FARMERS and growers across the two counties are being invited to step into the limelight for the annual farming "Oscars".

The National Farmers Union President's Awards, now in their fourth year, aim to encourage farmers and growers who are "determined to move forward", in spite of foot-and-mouth and financial problems which have beset the agricultural industry "for so long".

"The vision and efforts of Britain's top farmers to drive agriculture forward in spite of the current problems are set to be recognised and rewarded by the awards," said NFU president, Ben Gill, adding that the awards had become known as the annual Oscars of the farming industry.

The awards are split into five categories: Farming Entrepreneur of the Year, Farming Woman of the Year, Young Farmer of the Year, the Great British Food Award, and the Bio-diversity Award. There is also a President's Special Award.

"It's important we let people know how hard farmers and growers are working to achieve high standards and produce quality food, in spite of all their current concerns," said Mr Gill.

Last year, the titles of Farming Entrepreneur of the Year and Young Farmer of the Year both went to Herefordshire farmers.

John Davies, of Brook Farm, Marden, near Hereford, was Farming Entrepreneur of the Year for his "unique" strawberry growing techniques.

His company, S&A Produce (UK) Ltd., is one of the largest producers of strawberries in Britain.

"We take advantage of any new opportunities that come along and we control every step of the process through growing, packing and marketing," said spokesman Gilbert Savory.

The title of Young Farmer of the Year went to 24-year-old Sam Williams, whose business, Escley Sheep Milk, in Michaelchurch Escley, sells frozen, bottled sheep's milk through the internet.

Set up four years ago, the company has found a ready market for the high-calcium products, which also include sheep's milk ice cream and cheese, with people who are on special diets or are allergic to cows milk.

The closing date for award entries in the NFU President's Awards is Thursday, November 15.

For more information, contact the NFU on 01952 409222.