The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has launched a new award for the Manx farmer who best meets the definition of someone who is farming to meet the needs of customers both now and in the future.

The award will be called 'Tomorrow’s Farmer' and it will be presented at the 'Meet the Buyer' evening at the Royal Manx Agricultural Show on Friday 7th August 2009.

The award is being sponsored by Shoprite and their Marketing Manager Adam Burnett said 'Shoprite are pleased to support this exciting initiative as part of our constant commitment and loyalty to local producers.

'We see this competition as highly complementary to Shoprite's ongoing efforts to raise the awareness of Manx food through the ‘Manx to the Max’ and Manx Fair Trade campaigns, to ensure the industry continues to grow and thrive in the future'.

The judging panel will comprise of David Cannan MHK, Andrew Macdonald, SAC Agricultural Adviser (Chair), the President of the Manx NFU and the President of the Royal Manx Agricultural Show.

The judges will be asked to put forward two nominees each and will then select a winner based on the business that is 'farming towards tomorrow'. 

Consideration will be given to:

• farming efficiently and profitably
• market focused
• local food promotion
• diversification and conservation   

Minister Phil Gawne, MHK said 'This annual award will celebrate the work of farmers on the Island and we hope that the stories of the nominees and winner will help to spread best practice, inspire others and tell the public about the role that farmers play in Manx  life.

'On a day-to-day basis, farming can be a tough job and farmers do not always get thanked for it.

'This award is a chance to celebrate all that is good about farming and give individuals the chance to shine.

'We are grateful to Shoprite for their support for this new initiative'.