The Derbyshire Food & Drink Awards have just been launched, the County Council is once again looking for the best eateries in the County.  These awards are now in the 6th year, they were established to recognise the quality establishments within the Derbyshire and to support and encourage local producers and suppliers. The 2007 awards will be closely followed by local media and BBC radio Derby.

The categories for this year are as follows:

• Derbyshire Restaurant of the Year 2007
• Derbyshire Pub/Bistro of the Year 2007
• Derbyshire Tea Room/Coffee House of the Year 2007
• Restaurant within an Attraction of the Year 2007
• Derbyshire Breakfast of the Year 2007
• Derbyshire Local Food Hero 2007

The local food hero category has been introduced as a tribute to the county’s small-scale producers, sellers or restaurateurs who refuse to compromise on flavour, manufacture or quality and who understand the value of fantastic local food. Anyone wishing to enter the awards in this category must be a Derbyshire-based producer or supplier who is committed to reducing food miles, shows a passion for their business and promotes Derbyshire as a place of culinary excellence.

'There's been a resurgence of interest in local food traditions and commitment to quality - and with good reason. While modern farming methods, microwave meals and food miles continue to cast a shadow, there's a growing band of dedicated people who care enough to make a difference on what we buy and how we eat. We're looking to support small-scale businesses that exhibit pride and passion for their craft. These are the unsung food heroes that don't compromise on quality in favour of making a fast buck on mass production lines.' BBC Good Food.

Anyone wishing to enter/nominate for the 2007 Awards should contact Derbyshire County Council’s Stephanie Walsh for an application form and details.  Closing date for entries is 31 August 2007.

E-mail: Stephanie.walsh@derbyshire.gov.uk     
Tel: 01629 585964