A DELICATESSAN celebrating its 25th anniversary this year has been chosen as one of the top 20 small shops in Britain.

Hunters of Helmsley, based in the Market Place, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Small Shops Competition 2015, after being chosen by an independent panel of judges from hundreds of entries.

Husband and wife team Chris and Christine Garnett, who own the deli, will attend an event at the House of Commons in London, today, where the overall winner will be announced.

The Best Small Shops Competition is run by the All-Party Parliamentary Small Shops Group and administered by the Independent Retailers Confederation.

Hunters of Helmsley impressed the judges with its wide range of products, commitment to supporting local producers, its innovative approach to partnerships and the key role the retailer played in setting up the Helmsley in Business group, which now has 50 members working together to promote the town for the benefit of all local businesses.

Christine said: “We were astounded and absolutely delighted to make the final 20, especially because we are one of only two businesses in Yorkshire to make the shortlist.

“We love food and drink, and we love to make our customers happy, so that’s at the forefront of everything we do. We’ve very lucky that we have so many fantastic producers on our doorstep, along with a very supportive local community and local business network. We hope we can do them all proud.”

Ryedale MP Anne McIntosh said: “I am delighted Chris and Christine have been short listed. I will be willing Hunters to win, as will all their loyal customers. The shop offers a wide range of food and drinks and excellent service with a smile. They source their products from local producers and suppliers so are key to the local economy. We are all wishing them well and confident of a good result.”

The second Yorkshire business on the shortlist is Elite meat of Harrogate, a traditional family butchers.