Guess who is officially the Best Independent Retailer in the North?

We’re blushing a bit as we say it – but IT’S US!

Thank you so much to all of our wonderful customers who voted for us, we don’t know what to say!

But yes, here at Hunters of Helmsley we’re celebrating after being crowned the best independent retailer in the North following a public vote run by the Great British Food Awards 2019.

We beat off stiff competition from hundreds of other delis to be included on a shortlist of five retailers in the north, before eventually claiming the top spot.

There were 19 categories in total (nine for the independent retailer awards split across the country geographically). Our own region covered the North West, North East and Yorkshire so we’re even more honoured to have received this prestigious accolade with all the amazing competition across all those counties!

Staggeringly, more than 14,000 votes were cast in a number of reader-voted categories (thank you to everyone who took the time to do so), whilst celebrity favourites including the Hairy Bikers, Raymond Blanc and John Torode judged some of the other categories, such as best cheese, gin or baked goods. Nice work if you can get it!

The awards, which are in their sixth year, are run by Great British Food Magazine. Their lovely editor, Natasha Lovell-Smith, said: "Hunters of Helmsley is a Yorkshire institution and the finest food retailer in the North of England, according to Great British Food readers; 70% of the products available in store are sourced from within Yorkshire itself, so local sourcing is clearly a priority for the team. Famed for its excellent customer service and wide range of products, this is the place to go for local specialties, homemade preserves, fine wines, gift hampers and lots more."

So, we really are proud as (rum) punch. We feel passionate about good food and drink and supporting local producers and suppliers, so it is always wonderful to know that people enjoy what we offer. Thank you also to our wonderful team who always go out of their way to help customers find what they’re looking for – or discover a new favourite!

Think this deserves a glass of something fizzy! Cheers to you all!