A sandwich shop praised for its delicious sarnies has been praised after winning gold at an awards ceremony.

Uptons Of Bassett in Southampton won big at The Sandwich & Food To Go Awards - known as ‘The Sammies’ - and recognised as the the Grammys of the sandwich world, organised by the British Sandwich & Food to Go Association.

The Winchester Road sandwich shop took home gold in the Independent Retailer Award.

Simon and Katarina Broadribb, butcher, cookery teacher and owners, said: “All year round, we work really hard to give our customers high-quality products which exceed their expectations! Being recognised by such a prestigious award is a real honour.”

“We try to make as much as we can from fresh – including our own black pudding and sausages! If we can’t make it ourselves, we work closely with local farmers, bakers and other suppliers to support local businesses and the wider community. Plus, we focus on delivering excellent customer service and feel that a warm welcome should never be overlooked.”

The business, founded by the couple over 30 years ago, now employs 16 people and thrives on being known for its locally sourced meats, award-winning wraps and sandwiches, its cookery and butchery classes, pop-up evenings, including its famous Burns Night and Butcher’s Banter.

Uptons Of Bassett was given its gold accolade alongside three other independent sandwich retailers across the country.

The awards organised by the British Sandwich & Food to Go Association were presented by Theo Randall at the annual event at the Royal Lancaster Hotel.

Jim Winship, director of The British Sandwich & Food to Go Association, said: “This award celebrates independent retailers, creators and owners and everything they work extremely hard for. We champion their passion and local presence and highlight their entrepreneurial spirit and success.

“Simon and Katarina Broadribb and Uptons of Bassett showcase exactly what we look for in this category – a local business, serving local customers, and collaborating with local suppliers."

Simon and Katarina added: “We’re thrilled to have been awarded gold in the ‘Independent Sandwich Retailer’ category for the second year in a row. We work really hard to provide our customers with sandwiches that are made from high-quality ingredients, and it’s rewarding that our efforts have been recognised!”