Market catering distributor Rushton's has been given a Highly Commended gong in the Best Fruit & Veg Supplier category at the annual Restaurant Readers' Choice Awards, voted for by the chefs and restaurateurs who give recognition to the suppliers they trust most.

The awards, run by Restaurant magazine, include 14 categories, with voters asked to consider product quality, customer service, reliability and which suppliers go the extra mile.

From its base at New Covent Garden Market, Rushton's supplies seasonal British produce and premium Italian specialities to more than 400 restaurants, pubs, bars, hotels and caterers across London, with twice-daily deliveries six days a week and a service accuracy rate of 99.7%. The business is part of the S. Thorogood & Sons group, a family business with farming roots stretching back to 1922.

This was the latest of a string of awards for Rushton's and other firms in the S Thorogood & Sons group this year and William Thorogood, Director of S. Thorogood & Sons, said: "It means a great deal to be recognised by the chefs and restaurateurs we work with every day. Rushton's is built on relationships, and knowing our customers took the time to vote for us is the best compliment we could receive. Thank you to every kitchen that did, and to our team for earning it."