A THIRD-GENERATION farmer who produces organic vegetables for a London-based community scheme has scooped an award.
Sarah Green, who runs Mark Farm in Tillingham, sends boxes of her home-grown produce to Growing Communities in Hackney, which aims to feed urban areas in a sustainable way.
Sarah's sought-after boxes have helped the scheme come top in the best independent local retail category in the 2012 Observer Food Monthly Awards.
"I enjoy growing good food, and the way my business has expanded has been very rewarding. I'm proud to be associated with Growing Communities and the recent award, voted for by people who buy and eat my produce, clearly demonstrates that box scheme members and farmers' market customers appreciate the fresh, organic food.
"I was approached by Growing Communities a couple of years ago to sell my produce at their farmers' market. Because of where I'm located, I was looking for ways to increase my sales and this seemed like a fantastic opportunity.
"At first I only supplied them things once a month but now it's fortnightly. It's really gone from strength to strength."
Sarah, 32, took on her family farm after attending Writtle College, and was the first to bring organic veg to the business.
She added: "I run the farm with my mum Sally and dad Steve. My grandad Peter had it before and he still has an interest in the farm but can't be out in the fields at 88.
"After returning home from Writtle College, I started growing the organic vegetables and it's grown from there.
"The boxes are delivered weekly and it's really important to me that they look good, so a lot of care goes into growing our veg.
"The produce depends on what's in season and I also include recipes and a newsletter letting people know what's going on at the farm. I like to send a variety – you'll never just receive a cabbage each week."
Sarah also helped the Duke of Cambridge Pub in Islington come runner-up in the best organic restaurant category
She said: "It's great that my contribution has helped the pub and community scheme be recognised in the awards. It's great to see our hard work paying off."
