Solihull butchers named 'Best in Class' and scoops national award

One of ten artisan butchers from across the UK to be crowned top of their class, the Solihull butcher won the Diamond award in the ‘Ready Meal’ category with its Lamb Keema Wellington, in what is widely recognised as the meat trade’s most high profile and challenging product evaluation. 

Organised by the Q Guild of Butchers, the awards which have run for more than 30 years, recognise and reward the UK’s finest craft butchery products including sausages, bacon, burgers, steak, game products, BBQ products and more.

Products are awarded a Bronze, Silver or Gold award by a panel of independent industry judges, with all Gold products in each category then pitched against each for the category champion Diamond Award.

Scoring a remarkable 69 points out of a possible 70, Mills Butchers’ Lamb Keema Wellington impressed judges and was described as ‘a superb product with great flavour, pastry and spices’. The coveted Diamond Award was presented to Mills Butchers by Prof John Gilliland OBE DSc, a renowned authority on sustainable agriculture and food security.

John Hewitt from Mills Butchers said: “We’re from Birmingham so curries are a massive thing for us. The boss’s favourite curry is a Lamb Keema so we made this for him and then it became a massive hit with customers.

We’ve put our heart and soul into this so we’re delighted to win this award.”

Gordon Wallace, Q Guild Manager said: “The standard of entries this year was as high as ever, making Mill Butchers achievement even more impressive. Being crowned best in class is a fantastic accomplishment. We were delighted to present them with this award, which not only recognises the exceptional quality of their products but also contributes to raising industry standards and driving innovation in the craft butchery sector.”

Since its establishment in 1978, Mills Butchers has stood as a beacon of butchery excellence in Hockley Heath, Solihull. Under the stewardship of Rob Mills, who followed in his father’s footsteps, the shop boasts a rich history combined with modern expertise. Situated in a fully refurbished, state-of-the-art facility on Stratford Road, they continue a tradition of exceptional craftsmanship and customer service, offering an extensive selection of meats from native bred beef to exotic game, all sourced with a focus on local and ethical practices.