A DELICATESSEN has been shortlisted for a national award for its homemade pies.

The Angels Share, in Grange Road, Darlington, has been named as one of only three finalists in the grocery and bakery category of the Waitrose Small Producers Awards.

The winner and the supreme champion of the awards, which cover five categories, will be announced in July. Each winner will pick up £5,000, with an additional £5,000 for the supreme champion.

Alexandra Franks, owner of delicatessen, took over the reins seven years ago and now employs seven people.

It sells a large range of continental meats, cheeses and freshly-prepared salads and savoury foods.

The vast majority of the food is prepared by Mrs Franks and her mother from the delicatessen and their home kitchen in Patrick Brompton, North Yorkshire.

Robbie James, Waitrose local and regional buyer, said: "It is always a pleasure seeing the passion and expertise that entrants have."

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