Anyone that has ever heard Sarah Pettitt speak understands the real meaning of the word “passion”.

It is a word that perfectly embodies what this tireless advocate of British horticulture is all about and it has been a key element in her rapid rise both in private business and the ranks of the NFU.

In a frank and revealing interview on p28, Pettitt describes what makes her tick, how she was determined to come into the industry despite numerous obstacles in her path, and what motivates her to get up and fight for the nation’s growers day after day.

And it is that kind of passion that fires many of the greatest characters in the industry, leading them to innovate and succeed in what must be one of the toughest businesses. Many of those will be honoured on 19 May at the annual Re:fresh awards, which promises to be a wonderful night of fine dining, good humour and appreciation for some of the outstanding achievements of the last year.

Earlier in the day you’d have to go a long way to find a better line-up of speakers than that at the Re:fresh conference, where government, industry, retailers and more will come together to discuss the most pressing issues facing the sector.

I’d urge you to come along and challenge the speakers, making it a truly interactive and stimulating event. Everything from supply chain relations to Olympic opportunities will be in the spotlight, so it will be a very worthwhile and valuable event for all concerned.

I look forward to seeing you there.