A TYNE valley delicatessen is celebrating after winning a prestigious award for their contribution during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Corbridge Larder, on Hill Street, has been named as the North East winner at the Farm Shop & Deli 2021 Retailer Awards.

Judges chose nine regional winners and 30 commended retailers, chosen from a shortlist of 153 UK speciality retailers.

The 2021 Retailer Awards, held in partnership with The Grocer, changed their judging criteria this year to shine the spotlight on those retailers who deserve recognition for their commitment shown to their customers, community, staff and suppliers during the pandemic.

The Corbridge Larder started doing deliveries for people and were able to provide locals with items like flour and yeast, which were in short supply around the country at the start of the pandemic.

"We started buying in things we didn't actually normally stock just to try and be a one-stop shop for people," Jen Horton, who has owned the business alongside husband Bob since 2015, said.

The deli and café, home to a range of local produce and bespoke hampers, also teamed up with local thriller author LJ Ross, who funded supplies to key workers, care homes, and schools, as well as families in need.

Their delivery drivers told them that some people were bursting into tears when receiving supplies, Jen said.

"Some of them were saying they didn't know where the next meal was coming from," she said.

"It was really humbling, knowing what we were doing was so important."

Jen said: "It feels absolutely amazing [to win the award].

"It was the team who deserved it. I was more pleased for the team to get it.

"I mean I'm obviously chuffed to bits but I wouldn't have got it without the team because they were the ones coming in and every day and risking their lives really."

Chair of judges Nigel Barden said: "We are all aware that the past 15 months have been like no other and that the traditional retail world of food and drink has dramatically changed.

"The Farm Shop & Deli finalists have illustrated how crucial they are to their communities at a time when many consumers remained in their homes."

He added: "It has put independent retailers right back in the heart of their communities, with an increased appreciation from grateful shoppers.

"It’s been a privilege to read some of these stories and to now be able to tell the world about these remarkably dedicated people."