AN award-winning Darlington-based baking business is celebrating after securing a place on the shortlist for the best produce in the country.

Burtree Puddings, based on a farm near Darlington, beat off tough competition to make it through to the finals of Delicious Magazine’s inaugural Produce Awards.

Its sticky toffee pudding and sauce was deemed delicious enough to make the shortlist to the the delight of Lea Darling, partner at Burtree Puddings along with husband Robert.

She said: “Being shortlisted for the Delicious Produce Awards is massive for us.

“As a small company that believes in making delicious puddings from the best ingredients, we are always humbled when our products are recognised as one of the best out there.”

The family-run company is one of nine in the North-East category in the awards.