A SUFFOLK-based condiment producer which has consistently demonstrated a commitment to working with and supporting the local local community has been shortlisted for a national award.

Stokes Sauces, which is based at Rendlesham, is up against three other companies for the Outstanding Small Business of the Year category at the IGD Food Industry Awards.

The team is now busy preparing for the final part of the judging process, which includes a presentation and an interview, which will happen in mid-September. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on Tuesday, October 9.

Rick Sheepshanks, managing director of Stokes Sauces, said: “We were so pleased when we received the call to say that we had been shortlisted. Being recognised in this way is fantastic for the team who all work so hard and who are committed to the brand.

“Stokes has been involved in so many different projects this year including producing a special limited edition Diamond Jubilee Coronation Sauce, being involved in a local school project about sauce production as well as most recently linking up with Breast Cancer Care and giving our mayonnaise a pink makeover all in aid of the charity.”

Launched in 2004, Stokes Sauces now produces more than 100 different lines and its produce is widely stocked in farm shops and independent stores throughout the UK.

Key lines from the Stokes brands are also available in commercial sized packs for use in the catering and hospitality industry.