North Yorkshire cheesemaker Shepherds Purse is celebrating after its limited-edition Christmas cheese collection was named Best Premium Cheese Selection at the woman&home Christmas Food Awards 2026.
The award-winning collection brings together some of their most-loved cheeses, Yorkshire Blue, Harrogate Blue, Bluemin White and Mrs Bell’s Salad Cheese, all handcrafted on the family farm near Thirsk.
Founded by Judy Bell in 1987, Shepherds Purse is now run by her daughters, Caroline Bell and Katie Matten, who have continued the family’s passion for artisan cheesemaking.
The festive selection also features Golden Cenarth from Welsh cheesemaker Caws Cenarth and Barber’s 1833 Vintage Reserve Cheddar, alongside artisan accompaniments and a handcrafted ceramic baking dish by Northallerton based Little Wren Pottery, designed for baking the Bluemin White until warm and gooey.
Caroline Bell said: “We’re absolutely thrilled. This award is a wonderful recognition of our cheesemakers, who put so much care into every cheese we make. It’s also a celebration of British artisan cheesemaking, and we’re delighted to share it with fellow makers we admire.
“Christmas is a wonderful time to enjoy good cheese, and we’d always encourage people to visit their local cheesemonger or deli. They’re passionate about what they do, can help you discover something new and play such an important role in supporting British artisan cheesemakers.”
Shepherds Purse cheeses are available through independent cheesemongers, delis and farm shops nationwide, as well as online.
For more information, visit www.shepherdspurse.co.uk