The Food & Drink Federation has named ChalkStream Foods as its UK SME Food & Drink Manufacturer of the Year at its inaugural MP’s Choice Awards last night.
Out of a shortlist of 12 regional finalists, ChalkStream impressed the panel of judges for its commitment to restoring the trout farming industry and Hampshire’s Itchen and Test Rivers, which are some of the world’s best-known chalk streams.
ChalkStream was nominated for the award by Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North.
The business has spearheaded support for the extension of Wild Fisheries Protection Zones across these rivers, meaning 90% of the Upper Itchen river has now been converted to wild fishing.
It has also “revitalised a traditional rural industry”, the FDF said.
“ChalkStream is an exceptional example of the best the UK’s food sector has to offer,” said FDF CEO Karen Betts. “Their products are second to none, and their commitment to sustainability, championing British produce and creating skilled jobs is particularly impressive.”
MD of ChalkStream Hugo Hardman said he was “honoured” to receive the award.
“Our mission is to champion British trout, support our rivers and farming communities, and produce food we can be truly proud of,” said Hardman. “This recognition belongs to our team, our partner farms and everyone who believes in the future of British freshwater fish.”
The MP’s Choice Awards recognise contributions made by small and medium-sized food manufacturers.
MPs from every constituency were invited to nominate businesses worthy of the recognition. The winner was chosen by a panel of judges including Food & Drink All Party Parliamentary Group chairs Mike Reader MP and Amanda Hack MP; editor of The Grocer Adam Leyland; and Sainsbury’s commercial director for grocery and GM Rachel Clark.
“Our award celebrates the entrepreneurialism, creativity, drive and passion of small food businesses, and the sheer hard work they put in to succeed,” said Betts. “Their ripple effect is immense, building prosperity in their local areas and providing great jobs and longer-term careers in their communities.”
Other finalists included PlayinChoc from London, Philip Warren Butchers from the south west, The Cambridge Oven from the east of England, Bridge Cheese of the West Midlands and Eat Curious of the East Midlands.
Also among the regional finalists were Yorkshire Pecorino Cheese, Dodgshons Bakery from the north west, Fentiman’s from the north east, Paisley Pie from Scotland, Hive Mind Mead from Wales and Cooper Family Butcher’s from Northern Ireland.
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