Hereford’s biggest employer has paid tribute to local farmers who helped keep the supermarket shelves stocked during the coronavirus crisis.

The pandemic saw ‘unprecedented demand’ for chicken from British consumers and ‘everyone in our sector rose to the challenge’ say Avara Foods.

“Without them supermarket shelves wouldn’t have stayed stocked and the nation’s favourite meat wouldn’t have been available.”

The firm have issued a rallying cry to local poultry farmers to make sure they enter the Three Country Farmer Awards in the next few weeks.

The firm, which runs the giant poultry processing factory in the city, is a key part of the local agricultural industry.

It is sponsoring the Poultry Farmer of the Year category in the awards to help ensure that farmer’s ‘fantastic efforts’ are celebrated.

“We encourage all local poultry farmers to consider entering this year’s awards and want them recognised for their sterling work in helping keep the nation fed during these challenging times.”

“We’re immensely proud of the people we work with and the wider sector. Our collective efforts are more important than ever and we’re excited to help showcase this.”

John Reed, Agriculture Director at Avara Foods commented: “The Three Counties Farming Awards is a great way to remind the public of the importance of agriculture in all our lives. British food is among the best in the world, and that’s thanks to our high standards and the dedicated people who work in the sector.”

To nominate someone in any of the 12 categories go to https://www.herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/ and fill out the nomination form. It’s quick and easy.

Closing date for entries is September 18, so don’t delay.

Categories are: Sheep Farmer; Farm Conservation; Cattle Farmer; Family Run Farm; Pig Farmer; Poultry Farmer; Young Farmer (under 26); Arable Farmer; Farming Contractor; Fruit/hop farmer; Farming Hero; Outstanding Achievement.

The awards ceremony will take the format of a live broadcast this year– because of coronavirus.