Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

Sussex Solicitors Back Food and Drink Producers

South East law firm, Mayo Wynne Baxter, is encouraging consumers to think local and support Sussex food and drink producers.

The Sussex law firm are inviting members of the public to vote for their favourite locally-produced drink as part of the Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2008.

The awards were set up three years ago to promote local produce. There are several categories including Sussex Drink Producer of the Year, which is sponsored by Mayo Wynne Baxter for the second consecutive year.

The winning products and producers are chosen entirely by consumers who nominate and vote for their favourites. A judging panel made up of food and drink experts oversees the awards and validates the category winners.

Simon Baillie-Hamilton, partner with Mayo Wynne Baxter and a specialist land and agricultural lawyer, is pleased that Sussex food and drink producers are being recognised and awarded for their excellence. He said: “These awards are a fantastic way of encouraging people to eat and drink local produce. The variety and quality of Sussex food and drink is outstanding but too few people are aware of what’s available.

“We should take a leaf out of our French neighbours’ book and endeavour to eat and drink seasonal local produce wherever possible. Not only does that support the local economy but it also means you cut down on the time and distance your food has to travel so you get to eat it when it’s at its freshest and best.

“I’ve no doubt that the Sussex Food and Drink Awards will help identify and promote some of the very best producers in the county. The Drink Producer category is open to anyone - be they making beer, wine, cider, fruit juice, soft drinks or spring water. What matters is the quality of the product and that it is made in Sussex.”

Last year, Drink Producer of the Year was awarded to Hepworth’s Brewery. The Horsham based brewery currently makes around seven different real ales using top quality hops and barley which, as far as possible, are locally sourced.

You can nominate or vote for your favourite Sussex-produced drink at www.sussexfoodawards.com. The deadline for votes is 17 October 2008.


For more info, contact:

Julie Causton
Cobb PR
Tel: 01323 416999

Or for information regarding Mayo Wynne Baxter visit www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk