A FARM shop has won a national award.

Knitsley Farm Shop, near Consett, County Durham, was voted Best Farm Retail Newcomer in the UK by the Farm and Rural Markets Association (Farma).

The shop was opened in November 2008, by Edward and Rachael Jewson, who converted farm buildings for the shop, butchery and cafe.

Award judge Nigel Chandler said: “Everything about Knitsley Farm Shop and Cafe speaks of quality. In a very short time Edward and Rachael have produced an exemplary business model.”

Initially employing about six people, the firm has grown over the past two years to employ 11 people full-time and eight part-time. The award was presented at the annual conference of Farma in Bournemouth, last month.

Mrs Jewson said: “We would like to thank all the staff and customers for their enthusiasm and loyalty over the past two years.”