Mouth-watering menus, fresh food and smiling service have all served up success in the annual Scottish Borders Eating Out Awards.

Entries for this year’s awards – backed by The Southern Reporter – soared from last year’s 52 to a staggering 92, with more than 400 people submitting their favourite places.

Judges say making decisions in the various categories was tough and that the winners well deserved their accolades.

The Horseshoe Inn at Eddleston lifted the best customer service title and fought off stiff opposition to take the overall prize.

The independent panel of judges said of the Peeblesshire hostelry: “A delightful contemporary ambience and extremely smart staff.

“Excellently paced meal and service … well-executed dishes … waiting skills to match the quality of the cuisine.”

The awards were funded and managed by Scottish Borders Council with the backing of various sponsors, and the presentations took place at Tweed Horizons on Monday.

This year saw the average score of the finalists fall from 82.6 per cent to 78.7 per cent – but the number of places achieving 80 per cent or higher rose.

And the judges were impressed. They commented: “As usual, the overall experience was most enjoyable with a high standard throughout.

“We were particularly impressed by the number of restaurants and bistros offering an excellent meal and service.

“A commitment to maintaining consistently high standards in establishments which have previously gained award recognition was also noted as commendable.”

But they pointed out: “The categories most difficult to judge were tearooms, coffee shops and takeaway establishments.

“Whilst there has been an increase in eating places offering this informal option, it was felt that many offer very similar ‘safe and popular’ dishes on a year-round menu.

“The overall culinary expertise and imagination could be developed. Adopting additional daily, weekly, seasonal and festive special dishes would enhance interest from customers and motivate staff.”

However they stressed: “The overall quality of the food and dining experience in the Borders continues to improve annually and it is encouraging that several newcomers achieved award status this year.”

Councillor Vicky Davidson was on hand to congratulate the winners and declared: “We are delighted that such a wide range of establishments across the Scottish Borders have all proved themselves such worthy winners and that the quality of Eating Out in the Scottish Borders improves year on year.

“We are very grateful to this year’s sponsors of the competition who have enabled us to continue this worthwhile event.”

Among those presenting the awards was the Borders-bred national food critic Mark Palmer.