A MICHELIN starred chef has given his support to an awards scheme that celebrates East Yorkshire’s local food and drink industry.

The scheme has been given a boost by the involvement of chef James Mackenzie from the Pipe and Glass in South Dalton.

James, who champions local and seasonal food in his menus, will join the team of judges for the inaugural Beverley Food Festival and East Yorkshire Local Food Network Awards on September 18.

He said: “We have some superb food and drink producers in our area and I’m proud to use them at the Pipe and Glass.

“I’m happy to lend my support to this new awards scheme and to help promote East Yorkshire businesses.”

The awards initiative is a collaboration between Beverley Town Council, East Riding Council and East Yorkshire Local Food Network and is being organised by Helen Watson, Rob Farnsworth, Ed Sweeting and Mark Farnsworth respectively.

Helen Watson, Beverley Town Council Clerk, said: “We’re very grateful to James for the work that he does to support local producers and his expertise will be invaluable on the judging panel that is chaired by David Nowell from Beverley Tickton Grange.”

Nominations for the awards, which close on August 18, are invited from any business with a presence at the Beverley Food Festival on October 5 and from any member of the East Yorkshire Local Food Network.

Entry to the awards is free, but requires the completion of a form that is available to download from www.enjoy-eastyorks-food.co.uk and should be returned to Julia Soukup at East Yorkshire Local Food Network, PO Box 283, York YO42 9AS or e mailed to info@enjoy-eastyorks-food.co.uk

The winners will be announced at a networking evening at Beverley Tickton Grange on September 23.