Nominate top aquaculture trainees now

THE search is on for Scotland’s top rural trainees as Lantra launches its Land-based and Aquaculture Learner of the Year Awards for 2019.
Nominations officially opened yesterday and rural employers, colleges and schools are being asked to put forward their best learners.
The awards offer trainees of all ages a springboard to succeed in their careers, as well as highlighting the need for businesses to invest in new entrants, training and skills development.
The award categories span a range of rural and environmental industries, from agriculture, aquaculture and equine, to fisheries management, environmental conservation, game and wildlife, horticulture, trees and timber and land-based engineering.
This year’s Aquaculture Learner of the Year was Mull based Alan Tangny of Scottish Sea Farms. The runner-up was Marine Harvest employee Scott Forder.
As well as prizes for Overall Winner, Runner-up and Modern Apprentice of the Year, there are also awards for Higher Education, School Pupil and Secondary Schools, CARAS (Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies), Jean’s Jam for inspirational tutor and the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner.
Lantra Scotland director Kevin Patrick said: ‘With all the incredibly diverse and rewarding careers on offer in the land-based, aquaculture and environmental conservation industries, it’s clear the sector makes a significant contribution to Scotland’s economy, particularly in rural areas.
‘By recognising and celebrating the success of the country’s top learners, their employers and training providers, our awards can highlight the hard work and achievements of everyone involved.’
The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro on March 7, 2019, hosted by farmer and stand-up comedian, Jim Smith.
The closing date for nominations is November 9. To enter, call Lantra on 01738 310364, email scotland@lantra.co.uk or visit -www.scotland.lantra.co.uk/learner-year
Picture: Aquaculture winner Alan Tangny receives his award from Dougie Vipond