AN Italian cafe has once again been named the best of its kind in the country to cap off a year of recovery after fire damage.

Bellissimo in Burnley beat competition from across England to be named best deli/cafe at the English Italian Awards to reclaim the prize they previously won in 2015.

Lynn Scibetta, who runs the Parker Lane eatery with husband Giovanni and sons Roberto and Gero, said she was in tears of joy when they found out they had won.

Shortly before Christmas last year there was a fire at a neighbouring takeaway which resulted in smoke damage to the Italian cafe.

Mrs Scibetta, 59, said: “We almost gave up. We lost about £24,000 and we were absolutely heartbroken.

“On Christmas Day we were here cleaning it up trying to get rid of the horrible smell.

“Our customers came in to help us clean up, we cannot thank them enough as well as everyone who voted for us.

“We were absolutely made up when we found out we won, I was in tears.

“It’s absolutely amazing, we’re so proud.”

The cafe was named as one of 15 finalists across the country in its category after having success in the initial public vote round.

Judges then visited the finalists anonymously to decide on the winners, who were named in a ceremony at the Principal Hotel in Manchester.

The cafe decided not to enter last year due to a family illness but were ‘delighted’ to hear the praise they received after winning this years award.

Mrs Scibetta said: “I couldn’t believe what the judges said to us.

“One said our food was sublime and our coffee far better than any of the chains.

“We’re a real family place and they said we served with love and passion, which I thought was beautiful.

“It’s great for Burnley, last time we brought more people to the area.

“Now the town centre has had this facelift hopefully we can do it again and provide a boost to the town.”

Mr Scibetta is originally from Sicily in Italy and attracts customers with his authentic Italian food and coffees.

Mamma Mia at Crossways, in Whalley Padiham were nominated in the ‘Best Family-Friendly Restaurant’ and Eddie's Wood Fired Pizza in Darwen had been listed in the ‘Best Newcomer’ category.