A CHILLI farm on the outskirts of Ashburton which takes environmental issues 'very seriously' was crowned best green business at the awards.

Dartmoor Chilli Farm was set up by environmentally conscious husband and wife team Phil, a former IT consultant, and Kay Palmer, an holistic therapist, in 2007.

Today, they grow 105 types of chillies and demand for their chilli products is on the rise.

The couple were visibly taken aback by their win: "It is just fantastic," said mother-of-two Kay.

"We saw one of the companies we were up against (TQ Recycling) on the television. We thought there was no way we would win above them because we're totally off-grid," said Phil.

"We hope that by winning this award people will take us more seriously and that people will be educated by what we have done.

"From biodegradable packaging through to growing the wood which fuels the wood burner which keeps the chilli plant seedlings warm. It is an inspiring and successful green business," said judges.