Cumbria’s food and drink heroes have been recognised as Northern champions in the prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards.
Kendal Farmers Market was named the North of England Local Food & Drink Champion and The Black Lion in Hethersgill is the North’s Pub Champion.
South Cumbrian butchers The Meat Hook was highly commended in its category.
Now in their 19th year, the awards celebrate British food and farming, enterprise and heritage through the country’s small, hard-working businesses.
Winners are chosen by the public and this year, more than 50,000 people cast their votes.
Kendal Farmers’ Market builds on a proud market tradition dating back to 1189, when Richard I granted Kendal its Market Charter, laying the foundations for the town as it is known today.
Now held twice monthly on alternate Fridays, the market champions local farmers, artisans and producers.
Kendal Farmers’ Market manager Marian Graveson said: “We are absolutely thrilled. To receive an award driven by public nomination and voting makes this recognition especially meaningful, as it reflects the incredible support we receive from our community and the dedication of our stallholders.
“This award celebrates not only the market itself, but the farmers, producers and artisans who work tirelessly to bring the very best of our region to Kendal. We are hugely proud to represent Cumbria and the North of England on a national stage and grateful to everyone who voted for us.”
Regional winners will now go forward to represent the North of England at the national finals at the House of Lords.
