The student-run Sutton Bonington Farmers’ Market has been named Market of the Year in the BBC Radio 4 Food Awards.

Dubbed ‘the Oscars of the food world’ by Jamie Oliver, the awards showcase some of the UK’s most exciting food and drink businesses.

The market, held once a month at the University’s Sutton Bonington Campus, was visited by judges Kath Dalmeny — Sustain’s Policy Director — and TV chef Valentine Warner.

Valentine said: “I was incredibly impressed by the market. It offered an impressive variety of produce to the students — some of which I was surprised to see, but delighted to know they were buying.

“The Sutton Bonington Farmers’ Market was well organised, very friendly and very forward thinking — a fun day out as well as a good place to learn more about ingredients.”

The market has more than doubled in size since it was launched in May 2011 and attracts more than 35 local food producers.

Adeel Khan, President of the Sutton Bonington Farmers’ Market Society, said of the award: “It’s a real honour, we’re over the moon. This win will really spur us on to make the market the best it can be for our customers and stall holders.”