A FAMILY business literally rose from the ashes to regain its status as one of the town’s most successful small businesses.

Hinchliffe’s became one of the UK’s first ever farm shops in 1974 – growing out of Allen Hinchliffe’s original butchery business set up in 1929.

Four generations of the family have worked for the firm, which has won numerous awards for its home-cooked pies, pasties and sausages.

However, prospects looked grim after fire tore through the Netherton complex last summer, destroying decades of endeavour.

Within months, the business was getting back on its feet, selling eggs and vegetables from a trailer on site and, in May, the family held an open day to mark the official return to “business as usual”.

Charles Hinchliffe, who still works at the business, was joined by his grandsons Simon and Ben Hirst to receive the award and praised their loyal customers.

Simon said: “We have moved from the trailer to a small marquee and now a large marquee and we are backed by a great staff and great customers.”

Also nominated in the category, sponsored by Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd (KSDL), were AS Fabrications and Brighter Connections