor, Enus Miah.

"I am delighted Tandoori Nights is proving so popular,'' he said. "I believe the five-star rating is as high as you can get.''

Also at the ceremony were chairman of Richmondshire District Council, Jane Metcalfe, and Mayor of Richmond, Tom Burrows.