KEELHAM Farm Shop at Thornton has scooped the title of Independent Retailer of the Year at the 2018 Fresh Awards in London.

And there was double joy for the firm when its suppliers, Leeds-based GT Produce, won the title of Wholesale Supplier of the Year.

Keelham Farm’s co-owner Victoria Robertshaw said: “For more than 40 years we have championed fresh food and ingredients and the whole team are thrilled to win this award.

“We’re proud to work with so many fantastic Yorkshire producers and the evening was made even more special seeing GT Produce, which supplies our shops with wonderful fresh produce, win an award. At a time when much of the independent retail sector is struggling, these award wins are proof that here in Yorkshire, innovative companies like Keelham and GT Produce are helping the sector to not only thrive, but grow.”

The awards ceremony, which was attended by more than 500 guests, was hosted by EastEnders actor and TV presenter Shane Richie at the Pavilion at the Tower of London.

The awards are intended to celebrate outstanding achievements in the UK fresh produce industry.