Devon farmers who are diversifying into alternative enterprises are being challenged by three of the county's farming champions to enter a major competition at the Devon County Show on May 20, 21 and 22.

The Devon County Agricultural Association, Devon County Council Farms Estate and the Western Counties Agricultural Valuers Association, together with Barbara Neason, support the competition for the prestigious John Neason Memorial Award.

"The competition looks for schemes involving a range of innovative ideas," explained Mervyn Hosking, DCAA Association secretary and general manager.

"For example, farmers may have converted redundant buildings, added value to a farm/woodland primary product, diversified into food processing, developed farm tourism or generated additional income by non-farming methods.

"The competition is open to a very broad range of entrants, whether their scheme is large or small, mature or new start."

The winner receives £400, a perpetual challenge cup and a certificate presented at the 2004 Devon County Show. Prizes may also be awarded for runners-up.

The 2003 winners were Vanessa and Colin Mills, from Southdown Farm, Malborough, for their successful bird seed business, Soar Mills Seeds.

The closing date for applications for this year's John Neason Memorial Award is February 13.