As the deadline for nominations in all categories of the Hereford Times Food and Farming Awards is extended to April 30, local farmer and category sponsor Anthony Snell is urging local farmers to enter.

He said: “In 2019 we were fortunate to win the fruit/hop grower of the year category, and were very excited at the end of the event to be presented with a second award being the outstanding achievement award!

“We are pleased to sponsor this year, and would encourage farmers and growers and local businesses to enter the excellent local awards.”

With the hospitality industry, an essential part of Herefordshire’s food and farming landscape, only just re-opening we want to ensure that our cafes, tearooms and restaurants are firmly back in business and ready to celebrate their achievements by entering the awards.

The awards are a celebration of the multi-faceted nature of our agricultural landscape – the dedication, professionalism and innovation of every business that revolves around the food we eat – from field to fork.

So whether you’re a farmer dedicated to rearing or growing our food, a producer committed to creating the best food and drink, or a restaurant, café or tearoom delivering the best of Herefordshire on a plate, what could be better than an award recognising your commitment, skill and talent, especially in a year that’s been anything but easy?

This year’s event is online on June 17. It is hosted by TV personality Kate Bliss, and supported by celebrities including Rosemary Shrager, Henning Wehn, Cheryl Baker, Matt Dawson and Lee Mead.

It has been expanded to incorporate and recognise those businesses that make such great use of the wealth of produce grown in Herefordshire – our restaurants, cafes and tea shops, food and drink producers and local food retailers.

The award categories

  • Cattle Farmer
  • Poultry Farmer
  • Arable/Fruit or Hop farmer
  • Family-run farm or Smallholding
  • Farm Conservation and Diversification
  • Best Farm Shop
  • Best Local Food Retailer
  • Best Dairy Producer
  • Best Food Producer (excluding dairy)
  • Best Drinks Producer
  • Best restaurant
  • Best cafe or tearoom

So if there is someone you feel deserves to be recognised for their achievements, visit www.herefordtimes.com/awards/foodandfarming and complete the nomination form.