Good food and celebrations came together in Newport this week when Kelly’s Butchers in the town was recognised as an international producer of award-winning black pudding.
Marking the occasion an actual deputation of French Knights arrived in Ireland on Monday to formally induct three Irish producers into their exclusive order as award-winning producers of the pig’s blood delicacy. At home in Mayo 25 knights in total marched through the streets of Newport dressed in traditional robes and official knight headgear while locals served up a tremendous food festival for all to enjoy.
Sean Kelly of Kelly’s Butchers, who was awarded a bronze medal for his quality produce, described it as a fantastic day and an honour to become a member of the fraternity. Congratulations have since been pouring in for the talented businessman with tributes from hoteliers and food retailers whose businesses are propped up by Kelly’s puddings. The story has also captured the imagination throughout the country with headlines in most of the national newspapers highlighting the great taste of Kelly’s puddings.
At a ceremony in Mayo County Council chambers this week after being inaugurated into the internationally recognised food excellence body, the Confrerie des Chevaliers Du Gute-Boudin (The Brotherhood of the Knights of the Black Pudding ), Mr Kelly also received congratulations from members.
Also extending congratulations was Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny TD. “It is strongly recognised that Kelly’s Butchers of Newport is a well-known food brand around County Mayo as well as around the rest of the country,” Dep Kenny said. “However, this prestigious award will place their produce on the international stage and it deserves to be recognised for what it is; world class food recognised by the best. I commend Sean and his staff for their excellent achievement and I hope that they continue to go from strength to strength in the future.”
