FARMERS beware – this year’s Three Counties Farming Awards look like being the most hotly contested ever.

A steady stream of nominations means entries for the 2020 awards look set to be a record.

The awards reach far and wide across the counties of Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.

There are some particularly strong entries this year because of the way the sector has rallied around during the pandemic.

Inspiring stories have emerged of farmers going that extra mile to support their local communities and ensure that Britain’s supermarket shelves remained stocked with fresh produce despite a surge in demand from the lockdown.

This year’s ceremony will also be very special, with a star-studded line-up of celebrities to host it or pop-in (digitally) with special messages.

The event is being done in the form of a live on-line broadcast because of the Covid restrictions.

But despite the pandemic the awards are all set to be bigger and better than ever.

Which means more recognition for the dedication and professionalism of local farmers.

To nominate someone for an award just go to www.herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/ and fill in the online form.

Entries close on September 18, to be followed by special coverage of the shortlisted entrants.

Categories are: Sheep Farmer Award; Farm Conservation; Cattle Farmer; Family Run Farm; Pig Farmer; Young Farmer (under 25); Poultry Farmer; Farming Hero; Arable Farmer; Farming Contractor; Fruit/Hop Farmer; Outstanding Achievement.

This year’s awards ceremony takes place in November in the form of a digital live broadcast and includes a star-studded array of stars either hosting or dropping in with special messages.