Why Is Cedarbarn Farm Shop in Pickering a Finalist for the Yorkshire Post Rural Awards?

There's a bit of a buzz happening in North Yorkshire, and it's all centred around a local favourite. You know that feeling when a place you love gets some well-deserved recognition? Well, that's exactly what's happening for the team at Cedarbarn Farm Shop and Café. They've just been announced as finalists in a huge regional business award, and it's got everyone talking. The Pickering business has officially been shortlisted for the Farm Shop of the Year title at the prestigious ninth Yorkshire Post Rural Awards.

A bit of good news for a local favourite

Let's be honest, everyone loves to see a local spot do well. The team at Cedarbarn, located just outside Pickering, are certainly celebrating after finding out they're in the final for this major business award. Think of the Yorkshire Post Rural Awards as the Oscars for the countryside community in this part of the world. It's an event that shines a light on the brilliant people and rural businesses that make the region tick. To be shortlisted isn't just about getting a fancy plaque; it's a massive pat on the back from the industry and the public.

For a farm shop and cafe that has become such a staple in the North Yorkshire community, reaching the final stage is a testament to years of hard work. The competition is always tough, with so many fantastic rural businesses putting their hearts and souls into what they do. Landing a spot on the shortlist for Farm Shop of the Year means doing something very special. The whole team now has their sights set on the big awards ceremony, where they'll find out if they've clinched the top spot.

From a caravan to a contender

Every great story has a beginning, and Cedarbarn's is a brilliant one. It didn't just appear overnight as a fully-formed, bustling farm shop. Actually, it all started around 30 years ago from something much smaller: a caravan selling PYO strawberries. Picture that for a moment - a simple setup, focusing on one perfect product. It's a humble beginning that makes their current success even more impressive. From those early days, the business has blossomed into a thriving farm shop and a popular 80-seater cafe that people travel for miles to visit.

Co-founder Mandy Avison, who runs the business with her husband Karl, still holds those farming roots dear. Her family has been farming the land for four generations, which brings a level of expertise you just can't fake. She commented on the brilliant news:

"We're fourth-generation farmers and are proud to grow and rear a large percentage of our farm shop's produce and meat. We're delighted to be in the final and are looking forward to catching up with fellow rural businesses at the dinner next month."

That quote says it all, really. It's about pride in their heritage and their produce. Running the day-to-day of such a busy establishment is a team effort, with key players like Alison Riley, the Cedarbarn General Manager, making sure everything runs like clockwork. From managing the cafe to overseeing the farm shop, her role is vital in keeping the Cedarbarn experience top-notch for every visitor. An interview with the team would surely reveal the passion that fuels this Pickering success story.

What makes this farm shop special?

So, what's the secret sauce? How does a farm shop stand out enough to be considered one of the best? At Cedarbarn, it seems to come down to authenticity. They aren't just selling food; they're selling food they've grown and reared themselves. A huge chunk of the produce and meat you see in the farm shop comes directly from their own land or a neighbouring farm. This farm-to-fork approach means everything is incredibly fresh and has a story behind it.

When they do need to source other products, they stick to local suppliers. This philosophy helps build a strong community network of rural businesses, where everyone supports each other. It's a sustainable model that benefits the local economy and gives customers a real taste of North Yorkshire.

Here's a quick look at what makes Cedarbarn a contender:

• Deep Farming Heritage: Run by fourth-generation farmers who know their stuff.
• Home-Grown Goodness: They grow their own fruit and vegetables, including those famous PYO strawberries.
• Ethical Meat: A large percentage of the meat is reared on their own farm.
• Community Focus: Strong relationships with other local suppliers.
• More than a Shop: The bustling cafe makes it a destination, not just a place to buy groceries.

The competition and the big night

Being nominated for the Yorkshire Post Rural Awards is one thing, but winning is another. The competition in the Farm Shop of the Year category is fierce, highlighting just how high the standard is across the region. Cedarbarn is up against some other brilliant establishments:

• Drewton's Farm Shop
• Fodder
• The Balloon Tree Farm Shop & Café
• The Meat & Tatie Shed at Hawkcliffe Farm
• Yolk Farm Shop

That's some serious competition. All these farm shops are known for their quality and dedication. The final decision will be revealed at a glamorous awards ceremony at The Pavilions in Harrogate on Thursday, 18th September. It'll be a night of celebration for all the finalists, giving these hard-working people a chance to swap their wellies for something a bit fancier and toast to their collective success.

For the team from Pickering, including Mandy Avison and Alison Riley, it will be a night of anticipation. But whatever the result, getting this far in such a respected business award is a massive win for Cedarbarn. It validates their journey from a small caravan selling strawberries to becoming a cornerstone of the North Yorkshire food scene. All eyes will be on the results from Harrogate next month, and there are a lot of people in and around Pickering with their fingers crossed for their local farm shop and cafe.