Bob Meredith has been awarded the 2002 British Potato Industry Award. The award recognises his contribution to the UK potato industry.

Meredith's career in potatoes stems 31 years when he joined the Potato Marketing Board (PMB) as deputy head of research and development before being appointed with overall responsibility for communications and r&d.

Of his many achievements, Meredith oversaw innovative and high profile publicity campaigns and events leading to a steady increase in potato consumption and better targeting of the emerging catering sector. He also introduced an early assurance scheme that identified high quality potatoes and produced premiums for the supply chain by assuring consumers they were purchasing top quality UK produce.

Ever keen to improve communication with levy payers, Meredith introduced and edited Potato World, an in-house publication sent free to all levy payers.

With the knowledge he gained from publishing, combined with his sharp business sense, he soon identified a gap in the market for a specialist potato-related publication after leaving the PMB in 1990. Potato Review was born and soon became renowned for delivering practical technology transfer led articles.

BPC chairman David Walker said the award is recognition of Meredith's sheer hard work and the industry owes him a dept of gratitude. 'The industry has benefited greatly from Bob's tenacity, versatility and forward thinking approach. Whilst leaving several legacies he continues to make significant contributions to the industry.

'What's more, his tremendous personality has won him many friends throughout the UK industry and world potato supply chain.'

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