Rye Farmer’s Market in line for top Sussex food and drinks accolade

The market, which was set up by local organic farmer and environmentalist Christopher Strangeways, takes place every Wednesday morning on the quay-side at Rye.

It will be up againts farmer’s markets from Lewes, Arundel, Steyning, Chichester and Shoreham in the finals, which are sponsored by Harveys Brewery.

People will be able to vote for the Rye market online.

The awards were launched recently by the High Sheriffs of East and West Sussex at the Ardingly Showground.

They sampled local produce including sparkling wine, sausages, cheese, apple juice, pies and brownies.

“Public voting for our 75 finalists in this year’s awards is already under way and well up on last year, not just because we have improved our online voting system and introduced text voting for the first time, but because the growing trend is to buy local,” said organiser Paula Seager.

“The awards is all about boosting the market for Sussex produce and letting people in the county know about the fantastic food and drink grown and made in the county, as well as the great restaurants, pubs, cafes and food shops where it can be bought and enjoyed.

“We urge people to try out the produce on our finalists list and vote for their favourites at www. sussexfoodawards.biz .

Voting closes at midnight on October 14 and winners will be revealed in January 2013.