M&S's Andrew Mallison with the award

The award, which recognises outstanding achievement and innovation in aquaculture, was judged by a panel of industry experts including Bob Kennedy, Senior Editor of Fish Farmer magazine.

Commenting on the award, Mr Kennedy said: "The winners' shortlist demonstrates the diverse and innovative nature of today's industry. Marks & Spencer have made a tremendous contribution to the UK aquaculture industry, and have in fact worked closely with several of our nominees, and it was only right and fitting that they be the first recipient of this award."

The winners' shortlist consisted of (in no particular order):

· Karol Rzepkowski and Laurent Viguie of Johnson Seafarms for pioneering development

· Walter Speirs of the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group for helping to promote growth of the mussel industry

· The SMILE project for addressing environmentally sustainable aquaculture by using an integrated ecosystem approach

· Stirling Institute of Aquaculture for RAFOA - Research Into Alternatives To Fish Oils In Aquaculture

· Marks & Spencer for co-operation with the aquaculture industry in research & development covering a number of farmed species

· Young's Bluecrest Seafood Ltd for commercial commitment to the future of seafood and raising the profile of aquaculture produce through effective promotion

· National Lobster Hatchery, Padstow, for its innovative re-stocking project, funded through various initiatives

· Loch Fyne Oysters for promoting consumption of luxury aquaculture products.

Finalists in a new industry-backed awards scheme from the Crown Estate, which recognises innovation and best practice in salmon farming were also announced. The award winners will be announced at a ceremony being held in Inverness on June 1.

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