A SOMERSET butcher is calling for community support after making the shortlist in a national competition.

Katie Potter has reached the national final of the 2020 Women In The Meat Industry Awards - and now needs public votes to secure top spot.

Katie, who works at Tim Potter Family Butchers in Wellington, is up against other female butchers under 32 years of age from all over the country.

She has been commended for her tireless efforts towards helping the people of Wellington and Rockwell Green access vital food supplies during lockdown as part of the Potters Pounds appeal, which attracted generous support from Wellington Town Council, local businesses and churches and The Community Council for Somerset.

More than 300 boxes of locally sourced meat and vegetables were delivered to local families since the start of lockdown and Katie coordinated the sourcing of produce for these, as well as preparing the boxes each Thursday.

“I am thrilled to have made it to the final of such a prestigious competition," she said.

"I am extremely grateful to all of those who have voted for me so far and it would mean the world to me to win.

"The whole team at Tim Potter Butchers have been brilliant during lockdown, always going the extra mile to make sure customers were looked after and those facing food poverty helped by the Potters Pounds scheme, which is now set to continue throughout the school holidays with the support of our local schools and The Wellington Village Agents to combat ‘holiday hunger’.

"It is amazing to be able to make a difference to the community, through doing the work I love.”

As well as being a key player at Tim Potter Family Butchers, she has also launched 'Katie's Pantry' within the shop, stocking the pies, hot rolls and deli items.

To cast your vote for Katie, visit womeninmeatawards.com/vote - the deadline is August 28.