MORE than 11,000 votes have already been received in the Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2018.

The event seeks out the best food and drink producers, farmers, butchers and places serving and selling local produce.

Patron to the awards Sally Gunnell and the organisers are urging people to vote for their favourites before voting closes on September 19.

Paula Seager, co-director of Natural Partnerships CIC, which runs the awards, said: “Each year we are seeing an increasing number of public votes for the awards and we are delighted so many incredible food and drink producers throughout the region are being given the recognition they deserve, which is what these awards are all about.

“The competition is very tight again this year so every vote really does count and we are looking forward to seeing who makes it through as grand finalists, which are announced in November.

“Businesses from across the entire region have made it on to the list, including 33 from West Sussex, 16 from East Sussex and seven from Brighton and Hove.”

The county is renowned for its innovation in making artisan food products and organisers say this year’s Sussex Food Producer of the Year category, sponsored by Southern Co-op, represents much of what is special about the region.

The finalist line up includes award-winning cheesemakers, hand-cooked traditional meals, indulgent chocolate brownie makers, tomato growers, pie makers, bakers and many more.

Farmers’ markets are a familiar fixture in many cities and towns and have grown enormously in popularity over the last decade.

They are one of the best advocates in supporting local and regional food and drink producers and offer a great opportunity to sample some of the best products in the county.

Six of the best Sussex farmers’ markets have made it on to this year’s finalist list for thecategory, sponsored by Harvey’s Brewery.

Public votes will decide who should be crowned winner.

Sussex Food Shop of the Year, sponsored by Wealden District Council, presents a spread of both new and old food and drink produce from across the region, each offering its unique take on bringing plough to plate.

The Sussex Drink Producer category, sponsored by Natural PR, offers some of the county’s – and country’s – best wine producers, brewers, non-alcoholic drink producers and specialist gin and spirit makers.

Winners and runners up will receive their trophies on February 7 next year at a Bafta-style ceremony.