An award-winning butcher from Powys says winning a coveted award in memory of a famous TV chef "means so much" after being recognised nationally for going the extra mile within her community supporting the local economy and championing local goods and services.
Izzy’s Butchers, which is based in Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, received the Clarissa Dickson Wright Award at the Countryside Alliance's annual ‘Rural Oscars’ awards ceremony at the House of Lords, where several Welsh rural businesses were crowned national champions.
The award centres on the late Two Fat Ladies chef's belief in campaigning, educating and supporting Britain's farmers and producers.
Izzy Hosking, of Izzy’s Butchers, said: “It means so much to be awarded this name. Clarissa was an inspiration to me growing up, so I’m absolutely delighted with it."
The north Powys butcher won the Welsh finals earlier this year; the second consecutive year that the business had been named a finalist.
Izzy added: "As a young kid growing up I vividly remember watching Clarissa and the Countryman on TV. A food champion.
"I still turn to her cookbooks now, especially for game. So overall, a big influence and hero of mine.
"Many thanks to all those involved in the awards, I would like to give a big shoutout to the Countryside Alliance for us rural people. They have our backs on so many issues we face; everything from better connectivity to fighting anti-meat campaigns in local councils.
"As for everyone else, a massive thanks to you all. We have a few new exciting ideas and lines coming up, so watch this space."
The Countryside Alliance Awards – now in its 17th year – recognised rural businesses across five categories, including ‘best pub’, ‘best village shop/ post office’, ‘best butcher’, ‘best for local food a drink’ and the ‘rural enterprise award’.
Thousands of nominations from around the country were whittled down via a public vote, with the final few being honoured at awards ceremonies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, respectively.
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The final awards ceremony was held on Tuesday, June 25, at the House of Lords, sponsored by the Earl of Leicester. The awards were presented by Countryside Alliance Chairman, The Rt Hon Lord Herbert of South Downs, and attended by several peers.
Sarah Lee, Director of Policy for the Countryside Alliance, said: "This important ceremony was about celebrating the hard work of all those behind rural businesses who are so obviously passionate about providing quality goods, services, and employment in our precious countryside.
"At the regional – and now the national – level, the Countryside Alliance is proud to be honouring these businesses and the individuals behind them, who rose to the top amongst the countless other worthy businesses nominated.”
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