THE owners of six food businesses are celebrating after being the declared the winners of a new awards scheme.

More than 1,200 businesses were nominated for the Flavours of Hambleton awards, which were set up this year by the district council. They were whittled down to 18 finalists in the six categories and the winners were announced at a ceremony at Thirsk Racecourse.

The Specialist Retailer of the Year award went to Carricks, of Bedale, Breakfast of the Year went to The Caf, at Northallerton, and Food producer of the Year was Hambleton Ales, of Holme on Swale.

Village Shop of the Year was Tollerton Post Office and Stores, Tearoom of the Year was Tea Hee, of Easingwold, and Restaurant of the Year was Oswalds, of Sowerby.

The awards were established by the council to celebrate the best in food and drink in Hambleton.

Council chairman June Imeson said: "We set out to strengthen the links between tourism and the food and drink industry to develop a distinct cuisine for Hambleton.

"Judging by the standard of entries for these awards there is a wealth of excellence out there - and making final choices for the top prizes was very difficult. Every one of the 18 finalists was a winner and should be very proud of their achievements."