WHICH is the best takeaway in Cam and Dursley, Thornbury, Yate and Sodbury? We’re launching a competition to find out.

Takeaway food has been a ray of sunshine for many people at the end of another week in lockdown, and more and more choice is available this year as businesses diversify due to Covid restrictions.

One of those businesses is the Anchor Inn, which has been part of the Thornbury community since 2007.

After the pandemic struck, owners David Cox and Heather Ash lost almost all the pub’s wet trade so last November they turned to takeaways, which have proved a hit with residents.

“Takeaways are very important because we’ve been able to keep staff in and usefully employed, and it’s also kept us in touch with our customers and we’ve gained some new ones,” said David.

He said takeaways were particularly beneficial for older members of the community.

“People of a certain age group can’t get out, haven’t got a car or are worried about coming out so at least they know they can get a decent meal.

“The competition is a good idea, it showcases what we and other people are doing and it shows that the people who are doing it are caring for the community at this awful time.”

You can nominate your favourite takeaway online via this link until March 14.

We will announce the 15 businesses with the most nominations, including the top five from Cam and Dursley, five from Thornbury and five from Yate and Sodbury.

You will then be able to vote between them to crown the Gazette Series Best Takeaway 2021 winner.

Louis Fantis, owner of the Great British Takeaway in Dursley, said he thought the competition was a good idea to support local businesses.

He’s been running the takeaway since 2007, but his family have been involved in fish and chip shops since the 1950s.

Speaking on the importance of takeaways during lockdown, Louis said: “I think it’s important to do these things that give you that little feel-good factor a bit of a treat and not having to cook.”

Takeaways have been a lifeline for hospitality businesses during the pandemic, allowing new food outlets to open up while adhering to Covid restrictions.

Greek Village in Chipping Sodbury was opened by Dorian Brahimi and his family just three weeks ago.

“It’s been amazing to open here, the support from the local community has been really good,” said Dorian, who opened the restaurant with his wife, brother and sister-in-law.

He said that takeaways were really important to his business: “I think the competition is a brilliant idea.”

“I just can’t wait to be open and for people to come in and enjoy our food,” he added.

Dorian, David and Louis are all hoping to make the shortlist, but said their takeaway favourites Siam and Thornbury Tandoori will give them a run for their money.

Nominations are now open, so make sure your favourite takeaway is in with a chance.