Stroud-based producers Kitchen Garden Foods have been nominated for the Best Food Product of the Year award at the Cotswold Life Food & Drink Awards.

The company's Blackberry & Apple Jam has been shortlisted for the award. The product is a particularly special one for the Kitchen Garden Foods.

James Horwood, commercial director and joint owner, said: "Kitchen Garden are delighted to be nominated for this award. Blackberry & Apple Jam was the first product we ever made almost 30 years ago and is still a firm favourite amongst our many customers.

"Barbara, who founded the company from her cottage near Bisley in 1989, would pick the berries from local hedgerows and cook up the delicious jam a few jars at a time. She sold a bit to the local butcher and had absolutely no idea that would kick-start the multi-award winning business we have today.

"While we no longer pick the berries from local hedgerows, we still follow the very same small-batch recipe today. We lost Barbara a couple of years ago, and I know she'd be over the moon to be recognised for this award. Thanks to everyone who nominated us."

Now second generation, Kitchen Garden is run by James Horwood and James Moinet. They employ over 20 staff at their site in Salmon Springs, have received over 100 awards and supply over 500 outlets across the UK and overseas. All of their products are made by hand, in small batches, using only natural ingredients.

The awards will be held on 8th July at Cheltenham Racecourse.