AN Indian restaurant in Northwich is celebrating after winning a prestigious national award.

Holdi in Lostock Gralam has been named Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year in the annual English Curry Awards.

Staff were astonished when their name was announced at the black tie ceremony attended by the country's top restaurants.

Manager Abdul Kalam, 37, said: "I was absolutely stunned. There were businessmen from London, Birmingham, Norwich and Portsmouth at my table. For our name to be read out from little Lostock was completely overwhelming. I was speechless.

"We are so proud to come back home to Northwich with this award."

Family run Holdi opened on Manchester Road three years ago and is part of a chain of eight restaurants, a steakhouse and takeaway.

He said: "Our food is unique. You won't find our dishes anywhere else. Our menu is authentic and our recipes have been passed on from our grandfather.

"Our chefs have more than 30 years' combined experience and have worked and travelled across south east Asia and various other countries to pick up on different styles.

"Our menu reflects our culture with dishes from India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Laos but with a unique twist which retains authentic flavours with influences from Europe and Africa."

Abdul said he has been inundated with messages of congratulations from customers.

"The kind words, cards and excitement shared by our beautiful guests has been amazing," he said. "We have a burning desire to be the best. We love what we do. To get this recognition is amazing."

The restaurant's success, he says, has been a team effort.

"Every single member of our team has extensive knowledge and knows where each dish comes from and which spices are used," said Abdul.

"Our staff have been trained and can advise about various dietary requirements including gluten free, vegan and vegetarian. We can tailor our menu to suit individual tastes."

The restaurant hosts special events and themed nights throughout the year and plans to host a party night to celebrate the award.

"We have an incredible dedicated team," added Abdul. "They are really professional and have a passion for the industry.

"To get this recognition that our work is has been appreciated is amazing. To me it really is an incentive to keep on striving and continue to be the best we can be."