MALVERN has been named as one of the best places to live in the UK by the Sunday Times.

Judges praised Malvern's historic town centre, fine architecture and connections to Elgar in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.

The guide also mentioned the successful private schools in the area, the flourishing businesses, such as Qinetiq and Morgan, and the impressive variety of plays, concerts and films at Malvern Theatres.

The town's location between Worcester and Cheltenham was another reason for its inclusion on the list.

Judges said they loved the area because of the shops, the Malvern Hills and its identity as a spa town.

They chose Tibberton Road, near Great Malvern Station, as the most desirable address.

The guide said property costs in Malvern range from £145,940 for a starter flat, £272,640 for a mid-market semi-detached house and £413,640 for a family detached home.