FARMER'S Cart, the award-winning farm shop near York, has opened a new butchery counter - selling meat reared just a few hundred yards away on the same farm.

It is the latest service offered by the business, whose restaurant and shop is serviced directly from Edward Sykes' Towthorpe Grange Farm, near Strensall.

Mr Sykes, a fifth generation farmer, said: "We're proud of the traditionally-reared meat we rear on the farm. Opening the butchery counter gives us the opportunity make the most of our zero food miles' pork, lamb, and Aberdeen Angus beef."

By zero food miles Mr Sykes means food served at Farmer's Cart has been grown on his doorstep, rather than being shipped from hundreds or even thousands of miles away.

He said: "Any visitor to the farm can tell we treat our animals with the respect and integrity they deserve.

"All our meat has a clear provenance, and we firmly believe it's among the best in the world.

"The experience and knowledge of my father, together with our climate and rich pastures, produces meats of superior flavour and tenderness.

"The arrival of our skilled in-house butcher means we can give our customers an extra special level of service.

"Master butcher Karl Scarboro can tell you how long the meat is hung, advise you on cooking times, prepare special cuts, and give you tips on cooking the perfect steak, roast, or chop."