A BOROUGH business had something extra special to celebrate over the festive season after winning a top award.

The Chop Shop Butchery on St John's Way, Corringham, triumphed and was adjudged the "Best New Business in Essex" 2025 in the UK Small New Business awards.

The announcement came at the perfect time - just as The Chop Shop celebrated its one-year anniversary since reopening under new management.

What started as a fresh chapter for the long-standing butchery has quickly become one of Essex's most exciting success stories.

Owner owners Sue Gough, who runs the business with husband Rob, said: "We couldn't have reached this moment without the incredible support from our customers, local community, and partners. Thank you all for trusting us to bring you the highest-quality produce and for choosing to shop local. Your support means everything."