A kitchen designer based in the wilds of the Northumberland countryside has won a prestigious award.

Northumbria Kitchens has won the Kitchen Company of the Year award in the North of England Prestige Awards 2020.

Based in Kirkharle Courtyard, Northumbria Kitchens designs bespoke kitchens and manufactures cabinets which are distributed across the North.

The award requires nomination from the public, so for owner Vivian Spencer the win was a sure sign she had been doing the right thing.

She said: “It’s fantastic! Hopefully it will bring in lots of new customers.

“I didn’t even know I was nominated. You get put forward by a member of the public, so it was a lovely surprise.

“I think, bearing in mind there are so many kitchen companies, it will make people realise that there are products made in the North East and we can beat the competition when we put our mind to it.

“They mentioned our website, which we keep updated and put new designs up and customers leave their reviews.”

Vivian opened Northumbria Kitchens four years ago, and has now picked up where she left off – having been hugely successful in the south of the country, obtaining various awards over the years.

Born in Newcastle, her father joined the armed forces and she spent much of her early life in the South.

The family lived at Blackdown Deepcut Army married quarters in Hampshire.

She has worked in kitchens for 30 years and returned to the North East five years ago.

Her father has recently penned his first book, entitled A Geordie’s Take on Life just shy of his 90th birthday – showing the family’s strong North East roots.

As a youngster, Vivian would march for miles on the firing ranges, lifted weights and wasn’t allowed sugar or sweets as her father looked to prepare them for life.

The lessons of dedication and resilience have served Vivian well in her working life.

The judges were impressed with the comprehensive service offered.

They said: “Consistently positive reviews highlight the professional and reliable nature of staff, whose expertise in design makes planning a new kitchen a painless experience.

“Designs are inspired from distinguished periods in English history, incorporating beautiful handmade cabinets made from the best quality materials using traditional craftsmanship.

“For those who prefer something more modern, the company also supplies contemporary brands renowned for their precision, engineering, exceptional quality and sleek finish.

“The judges were impressed with the comprehensive service offered at Northumbria Kitchens, which starts with a visit to the showroom or free home design consultation, where the in-house designer can take measurements and get a better sense of the client’s needs.

“Virtual online consultations are also available if required.

“Once initial drawings are complete, customers can select from a range of worktops, appliances and accessories to tailor the kitchen exactly to their requirements and preferences.

“A fitting service is also provided, or clients can choose to order supply only."