A popular farm shop is in the running to be named the best in the country at a national awards ceremony.

Low Sizergh Barn, near Kendal, is a finalist in the Guild of Fine Food’s annual Shop of the Year awards.

The Guild of Fine Food’s accreditation scheme recognises and promotes excellence in independent retail.

Low Sizergh Barn will now undergo two further rounds of judging, including a mystery shop.

The judging panel includes Edward Berry of The Flying Fork, Stuart Gates, former managing director at Fortnum & Mason and senior buyer at Harrods, award-winning retailer Tracey Colley and food writer Patrick McGuigan.

Any entrants considered to be leading the way with new ideas will also be put forward for an innovation award.

Alison Park, of Low Sizergh Barn, said: “We are thrilled to be in such good company on the shortlist and to be showing what family businesses and farm-based diversifications can achieve.

“We’ve been at the heart of a thriving rural community here in Cumbria for more than two decades.

"We are very lucky to be surrounded by like-minded producers, makers and artisans. The ability to tell the story of good, wholesome food on our shelves and on our menu is a huge part of our farm shop success.’’

The awards take place on March 9.