Church Farm Organics scoops 2006 FARMA ‘Eat the View’ Award

The 2006 National Farmers Retail and Markets Association's (FARMA) 'Eat the view' award went to Church Farm Organics in the Wirral. This special award, presented at FARMA's annual conference in Harrogate on 7 - 9 November, recognises outstanding environmental practice and consumer education

Steve and Brenda Ledsham and their family run Church Farm Organics, a registered organic holding on the banks of the River Dee overlooking the welsh border. They produce vegetables, lamb, pork, fruit, and herbs, which is sold through a farm shop, café, and box scheme, together with other quality local foods. Recycling, educational activities, school visits, and children's parties take place throughout the year.

Mr Ledsham of Church Farm Organics said: "At Church Farm Organics we are passionate about farming and the contribution we are making to our countryside. We believe that making a living from the land should go hand in hand with care and consideration for the environment. We are delighted to receive this award in recognition of the way in which we farm, how we sell the produce, and the recycling activities and educational experiences we provide."

The award is sponsored by the Countryside Agency's 'Eat the View' initiative which works to help consumers understand the links between what they buy, how products are produced and the countryside, and to achieve more favourable market conditions for products that support local distinctiveness, landscape character, and sustainable land management.

James Petts, Eat the View project manager and one of the award judges said: "Church Farm Organics is an outstanding example of what can be achieved to reconnect people with food, farming, and the countryside. Its various activities allow shoppers, visitors, and children to learn where their food has come from, how it has been produced, and how this benefits the environment, local landscape and local community."