A VILLAGE store has been named as cheese counter of the year.

The Pangbourne Cheese Shop pipped stores across the globe to land the coveted award and was highly praised by judges.

Owners Ali and Jen Grimstone Jones finished third in last year’s instalment of the annual competition and said they were determined to do better this year.

“Our fabulous cheesemakers are incredibly talented and dedicated to producing stunning cheeses,” said Jen.

“Many of them have their own herds so work 7 days a week, making cheeses using traditional methods in small vats”.

The Pangbourne Cheese Shop, based in Reading Road, beat The Fine Cheese Co branch in London’s upmarket Belgravia to land top spot.

After finishing third last year, the owners invested in a complete revamp of the business to to step up their game.

Cheese writer Patrick McGuigan, who judged the competition, added: “Independent retailers can find it hard to compete against the big supermarkets on the high street, but The Pangbourne Cheese Shop is a shining example of how small shops can be successful if they play to their strengths.

“Lovely customer service, a fantastic line-up of artisan cheeses in tip-top condition and plenty of knowledge and enthusiasm behind the counter all create a rather special experience.

“If only every high street had a cheesemonger like this, the world would be a better place.”