Prize-winning pie creator is named as Scotland Loves Local High Street Hero for Lothian

Paul Boyle, of Boghall Butchers, has been named as this year’s Scotland Loves Local High Street Hero for Lothian.

That accolade - recognising 50 years-and-counting of dedication to customers throughout West Lothian - comes just months after his kebab pie was crowned Supreme Champion at the British Pie Awards.

It also comes just days after a trip to Japan, where Paul flew the flag at this year’s British food fair in Osaka with his award-winning kebab pie.

Paul has been hailed as a High Street Hero after award judges heard about the trained chef’s success in growing the business while remaining loyal to its community - and its home in Margaret Avenue.

They were told: “Paul and his team are very much people’s people. They enjoy the work and customer interaction. The secret to his success lies heavily with involvement of customers and community, and this was no more evident than during the pandemic.

“The community and customers remained loyal to Paul and Boghall Butchers during those critical days and months and, in return, Paul has been faithful to the community and the business’ roots.”
Reacting to his award success, Paul said: “I am delighted to receive this award.

“I would like to acknowledge my family, who have been by my side throughout all the years and my exceptional team who put in so much hard work into the day-to-day running of our shop. I truly am blessed to have such amazing people behind me and fantastic customers to serve.”

Boghall Butchers was opened by Paul’s father, William, in May 1975. He joined the business after serving a four-year apprenticeship as a hotel chef in Edinburgh.

Its golden anniversary was marked this year with a celebration which included pipers, local schoolchildren and customers who have been part of its life over the decades.

And the family’s commitment to the business continues, with Paul’s daughter, Mariesha working alongside him. He one day plans to hand the reins over to her.

West Lothian Council’s Executive councillor for economy, community empowerment & wealth building, Susan Manion, added: “Huge congratulations to Paul Boyle on being named High Street Hero for Lothian.

“It’s fantastic to see Paul and his Boghall Butchers team recognised for both the vital role they have at the heart of the local community, and creating a successful business that has represented the best of the UK internationally.”

Organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the Scotland Loves Local Awards recognise and reward all that’s great about the nation’s towns and neighbourhoods and the work to ensure they become stronger and more sustainable.

STP Chief Officer Kimberley Guthrie said: “Businesses like Boghall Butchers are at the heart of communities throughout Lothian and across Scotland. Every time we support them, we are building a better future for the places we call home.

“Through Scotland Loves Local, we’re celebrating the fact that people make places. Paul is certainly one of those people. I can’t wait to celebrate his well-deserved success with him and hear more about the impact he has made on his local community.”

Spearheaded by STP and supported by the Scottish Government, Scotland Loves Local is the movement encouraging people to create a better future for their community by choosing local. This is the fifth year in which the awards have been held.