Restaurant mourns its Michelin star

The Star Inn at Harome near Helmsley has been one of the "must-eat-there" places for many years and recently topped a poll of industry experts to be named best gastropub in the country.

The restaurant had held its Michelin star since 2002. It has been run by Andrew and Jacquie Pern since 1996.

Ms Pern was not available for comment yesterday.

There was happier news at another of Yorkshire's top restaurants, The Box Tree in Ilkley.

Owners Simon Gueller and Rena Gueller have retained their Michelin star for the 6th year running.

The couple were delighted last year when one of the country's best-known chefs, Marco Pierre White, revealed he would be working with his old pals again.

Mr Gueller said yesterday: ''We are absolutely delighted and I know Marco is thrilled on our behalf.

"It was a wonderful surprise to win this prestigious award in 2005 and it's still as exciting every year. We're proud of every member of our team here and look forward to the year ahead.''