Branston’s senior field manager Jim Aitken took home AHDB Potatoes’ coveted ‘Above and Beyond’ award at this year’s BP2017 potato show in Harrogate.
The award, which is presented to an exceptional performer or an individual who has made a significant achievement over the past five years, went to Aitken for his work at the potato supplier’s Scottish base in Abernethy, Perth and Kinross.
He has worked for the company in Abernethy since 2004, when Branston took over the site, and has strived to “maintain a strong working relationship between agronomy, procurement, technical and production,” Branston said.
Aitken was presented with his award at the AHDB Potatoes stand at BP2017, a ‘seed to shopping trolley’ event for the UK potato industry, which takes place every two years.
He said: “The potato sector is such an important part of UK agriculture, and I feel passionate about the role that I play within Branston to ensure the ever-increasing market needs in this industry are met with quality products.
“I have worked in this industry for over 30 years, and so to be recognised by AHDB Potatoes with such a prestigious award is a real honour.”
James Truscott, managing director at Branston, added: “I am delighted to see Jim receive this award. He is extremely well known and respected in the industry, and is a real champion for our sector.
“Jim is always looking at ways to drive improvement and change where it is needed, and is always happy to share his extensive knowledge and expertise with others.
“In particular, he is committed to passing on his skills and experience to young people in the industry, many of whom have gone on to become successful agronomists in their own right within the potato and vegetable sectors.”
