A leading Cumbrian butchers has won seven prestigious national awards.
Cranstons was presented with the gold accolades for its Korean Sausage, Porchetta, Pastrami, both Dry-cured Back Bacon and Dry-cured Streaky, Pork & Apple, and Ribeye Steak by the Smithfield Awards.
The awards, organised by the Q Guild of Butchers, celebrate excellence in craft butchery and product innovation across the UK.
Over 200 products were put forward by butchers from across the UK for evaluation in what is widely regarded as the benchmark for quality in British craft butchery.
Cranstons said: “We’re incredibly proud to receive seven gold awards from the Q Guild of Butchers.
“It’s fantastic recognition for the hard work and dedication of our team and the quality of the products we produce every day. To be competing alongside some of the best craft butchers in the country is a real honour.”
Entries for the 2026 awards were judged during an evaluation session held at City of Glasgow College, where a judging panel of industry experts, food writers and culinary professionals, headed up by Dr Jonathan Wilkin, assessed each product using a rigorous points-based scoring system. Products achieving the highest scores were awarded bronze, silver or gold.
Gordon Wallace, Q Guild manager, said: “The Smithfield Awards showcase the very best of British craft butchery, celebrating the passion, skill and innovation of our members.
“With more than 200 products entered this year, the judging process was extremely competitive. Achieving a gold award is a remarkable accomplishment and we congratulate Cranstons on their success.”
