The finalists for the 2019 British Farmers Awards have been announced.

Fifty-six farmers and growers have been chosen across the dairy, beef, sheep, arable and contractor sectors.

New to this year's awards is Agri-Tech Innovator of the Year, bringing together farmers, researchers and tech developers to accelerate innovation and production.

Organised by AgriBriefing, parent company of Farmers Guardian, Arable Farming and Dairy Farmer, the British Farming Awards is supported by Morrisons.

Now entering its 7th year, the British Farming Awards has become a nationally recognised event which has celebrated, showcased and rewarded hundreds of British food and drink producers doing fantastic work across the sector.

Last year, the event welcomed more than 700 farmers and industry professionals to the National Conference in Birmingham, which will once again play host to this year’s evening taking place on October 17.

Ben Briggs, editor of Farmers Guardian, said: “Our categories recognise how British farmers have successfully introduced innovation to drive their business forward, despite ever increasing challenges.

“From the smallest businesses to the larger units and from start-ups to those which are long established, the British Farming Awards is a reflection of the diversity, innovation and strength of spirit across our industry."

Andrew Thornber, Manufacturing Director at Morrisons, said: “Morrisons is the single biggest supermarket customer for British Farmers and we are proud to support the British Farming Awards.

“Our business model is based on buying direct from British farmers wherever possible and we believe this approach strengthens British agriculture and supports farming communities.”

For more information and to see the finalists, go to britishfarmingawards.co.uk