THE North West's finest purveyors of locally produced food have been announced in a NFU competition to find the best farmers' market and best farm shop.

Ashton-under-Lyne Market was declared the region's Best Farmers' Market, and The Hollies Farm Shop, Little Budworth, near Tarporley, the Best Farm Shop, having faced stiff competition from dozens of entries.

NFU Regional Director Steve Heaton said: "We have been very impressed by the high standard of entries and I did not envy the judges' difficult task of selecting the regional winners from such a strong field.

"After much deliberation, the judges selected winners that went the extra mile to offer customers high quality local produce and a shopping experience to guarantee their return.

"This competition enabled us to recognise excellence and reward success in this rapidly expanding retail sector which is playing an increasingly important role in many farm businesses."

The Hollies Farm Shop, which started life in 1959 selling eggs and vegetables from the roadside, has grown to a business employing over 12 staff. It was chosen for its broad range of products and valuable contribution to the industry.

Edward Cowap of Hollies Farm Shop said: "I am delighted that our Farm Shop has won the award, which wouldn't have been possible without the support of our customers in the on-line voting. The prize money will be donated to Clatterbridge Cancer Research Trust."

Ashton-under-Lyne Farmers Market is one of the largest and best supported

farmers' markets in the North West with over 35 stallholders attracting at least 7,000 customers. The market's ability to promote its produce and the organisers' resolve to continue operating despite difficulties caused by foot and mouth shone through to the judging panel.

The winner in each category will receive £100 prize money. The winner of the farmers' market will also receive a banner declaring them the regional winner, while the winning farm shop will receive a steel plaque for the shop wall.