A YORK kitchenware retailer has brought home the silverware after being named Britain’s Best Cookshop in the North.

Frankie and Johnny’s Cookshop won the title at the Housewares Conference and Innovation Awards, held at Wokefield Park in Berkshire.

Hundreds of industry representatives gathered to enjoy the awards ceremony, organised by Housewares Trade Magazine.

Frankie and Johnny Hayes, who were nominated by their suppliers and wholesalers, were thrilled to bring home a trophy.

The prize plate is now proudly on display at the couple's shop in Bishopthorpe Road.

The Mr and Mrs Hayes opened their shop two-and-a- half years ago stocking cookware, sugarcraft supplies, gifts and cards.

Mrs Hayes said: “We really did not think we would win anything. We were very happy just to be in the final. We’re only a small shop and we really did not expect this at all.”

In awarding the title of Best Cookshop in the North judges said: “It was the friendly and homely feel in the shop that won it for Frankie & Johnny’s.”

Mr Hayes added: “This award is all down to the hard work of my wife Frankie as I am just the tea boy. She loves the shop and works hard to give a brilliant service. The homely feeling that the judges mentioned is the result.

"We are both very proud of our little shop and are both a bit stunned by its success.”