A BOURNEMOUTH restaurant has claimed a top culinary award.

Chicken and Blues in Christchurch Road was named 'best family restaurant' at Deliveroo's inaugural restaurant awards this week.

The eatery was launched as a ‘posh chicken shop’ in 2013 on Boscombe High Street.

It now feeds more than 5,000 hungry customers a week across three sites, and often runs promotions specifically aimed at families.

Every Christmas, staff run a Santa shoe box appeal to support children who might otherwise go without.

As a result of their win, Chicken and Blues will receive support from Deliveroo to help them grow their business. They will also be part of an upcoming marketing campaign worth up to £30,000.

More than 70,000 votes were cast over the course of the competition.

The final award of the night, 'restaurant of the year', was won by Oowee Vegan.

The panel of judges who made the decision included restaurant critic Giles Coren, celebrity chef Isaac Carew, restaurateur, TV presenter and cook Jasmine Hemsley, and Deliveroo CEO and founder Will Shu.

Joshua Simons, founder of Chicken and Blues, said: "It’s fantastic to win this award, and it means that much more as it was voted for by the public.

"There were so many great restaurants up for awards, and it’s really encouraging to see such a range of talented chefs and varied cuisines on show.

"We’re going to put on a massive party for Chicken and Blues fans next month – I hope to see everyone there."