LUDLOW retailer Ludlow Food Centre, has been crowned the best retailer in the West Midlands in the Farm Shop & Deli Awards.

The Food Centre in Bromfield was one of nine Regional Champions, chosen by a panel of expert judges, who showed the highest levels of service, product knowledge, initiative, innovation and community involvement.

"Since we opened we have made every effort to work with local producers and artisans who share our values,” said Edward Berry, managing director of Ludlow Food Centre.

By winning this award we are able to represent all our suppliers and the fantastic food from West Midlands. We are proud to have won the award and we hope that we can put the West Midlands on the map as a food destination."

The Awards celebrate the unsung heroes of the high street and speciality retail scene with categories ranging from butchers, bakers, farm shops and delis through to garden centres, food halls and online businesses.

“These Awards recognise those specialist retailers who are leading the way in the 21st century,” said Richard Ford, Fresh Food Editor of the specialist food trade weekly The Grocer.

“From long-established companies, which continue to use their bespoke, proven recipes for success, to innovative start-ups, these businesses are the cream of the crop!”

The Farm Shop & Deli Awards received a record number of entrants from nearly 300 businesses across the UK, along with thousands of public votes from consumers supporting their favourite speciality retailers.

These nine Regional Champions will now go through to the final to win the coveted title of ‘Farm Shop & Deli Awards Retailer of the Year’. The overall winner will be announced at the Farm Shop & Deli Show on Monday 24 March 2014 at Birmingham’s NEC.

Caption: Staff at Ludlow Food Centre in celebratory mood.