A FARM shop in north Durham has won a national award.

Knitsley Farm Shop, near Consett, has been voted Best Farm Retail Newcomer in the UK by a panel of judges from the Farm and Rural Markets Association.

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

Award judge Nigel Chandler said: "Everything about Knitsley Farm Shop and Cafe speaks of quality from the beautifully converted buildings to the impressive array of local foods on offer, to the enthusiasm and knowledge of the staff.

"In a very short time Edward and Rachael have produced an exemplary business model."

Initially employing around six people the business has grown over the past two years to now employ 11 people full time and around eight part time positions.

The award was presented at the annual conference of FARMA in Bournemouth on 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 and for helping making this award a possibility."

The butchery was also a finalist in the Best On-Farm Butchery category. for which it was a strong contender.