BRITAIN'S oldest butcher has been named as one of the UK's 'best loved local businesses'.

R J Balson and Son of West Allington, Bridport, has been recognised in a national event which gives local people the opportunity to nominate their favourite businesses.

The 'Love Local Day' event is a support local campaign which recognises most loved local businesses throughout the country as well as those most loved within their local and wider areas.

The event is being championed by ShopAppy, a digital platform and shop local campaign backed by Dorset LEP.

R J Balson and Son celebrated its 505th anniversary in September and has spanned 25 family generations.

Dr Jackie Mulligan, the founder of ShopAppy, said: “It has been a challenging last decade none more so than this last year for our town centres and high streets, but we know there is tremendous love for local businesses in our communities, no more so than in Bridport.

"Love Local Day highlights the importance and positive impact these businesses have in the life of our communities and commercial hearts and how critical they will be to our social and economic recovery. It also shows them how much they are appreciated.”

Thousands of nominations have poured in from across the UK over recent weeks with a massive increase from 2020’s event.

Nominations for Love Local Day highlighted friendliness, helpfulness and exceptional service that local businesses have provided during such challenging times for local communities, high streets, markets, and town centres.