AN AWARD-WINNING Ryedale deli is celebrating being shortlisted for a regional accolade.

Hot on the heels of winning a highly commended at the Great British Food awards, Hunters of Helmsley is now a finalist in the Specialist Retailer category of the 2016 Flavours of Herriot Country Awards.

The next stage of judging will involve a surprise visit from the judging panel. The winners will be announced at a special event to be held on Friday, December 2.

Christine Garnett, who owns Hunters of Helmsley with husband Chris, said: “We are just so delighted to have made the shortlist for these awards.

“It gives us such a boost as a small business to know that the hard work and passion we, and the members of our team, have is recognised and appreciated.

“But we know competition will be steep - the wonderful businesses in the area are one of the reasons this part of Yorkshire is so special.”