The owner of a mid Suffolk farm shop named the best in the UK said the recognition is "absolutely fantastic".
Alder Carr Farm Shop, in Creeting St Mary near Needham Market, has been named the best small farm shop of the year at the Farm Retail Association Awards.
A family-run business passed down through the generations, it was originally set up in 1981 by Nick and Joan Hardingham.
From a humble pick-your-own stall and sacks of potatoes sold from the end of the drive, the farm shop has changed beyond recognition.
Stocking products from more than 100 local suppliers, the farm shop is accompanied by a butchery, café, craft stores, garden centre and award-winning ice cream.
Stephany Hardingham, who now runs the business with her husband, said: “As a family, environmental and social sustainability and running an ethical business is at our core.
"It’s about celebrating local producers and championing the best produce. We were one of the first places in the country to do farmers markets, for example.”
The Farm Retail Association Awards judges visited the site last November, with a secret undercover shopper following up later.
But the news of the farm shop’s victory came as a huge shock to everyone at Alder Carr.
Ms Hardingham said: “It was really unexpected but this is absolutely fantastic!
"It’s so nice for everyone who works so hard here to get that level of recognition. It’ll give them a warm glow and a buzz. And it should really help us carry on growing.”
Of course, with the cost-of-living crisis, the past few years have been tough for the business.
“It’s obviously not been easy – costs have skyrocketed. But we’ve got really loyal customers who are prepared to pay what good food costs”, Ms Hardingham said.
And the secret to success?
“I think it’s been staying true to our ideals – supporting local sustainability. It’s fantastic food, it’s strong sustainability credentials, and we make amazing produce here ourselves.”
With a new pottery launching this weekend, the staff at Alder Carr Farm have a busy week ahead.
But, Ms Hardingham has promised staff a well-deserved celebration.
“We’re definitely taking all the staff out to dinner. We might have to open a bottle of bubbles too!”, she said.
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