AN ILKLEY butchers celebrated Yorkshire Day in style - by adding yet more prestigious awards to its tally.

Lishman’s of Ilkley was named Champion Producer in the 2019 British Charcuterie Live Awards on Thursday, August 1.

The awards, held in the British Charcuterie Live Tent at the BBC Countryfile Live Show in the grounds of Blenheim Palace, had attracted hundreds of entries.

Lishman’s clinched the overall British Charcuterie national title and also claimed a hat trick of other awards: for its York Air Dried Ham, Smoked Dry Cured Streaky Bacon and Beef and Red Wine Pepperoni.

Owner David Lishman said: “While all three products are firm favourites in our expanding charcuterie stable, York Air Dried Ham is one we’ve been working seriously hard on to perfect. It takes literally months to mature in order to maximise both taste and texture, and remains a particular favourite for our customers’ festive tables.”

The British Charcuterie Awards are the first annual, national independent charcuterie awards of their kind and were founded last year by award-winning food writer, broadcaster and consultant Henrietta Green. More than 450 products were entered this year with 59 gold, silver and bronze award winners - across eight classes - shortlisted for the finals.

The Champion Producer was, along with Champion of Champions Product, one of two top awards up for grabs. Reflecting on his team’s success, Mr Lishman said: “We are proud to be playing a leading role in the rise and rise of great British charcuterie. The sector has a great deal to offer and is fast gaining the recognition and reputation it deserves.”

In further Yorkshire Day good news, Lishman’s also learned that it had scooped three one-star accolades in the annual Great Taste Awards, organised by The Guild of Fine Food. The business’s Frankfurters, Honey Glazed Ham and Smithfield Burger all received the ranking. Mr Lishman added: “As well as a badge of honour, the unmistakeable black and gold Great Taste label is a signpost to a wonderful tasting product.”