Inside the 'community hub' nominated as one of the best butchers in Cumbria
WE'RE highlighting the shortlisted butchers, delis and farm shops in our competition in the News & Star. Each of the establishments will be featured over ten issues.
Graham Eyes High Class Butchers has been nominated by News & Star readers as one of ten finalists in its 'Best Butchers, Delis or Farm Shops 2025' award.
Graham Eyes was set up four years ago in Cumbria and has 22 shops across the north of England, however, its Maryport shop was put forward for the award.
Dominic Hinsley is the area manager across Cumbria and told the News & Star he felt 'blessed' to be nominated.
The produce available at Graham Eyes. (Image: Graham Eyes)READ MORE: Red Herring Escape Rooms, Carlisle crowned Best Family Indoor Entertainment 2025
He said: 'It's a real community feel here in Maryport. We have three members of staff who are all local. Susan and Shirley are even within walking distance of the shop – they know 99 per cent of the people who come in!'
Dominic, who has been involved with the business for around three years now, said the traditional butcher shop provides the 'best quality at a reasonable price'.
'Our most popular item is our chicken fillets, they come in a wide variety of flavours. Then we have our Cumberland sausages which are made on-site.'
However, Dominic's favourite thing about working at Graham Eyes is 'by far the customers'.
Graham Eyes Butchers celebrating Valentines Day. (Image: Graham Eyes)READ MORE: Ten finalists in the News & Star's best Farm, Deli or Butchers Shop 2025 award
He added: 'You can build a friendship just by selling people a pork chop and one pound of mince! Customers are the best thing about it.
"We have a lot of regular customers, some who come in three or four times a week and people who just come in for a crack, but I encourage that every day.
'It's a real community hub and we're trying to keep the aspect of the traditional over-the-counter butchers.'
Dominic has a real passion for the meat business with over four decades in the industry. He started butchering from the age of 12 when he lived above a butcher shop.
(Image: Graham Eyes)
He ended: 'This award is not just brilliant for the business, but for the trade I love and I'm passionate about. I have a lot of pride and passion.'
Graham Eyes High Class Butcher's in Maryport is located on Curzon Street. It is open 365 days a year. They also have locations in Whitehaven, Alston and Bowness.
News & Star readers will now be able to vote for their favourite finalist by picking up a copy of the daily newspaper between Monday, May 5, and Saturday, May 17.
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