Ten thousand people are within walking distance of the Plough Inn. To say we’re a bit miffed we’re not one of them is a wild understatement.

Wollaston has never been on our gastronomic radar, but when the clever sticks behind the Wildmoor Oak in Bromsgrove opened their new gaff, we hotfooted it (drove) straight there.

In turns out, the Plough is the kind of pub that’s likely to push up house prices. Interiors are traditional and comfortable – high ceilings, gorgeous wallpaper, great lighting and wooden floors. It’s cosy and warm. With head chef Peter Jackson at the helm, the food offering is in the pub classic genre but elevated beyond the ordinary. As well as food there are live music nights, a massive garden and well stocked cellar – there’s much to love here.

We visited on a Sunday and while the pub is ideal roast territory, there’s plenty of choice outside the traditional. Like frickles, aka deep-fried pickles. We dived in and popped our frickle cherry and while they’re an acquired taste, two out of three of us loved them and that ain’t bad. They were served with a seriously fiery pot of sauce. A plate of heady houmous served with chunks of sweet beets and warm bread was the dream.

Between that and the frickles, we were sold even before the Aubrey Allen beef made an appearance. Deliciously pink with gravy you’d slurp from the jug if you were alone, the meat was melt-in-the-mouth tender and packed with flavour. All the usual roast accompaniments were done brilliantly, particularly sweet baby carrots, crisp fluffy potatoes and rich cauli cheese with plenty of crunchy edges to nibble on. A chicken and mushroom pie hit the spot nicely too. Crisp pastry with a tasty filling was served with a mound of creamy mash, peas and a jug of moreish gravy. Honestly, what’s not to love?

At a time when many pubs are shutting up shop, this place should be cherished and supported. We might be bitter it’s not on our doorstep, but we’ll be back. There’s a big car park, if like us, you’re bringing the car…