Farmers from Oban, Inverness and Aberdeenshire have been announced as finalists in the prestigious M&S “Farming for the Future” awards.
They have impressed the judges with their commitment to the future of farming, from investment and welfare, to engagement with the community and retailers, and encouraging sustainable practices.
John Lohoar, who manages Glenbervie Home Farm in Stonehaven and produces Aberdeen Angus beef for M&S, has been shortlisted in the Innovation Producer award.
He has been shortlisted alongside Alan Steven from St Andrews who produces Brussels sprouts and parsnips.
In the Young Producer award, Andrew MacLeannan, 27, who manages the supply of Lochmuir Salmon at Scottish Sea Farms in Fiunary, Oban, is up against David Watson, 34, who helps to manage his family’s farm in Banchory in Aberdeenshire.
He produces beef through the 2 Sisters Food Group.
Shortlisted in the Outstanding Producer Award is Steven Jack from Dalcross in Inverness, who supplies a range of carrots and potatoes through his specialist root vegetable growing and packaging business Nessgro.
He is up against Henry and Emily Duncan, from Whitehall Farm in Dumfries which produces Aberdeen Angus.
The winners will be announced at the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh on June 23.
The awards celebrate suppliers working towards important M&S Plan A commitments.
These include becoming carbon neutral, sending no waste to landfill, extending sustainable sourcing, setting new standards in ethical trading, and helping customers and employees live a healthier lifestyle.
Steve Mclean, M&S Head of Agriculture & Fisheries, said: “We are continually impressed with the commitment and passion our suppliers show towards sustainable farming.
“With such strong talent emerging within the industry, the judging process for our Farming for the Future Awards becomes more challenging every year.
“In what is my ninth year of presenting the M&S awards, I am looking forward to once again honouring some of our top suppliers at the Royal Highland Show later this month.”
