POPULAR curry house Tamarind in Newport has been named as one of the best Bangladeshi restaurants in the region.

At the Bangladesh Caterers' Association's annual awards night, now in its 16th year, it was named a regional winner of the prestigious Restaurant of the Year award.

Industry expert and television celebrity Gregg Wallace, and film producer Tasmin Lucia-Khan, were the hosts of the evening at the Park Plaza, London.

Tamarind Restaurant was named a worthy UK regional winner, and was chosen from hundreds of outstanding entrants, where the winners were judged on their innovation, presentation of food, hygiene standards and customer service.

Isle of Wight County Press: Tamarind in Newport.Tamarind in Newport. (Image: Tamarind)

Mitu Choudhury, BCA secretary general, said: “BCA Awards celebrates the very best of the Bangladeshi curry industry, shining a light on great local curry houses.

"All the winners are inspirational, creating some of the best experiences on the high street.”

Winner, Jilah Miah, of Tamarind, said: “We are so proud! Our hard work and love for making curry has been recognised.

"Thank you, BCA for this award. Thank you for recognising our talented team, our chef and importantly the contribution we are making to the curry industry.

"Times have been tough, times are still tough, and this award makes a big difference. It’s a triumph! We ask everyone locally to continue supporting us.”

Isle of Wight County Press: Tamarind's Sunday night buffet.Tamarind's Sunday night buffet. (Image: Tamarind)