A POPULAR family-run farm shop has reached the finals of the Guild of Fine Food’s Shop of the Year 2020 awards.

Low Sizergh Barn, near Kendal, with its café and gift galleries, is in the running for the best farm shop title.

“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,” said Low Sizergh's Alison Park.

“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 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 visit by a mystery shopper. Winners will be revealed on March 9, 2020.

The panel includes Stuart Gates, former managing director at Fortnum & Mason and senior buyer at Harrods, award-winning retailer Tracey Colley and food journalist Patrick McGuigan.

Meanwhile, the Courtyard Dairy at Austwick, near Settle, has also been shortlisted, for best specialist cheese shop.