NFU Scotland's annual Excellence Awards are in full swing and searching for the best in the business within the three categories of the awards.

The Farmland Biodiversity Award, which is sponsored by RSPB Scotland, has already closed for nominations and judging of the high number of quality entries is currently taking place.

The other two categories, namely Young Achiever, sponsored by The Royal Bank of Scotland, and Innovation, will still be accepting applications until mid November so if you know of anyone who stands out from the crowd, now is the time to nominate them.

Following the decision-making process, the winners and runners-up will be presented with their prizes at the NFU Scotland AGM at the start of March 2006. Prize-winners receive a cash prize and a plaque to commemorate their win, in addition to being treated to a night at St Andrews Bay Hotel.

Speaking of the awards, 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, particularly as the industry adapts to the challenges and realities of CAP Reform. Our young farmers are the future of the 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 business propositions."

Stuart Housden, Director of 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 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 seeing which of the high quality entrants impresses the most."

Anna Davies, NFU Scotland Communications Officer, 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. More and more attention is also being turned to innovative farming and diversification as farmers become less and less reliant on support payments and more reliant on the marketplace. Environmental management is also more important than ever and in addition, focus is shifting towards the younger generation who are the future of our industry.

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

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