COMPANIES from the Okehampton area are celebrating successes in the 2004 Taste of the West Food and Drink Awards, which saw quality and standard rise to new heights this year.
Browne?s Chocolates from Throwleigh won two gold awards for drinking chocolate and Gold Chasers after-dinner chocolates, and brand new company the Dartmoor Kitchen in Okehampton achieved gold for its tomato tart and prune and almond tart.
Chef Tom Cull, who runs the Dartmoor Kitchen, said it was a real pat on the back for the business, particularly as it had only been trading for six months: ?The awards have really enthused us and made us feel that we are on the right track with our products.
?The Taste of the West Awards are recognised by producers and retailers and are perceived as a kitemark for quality.?
Taw Valley Creamery at North Tawton and Devonshire Farmhouse Ice Cream at Chagford were also honoured with silver and bronze awards respectively.
The 19 food expert judges were so impressed by the quality and high standards of entries to the 2004 awards that they have presented more awards than ever, including 81 golds to regional producers for local products in 18 categories, including bakery, dairy, meat, fish, ready meals, preserves, wine, beer, cider and non-alcoholic drinks.
Judge Peter Gorton, co-owner and head chef at the Horn of Plenty at Gulworthy said: ?The judges get to see a huge range of regional products all under one roof and it is incredible just how much is available.
?There is enough varety and quantity to stock an entire supermarket just with products made in the South West.?
Gold award winners will compete for the overall champion product in September.