The Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards have returned for their seventeenth year, opening entries for the 2025/26 competition and once again shining a spotlight on the county’s food and drink talent.

Launched on 25 March at The Lane, Northampton College, this year’s campaign calls on chefs, producers, venues and students to put themselves forward across 18 categories. The awards aim to celebrate excellence and innovation across Northamptonshire’s hospitality and agri-food sectors, from community cafés to high-end restaurants and artisan makers.

Awards Director Rachel Mallows MBE DL said the scheme had become a vital support to local businesses: “These awards are about more than recognition. They help build reputations, attract customers and support long-term growth. We want to see entries from every corner of the county — this is a chance to shine.”

Headline sponsor Weetabix returns for its sixth year, alongside long-standing category sponsors. Stuart Branch, the company’s Group People and Technology Director, said:

“Each year, we’re reminded of the extraordinary dedication and creativity within Northamptonshire’s food and drink scene. We are proud to support an initiative that reflects the strength and resilience of this sector.”

Among last year’s winners was The Hopping Hare, named Restaurant of the Year. “Winning Gold was a real boost for the team and brought a noticeable rise in new customers,” said David George, Director of Operations. “These awards are well-regarded and have a meaningful impact.”

Joe Gould, Head Chef at Fawsley Hall Hotel & Spa and 2024’s Chef of the Year, described the competition as “a brilliant chance to shine” and urged others to take part.

Jeeva Sanmugam of Classic Cuisine, which won the Healthy Food Producers Award, said the accolade recognised the team’s focus on innovation and healthier eating.

Northampton College hosted the launch event, with students from its hospitality programme playing a key role. Curriculum Manager Phil Martin said the awards offered valuable opportunities to the next generation of culinary professionals.

Categories for 2025/26 include:

• Artisan Local Drink of the Year

• Artisan Local Product of the Year

• Artisan Local Vegetarian / Vegan Product of the Year

• Gastro Pub of the Year

• Young Chef of the Year

• Canapé Competition

• Chef of the Year

• Community Café of the Year

• Farming Environment Award

• Food & Beverage Achiever of the Year

• Food and Drink College Student of the Year

• Healthy Food and Wellbeing Award

• Local Food Hero of the Year

• One to Watch

• Outstanding Contribution to Food & Drink

• Restaurant of the Year

• Sustainability Award

• World Cuisine Restaurant of the Year

Finalists will be awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze at the official ceremony on 16 October 2025 at the Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton.

For entry forms and further details, visit www.northamptonshirefoodanddrink.co.uk or contact the awards team at 01933 664437 / awards@northamptonshirefoodanddrink.co.uk

Follow the Awards on Facebook (@foodawards), Instagram and X (@foodawardsHQ), or LinkedIn (@weetabixnfadawards).