Suffolk Farmer George Gittus with his Berkshire pigs

The 'Q' Awards are widely acknowledged as one of the most coveted accolades in the food industry. Judged by a panel of 50 experts, including food development specialists, nutritionists, home economists, chefs, restaurateurs and journalists, they recognise excellence and flair in the retail sector.

BQP's Divisional Director Andrew Saunders said the company was immensely proud of what it has achieved with George to reintroduce a traditional pig breed like the Berkshire back into the UK retail market.

"We work in partnership with Waitrose to deliver quality, innovative products and winning the 'Q' Award is the real icing on the cake," he added.

Jane Clarke, Waitrose Senior Meat Buyer, said the retailer was also delighted. The award demonstrated how a close working supply chain can deliver true benefits to customers, farmers and retailers.

"This recognition shows the long term relationship Waitrose has with BQP, its farmers and Dalehead to deliver outstanding quality meats and our strong sales on the Berkshire Pork. "

BQP started looking for a 'new' breed of pigs to improve and expand the Waitrose Pork Selection in 2004 . After extensive research, it chose the Berkshire because of its well marbled, traditional meat qualities that delivers on both tenderness and succulence.

After a successful trial, free range pig producer George Gittus, who is based in Suffolk, switched his terminal sire line from Hampshire to Berkshire boars. He now produces 200 Berkshire-sired pigs every week, from an established herd within his multi-site pig business.