The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) is inviting agriculture and rural innovators to apply for its Technical Innovation Awards.

The 2019 awards intend to "encourage and recognise innovation in the design and manufacture of machines, equipment and appliances which advance the effective and efficient practice of either agriculture, horticulture, equestrian, forestry, renewable energy or estate services."

RHASS chief steward of technical innovation, Christo Shepherd, said, “Technical innovation holds the key to unlocking the potential of Scotland’s agricultural and rural industries, whether in keeping with the industry, improving the environment, promoting best practice or ensuring operator safety and comfort.

“The RHASS Technical Innovation Awards provide a unique and highly regarded means to promote new ideas, whether conceived in the farm workshop or on the test benches of multinational manufacturers. I look forward to celebrating the innovations that have been developed over the last year at this year’s Royal Highland Show.”

Entries must be machine, appliances, technical components or important ancillary equipment and should be commercially available or prototypes in development. All entries are judged and benchmarked on individual merit.

The closing date for entries is 14th April, with judging taking place before May. Successful entrants will be notified and will be invited to attend a special presentation award ceremony on Saturday 22nd June 2019 at the Royal Highland Show.

Entries should be made on the official entry form, downloadable from the Royal Highland Show website