AHDB seeks outstanding individuals in the potato industry

Former chair of the Potato Sector Board Sophie Churchill (centre) presents the 2018 awards to Gerard Croft, now chair of the British Potato Trade Association, (right) and Doug Harley (left), Managing Director of Cygnet.

Nominations are now open for two prestigious awards recognising individuals who’ve made significant contributions to the UK potato industry.

The Potato Industry Award is a lifetime achievement accolade, whilst the Above and Beyond Award recognises a person who’s made a substantial contribution to the industry within the last five years.

Anyone working in the potato industry can be nominated. Last years’ winner was recently retired Head of Agronomy at NIAB CUF Dr David Firman. Previous winners include Managing Director of Cygnet Doug Harley (2018) and seed producer Jim Cruickshank OBE (2016).

Interim chair of the AHDB Potatoes Sector Board Alison Levett said: “This has been a very challenging year for potato growers. A combination of extreme weather, loss of key actives, the impact of Covid-19 and big policy changes on the horizon.

“These awards recognise those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and made significant contributions to our vital industry.  I encourage you to nominate deserving industry colleagues.”

The winners will be presented with their awards later this year.

Nominating someone is easy, just download our nomination form. Complete it – including both a summary of the individual’s career and reasons for putting them forward – and send it via email to Margaret.Skinner@ahdb.org.uk.

The deadline for this years’ nominations is Friday 9th October 2020. 

For more information, please contact the award committee secretary Margaret Skinner either by email or call 0131 297 7460.