SEVERAL companies from Whitchurch and Overton were listed in a series of awards that celebrate local businesses.

Five businesses from the Whitchurch and Overton area were celebrated in the Hampshire region of the Muddy Stilettos awards, which are designed to shine a spotlight on businesses from across the country.

Independent wine merchant Caviste in Overton was given the best wine merchant award.

Overton Gallery won the best gift shop award, while Cookery Doodle Doo, a children’s cooking class based in Laverstoke, was given the best children’s business award.

The best destination pub award was presented to the Watership Down Inn in Freefolk, and Whitchurch’s Sarah Dutton Photography took home the best photographer award.

Katie Black, owner of Laverstoke-based Cookery Doodle Doo, said: “These awards are so special because they are voted for by our customers, and it’s been wonderful to see and share in the overwhelming support for local, independent businesses from the fantastic community in Overton and Whitchurch.

“Our children’s cookery school is at the very heart of our community with the vast majority of my customers coming from the area immediately surrounding my home-kitchen in Laverstoke.”

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to win this award, which comes hot-on-the-heels of my move from being a franchisee to a full partner in the - now privately owned - business, which took place in April of this year.”

Philip Denee, owner of the Watership Down Inn in Freefolk, added: “We are all delighted to have won this coveted award and I would very much like to thank not only the Watership Team for their hard work and endeavour but also all our lovely customers who continue to support us.”

Mary Malyon, editor of Muddy Stilettos Hampshire, said: “Muddy Stilettos is so proud of all these fantastic businesses for putting this special corner of Hampshire on the map (being a local girl, I am biased, but still). Kudos Coffee in Whitchurch, Jo Farrow Holistic Beauty, Overton and The Artizans, Overton also deserve a mention as very worthy finalists. So many congratulations to all of you.”