AN Alcester family drinks business run by the Earl and Countess of Yarmouth has won the best startup prize at the Foodie Awards.
St Maur was launched less than 18 months ago by William and Kelsey Seymour.
They sell elderflower liqueur, and the recipe was first tried out on their wedding guests at Ragley Hall in 2018 before they decided to turn it into a full time business during lockdown in 2020.
St Maur is made out of wild blossoms which are hand-picked in May and June in the Ragley Woodlands, which are owned by the couple.
St Maur has already won four international industry awards since it was first released.
The foodie award winners were announced at Coventry’s Fargo Village on June 16.
William said: “We have been aware that there is a vibrant food and drink scene in the heart of England, but The Foodie Awards has really opened our eyes to the diversity, quality, and abundance of what there is to offer right here in Warwickshire and Coventry.
“We have won awards for St Maur internationally over our first two years in business but to win here at home is a success we can be very proud of.”
The finalists were judged by a panel of the best chefs in the business including Michelin star chef Paul Foster, British Bake-off winner Candice Brown and food and drink broadcaster Nigel Barden.
The awards saw more than 50 businesses competing in 17 categories, and over £500 was raised for The Trussell Trust network of eight food banks through a raffle on the night.
Foodie Awards founder Jonathan Smith, of Talk Business UK, said: “I must admit to feeling humbled and inspired following the Foodie Awards presentation event.
“Meeting all the finalists and hearing their stories, feeling their passion for what they do and seeing how wonderfully supportive the food and drink folk are towards each other, was amazing.”
