POPULAR local butchers picked up an award after loyal customers voted them in.

B. Drummond Butchers of Bell Street was selected in the Hampshire Chronicles Retailer of the Year 2021 after customers and supporters were asked to vote for their favourite shops.

The shop was formerly owned by Barry Drummond and after 29 years of working for Mr Drummond, employee Paul Solloway and his wife Sally took ownership five years ago to continue providing Romsey with the quality service they have known for over 30 years although the brand itself dates back to 1858.

On receiving the award, Paul said: “I’m really amazed, and appreciate all our customers and suppliers and of course, staff I couldn’t do it without them. Just really overwhelmed to be supported by really loyal customers.”

Richard added: “It makes a really nice Christmas present, really happy, really chuffed.”

Marc continued: “It’s been a really hard two years.”

Throughout the pandemic, as a food supplier, the store remained open with just two members of staff, Paul and Marc who worked tirelessly without a break for two years. The team has since grown to include Richard and Christian who provides the delivery service. Paul’s wife Sally is the stores baker bringing home baked pies and other pastries.

All meat, including what goes into the pastries is British but sourced as locally as possible with bacon, sausages and seasonal pigs in blankets made in store.

The butchers are now taking orders for Turkeys which are sourced from Paul Tanner’s great Oaks Farm in Lymington and there is a meat raffle in-store where the winner can receive a meat hamper just in time for Christmas.

The store is open Monday to Friday 7.30am to 4.30pm and Saturdays from 7.am to 3pm.

Pop in to the store to enquire about the raffle or visit www.romseybutchers.co.uk for further information on deals and promotions.