AN INDIAN restaurant in County Durham has been shortlisted for the North-East at the coveted 'Curry Oscars'.

The Cinnamon Spice Club, in Trimdon, near Sedgefield, is in the running once again for a top title at the British Curry Awards following public nominations.

One of almost 2,500 restaurants to be nominated, the eatery doubles up as a champagne cocktail bar and promises 'luxurious Indian cuisine'.

"I was really happy when I found out," said owner Sabir Ahmed. "I put this place above everything and work very hard.

"Winning at the British Curry Awards is my dream."

The Cinnamon Spice Club, on Salters Lane, has been open for nearly two years and was a finalist at last year's awards.

Mr Sabir said it had attracted a loyal following from regular customers and serves about 200 people on Saturday nights.

He attributed its success to a commitment to fresh food, cooked up by a team headed by his brother Shayer Miah.

"A lot of restaurants buy spices in powder form but here we buy it whole then dry roast it and grind it down," added Mr Sabir. "It's more costly, takes more time and I need more man power but this is where it separates us from everywhere else.

"It takes longer to get your food as everything is cooked from fresh."

Winner of best restaurant in the North East at the English Curry Awards, the Cinnamon Spice Club offers a function and business suite and membership deals to diners.

"I focus on the whole dining experience - from the table cloths and the flowers on the tables," he added. "People travel from all over to me and I try to give them something back."

Winners will be announced at a ceremony on Monday (November 30) in London.