The first winner of an award dedicated to those who go 'above and beyond' to further the potato industry, is well-known agronomist, John Sarup.

The new award, presented by AHDB Potatoes, aims to recognise unsung potato heroes in the industry and who make a positive impact on the potato supply chain.

Mr Sarup was described by one nominator as ‘the go-to agronomist for potatoes’ and was a standout candidate, said the judges.

AHDB's Rob Clayton, said: “John stood out because he clearly really does go above and beyond for his clients and the sector. His comprehensive knowledge of agronomy and the potato industry enables him to offer first class advice, give guidance on best practice and the most up-to-date research.”

John, currently in Australia, couldn’t make it to Thursday's awards ceremony in St Andrews as part of the Seed Potato Industry event, but was delighted with his win.

John is well-known to growers on both sides of the Border as one of his earlier career moves, at the behest of SRUC's potato expert, Stuart Wale, was as a potato consultant with SAC Consulting covering Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire.

In 2012, he set up SPUD Agronomy and Consultancy, a go-it-alone business for potato agronomy advice. The company now has influence on more than 10,000 acres of potatoes, from the Cheshire/Shropshire border in the west across to the Humber estuary and up to Dunbar in the east.