TWO CRAVEN curry houses are celebrating after picking up two of the main honours at the ‘Nation’s Curry Awards’ this week.

The Barlick Raj Balti in Barnoldswick was named Balti Restaurant of the Year while Settle's Ruchee Restaurant scooped the Best of Yorkshire honour at the awards ceremony at The Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel, on Monday.

The event recognised and celebrated the talents and hard work of individuals and businesses within the UK’s curry industry.

Winners and highly commended honours were announced in a range of categories, including Best Chef of the Year, Vegetarian Restaurant of the Year and Best Customer Service.

Owner of the Barlick Raj Balti on Station Road, Barnoldswick, Habib Ullah, said it was a great honour for the restaurant, which had twice faced closure, during the Covid-19 pandemic, and more recently during the cost of living crisis.

Mr Ullah, who opened the restaurant 12 years ago, looks after front of house, while his brother, Muhibur Rahman is head chef, and his other brother helps out part time alongside his other job as an accountant.

They said: “Words cannot describe the feelings when we were announced as the winner. We would deeply like to thank our loyal customers and like to say Barlick Raj is what it is cause of its customers and we really appreciate your support."

It was the second time the Ruchee has returned home with an award from the annual event - last year it scooped the prize for best customer experience for the Yorkshire and Humber, and now it has been named 'Best in Yorkshire'.

The Ruchee, in Commercial Yard, off Duke Street, has been in business for more than 20 years and serves up Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine.

Owner, Mohammed Ali, said: "I couldn't be more proud to win the Best in Yorkshire award, giving good food and hospitality to local people makes me and my staff happy."

A spokesperson from Oceanic Events which hosts the awards said: “It was an unforgettable night, filled with incredible food, vibrant energy, and passionate conversations.

“We have celebrated the finest in the UK’s curry scene, recognising the creativity, innovation, and exceptional service that have become synonymous with this beloved cuisine.

“The UK’s curry industry is a vital part of our culture, and these awards recognised the exceptional talents of the individuals and businesses that make it so special. We want to congratulate all the winners and highly commended recipients on their accomplishment.”