A pub has been left flushed with success after winning a prize at the Loo of the Year awards.

The Rose and Crown on Maldon High Street has been handed a platinum star rating by inspectors- the highest award possible.

The annual awards highlight the best places 'to go' across the UK.

Authorised inspectors make unannounced visits to hundreds of toilets at sites across the UK, in order to judge them.

All of the toilets are graded from bronze to gold with unacceptable toilets not graded at all.

Rose and Crown manager Stephen Newall said: "We are delighted with the award.

"Staff at the pub ensure the toilets are in first-class condition at all times and it is great that this has been recognised by the inspectors."

The toilets are judged against numerous criteria, including décor and maintenance, cleanliness, accessibility, hand washing and drying equipment and overall management.

Loo of the Year awards managing director Mike Bone said: "The toilets at Rose & Crown have been designed and fitted out to a very high standard and are both clean and well maintained.

"The pub richly deserves its platinum award."