An award-winning luxury pudding company has ceased trading.

Country Puddings, which is based at Lodge Farm, Dacre, near Penrith, is understood to have ceased trading earlier this month.

The company, which produced a range of steamed and baked puddings, crumbles, rice puddings and custard, was founded by farmer’s wife Lynne Mallinson in November 2000.

In a message on the company’s answerphone, Mrs Mallinson, 46, said: “We have now ceased trading and can receive and process no more orders.”

Mrs Mallinson is listed as the director of the company alongside husband David, 49.

Mrs Mallinson began Country Puddings by making sticky toffee pudding in her kitchen and supplying local shops.

It grew to supply stockists across the UK including Booths supermarkets and Cranstons, in Penrith, as well as Ocado and Wholefoods Market.

Its products were recognised a number of times in the Guild of Fine Food’s Great Taste Awards, most recently picking up one star for its creamy vanilla custard and creamy rice pudding.

In March, the company was also shortlisted for Best Food Producer in the BBC Radio 4 Food and Farming Awards.

When she was contacted by in-Cumbria Mrs Mallinson said she was unable to comment.