VILLAGERS are always assured of a warm greeting when visiting S & A Barkers, in Nether Poppleton, says customer Nigel Peacock.

The butcher’s shop in Allerton Drive is run by Steve Barker, assisted by Karl Slater.

Nominating it for The Shop Of The Year award, Mr Peacock, of Esk Drive, Nether Poppleton, said: “Steve and Karl are happy to serve with a laugh and a joke.

“They sell good value local meat, cheese and dairy, as well as convenience foods. Nothing is too much hassle in ensuring you get the right piece of meat, prepared to how you require it.”

Steve, a past master of York butcher’s gild, said the shop was originally based in Church Lane, but moved to Allerton Drive in the 80s. “I took it over from my uncle,” he said.

“We sell beef supplied by a cousin who has a farm at Gate Helmsley.”