STEVE RAMSHAW CROWNED ‘LOCAL FOOD HERO’ FOR THE NORTH EAST REGION (December 2006)

North Northumberland organic farmer/producer Steve Ramshaw was recently crowned Local Food Hero for the North East in a contest run on national television by UKTV Food channel.

Steve, who farms at West Woodburn, near Otterburn, was selected from eight regional finalists on Gary Rhodes’ Local Food Heroes series after being strongly endorsed by another celebrity chef, Brian Turner.

The judges were most impressed by the sheer quality of his meat and his principles on animal welfare and husbandry, especially as he doesn’t come from a farming background.

Steve came to farming 25 years ago after living in the Scotswood district of Newcastle. He bought a 750-acre derelict farm which had been earmarked for intensive forestry production, and set about revitalising it.

According to the judges, Steve’s passion for his farm, conservation and animals, was evident.

Steve runs Northumbrian Quality Meats from Monkridge Hill Farm and the company has gained an enviable reputation for the quality of its produce.

The UKTV Food channel judges were clearly impressed by the richness of Steve’s hill-bred Aberdeen Angus beef which is processed the traditional way by maturing for a full 21 days before jointing to enhance flavour and tenderness.

“ Meat to die for, “ said Gary Rhodes, who is pictured here.