A CUMBRIAN butchers has proved themselves a cut above the rest after scooping three gold awards for their products.

The team at Dales Traditional Butchers Ltd in Kirkby Lonsdale were recognised for their burgers, pies and cooked meats at the Smithfield Awards.

These recognise and reward the best meat products from butchers across the UK, showcasing their craftsmanship, innovation and skill.

Mark Duckworth, from Dales Butchers, said: "We're thrilled to announce that we've received these awards from the esteemed Q Guild of Butchers.

"These awards not only serve as a prestigious industry endorsement but also highlight the skill and innovation of our team - here's to the possibility of our products being crowned the best in the UK."

Read more: Dales Traditional Butchers Ltd manager into final of awards | The Westmorland Gazette

More than 200 products were put forward by butchers from up and down the UK for evaluation this year.

The team at Dales will be off to London next month to see if their products will pick up the coveted Diamond Award, presented to the best of the best in each of the eleven categories.

This will take place at Butchers' Hall on April 24.

A cook-off, selected from a shortlist of the Diamond Award winners, on the day of the awards in London and judged by an esteemed panel of judges, including renowned Irish butcher Pat Whelan, will also see one butcher crowned supreme champion and awarded the Smithfield Platinum Award.

Read more: Oban Winter Festival: Dales Butchers win Golden Haggis Award | The Westmorland Gazette

Dales' products were judged at extensive sessions at the City of Glasgow College last month, by respected industry professionals, journalists and foodies including Scotland’s National Chef and MasterChef The Professionals winner Gary Maclean.

Products were evaluated using a points system, with the best products awarded Bronze, Silver or Gold.

Gordon Wallace, Q Guild Manager said: “The Smithfield Awards serve as a platform to highlight the pinnacle of craft butchery, elevating standards and inspiring product innovation. 

"Achieving a Gold award is a significant accomplishment, and we extend our best wishes to Dales Traditional Butchers Ltd as we approach our upcoming award ceremony.”