Head chef Barrie Higginbotham and owner Linda Whitehouse are hoping that everyone who has enjoyed dining there will vote for them in the final stage.

The Old Deanery has been in the Good Food Guide since 2005, but this is the first time that it has been in contention for the North East title.

The result is decided by the number of people voting for their favourite; everyone who votes is asked for their views on the food, service and atmosphere of the restaurant.

To encourage diners, Barrie has been planning some tempting new menus for the restaurant, which has already received a coveted AA Rosette.

Linda said: “We're delighted that the Good Food Guide has told us that we're in the North East's top five at the midway stage of the voting.

“We'd like to encourage lots more people to vote for us, so if you've been to The Old Deanery for a meal and would like to vote for us, please hurry!”

Voting can either be done on line at www.which.co.uk/gfgfeedback or on voting cards that are available at The Old Deanery. Voting closes on Friday, May 23.

The top regional restaurant will go on to compete for the national title of 'Restaurant of the Year.'