TWO Ross-on-Wye brothers have received a prestigious award for their outstanding contribution to sustainable farming.

Jake and Rupert Simpson, of family-run fruit farm Chicory Crops, were crowned Marks and Spencer's Farming for the Future winners for England and Wales 2015. 

The pair triumphed in the young producer category thanks to their commitment to creating innovative products and sustainable farming.

Jake said: "I'm absolutely delighted. It's great to work with a big retailer like Marks and Spencer, which recognises the importance of high-quality produce and the need to safeguard our agricultural industry for future generations.

"These awards are a true validation of the hard work farmers are putting in right across the country, and it's a real honour to have been chosen as this year's winner."

The Farming for the Future programme is designed to help farmers identify opportunities for improvement, increase their profitability and provide a sustainable supply chain that can continue to deliver quality and innovation long-term.