THE owner of Ilkley's famous Box Tree restaurant Madame Helena Avis has been shortlisted in the annual Premier Crew restaurant awards given by Harpers and Queen magazine and Mot and Chandon.

The awards are meant to recognise

individuals who give particular restaurants their personality and make them stars of the restaurant world.

Mme Avis took over the Box Tree in the

recession of 1992 and has since put Ilkley firmly on the map with one of the most

fashionable restaurants outside London.

Nominated as one of the most charismatic and professional maitre d'hotels in the

business, letters of support from loyal

customers describe Mme Avis as a true lover of fine food and a fascinating raconteur.

Even the previous owner of the Box Tree Brian Womersley felt compelled to nominate her and sing her praises.

Madame Avis told the Gazette that she was delighted to be shortlisted for the award.

"It would be nice for a restaurant that has put Ilkley on the map to get the award and bring it back to Yorkshire," Madame Avis

said.

She added: "Like anyone else I am very very pleased and I hope to bring the trophy back."

She said that Box Tree was the highest rated restaurant in the north of England and it would make a change for an establishment outside London to be officially recognised for its high standards.

In eight years Mme Avis she has acquired a Michelin Star, three AA rosettes and eight out of ten from The Good Food Guide.

The awards will be presented by TV

personality Mariella Frostrup at a glittering awards ceremony in London on Tuesday, November 14.