JUDGES have shortlisted Ramsbottom as a top 'foodie' neighbourhood.

It will be up against Prestwich, Altrincham, Heaton Moor, Sale, Stockport, Stretford and Urmston in the 'Foodie Neighbourhood of the Year' category at the Manchester Food and Drink Festival finals.

Ramsbottom alone has three other nominations for the September 27 gathering at the city's Escape to Freight Island complex in Piccadilly.

Not only is Baratxuri, in Smithy Street, up for restaurant of the year but chef Rachel Stockley is vying for individual honours among the city region's finest culinary talent.

Their sister site Levanter, in Square Street, which specialises in Spanish tapas, is also set to compete for neighbourhood venue honours. Staff are "over the moon" at their three awards nods.

Rachel walked away with the same title in 2018, the same year Levanter scooped the Casual Restaurant of the Year prize. The year before that, the 'casual' crown went to the Basque-style Baratxuri.

Each of the eateries have been Good Food Guide regulars in recent years.

Festival director Alexa Stratton-Powell, said: “This festival was set up to celebrate the city’s food and drink scene, particularly to support and champion local and independent businesses and talented individuals across the entire hospitality industry.

"Now that manifesto is more crucial than ever as we find ourselves in uncharted territory and the most challenging of times.

"The festival is about supporting the recovery of our industry - and we’re proud to use that platform to shout about these incredible businesses who have not only survived but thrived."

Votes can be cast online at foodanddrinkfestival.com before the end of Monday, September 20.