AN expanding Ribble Valley food firm has triumphed against bigger rivals to become Chilled Food Supplier of the Year.

Longridge-based Clegg’s Chilled Food claimed the top prize at the annual Food Awards England. The company, which employs 26 at their premises in Longridge, formerly specialised in cheese but have expanded into other areas, supplying cooked meats and sandwich fillings.

The company received a large number of public nominations prior to the awards at Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel General manager Paul Masterson, said the recognition was a tribute to the hard work of all his staff.

He said: “Over the past 12 months Clegg’s have won a substantial contract to become suppliers of grated and block cheese to all Lancashire County Council run school kitchens. “This is one of several key contracts Clegg’s supply, we have several contracts in place to supply chilled and ambient foods to the National Health Service, universities and education establishments.”

Clegg’s also supply a wide range of chilled food products to various types of customers, these including wholesalers, sandwich shops and delicatessens, restaurants, hotels, sandwich producers as well as bakeries.

Paul added: “We have more than 30 years’ experience in food distribution.

“We began life as merchants of locally produced farmhouse cheeses, supplying local markets and specialist shops.

“We remain true to our roots as cheese suppliers, but have diversified and expanded staff by 15 per cent in the last two years.”

In their second year, Food Awards England celebrate and reward the very best in England’s food sector.

Selected based on a public vote, the awards commend individuals and businesses dedicated to constantly delivering high-quality dishes, produce and supplies to ensure impeccable service to their customers.