Mark Drakeford MS

I was taken aback by the sheer number of entrants and finalists in this year’s British Kebab Awards – in Wales alone, there are 10 finalists all competing for the honour of winning the title of Best Kebab House in Wales.

But I shouldn’t be surprised. Every town and every high street has a kebab takeaway and restaurant. And every town has its own variation and specialty.

Britain’s kebab houses really have become the beating hearts of our high streets.

I want to thank Ibrahim for founding these awards and for shining a spotlight on this much-loved food and all the people behind all these small businesses in our communities.

And I want to wish everyone who has been shortlisted for this year’s awards the very best of luck.

Mark Drakeford MS

First Minister of Wales