CRAFTSMEN in the village of Smeeth, near Canterbury, have proved that they are the best silversmiths in Britain by collecting the major honours at the annual Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Awards.

The Evegate workshop of Richardson and Ottewill entered a silver coffee set in the competition founded in 1908 to reward silver and jewellery makers. It was designed by Justin Richardson and Steven Ottewill, fashioned by Robert Russell in the final year of his five-year apprenticeship, and polished by Justin Ottewill.

Describing it as "stunning", the Craft Council presented them with the rarely awarded Goldsmiths' Special Award and £4,500.

Design partners Justin and Steve, and polisher Justin, received silver awards and Robert Russell was commended.

The Goldsmiths' company is one of the oldest livery companies, with its hall still in the City of London. It actively supports silversmiths and jewellers throughout Britain with this annual competition followed by an exhibition of the pieces entered.