Nominations for Lantra Scotland’s 2022 ALBAS – the Awards for Land-based and Aquaculture Skills – are now officially open.

It is now up to rural employers, colleges and schools to help recognise and promote the industry’s best new talent by putting forward their top learners for a shot at an award.

Categories cover agriculture, animal care, aquaculture, equine, environmental conservation, fisheries management, game and wildlife, horticulture, land-based engineering and trees and timber.

Read more: Agriculture trainees shortlisted for Lantra Scotland’s ALBAS 2021

As well as prizes for overall winner, runner-up and modern apprentice of the year, there are also prizes for Higher education, school pupil and secondary schools, the Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies, the 'Jean’s Jam' award for inspirational tutor, the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working.

Lantra’s Scotland director, Liz Barron-Majerik, said that she was proud of the role that the awards play in highlighting the extensive contributions that land-based and aquaculture industries make to Scotland’s economy, particularly in rural areas. She explained: “Our ALBAS are known for celebrating the hard work and achievements of the most talented students, trainees, mentors, training providers and secondary schools in Scotland’s land-based and aquaculture sector.

Read more: Springboard project helps crofters from Lairg, Sutherland

“It is a privilege to hear some of the incredible stories that people have, and I know that our independent judges always have a difficult time deciding who the winners will be from such a strong field.

“While we had to run the ALBAS as a virtual event last year, this time around we’re especially looking forward to meeting everyone in person again at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dunblane Hydro on the evening of Thursday March 3, 2022."

Closing date for nominations is Friday December 3. To enter, call Lantra on 01738 310364, email scotland@lantra.co.uk or visit www.scotland.lantra.co.uk/learner-year