A Dale mobile caterer is in the running to become County Durham’s top takeaway business.
Millie Moo’s Roasts, which operates from a layby at Winston, has been nominated for the accolade as part of England’s Business Awards.
Owner Michael England has established a loyal and regular customer base thanks to the generous portions he serves up. He said: “I feel like I should give them value for money.” Among his specialities is a hot beef baguette which has customers returning again and again.
Michael, a former Teesdale School pupil, completed his chef training at Darlington Technical College and later worked at The Bowes Museum Café and Headlam Hall, before starting Millie Moo’s Roasts four years ago. It is the first time he has been nominated for an award.
Michael said: “It feels amazing. I have worked towards awards while working for others. To have my own business, it’s great to get recognition.”
The business, which operates from Tuesday to Saturday from 8am to 2pm, is named for his daughter Millie, who almost died after being born three-and-a-half months prematurely.
Since then Michael and his wife Anna have raised thousands of pounds for the medical units at Darlington Memorial Hospital and Newcastle Royal Victoria Infirmary who helped save her life three times.
Fundraisers have included a coffee morning and a skydive.
People can vote for Millie Moo’s Roasts by visiting englandsbusinessawards.co.uk/county-durham/
