THEY have won numerous awards - including the most cheerful butchers in the south - and they believe Southampton people who tuck into their prize-winning sausages can't possibly be miserable.

Since the Daily Echo reported the results of a national survey that claimed Southampton people were the most miserable in the country, cheerful residents have stepped forward to rubbish the results.

These jolly butchers are the latest to join the Daily Echo chuckle campaign - and no one could be better qualified.

Staff at Uptons in Winchester Road, Bassett, have plenty to be cheerful about.

Among their list of accolades are top butchers of the south-west, national gold awards for great taste, Hants supreme champion for smoked chicken, and the most cheerful butchers in the south.

Owner Simon Broadribb said: "I can't believe the results of this survey. Sausages make people smile - partly because of their shape - and because they fit very well into modern-day eating.

"We always say we've got to make sure the customer leaves happy because that's all that really matters."

Are you happy in Southampton? Or do you agree with the survey and believe Southampton people are misery guts? Let us know what you think. Call Daily Echo reporter Sarah Gomme on 023 8042 4500 or e-mail her using the link above.