A LAKE District family owned business has won a prestigious award at the Great British Food awards.

Penningtons have won a prestigious best Loose Leaf tea award at the Great British Food awards.

The Great British Food Awards were launched in 2014 to celebrate the very best artisanal produce in the food and drink industry, from flavoured gins to frozen desserts.

The judging panel comprises some of the most acclaimed chefs, food critics and influencers in the country.

Gina Pennington,a director of the business said: “We are thrilled with the recognition for our Signature Fine Lakeland Loose leaf tea. We have seen a surge in popularity of loose leaf teas over the last few years."

Michelin star chef and quadruple winner of the great British menu, Judge Richard Corrigan said: "I just loved this, the blend of Indian, Sri Lankan and African leaves made for a robust cuppa.

"I don’t want a weak cup of tea, especially in the morning, and this held up against a good glug of full fat milk. Not too weak and really well balanced.

"I live in a fairly hard water area and the tea held its own."

You can purchase the award winning tea at our Roastery in Kendal, or online by visiting penningtonscoffee.co.uk.