AN Indian in Bridgwater has been named the nation's best Curry Restaurant.

Spice Club was voted top at the 2021 Curry Life Awards, by the Curry Life Media Group.

This is the first time the restaurant has entered the awards.

A spokesperson for Spice Club said it was a 'great tribute' for the restaurant to be recognised in this way.

"The past couple of years have been extremely challenging for businesses like ours – and it is marvellous to emerge from such difficult times with such a top award," they added.

"Our success is very much a team effort, and is all about giving our customers the quality of service that they demand and deserve.

"I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in achieving this top honour."

Just Eat, a food order delivery service, sponsored the event.

Matt Bushby, the UK marketing director for Just Eat, added: "We are thrilled to sponsor the Curry Life Awards, celebrating one of our most treasured and iconic industries; one that has helped so many communities over the last 18 months.

"We are delighted to play a part in showcasing the hard work and imagination of chefs and owners who continue to produce fantastic, value-for-money and creative cooking.

"Our congratulations go to all of those who have won awards. You fully deserve them for standing out in this competitive industry."

Editor of Curry Life Media Group, Syed Belal Ahmed, said they have seen a 'major stepping up of standards' over the past few years.

"Several restaurants are in a position to challenge for accolades such as Michelin stars," he said.

"One of the major aims of the awards has always been to highlight best practice going on across the country and that indeed has always been a driving principle behind Curry Life itself.

"That so many owners have chosen to use their lockdown time to invest in their businesses, and raise standards, is a real credit to the perseverance and ingenuity of all involved.

"We are delighted to recognise these efforts through the Curry Life Awards."

The awards ceremony and gala dinner took place at London's Royal Lancaster Hotel on Sunday, October 10, and raised more than £2,000 for the British Asian Trust.