A HEREFORDSHIRE butchers has been labelled the best game butchers in the UK.

Hanks Meat & Game, in Ross-on-Wye, won the title at Eat Game Awards 2021, which were held in London last night (March 24).

More than 11,00 votes were cast by the public and the awards, hosted by TV's Adam Henson, were organised by The British Game Alliance.

Owner Tim Hanks, 37, won £1,000 and the prestige of winning the event.

Other winners were Kitchen W8, which was named best game restaurant while Aldi took the best game retailer award.

"I would like to say a massive thank you for everyone who has voted for us and supported us over the past four years, and not forgetting our amazing team," said Mr Hanks.

"All the support and hard work you give the business day in day out I couldn't wish for a better work family.

"Many thanks all, one very happy Butcher."

An overjoyed Tim Hanks spoke to The Great Game Guide after the event: "I can't believe it to be honest," he said.

"Game is not the easiest meat to sell. You really need to know what you're doing but I grew up with game as my father was a gamekeeper and it's my life.

"We take a lot of wild board from the Forest of Dean and game birds and deer from local estates. This is great for us.

The award-winning butchers has also set up its own academy that teaches students how to cook game.

Hanks Butchery Academy is based at the Harts Barn Cookery School just outside Ross-on-Wye and new dates for places will be available in May.