With the public increasingly switched on to the benefits of buying more food and drink locally, Kent consumers are now being urged to nominate their favourite products and producers following the launch of the 2008 Taste of Kent Awards.

Now in its fourth year, the awards, which are run by the champions of food and drink in the county Produced in Kent, recognise and honour the best of the best within the county and have become a much sought-after annual hallmark of quality.

The public can nominate their favourite food and drink products and producers across 12 categories with the top three being shortlisted for judging ahead of an awards evening, where the winners are announced. Categories include Kent Restaurant of the Year, Best Kentish Cider or Perry and Kent Food Producer of the Year.

There is also a self-nominated 13th category of Kent Innovative Product of the year, which is being sponsored by SEEDA.

The public is being urged to get involved in the competition by voting for their favourite producer at www.tasteofkentawards.co.uk. Nomination forms will also be available at farmers’ markets across the county.

Julie Monkman, Produced in Kent’s Manager, said: “These awards are getting more and more popular. It is a sign of the public’s increased demand and passion for local food and drink, that the awards are receiving more nominations every year and in turn a greater number of Kentish producers are keener than ever to get their hands on a winner’s trophy.

“In Kent we have a unique and eclectic selection of food and drink and it is only right that we should shout about how fabulous it is. These awards recognise the excellence that is out there in the county and I would urge everyone to let us know who or what should be a winner.”

To find out more about Produced in Kent visit producedinkent.co.uk.