A COWDENBEATH butcher were recognised for being best in class after as the local business secured a national award.

Hugh Black & Sons achieved success for a number of their products at the Smithfield ‘Star’ Awards.

One of twelve artisan butchers from across the UK to be crowned top of their class, the Cowdenbeath butcher won the award for ‘Traditional Pork Sausage’ with its Pork Link Sausage in what is widely recognised as the meat trade’s most high profile and challenging product evaluation.

Organised by the Q Guild of Butchers, the prestigious awards which have run for more than 30 years, recognise and reward the UK’s finest craft butchery products including Traditional Pork Sausage, Best Burgers, Gluten-Free Product, Best Bacon, BBQ Product and Black Pudding.

Products are evaluated using a 1, 2 and 3 star rating system by a panel of independent industry judges, with all 3 star products in each category then pitched against each for the category champion Diamond Award.

Described by judges as ‘perfect’, the sausage created by Hugh Black & Sons received top marks beating four other finalists to secure the top spot and receive the coveted Diamond Award, which was presented to the team by restaurateur and Michelin star chef Angela Hartnett OBE.

The Cowdenbeath butcher also received a three star award – the highest possible product rating - for its Sirloin Steak and two star awards for its Steak & Spring Onion Burger, Black Pudding, Sweet Chilli Pork Grillsticks and Steak Pie.

Hugh Black, of Hugh Black & Sons, said: "We’re over the moon to have won the award for traditional pork sausage.

"It’s one of our best sellers all year round and is made with the very best ingredients by an experienced team who have perfected their technique over many years.”

Gordon Wallace, Q Guild Manager said: “The standard of entries this year was higher than ever with a 20 per cent increase in the number of products awarded three stars so being crowned best in class, alongside two three star awards and four two star awards is no mean feat!

"We were delighted to present Hugh Black and Sons with their awards which are a fantastic endorsement of their products while also helping raise standards across the board and driving product development in the craft butchery industry.”