Pembrokeshire growers Puffin Produce scooped two prizes at the inaugural Co-op Welsh Supplier Awards, held in Cardiff.

The veg producers picked up Fresh Product of the Year for its Blas y Tir Pembrokeshire early potatoes, which have protected geographical indication from the EU.

The growers were also crowned joint winner of the Welsh Supplier of the Year.

The event was hosted by Welsh TV and radio presenter Jason Mohammad with the awards designed to showcase Wales’s food and drink industry.

Puffin Produce managing director Huw Thomas said: “We’re thrilled to been recognised in such a way by Co-op at the first Welsh Supplier Awards.

"We knew we’d been shortlisted for Fresh Product of the Year, but there was tough competition in the category and we were absolutely delighted when our Pembrokeshire early potatoes were awarded the prize.

“To be named Welsh Suppliers of the Year was a complete surprise, but it’s fantastic that Co-op have recognised what we’re doing here at Puffin Produce.”

He continued: “It’s becoming increasingly important to consumers that they know where their produce comes from, and as a grower-owned business, we’re proud to be able to support our Welsh growers by providing Welsh consumers with access to quality Welsh produce.”

Attendees at the event included cabinet secretary for environment, energy and rural affairs, Lesley Griffiths, chef Ellis Barrie on the judge’s panel, and Co-op head of local sourcing Simon Dryell.