For the third year running, The Apple Tree Farm Shop at Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil has been awarded Gold in the Taste of the West Hospitality and Retail Awards 2015.

The Apple Tree Farm Shop, which is part of The Gardens Group, stood out in the Farm Shop category for its commitment to local-sourcing, from major brands to small artisan producers, the seasonality of its fresh produce and its friendly staff providing a faultless service.

With a rustic ambience, attentive staff and spotless shelves, displays and baskets, judges heaped praise upon The Apple Tree Farm Shop, with comments like; “This is just what you want a farm shop to be. It is stacked almost to the rafters with attractive and mouth-watering local food with friendly and helpful staff.”

Cath Collins, farm shop and restaurant area manager, comments: “It is a real pleasure to see the farm shop win Gold in Taste of the West once again.

"Our ethos is very much about supporting local producers and shining the spotlight on what is made in this area, from fantastic bread, cheese, cider, preserves and more, to a diverse range of seasonal,  free-from and specialist products.

"I am also very proud of the team who work extremely hard to get to grips with each and every product, understanding the processes involved and ingredients used so they can offer advice and recommendations to our customers.”

The Taste of the West Hospitality and Retail Awards provide an opportunity for businesses in the West Country to gain recognition for supporting and promoting local producers.