Nominations can be made by the individual or someone wishing to put them forward and the entry form can be downloaded at www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk/award/17/kent-young-food-and-farming-entrepreneur-of-the-year/

The nomination should explain how the individual has made a contribution to an existing business or built a new one, anywhere in Kent, or what they have done within their part of the food chain.

The award aims to inspire young people in the rural and food sectors and is given in memory of the late Mayor of Tunbridge Wells, Mike Rusbridge, who was a great supporter of young entrepreneurs.

The applicants will be shortlisted once voting closes on 3 January 2017 and then the finalists will be judged by a prestigious panel with representatives from Kent Foundation, The Princes Trust and award sponsors Create with Impact and South East Farmer magazine.

Produced in Kent’s Stephanie Durling comments: “Last year was the first year that this award was given and it was very well received. The award attracted many entries from innovative and hard-working young people from across Kent, so we have high expectations for this year’s nominations. This award is about identifying a young person who can also inspire others. If you know someone who has made a significant contribution to an existing business, has built a new one or is doing something really innovative within the food chain then make sure you nominate them.”

Wayne Hall at Create with Impact said: “As creatives, at Impact we are passionate about change. Change is what shapes us, builds our future and moves us forward. It’s therefore only natural for us to want to recognise the younger members of the industry who are brave, passionate, devoted or even fool hardy enough to think they can change things for the better. Entrepreneurship is something to be encouraged and nurtured in the UK post BREXIT and we’re extremely proud to support this essential category in our County.”

Jamie McGrorty at South East Farmer comments: “Being able to innovate is very often the only way that farming families stay in farming. History proves this true when you see that it is those companies that have changed with the times are the ones that stand the test of time itself. Therefore, at South East Farmer Magazine we feel it is hugely important for us to be sponsoring the Food & Farming Entrepreneur award. We look forward to reporting on the candidates and the eventual winners in 2017!”

For more information about the Taste of Kent Awards and all of the categories or to nominate a business or product, visit www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk