AFTER tasting meats, sweets and liquid treats and seeking out the best farm shops, breweries and restaurants across the county, judges of the Food and Drink Devon Awards have announced the shortlist of the top food and drink producers — many from the West Devon area. Producers on the Taste of Devon Product shortlist include a huge variety of sweet and savoury delights from small businesses, including Hallwood Farm Shop in Okehampton, Evers-field Organics in Bratton Clovelly, Lovaton Farm in South Tawton and Hi T's Fudge in Tavistock and from the drinks cabinet, tastings were judged from Dartmoor Brewery in Princetown. In the Taste of Devon hospitality category Gidleigh Park in Chagford and Prince Hall Hotel in Two Bridges have been shortlisted for the best fine dining restaurant award and the Bedford Hotel in Tavistock for the best restaurant award. Eversfield Organic has also been shortlisted for the best online retailer. Michael Smith, chairman of Food and Drink Devon, was proud to champion Devon's producers. He said: 'Devon is a hub of wonderful food and drink producers and we want to highlight the benefits associated with sourcing produce locally and responsibly. 'Supporting our farmers, fishermen, growers, chefs and artisans creates a vital boost to our whole economy and helps to sustain Devon's precious landscape, from the rolling countyside to our rivers and oceans.' From the 30 producers on the shortlist this year, platinum awards will be given to any delicacy that received a flawless 100% score. Gold awards go to samples which achieved 90 to 99% and those which scored 85 to 89% will win silver awards. Michael said: 'Customers across the region and beyond know and trust our silver, gold and platinum stamps of approval as a mark of fantastic flavour and the highest quality, so look out for the "Love the Flavour" logo and you'll be sure to discover the best of Devon's produce.' Food and Drink Devon works to increase the county's profile, both nationally and internationally. Michael said: 'Producers from Devon offer a hugely varied and exciting range of food and drink. This, combined with the commitment of many of the region's hospitality and retail businesses to serve and sell this wonderful produce, is putting Devon more firmly on both the UK and the global food map.' The black tie awards ceremony will be held on Monday, October 6, at Exeter Golf and Country Club. The awards will be presented by chef, TV presenter and owner of the Posh Pasty Co James Strawbridge.