Slemish Market Garden receives UK’s Best Greengrocer Award
Thursday 30 March 2023
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council proudly recognises the success of local family-owned business - Slemish Market Garden - for being awarded the Best Greengrocer in the UK at the Slow Food Awards.
Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Beth Adger MBE, recently met with co-owners, Frank and Linda McCooke, to congratulate them on their fantastic achievement.
Located in the scenic Ecos Nature Park, Slemish Market Garden is the only market garden in County Antrim. The family employs traditional chemical-free methods to grow fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables - attracting customers not only from the local area but from all over Northern Ireland.
In addition to their home-grown produce, the shop offers a range of seasonal fruits and vegetables, locally produced honeys, jams, and chutneys, as well as their own chicken, duck, and bantam eggs. They also stock a variety of local artisan produce including oils, dulse, and jams.
Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Beth Adger MBE, said: “I am delighted to see all the hard work that Frank and his family have put in over the years being recognised on a UK basis. You only have to try the produce to taste the expertise and quality – their food is delicious!”
Slemish Market Garden is a valuable asset to the Borough, providing residents with access to locally produced, chemical-free fresh fruits and vegetables. This supports the Council's goal of offering sustainable food options and informed food choices to support families and local growers.
Frank McCooke expressed his family's delight in winning the award and their commitment to providing their customers with the best produce possible. He also shared that they enjoy the lively banter with their customers and plan to continue serving them for many years to come.
For more information on sustainable food within the borough, please contact Carly Ogilvie at carly.ogilvie@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.