A Cumbrian creamery has won a record-breaking 10 awards at an international competition.

The Lake District Creamery, based at Aspatria, entered its products in the International Cheese and Dairy Awards, held in Nantwich, alongside 5,000 other entries from 27 countries.

The creamery is run by First Milk, a wholly-British farmer-owned co-operative and was also crowned Champion uk Creamery/Block Cheddar in Show.

Gold awards also went to its Mild, Mature and Extra Mature Cheddars, which it markets under the Lake District Dairy Company brand.

The brand was launched in 2007.

Only one gold, silver and bronze award is given in each class, and a maximum of two very highly commended were awarded in each category at the awards, which sees around 40,000 visitors over the three-day event.

Some classes had up to 30 cheeses competing.

Jack Eade, First Milk’s customer quality manager, said: “In such tough competition, our cheeses are right up there among the best.

"These results truly reflect the high quality of cheese produced at both sites and continue a summer of outstanding successes.

"With 25 awards and two major trophies in total, 2019 is proving to be a bumper year for First Milk cheese.

"The company increased its award tally by nearly 40 per cent on last year’s previous record."

First Milk’s Haverfordwest Creamery was also successful, winning 15 awards, including the trophy for Champion Double Gloucester.