BBC Radio 4 looks to reward public sector caterers

29th June 2010, 8:37am

BBC Radio 4's Food and Farming Awards are back and the search is now on to reward those who have made significant contributions to the world of food, drink and catering.

One of the main categories is the Best "Dinner Man or Lady"/Public Caterer.

A spokesperson for the awards said: "We're looking for cooks who make mealtimes in hospitals, care homes, schools or workplaces a delight. We're looking for tasty and healthy food prepared on the premises with fresh, carefully sourced ingredients, particularly in our less celebrated institutions."

Last year's winner was John Rankin from Penair Secondary School in Truno, Cornwall.

Other categories include best food market, best food producer, and best drinks producer.

Presenter of BBC Radio 4's The Food Programme, Sheila Dillon, said: "Food and farming have the potential to become important drivers of our future economy. These awards, celebrating the best of Britain's food producers, farmers, retailers and markets have never been more important."  

Chair of judges, chef, Angela Hartnett, said: "We know there are businesses out there changing the direction of food and farming in this country, it's now down to the public to make sure we hear about them.  

"The new drinks category is going to be an important way of recognising the dedication of a much neglected group of producers. Not only are drinks a crucial part of any meal, they can be the end product of someone determined to keep a tradition alive, or guarantee the future of an orchard. That's what these awards offer, a chance to celebrate something delicious that's also part of our social fabric."

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in November. 

Members of the public can submit their nominations via the The Food Programme website, by email or by post. 

Closing date for entries is August 15th 2010.

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