DUDLEY Spice Indian restaurant has made the finals of the prestigious English Curry Awards 2021.

The restaurant in New Street has been shortlisted in the Local Restaurant of the Year category of the awards, now in their tenth year.

The awards celebrate top Asian curry professionals and businesses, with the shortlist determined by public vote.

Muhammed Ali, who runs Dudley Spice with his uncle Muhammed Mannan who is no stranger to awards, said: "It's very good news for us.

"It's given us a bit of hope despite the tough times we've had."

The restaurant, which opened in October 2019, switched to deliveries during the Covid-19 pandemic and Mr Ali said it had been heartening to know the service was appreciated by customers.

He added: "People that live in Dudley have got great heart, we've been here nearly two years and people are so polite and helpful. Times have been hard but our customers have supported us."

The awards highlight the growth of the Asian curry sector and recognise the achievements of those who work their hardest to perfect every meal.

A spokesperson for the English Curry Awards 2021 said: “Despite the many challenges facing the curry industry, these awards prove year after year how much talent there is fuelling the industry, satisfying all of our curry cravings. We have an abundance of talent and fierce competition this year and we wish best of luck to all finalists.”

Little Bangla in Oldbury has also made it to the final and has been shortlisted in the Bangladeshi Restaurant of The Year category.

A number of other restaurants in the Stourbridge and Halesowen areas also made it to the final.

While Balti Towers in Halesowen, Mozalicious in Oldbury, Indiluxe Restaurant in Amblecote, Stourbridge, and Bombay Pickles in Stourbridge have all been shortlisted for the Restaurant of the Year award.

Bombay Pickles has also been shortlisted in the Chef of the Year category.

The winners will be announced at a black-tie awards ceremony at the Holiday Inn at Birmingham Airport on October 18.