A FAMILY-RUN ice cream business in the New Forest has scooped a national prize in the Food Manufacture Excellence Awards.

The prestigious ceremony took place in November at the Hilton on Park Lane, hosted by Gregg Wallace.

New Forest Ice Cream was Highly Commended in the Frozen Food Manufacturing Company of the Year category.

Christina Veal, Director of New Forest Ice Cream said it was the first time they had entered the awards.

“As an independent family-run business, it’s always encouraging to receive recognition from awards where we’re up against some huge companies, although this can also be a little bit daunting.

"The atmosphere of the awards was really special and it was great to see so many companies cheering each other on and showing support.

She added: "It’s fantastic to be rewarded for everything the whole team strives to achieve here at New Forest Ice Cream and we’re delighted to add a new award to our collection.”

Unique to any other industry awards, the Food Manufacturer Excellence Awards were judged by an independent panel of leading experts from the sector on a number of different elements, including quality assurance to supply chains and environmental contributions.