NORTH Yorkshire artisan cheese maker Shepherds Purse has been adding to its trophy cabinet this month with wins in the Great Taste Awards.

The Thirsk-based company has been awarded two gold stars for its Harrogate Blue, Blue Monday and Monks Folly, while Katy's White Lavender and Bluemin White also scooped a gold star each.

The Great Taste Awards, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, this year saw more than 400 experts judge 10,000 food and drink products over 50 days.

The accolades for Shepherds Purse follow a number of other successes this year, including seven awards at the Nantwich International Cheese Awards in July, where Yorkshire Fettle, Mrs. Bell’s Blue and Olde York were also recognised.

Also the British Cheese Awards in May saw Shepherds Purse walk away with gold for Harrogate Blue and Yorkshire Fettle.

Caroline Bell, director at Shepherds Purse said: "This is a brilliant way to mark our 25th anniversary year. Recognition such as this reflects the consistent hard work and dedication of our team and the company over the years, so we’re thrilled to celebrate by winning so many great awards at some of the biggest events in the industry. "