The takeaway industry contributes £850 million and supports 21,800 jobs throughout the East of England, according to a study.

The first economic impact assessment of the sector, published by Just Eat, an online takeaway service, found the largest regional takeaway economy was London at £1.4billion and the smallest was the North East at £370m.

The analysis, conducted by independent economists the Centre for Economic and Business Research (CEBR), showed takeaways support the employment of at least 10,000 people in 11 of the UK’s 12 regions, ranging from 27,000 jobs in London to 6,300 jobs in the North East.

The analysis also shows the provision of takeaways contributes substantially to the Gross Valued Added (GVA) of regional economies, adding £370m to the East of England economy last year.

Just Eat managing director Graham Corfield said the takeaway sector “rightly deserves” to be recognised and championed as one of the key industries supporting small businesses across the East of England.

“We know takeaways contribute a huge amount to the East of England’s diverse culture but what many don’t realise is the enormous impact takeaway restaurants – often small, independent, and family-run – make to its economy.”

The British Takeaway Awards, launched by Just East, is due to take place on November 9 at the Savoy in London.