A family-run business has been celebrating after winning a top prize at the National Curry Life Awards.

The Curry Mahal, in Northolt Road, South Harrow, took home the ‘Restaurant of the Year’ title at this year’s ceremony at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

Managed by Rezwan Kuddus, the 112-seater restaurant has been a popular curry house in Harrow for a number of years.

Mr Kuddus explained that the secret of their success comes from good food and keeping their customers happy.

He said: “We pride ourselves on freshly cooked ingredients and make all our own sauces and spices.

“A lot of our oldest customers have known me since I was a boy and often ring on my personal mobile to book a table.”

He added that it is important to “move with the times” to avoid being “left behind” in the industry.

This is demonstrated through the development of their range of grilled food and ‘sizzlers’ to reflect the growing demand for healthier food options.

The Curry Life Awards are an annual celebration of one of the UK’s favourite cuisines.

It generates £4.2 billion in revenue and serves more than 2.5 million customers each week. Some observers even consider it home to our ‘national dish’ of Chicken Tikka Masala.

Guest of honour Sir Keir Starmar, shadow Brexit secretary, paid tribute to all who work in curry, noting how it plays a vital role in Britain’s cultural and business sectors.

He said: “The curry industry makes a huge contribution to the economy and is an integral part of the UK dining experience.

“It’s been through some tough times but has continued to grow and develop to meet the growing appetite for this cuisine.

“Its employees epitomise the ethos that hard work brings success and I’m delighted they are in the spotlight tonight and able to sit back and enjoy an evening off.”