A YORK butcher has been awarded a prestigious award.

Josh Douglas, 28, is one of a select number of members of his trade who have received Master Butcher accredited status, and is the youngest of only 46 in the country.

The award is given by the Institute of Meat and requires that butchers complete a rigorous portfolio of work.

Mr Douglas who worked at The Butchers Block in Burnholme until 2011, and now works at IMB in Murton, was given the award at the Painters Hall, London, which was attended by special guest, Princess Anne.

Mr Douglas said that he was proud to receive the award after spending eighteen months working on his portfolio.

He said: “It is a really prestigious institute, known around the world, and to be the youngest person to receive the award is a great feeling

“I gave up a lot of time, including many weekends, to put the work in to get this award as it is hard to achieve.

“I must also give my thanks to ABP Food Group who have helped me complete this.”