The 2019 awards, sponsored by Hillhouse Quarry Group, will encourage and recognise innovation in the design and manufacture of machines, equipment and appliances which advance the effective and efficient practice of either agriculture, horticulture, equestrian, forestry, renewable energy or estate services.

With a historic reputation for recognising and rewarding excellence, the RHASS Technical Innovation Awards have become an important and influential accolade within the agriculture and rural industries.

RHASS Chief Steward of Technical Innovation, Christo Shepherd, commented: “Technical innovation holds the key to unlocking the potential of Scotland’s agricultural and rural industries, whether in keeping with the industry, improving the environment, promoting best practice or ensuring operator safety and comfort.

“The RHASS Technical Innovation Awards provide a unique and highly regarded means to promote new ideas, whether conceived in the farm workshop or on the test benches of multi-national manufacturers. I look forward to celebrating the innovations that have been developed over the last year at this year’s Royal Highland Show.”

Entries must be machine, appliances, technical components or important ancillary equipment and should be commercially available or prototypes in development. All entries are judged and benchmarked on individual merit.

Two Golds, five Silver and three Certificates of Commendations were awarded last year. McVeigh Parker won Gold for their pioneering fencing system, Clipex. Explaining why they entered the prestigious awards, Chris Hambridge from McVeigh Parker said: “McVeigh Parker applied for the award as it was a nationally recognised, non-biased award, requiring a quality product that could pass strict entry criteria. Winning the award has certainly increased the profile of our company and the products we promote. It has given validity and assurance to the end user, demonstrating that the awarded products have stood up to independent testing.”

The closing date for entries is 14th April, with judging taking place before May. Successful entrants will be notified and will be invited to attend a special presentation award ceremony on Saturday 22nd June 2019 at the Royal Highland Show.

Full details about the entry process can be found on the Royal Highland Show website. Entries should be made on the official entry form, downloadable from the Royal Highland Show website https://www.royalhighlandshow.org/media/3059/technical-innovation-application-form-2019.pdf