The awards, launched last year by in conjunction with the industry journals Pig World and Poultry World, are aimed at trainees of all ages who have expanded their skills through on-the-job training and vocational qualifications.

"With the everyday challenges faced in the pig and poultry industries, training becomes ever more important and so we want to encourage those undertaking training to enter," says Emmeline Randall, Pfizer product manager. "These awards aim to recognise the value training adds to the livestock under their care, their employers and fellow workers."

Prizes worth more than £2500 are on offer, plus an engraved trophy, funding for a training programme of choice, and a prestigious trip to London to attend a high-profile presentation ceremony in Whitehall.

Last year's winners were 25-year-old Paul Hume who manages an outdoor unit for Bowes of Norfolk at Bircham, and Christopher Rees who runs a broiler breeder farm for Moy Park at Landbeach, Cambridgeshire. Food and farming minister Lord Rooker presented the awards.

For further information and and entry form click here