A well-loved Carlisle business has thanked its customers for their ‘loyal support’ after being nominated for a national award.

Bells fishmongers have been nominated for ‘fishmongers of the year’ at the farm shop and deli retailers of the year awards for 2024.

Bells are representing the North of England at the awards and are up against Off the Hook fishmongers who are based in Cornwall.

News and Star: Some of the top quality produce at BellsSome of the top quality produce at Bells (Image: Supplied)The Carlisle fishmongers have been trading in the city since the 1970s and are viewed as a Carlisle institution with hundreds of loyal customers.

Being so close to the Scottish border enables Bells to source from Scotland, England and the Shetland Islands to bring you the best Shetland Mussels and  fish in the UK.

News and Star: Last year Bells won the Best Retailer in the North West at last year's eventLast year Bells won the Best Retailer in the North West at last year's event (Image: Supplied)Phillip Bell, who has been working with his dad Tony since leaving university, said: "It's always nice to be recognised.

“We were down there last year, so we’re so pleased to be nominated again.”

The family-run institution operates two shop fronts in Carlisle, a main store in Kingstown and a fish counter at Pioneer Foodstore in Rosehill.

The Kingstown premise is open between Tuesday to Saturday, usually from 8am to 3pm.

“We entered ourselves for the awards but a lot of it is based on customer testimonials and they send secret shoppers down as well.

“So that's how they sort of work down the entries to the finalists and obviously to get through all that we must be doing something right.”

News and Star: Bell's fresh catch with owner Tony (right) in front of the original premise.Bell's fresh catch with owner Tony (right) in front of the original premise. (Image: Supplied)Bells announced the news on their social media page and congratulations have flooded in from loyal customers.

READ MORE: Bells Fishmongers scoops best retailer at Farm Shop and Deli Awards

“Well done to the dream team/bream team for making it happen and all our wonderful customers for their continued loyal support, - we appreciate it.” said Bells on social media.

“We are thrilled to be a finalist in the farm shop and deli retailer awards 2024.

“Wish us luck for the awards finals in April at the farm shop and deli Show.”

The team at Bells will be travelling down to the awards on Monday, April 29.