A SHIPLEY business owner has said “it was a dream come true” to win the Best Curry Takeaway competition, which was launched by the Telegraph and Argus earlier this year.

Readers from across the Bradford district nominated their favourite curry takeaway and Neelam Balti House on Leeds Road, Shipley. was voted the winner.

“It’s means a lot to win,” said Arshad Mahmood, owner of Neelam Balti House.

“It’s like a dream come true to win this competition because Bradford is the curry captial of the country.”

He also said winning the competition will give the business a big boost as they have plans to expand in the Bradford district.

“It’s a big foot in the door to establish the business and also open a few more branches.

“We’ve been planning to expand the franchise, hopefully somewhere in Guiseley.”

The success has come in a relatively short time for Neelam Balti House, which has only been open for 18 months.

“We’re an up and coming takeaway, so it’s a pretty big achievement,” said Mr Mahmood.

What is the key to success for the Indain curry specialists?

“We keep it simple but elegant,” said Mr Mahmood.

“We make to a special standard for each individual customer.

“We make it our number one priority to get the curries out there to our customers.”

Neelam Balti House has ridden the lockdown “wave” to get where it is today.

Mr Mahmood said: “Business has been up and down through the lockdowns. It’s been different – a little bit wavy, but we’ve got through it.

“We’re proud of ourselves. We’ve been open seven days a week, 365 days a year.”

Mr Mahmood also gave credit to his family for their hard work in the business, including, his father, who cooks all the curries and his son, who is also involved in the business.

“People like the consistency of the food we’re giving them,” said Mr Mahmood.

“They also like the distinctive taste of the food.”

Mr Arshad also thanked his customers for their support and voting for them in the competition.

“I’d like to praise our customers,” said Mr Mahmood. “I’d like to thank everybody around us who has supported us with trade to make this happen.”

Lauren Wood, marketing executive at the Telegraph and Argus, said: “I’d like to offer a huge congratulations to Neelam Balti House for all their support and to their customers who support them.

“It’s well deserved. They’ve done a great job in a short space of time.”