With the advent of two-for-one style pubs which specialise in quick and easy food, it can prove difficult to find freshly prepared traditional food for a reasonable price.

But the Dog and Duck proved itself a winner with a varied menu and pleasant, unpretentious atmosphere for around £22 per head for an evening meal.

We were seated in the beautiful converted barn where we were accompanied by resident pianist Geoff Bayliss. It was a lovely touch, although it was rather loud as we were sat next to the piano.

One of the few benefits of the dark nights drawing in is that with a bit of thought, lighting can be used to transform a building and the bland white pub looks quite spectacular when lit-up.

For my starter I chose the soup of the day (£3.45), which was a very tasty, but extremely filling leek and potato.

I was spoilt for choice when picking the main course and was torn between the black bream and Guinea fowl , but I thought it appropriate to opt for the honey-roasted duck breast (£13.95) served with a hazelnut and green bean salad on top of parsnip mash.

The honey glaze was very strong and would almost be too sweet if it wasn't balanced by the creamy, flavourful mash and tender duck.

My dining partner chose the rump steak (£13.95), which was served with salad and home-made chips, which they described as very tasty and more-than-generous portion.

The staff were friendly and attentive throughout the meal, although there was some confusion over our table number and we were almost tucking in to other diner's food.

For desert the vanilla ice-cream (£3.95) proved a delicious way to conclude a very pleasant evening.