An organic food company has won an award for its hemp ice cream.

The Natural Products Industry Awards chose MotherHemp of Firle, near Lewes, for its Best Organic Product 2002 title.

The accolade was presented to marketing manager Sarah Yearsley by Olympic gold medalist Sally Gunnell.

The firm also received an award from Craig Sams, chairman of the Soil Association.

Ms Yearsley said: "The award for best organic product represents a major step forward for hemp foods.

"Our organic ice cream is made from the creamy milk produced by crushed organic hemp seeds.

"As well as being a delicious alternative to dairy ice cream, it is extremely nutritious as it is high in protein, rich in essential fatty acids, contains no cholesterol and is low in saturated fats.

"It's great to know more people are realising tasty food can be healthy too."

The ice cream, suitable for vegans, is made in three flavours, strawberry, mint chocolate-chip and vanilla.

Sales manager Tania Lowry said clinical trials had proved hemp seed oil to be beneficial for cancers, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, pre-menstrual tension, skin irritations, arthritis, immunological dysfunction, cardiovascular disease and lowering cholesterol.

"Hemp seed is considered by nutritionists to be one of the most complete sources of vegetable nutrition.

"It provides protein, minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids, all in a form easily digested by the body, and contains many of the essential fatty acids required for healthy day-to-day living."