In a glittering ceremony for the prestigious Food and Farming Industry Awards, Lorna Robinson of Cloughbane Farm Foods and Peter Mitchell of OSI Food Solutions were announced as winners in the Massey Ferguson-sponsored Retailer of the Year and Food Buyer of the Year.

“As long-term supporters of these awards, Massey Ferguson is delighted to be part of the event for the 10th year,” said David Sleath, AGCO and Massey Ferguson sales director, UK and Ireland, who attended the ceremony.

The judges commended Lorna Robinson for a highly successful diversification project with the opening of a farm shop. The passion, innovation and commitment from family members and staff, their highly proficient grasp of marketing, advertising and brand-building made the Cloughbane Farm Foods shop an outstanding winner of the Retailer of the Year for 2014.

Food Buyer of the Year, Peter Mitchell emphasises that shortening the supply chain and building relationships with suppliers is the key to success for his profession. He has played an important part in helping businesses like McDonalds to manage a more efficient beef supply chain in order to demonstrate traceability and build confidence.

Helen Hyman of Farndon Fields Farm was named regional winner of the Food Buyer category.

“With their emphasis on entrepreneurial spirit and innovation, the awards encourage the development of new thinking and ideas into British food and agriculture - vital for the future of our industry,” David Sleath added.