Tynedale businesses are celebrating after winning prestigious awards.

The Fountain Cottage Café and B&B in Bellingham has won the best cafe in the 2021 England Business Awards for the Tyne & Wear region, including Northumberland, while Saks Hexham scooped the award for best hair salon.

And Spokes Kitchen, in Corbridge, won the best new food business.

Danielle Hudson, who runs the Fountain Cottage alongside her husband Michael, said: "We were absolutely over the moon just to be a nominee, and then when we found out we were a finalist, it was just amazing.

"And when they announced we were the best cafe across the Tyne & Wear region, it was just completely overwhelming. We were so proud."

The winners were announced at a ceremony held at the Crowne Plaza in Newcastle city centre last night (October 4).

Danielle added: "We massively appreciate how many people voted for us. It's just amazing."

Shannon Currah, of Saks Hexham, said: "After the pandemic it's come at a really good time. It's a great morale boost for the team, who have just worked so hard.

"Whatever the rules were in the pandemic, the team just went with it. They were really flexible.

"We're chuffed."