CULINARY businesses in the Malvern Hills district swept the board at an award ceremony for Worcestershire's best exponents of locally-grown produce.

The results in the Tastes of Worcestershire competition were announced at a celebration dinner at Hagley Hall on Monday (October 28), when local businesses took three of the four titles on offer.

The competition aimed to recognise businesses which make the best use of local produce.

The Talbot at Knightwick was named best pub/inn while The Kettle Sings, near Colwall, walked away with the title of best tea shop/cafe.

The best Worcestershire breakfast, according to the judges, can be found at Tiltridge Farm and Vineyard, in Upton-upon-Severn, while Malvern's White Season was highly commended in the Restaurant category.

Winners were presented with a certificate and brass plaque, as well as a glass trophy and cheque for £350, Those highly commended got £150.

Sandy Barker, owner of Tiltridge Farm, said the award was unexpected.

"It's something I can put on my literature and website and I'm sure it will attract more people," she said.

Rachel Booth, who runs The Kettle Sings with her mother Jenny Ransome, was also surprised to win.

"We didn't even think we'd stand much chance," she said. "It will put us on the map a bit more. Hopefully, it will bring more people in."

Jean Clift is senior manager at The Talbot at Knightwick, which she runs with daughters Wiz and Annie. She said that Monday's ceremony was "lovely".

"It was a very successful evening. One feels it's an accolade, a recognition of what we try and do here, to be local, local, local!" she said.

l Sandy Barker of Tiltridge Farm. 44445001