THE owners of two Burnley businesses were celebrating today after their produce was voted the best in the North West.

Moorhouses Brewery's Pendle Witch and Hartley's Farms Foods' home cooked ham won the award of best alcoholic drink and best cooked meat counter product at the 2004 North West Food Producer of the Year Competition.

Over 300 competitors entered the contest organised by North West Fine Foods as part of British Food Fortnight. Categories included alcoholic drinks, sausages, fruit, vegetables and fish.

The final, in Salford, was judged by a blindfolded panel including award winning food and travel writer Clarissa Hyman and columnist Tom Parker-Bowles.

Pendle Witch, runner-up in the Champion Beer of Britain Contest in 1989, 1990, 1994 and 1995, is described as a malty flavoured real ale with a fruity after taste.

David Grant of the Moorhouse Street brewery said: "Although real ales are more usually associated with a male following, Pendle Witch appeals to the feminine palate as it is sweeter.

"It is a consistent winner of which we are very proud."

Michael Hartley, whose business is based in Burnley Market Hall, said the firm prides itself on quality.

He added: "This award will boost our profile among both wholesale and shop customers."