HEREFORDSHIRE'S growing reputation as one of the country's best food producers was underlined at the launch of this year's Flavours of Herefordshire Awards.

More than 20 exhibitors from in and around Herefordshire joined representatives of the tourism, food and hospitality industries at the start of one of the region's biggest food and drink promotions.

After tasting the best of the county's wines, ciders, meats and speciality produce, delegates were given a cookery demonstration by John Elston of the Crown and Sceptre in Bromyard.

Speaking at the launch, William Lyons of Hereford and Worcester Chamber of Commerce said: "The economy of Herefordshire is facing some pretty daunting challenges in the agricultural and food and drink sectors.

"But it is tremendous to see there is such a definite and very obvious vitality of food and drink in the county."

Among the award-winning food producers at The Courtyard on Wednesday were Penny and Neil Chambers from the Handmade Scotch Egg Company.

Penny said: "The event is a lot more than I expected. It is a real chance to learn about the industry and to meet people involved."

Categories for this year's awards include best restaurant, best tea-room, best pub, Flavours of Herefordshire breakfast of the year, best shop retailer, best producer and best young chef.

For more information and entrance forms call Jane Lewis on 01432 383068.

l As well as sponsoring the event, The Hereford Times will be holding its own readers' competition to find the best pub lunch in the county. The paper is also offering Flavours of Herefordshire companies the chance to publish discounted offers free of charge. For more information call Sue Chandler on 01432 845813.