TWO Penarth restaurants have been named as finalists in the 2016 Food Awards Wales.

James Sommerin's restaurant has been shortlisted in the Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year category and The Fig Tree has been named in the South East Wales Restaurant of the Year category.

The second annual Food Awards Wales aim to recognise the hard work and efforts of the Welsh food industry across restaurants, takeaways, gastro pubs, hotel restaurants, cafes and bistros, as well as shining the spotlight on the local producers who supply their ingredients.

Mike Caplan-Hill, who manages The Fig Tree with his partner, Sandie Guppy, said: "We are delighted to be finalists in this category.

"We are up against some fantastic restaurants from all over Wales.  

"Diners have become much more discerning over recent years which can only serve to improve the standards across Wales still further.”

The black tie ceremony will be hosted by Capital 1’s breakfast presenter, Polly James at the Mercure Holland House Hotel, Cardiff on Monday, April 18.

As well as the awards, the event will also help raise funds for the official charity partner, Make A Wish Foundation UK.

Irfan Younis of event organisers Creative Oceanic said: “The tremendous amount of nominations received from the Welsh public, is a testament to the hard work of all those working within the food sector.

"With fierce competition this year, we are looking forward to welcoming those who provide and supply us with gastronomic delights. Last year’s winners were great ambassadors and I am confident this year’s finalists and winners will follow in their footsteps. We would like to wish all the finalists the best of luck.”