A tomato ketchup made by a top Huddersfield chef has hit the spot with judges in the Great Taste Awards.

The “grown up” ketchup, made by Tim Bilton, of The Spiced Pear Hepworth, received a gold star in the national competition.

Judges at the world’s most prestigious food awards said the ketchup had a “nice depth of flavour intensity”, looked “homemade and authentic”, was “very refreshing” and “useful for all sorts of things”.

Tim (inset) opened the doors to The Spiced Pear Hepworth in Sheffield Road, Hepworth, in May this year – turning the former Hepworth Restaurant into a fine dining restaurant, 1940s inspired FourTeas Tearoom and cocktail bar – said he was delighted with the star.

“Considering we only opened four months ago, it’s wonderful to get recognition for one of our signature products,” said Tim.

“In my mind, there’s nothing quite like a Great Taste recommendation and we feel very proud that the judges liked our grown-up goodies.”

The Grown Up Tomato Ketchup is one in a range of condiments created by Tim over two decades.

Others include Yorkshire Piccalilli, Green Tomato Chutney and Butternut Squash Chutney.

Tim made his name at The Butchers Arms, Hepworth, which he turned into a multi award-winning dining pub, before setting up The Spiced Pear Hepworth. He has also appeared on the BBC’s Great British Menu.