Celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall has been announced as special guest at the Farm Retail Association annual awards in Exeter next month.

Hugh will present awards to some of the best farm retailers in the UK at the event (sponsored by specialist retailer COOK) which will take place on Tuesday 7th March as part of the FRA’s annual Stronger Together event, 2023.

The multi-award-winning writer and broadcaster is known for his uncompromising commitment to seasonal, ethically produced food and his concern for the environment.

Hugh has earned a huge following through his River Cottage TV series and books as well as his River Cottage Cookery School.

Hugh said: “I’m really looking forward to presenting the Farm Retail Awards. Farm shops and Farmers Markets are one of the best ways to tap into your local food network and to source ingredients that have been produced ethically and sustainably. They also bring real character into your kitchen – through offering great produce that reflects the local landscape, and by telling the story of the farmers and growers who produce it.”

Businesses from all corners of the country have been shortlisted across eight categories; from the ‘Rising Star Award’ which celebrates newcomers to the industry, to the Farm Shop Butchery of the Year Award.

Other categories include: Large Farm Shop of the Year (turnover over £1.5m); Small Farm Shop of the Year (turnover under £1.5m); Farmers’ Market of the Year; Farm Café/Restaurant of the Year; PYO of the Year; Associate Member of the Year.

The awards ceremony will follow a day of behind-the-scenes retail tours at the South West’s best farm shops. The conference day (sponsored by The EPOS Bureau), taking place at Sandy Park in Exeter, will include topical workshops and expert guest speakers.