A VILLAGE chocolate maker had the sweet taste of success after winning a tourism award.

And Charles Hardy, owner of the Old Fire Station Chocolate Shop on the High Street, isn't standing still after receiving the recognition from Vale Royal Borough Council (VRBC).

Instead he will open a new coffee shop at the premises this Easter.

Mr Hardy said: 'I am very grateful for all the help I have had from Vale Royal in promoting my business as a tourist attraction. I believe Tarporley is the most glorious and fantastic part of Great Britain with so much to offer visitors from both the UK and abroad.'

He won the tourism award at the Vale Royal Mayor's Business Dinner and Small Business Awards last month.

Chocolate is a family concern. Charles's grandfather was director of Squirrel confectionery, a company in Stockport.