A Shropshire-grown lettuce is hoping to scoop an award after being put to the taste test by experts.

Lettuce from PDM Produce, in Newport, went under the scrutiny of expert judges in the first round of fresh produce judging for next year’s Heart of England Fine Foods Diamond Awards.

The HEFF Diamond Awards celebrate the best of regional food and drink from across the West Midlands.

The awards ceremony and gala dinner is due to be held in May 2010 but fresh produce is judged throughout the year, according to the seasons.

PDM’s lettuce went up against fruit and vegetables from across the region and the expert judges offered marks and opinions.

Today Debbie Coxon, HEFF Diamond Award project manager, said: “The quality of produce was very high. Judges were grading the produce on appearance, texture and the all important taste test.

“Although this year’s Diamond Awards have only recently been held, the fresh produce judging is staggered throughout the year to allow for seasonality.”

This year’s Diamond Awards were held on May 16 at The International Centre, Telford.

The winner of Fresh Produce category was Drews, of Worcester, with midi-plum tomatoes on the vine.

There are nine other product categories in the Diamond Awards: Bakery; Dairy; Drinks; Condiments and Preserves; Confectionery; Desserts; Meat; Poultry and Game; and Prepared as well as four Special Diamonds for Grow; Innovate; Taste and Excel.

Entries for those categories will be opened later in the year and judged in February.

Mrs Coxon added: “PDM Produce will have to wait until March to see if they have made the Fresh Produce category shortlist, when the shortlist for the other categories will also be announced.”

Companies that want more details about HEFF or its Diamond Awards can call (01746) 785185 or visit www.heff.co.uk