A farm shop in the Hartings with a very local ethos is on the verge of winning a national award.

The team at Sky Park Farm Shop are hoping to taste victory after reaching the finals of the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards.

The acclaimed retailer is one of seven finalists in the Small Farm Shop category with the winner being crowned next Monday.

The journey to the final began in November with an esteemed panel of judges, led by food and drink broadcaster and champion, Nigel Barden, whittling down a shortlist from hundreds of entries.

Achievements in the independent sector were a major factor but the team’s expert product knowledge and devotion to locally produced meat and produce also impressed.

Sky Park Farm Shop has become a “go-to” for many Rother Valley locals after being established as a community hub in October 2021. Their local ethos is key with 80 per cent of produce sold in the shop produced within a 30-mile radius, highlighting the quality on offer within the South Downs.

Visitors can expect daily specials in the smoker, a milk vending machine and a vastly expanded butcher’s counter, with focus on the venison produced within a stone’s throw of the shop.

Ryan Grant, operations director at Sky Park Farm Shop, has his fingers crossed for the team ahead of the big reveal.

He said: “This is a much-deserved recognition for our loyal team who have worked hard since the farm shop’s inauguration.

“We strive to sell the best produce, to provide the best service, in the best surroundings and regardless of the final result, as a newcomer this acknowledgement proves we are on track.”