Now in their fifth year, the NFU Scotland Excellence Awards were re-launched at the Royal Highland Show by Ross Finnie, Environment and Rural Development Minister.

The Excellence Awards encompass three categories; Farmland Biodiversity, Young Achiever and Innovation. The aim of all of the awards is to recognise and reward individuals or companies within agriculture or associated industries who have made a significant contribution to agriculture, wildlife protection or the wider rural communities.

• The Farmland Biodiversity Award is sponsored by RSPB Scotland. There are many farmers whose farming practices benefit priority species and habitats and this award aims to reward that dedication.
• The Young Achiever Award, sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland, is aimed at those aged 35 and under who have made a significant contribution to the industry, whether that is as a new entrant to farming or working within another, agriculture related, businesses.
• The Innovation Award seeks to reward those applying any type of innovation - from farm shops or other diversified farm businesses to new farming production methods.

Speaking after the launch, Ross Finnie, Environment and Rural Development Minister, said:

"Those taking part in the Excellence Awards are leaders in embracing the change brought about by CAP reform and adapt their businesses accordingly.

"The forward-looking attitude they embody is the key to developing a prosperous future for farming."

John Kinnaird, NFUS President, said:

"With agriculture being in the midst of great change at the moment, NFU Scotland feels it is as important as ever to reward those individuals or companies who are making a positive and forward looking impact upon the industry. CAP Reform has shifted the emphasis of farming onto increased market focus and environmental management, making innovation and sensitive land management even more crucial. More and more attention is also being turned to young farmers who, as the future of the industry, require continued support and encouragement.

"I am proud that NFUS is running the Excellence Awards again this year and I look forward to seeing yet another year of quality applications and deserving winners in all three categories."

Stuart Housden, Director, RSPB Scotland, said:

"We are delighted to sponsor this important award. Farming is the main force that shapes Scotland`s wildlife habitats. Farming that is done in sympathy with the needs of birds and biodiversity in mind is essential if we are to protect and enhance the countryside. The award is made to the farmer or crofter who takes that extra step and makes significant efforts to integrate conservation into their overall agricultural activities. The range of past applications clearly illustrates the diversity and richness of Scottish wildlife and the key role that Scottish farmers and crofters can play in protecting and enhancing this to everyone's benefit. We look forward with great interest to the applications for the 2006 award."

Jimmy McLean, Head of Agricultural Services at The Royal Bank of Scotland, said:

"The Royal Bank is delighted to be supporting the NFUS Young Achiever Award again this year, particularly as the industry adapts to the challenges of CAP Reform. Our young farmers are the future of our industry and we are committed to supporting them. These awards will recognise, not only the enthusiasm of the participants, but also their innovation, market orientation and the business management skills they bring to their operations. These are qualities which we at The Royal Bank also look for, when assessing new businesses propositions."