John Martin, (pictured here standing on the right) managing director of turkey producer Lincs Turkeys, has been named Man of the Year by his peers in the British turkey industry at Claridge's hotel in London.
He was presented with the Rupert Chalmers-Watson trophy, an honour created in 1979 for those who have made an outstanding contribution and commitment to the industry, by Paul Kelly, vice-chairman of the British Turkey Federation,who said: "The list of those who have received the award over the years is a Who's Who of the turkey sector."
Mr Martin jointly set up Lincs Turkeys in 1979 and, although has sold the business twice, he has remained MD throughout the years, playing a key role in the development of the free-range turkey market.
"This is a huge surprise, as well as a great honour. I am delighted to be accepting this award after over 31 years in the industry." Mr Martin said.
Rupert Chalmers-Watson was a founder member of the British Turkey Federation in 1951 and a pioneer of the British turkey industry, alongside names such as Bernard Matthews, Raymond Twiddle and Ron How.
Rupert's widow Peggy created the award after his sudden death in 1977
Lincs Turkeys also took an award on the night for Best Branded Product at the British Turkey awards.
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