AN Astwood Bank butcher described as "a force of nature" has been officially crowned best butcher in the country.

Pete the Meat, based in Astwood Bank, has been named as top butcher in the Countryside Alliance Awards, nicknamed the Rural Oscars, which celebrate businesses and groups working hard to keep rural life thriving.

Pete Lawton, from Pete the Meat, has been been a butcher and familiar face on Evesham Road for more than 40 years.

He collected the prestigious award from the House of Lords last week.

He said he was brought to tears when his name was read out.

"It came as a complete shock," admitted Mr Lawton.

"We were not expecting it. What's nice about the award is it takes into account not just the quality of our products and service, but what you do for your community so it's very welcome."

Mr Lawton, who has a small team with him in the shop, added: "This is something I will remember for the rest of my life."

The butcher was commended by judges for his commitment to his customers as well as the local community.

For more on the awards, visit countryside-alliance.org.