LOVERS of pub puds could do no better than to look for their favourite food in the cosy inns of North Yorkshire.

Two pubs within a few miles of each other are in the running for the title of best dessert menu in the UK.

The Hare Inn, at Scawton, near Thirsk, and the Arden Arms, at Cowton, near Northallerton, have both reach the last four of the contest, part of the annual Pub Food Awards.

Their respective staffs will discover which one is the winner at a ceremony at the Hilton Hotel, in London's Park Lane, next Monday.

Adrian Barrett, of the Arden Arms, who trained at London's Savoy Hotel, is hoping to emulate his success last year when he won the pub restaurant of the year title while at the Hat and Staid, Washton, near Richmond.

His most popular desserts are the old-fashioned puddings, all home made.

"Our customers just love them," he said.

"People are supposed to be more health conscious these days, but not so our customers. Nothing comes between our customers and their puddings."

Heather Jones, of the Hare Inn, said: "I have a very sweet tooth and spend a lot of time developing new recipes to ensure we offer the most varied menu.

"Desserts are, therefore, our speciality, the most popular being the Assiette, which is six mini desserts served together with ice-cream - customers love to try a little bit of everything."