AN up-and-coming Oakworth butcher has won a coveted title.

Joe Smith, 21, has been crowned Yorkshire champion in the Young Butchers Creative Meat Display Competition.

The contest was staged by meat processing and retail butchery industry supplier, Dalziel, at its Glasshoughton headquarters.

Mr Smith said: "We were given two hours to work our magic on shoulders of lamb and pork, a knuckle of beef and a brace of chickens. We had to cut them up and make as many dishes as possible without any waste.

"The judges were looking at our butchery and presentation skills and the imagination used to create the products.

"I produced 15 different dishes in total and was over the moon to be chosen as Yorkshire champion. Events like these are a great learning curve."

He was awarded a trophy, certificate, vouchers and £200 worth of butchery knives.

The presentation was made by British and Commonwealth featherweight boxing champion, Josh Warrington.

Dalziel regional operations manager, Mike O’Hara, praised all the contestants.

"They demonstrated a high level of professionalism and excellent butchery skills," he said. "The overall displays were very impressive and inspirational."

Mr Smith has worked at Lishman’s, in Ilkley, for four years and was recently promoted to assistant shop manager.