Western Gazette, 15 September 2011

COOKIE TAKES THE BISCUIT AT TASTE AWARDS

An award-winning bakery near Sherborne has added another gong to its colllection.

Honeybuns, a small artisan bakery in Holwell, has scooped the Harmsworth Award - the highest accolade at this year's Taste of Dorset awards - for the best cookie.

The business grew out of founder Emma Goss-Custard's time at university in Oxford during the late 1990s when she would cycyle to various cafes and restaurants in the town delivering her freshly-made cakes.

Today, Honeybuns, which Emma runs with her husband and co-founder Matt, is frequently recognised for its homemade goodies, many of which are gluten free.

Emma said: "We are utterly bowled over to have won, especially as we were up against such stiff competition. We were particarly happy to learn that the judges noticed the cheerful, helpful vibe of our team members. This is what we strive for - a happy, united team and happy cusotmers. This award is so special to us."

The bakery beat 62 other businesses, including Chococo in Swanage, Aiden Chapel at Phoenix Bakery and Nick Ralph at Dorset Farmers Market, to win the prize.

The Hamsworth award recognises outstanding contribution to food in Dorset, recognising an individual or company that put the county on the map with inspiration, energy, imagination and use of Dorset ingredients.

The couple were presented with their hand-painted award plate by judges Ruth Kimber and Mat Manning at the finalists dinner at The Exchange, Sturminster Newton.

Honeybuns products are available in most major supermarket cafes, and other discerning tea rooms, as well as the Honeybuns online shop.

The bakery cafe, the Bee Shack, is open on the first Saturday of each month. For more information visit www.honeybuns.co.uk or call 01963 23597.