Over the past few weeks we have been inundated with nominations for the first Kent & Medway Food & Drink Awards, and now it’s time to reveal our finalists.

The awards, presented by the KM Group and sponsored by Café Nucleus, aim to celebrate the area’s rising stars, industry trendsetters and unsung food heroes.

We have already revealed the finalists for Chef of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Street Food/Pop-up of the Year and will continue announcing your top picks online throughout the week.

Today, we are excited to share the finalists for Beverage Producer of the Year, Food and Drink Hero, Food Bank of the Year, Food Producer of the Year and Hotel of the Year.

Make sure you check back tomorrow as we reveal the top three nominations for Tearoom/Coffee Shop of the Year and Deli/Farm Shop of the Year.

BEVERAGE PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Clive Emson, judged by Lewis Mackay-Bell

Say It With Gin, Ashford

“They make the most amazing gin and such unique gifts by having a one-of-a-kind painted bottle.”

Moot Brewery, Halling

“Great new brewery using Kentish hops. Love the flavours, the tap room, the packaging - so happy to have them locally.”

Canterbury Cider

“The journey that this family-run cider enterprise has been on is one I admire. The passion and care that goes into producing their tantalising ciders is truly remarkable.”

FOOD AND DRINK HERO

Sponsored by KSS Air Ambulance, judged by kmfm’s Garry and Chelsea

Josie and Sarah at A Better Plaice, Maidstone

“Josie and Sarah are a delight and it’s always busy. We are lucky to have them here in Hempstead on a regular basis. More than worthy contenders for the win!”

Peter at the Bearded Foodie, Dartford

“Can do it all - baked goods, BBQ, butchery, it’s all there and everything tastes delicious. The customer service is second to none and they’re very accommodating.”

Soraya at Mumma Soraya, Medway

“Portions as big as this woman’s heart. Soraya dishes up huge portions of tasty street food drawing from her multicultural heritage. There’s always enough to share with the family and never any leftovers.”

FOOD BANK OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by East Kent Colleges Group, judged by Aaron Sergejenkovs-Telford

Community Cupboard, West Kingsdown

“Tracy and her team do a fantastic job looking out for the community in desperate times. They go beyond and above to provide help to whoever needs support at crucial times of the year.”

Gillingham Street Angels

“They help the less fortunate all year round and expect nothing in return. They do so much for their local community.”

Maya's Community Support Centre, Herne Bay

“Maya offers a food bank, community cafe, furniture bank and individual support to vulnerable people. Maya is the definition of community and is a lifeline to so many.”

FOOD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Shepherd Neame, judged by Jamie Weir

Korker Sausages, Cranbrook

“Korker are the BEST sausages. Not only that but their sausage rolls are insane and they always give the best customer service when batch buying.”

Lower Ladysden Farm, Goudhurst

“A quintessential farm shop with everything from PYO fruit to flowers and a warm and welcoming cafe.”

Simply Ice Cream, Deal

“The best ice cream ever made, just outstanding.”

HOTEL OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Jumeira Restaurant Group, judged by Tarak and Jamil Ahmed

The Cave Hotel and Golf Resort, Faversham

“Having been to this hotel many times I highly recommend it. Everything is spot on from the moment you walk in. I would stay there every night if I could!”

Port Lympne Hotel, Hythe

“I have stayed at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve several times and loved the food options available, not just for families but also friends and couples.”

The Sun Inn, Faversham

“The Sun Inn provides quality service and great food. The staff are respectful and happy to help with any requests. The whole establishment exudes excellence.”

We will continue to announce each category's three finalists this week, so keep an eye out to see if your foodie favourite is in with a chance of winning at the first Kent & Medway Food & Drink Awards.