A Skipton butcher business marked a milestone a year ago today after earning recognition in the Countryside Alliance awards programme often referred to as the Rural Oscars.

Drake and Macefield operates from premises on Otley Street and maintains further branches in Settle and Cross Hills. The company finished runners-up in the competition for the accolade of finest butcher in the North of England, with Dales Traditional Butchers from Cumbria taking the leading position.

Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith voiced his appreciation for their achievement, saying he felt tremendous pride in the business for this acknowledgment. He noted that their commitment to excellence and their work in backing rural communities merited great praise.

The parliamentarian added that the Countryside Alliance honours recognise the commitment and skill of those who keep countryside areas thriving, and Drake and Macefield exemplify these values.

Director Steve Teal expressed gratitude to shoppers, indicating the team was sincerely grateful to every customer who took time to vote for them. He said their backing held significant importance and justified all the hard work involved.

The awards scheme seeks to celebrate rural communities, traditional skills, and produce, shining a light on businesses that help maintain the vibrancy of country life.