Tesco NI returns as Arable award sponsor

Tesco NI will be sponsoring Arable/Horticulture Farmer of the Year.

Speaking ahead of this years event, which be held on October 27 at the Ramada Hotel, Shaw’s Bridge, a spokesperson for Tesco said: “Tesco NI is delighted to be involved once again with this year’s awards – especially as they coincide with the NI Year of Food and Drink.

“We believe local produce is world class. That’s a real credit to everyone connected with the fabulous agribusiness sector in Northern Ireland including our local farmers.

“We’re proud of the fact that here in Northern Ireland 100% of our milk comes from local farms through Dale Farm and that 100% of our fresh pre-packed beef, pork and chicken also hail from the province.

“As champions of local food and drink we are in the midst of a wide and varied campaign to the value of half a million pounds to provide a platform for the local agrifood sector to engage with the NI Year of Food and Drink. The showpiece of this programme will be the Tesco Taste Festival from 16-18 September at Custom House Square, Belfast.

“We know from research our customers are choosing local produce and they know that at Tesco, they can not only buy more local products than anywhere else in Northern Ireland, but can also be confident in the knowledge that we truly support and encourage food and drink businesses to succeed.”

Farming Life editor Ruth Rodgers was delighted to welcome Tesco NI as a category sponsor.

“We are very grateful for the support we receive from our sponsors and I am delighted the Tesco NI will once again be sponsoring our Arable/Horticulture Farmer of the Year,” she said.

“Entries are starting to come in across all our categories and we are anticipating a high level of interest.

“The deadline for entries is Monday, August 29, so now is the time to put forward anyone who you think deserving of recognition in their field.”

Full details of the award categories is on page 17.