A VILLAGE butchers has proved a cut above yet again – this time landing the title of UK’s best in the 'Rural Oscars'.

Having been named Wales' top rural butcher in the Countryside Alliance regional awards, family-owned NS James of Raglan headed to the House of Lords on Wednesday (June 18) to compete against the other winners at a Champions' Reception and was awarded the ultimate honour.

President of the Countryside Alliance, Baroness Mallalieu. handing over the award to Raglan butcher Neil James
President of the Countryside Alliance, Baroness Mallalieu. handing over the award to Raglan butcher Neil James (Countryside Alliance)

An awards spokesperson: "Farming has a true champion in NS James Butchers of Raglan. With a steadfast commitment to low food miles and locally sourced livestock, they’re not just feeding the community, they’re nourishing its roots.

"Their in-house abattoir and hand-crafted produce demonstrate a level of care and expertise rarely seen today.

"Add to that their presence at rural events and support for local producers, and it’s clear NS James is more than a butcher – they’re the beating heart of a thriving rural network, proudly flying the flag for farming and food heritage."

Posting "WE WON!!", the butchers added: "Neil (James) has always promoted 'local' and 'low food miles' even before they were 'on trend'.

"NS James exists and trades on local knowledge, quality stock and relationships built over two generations.

"In May we won Welsh Butcher of the Year, which was a delight. Today, Neil and his family attended the House of Lords to compete against other butchers who were Countryside Alliance winners from England, Scotland and Northern Ireland... and NS James Ltd is now your Countryside Alliance Champion Butcher for the UK! #Whataday."

Tim Bonner, CA chief executive, said: “The awards continue to shine a spotlight on the people and enterprises that form the backbone of rural Britain.

“These stories of perseverance, ingenuity, and community spirit deserve to be heard in the corridors of power.

“Whether representing a family farm, village shop, local pub, or rural enterprise, you’re all standard bearers for the countryside and the communities that depend on it. These awards celebrate the people and values that keep rural life alive.”