Ask Italian and Edinburgh's La Favorita among PAPA award winners

Jamie Oliver has picked up an industry award for promoting Italian food, while Ask Italian won the Italian Restaurant Chain of the Year gong at the Pizza Pasta and Italian Food Association (PAPA) awards.

The ceremony last week also saw La Locanda in Gisburn win the award for Independent Italian Restaurant.

La Favorita in Edinburgh won platinum in the Independent Pizza Restaurant Platinum and Gold Awards, while Pizzaface in Brighton picked up platinum in the Independent Delivery Operator category.

Pizza Hut won Pizza Restaurant Chain of the Year, and Firezza won the Pizza Delivery Chain award.

Other winners included:

The PAPA Marketing Award: Divino Enoteca (independent), Prezzo's (chain)

Commenting on winning the Italian Restaurant Chain award, Ask Italian managing director Steve Holmes said: "We're all so proud of this award. For the past three years, we have been working hard to deliver an exceptional experience at ASK Italian, from the food and décor, to the teams and vibe in the restaurant. To be recognised as the best in this category is a huge accolade to everyone involved."

Prezzo marketing director, Christian Poole, whose company won an award for its marketing campaign for meals of 600 calories or fewer throughout January, said: "It is very rewarding to be recognised by our industry peers for our work.

"The Healthy New Year campaign was a great success and resulted in great sales for the restaurants and very positive customer feedback."