The search is on to find the Isle of Man’s most forward-looking farmers and food producers.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) is inviting nominations for the 2017 Food and Farming Awards.

Nominations should carry a brief overall reason and describe how they meet the awards’ criteria:

For farmers: Efficient and profitable farming; Meeting consumer demands with their produce; The promotion of locally produced food; Innovative farm diversification; Farming in ways that conserve the environment for the future.

For food producers:

Market focused; Local food promotion; Resilience; Competitiveness; Use of local produce.

Nominations should be sent to Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer, DEFA, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale, Isle of Man, IM4 3AS, email [email protected], by March 31.

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘These awards recognise those who have keen interest in the market place, diversify to meet consumers’ demand and create products the Isle of Man can be proud of.’

John Speakman, senior buyer for sponsor Shoprite, said: ‘We see the awards as a way to encourage farmers and food producers to seek to produce the best food products. Supporting local production is beneficial to the Isle of Man economy as well as providing long-term sustainability and traceability in our food supply.’

Last year’s winners were the Kneale Brothers of Lough Dhoo Farm, Ballaugh (farming) and Norman Morrey and Emma Pickard from Andreas Meats (food). They cannot be nominated this year.

The winners will be revealed on Friday, August 11, at the Royal Show.