A Cut Above

In Cumbria, a popular butcher tells a tale of resilience, winning the Countryside Alliance Award for Best Butcher North of England, following a devastating fire. 

Kirkby Lonsdale institution Dales Traditional Butchers, and its owner Mark Duckworth both have a history of winning awards. Yet this accolade certainly lifts spirits at a difficult time, as Mark tragically lost a friend in the fire. 

“It’s certainly been a tough few months,” said Mark. “I dedicate this award to the staff, customers and community of Kirkby Lonsdale, who have shown true resilience following the incident.”

This new title sits alongside various other notable achievements including Britain’s Best Butcher Shop in 2021, and other awards for their sausages and pies.

Mark and his team now have the opportunity to take home the overall title at Countryside Alliance’s Champion’s Reception (often playfully referred to as the ‘Rural Oscars’) at the House of Lords in June.