Popular Ottery eatery is finalist in 'Rural Oscars'

Coldharbour Farm Shop & Field Kitchen has been shortlisted to win a Countryside Alliance Award in the Local Food and Drink category.

These awards, which celebrate British food and farming, enterprise and heritage, are driven by public nominations, with customers independently giving their opinions on why their favourite businesses are worthy of national acclaim.

Over seventeen thousand nominations were received this year so Coldharbour has done extremely well to be shortlisted.

Co-owner, Andrea Broadhurst said: “This is really wonderful news for the start of the year. We weren’t aware that we’d been nominated so to find out we’re a finalist was a real surprise.

“We’re only one of just five finalists in the South West region, with only two from Devon - so it’s a real accolade.”

The business has been committed to local sourcing since it started in 2016. Alongside its own farmed lamb and pork, Coldharbour supports local suppliers large and small in order to offer the best possible quality to customers.

Co-owner Beth Ashfield explained: “We’re fortunate to have an excellent choice of suppliers locally; we know the provenance of the produce we use and understand the real passion of the people we work with – after all, it’s the same passion we have!”  

The next step will be a public vote, which takes place in February. “We’ll be very grateful for votes from our customers, so keep an eye out on our social media for details,” added Beth.

The Countryside Alliance Awards are now in their sixteenth year and have become the definitive rural business award to win. Awards Director Sarah Lee commented: “We have been overwhelmed by nominations this year. The secret to the Rural Oscars’ popularity is that they honour the people involved in these businesses and not just their produce or services.

“They exist to sing the praises of those who work hard to keep our communities and rural economy ticking, but don’t seek the spotlight. These awards provide a cause for celebration in a time of great uncertainty in the countryside. Our local produce is second to none and there are many community heroes and businesses worthy of national recognition.”

The winners of each region will be up against fellow winners from around the UK and the national champion will be announced at the House of Lords in the national champions reception in June.