New environment category for FDF awards

The new category will showcase the environmental projects being undertaken by companies across the food and drink sector. The Community Partnership Awards, now in their sixth year, recognise the contribution and dedication shown by the food chain to initiatives that have a positive impact on the communities and environment in which they operate. These include their contributions to local schools and hospitals; sponsorship of community sports activities; cultural and civic projects, and other community involvement. The closing date for entries is Friday 22 May. The judges will select a gold, silver and bronze winner from each category and the winners will be announced at a luncheon in London on Thursday 15 October. The categories for this year's awards include education: Local or national education-specific initiatives, Environment: initiatives that reduce environmental impact, and Local Community: activities specifically located in your company's local community. Heading this year's judging panel will be Professor Robert Pickard, chairman of independent consumer body 'Which?' and Lorraine Hendle, publishing director of The Grocer. Julian Hunt, FDF director of communications, said: "FDF is proud to recognise the valuable community involvement of companies and staff throughout the food chain. We look forward to receiving entries from companies both large and small, which are running inspiring initiatives that make a positive difference to the people living in their local community. This year we've added a new environment category which will recognise the great work in this area by so many companies across the food chain."