The Gin Trap, at Ringstead, which they took over 15 months ago, has just been awarded the Bib Gourmand in the 2008 Michelin Guide – an award also held by Gordon Ramsay's London pub.

The award, which symbolises good food at moderate prices, is held by 133 establishments in the UK. Only five of these are in Norfolk and the Gin Trap is the only new entry for the county this year.

The couple first got to know the 17th century coaching inn when they bought a holiday home at Holme.

At the time Mrs Knowles was a lawyer in London and her husband was an actor who appeared in EastEnders, Casualty, The Bill, London's Burning and Prime Suspect, but they dreamed of owning a pub and running their own business.

"When the Gin Trap came up, it was a chance that was too good to miss," said Mr Knowles, who admitted "it has been a very steep learning curve."

"We wanted to build on the Gin Trap's reputation for good food but move away from the idea that people could only afford to eat here on special occasions," he said.

"We have aimed for high-quality food, sourced locally wherever possible, at reasonable prices and we are very proud to have received recognition from Michelin for this, especially in our first 15 months.

"It also rewards our young head chef, Ethan Rodgers, and his team for their talent and hard work."

Mr Rodgers said: "It is fantastic that we have achieved so much in such a short space of time and as a chef, it gives me a special sense of satisfaction that we have got the same award as Gordon Ramsay's pub in London."