PEOPLE in Keighley and Bradford can decide which restaurant should receive first prize in the inaugural Bradford Curry Awards.

The awards, which include Keighley, aim to celebrate the district’s rich heritage in South Asian cuisine, while recognising the best restaurants, and those people who work behind the scenes to create this food.

Fatima Patel, event director for the awards, said: “Curry is at the heart of Bradford district’s heritage and culture and now we can bring the industry together to celebrate its collective achievements and our pride in the district’s most successful industry.

"I am really looking forward to showing off our great curry industry that has become the crown of Bradford district.”

Patricia Tillotson, visitor and business manager at Visit Bradford added: “Bradford is Curry Capital of Britain, and these awards will now showcase the best of Bradford.

"It’s great that people can vote for their favourite restaurant and look forward to the awards."

The official charity partner for the awards is international humanitarian aid organisation Penny Appeal.

Aamer Naeem, CEO of Penny Appeal said: “Curry is something that is loved by so many and so when Fatima approached us for the inaugural Bradford Curry Awards, we were simply delighted to be chosen as the official charity partner.

"It’s so wonderful for Penny Appeal to be aligned with a city that’s won Britain’s curry capital title for six consecutive years.

"We have every confidence it’s going to be a great event and via the awards night, we hope to raise funds which in turn will help many people abroad and at home who are in need of help."

The public are now nominating who they feel deserves to win the Bradford Curry Award. To make a nomination, visit bradfordcurryawards.co.uk/index.php/nominate/

Nominations close on Sunday March 18 at midnight. Public votes will be shortlisted for a panel of judges to take over and find the final winners, who will be revealed at a ceremony on April 17.

The ceremony will feature an entertaining evening of music, inspirational speakers, comedy and above all great food.