The deadline had been last Friday 19 May but has been extended until this week Friday 26 May to allow enough time for nominations to be completed.

The awards are seen as among the most coveted prizes in the greenkeeping industry as they are an indication of a young greenkeeper's dedication and passion for their profession.

Last year Jimmy Heritage, of Maylands, joined the list of talented greenkeepers who have secured the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year award, which is now in its 29th year.

The prize for the winner is a six-week scholarship which sees them travel to the University of Massachusetts to study turf management and also includes a trip to the Golf Industry Show and a visit to the Toro Factory.

20-year-old Dan Waring, of Ashbourne, also celebrated after becoming the first winner of the Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year award.

Reesink Turfcare is the UK distributor of Toro machinery and Managing Director David Cole said, “Last year we introduced a Young category to the awards and this opened up a window of opportunity to a new audience, while also re-energising the competition format. Plus, we have been able to make the entrant’s tutor and club more involved, so everyone’s a winner.”

The winner of the Young award receives a two-week work placement at the exclusive Vidauban Golf Club in France, plus a trip to Continue to Learn at BTME.

Major prizes are also available for the awards runners-up and those who nominate the students.

The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year award is available to all greenkeeping students studying for eligible qualifications, while the Toro Young Student Greenkeeper award is specifically for greenkeeping students aged 20 years and under.

Click here to visit BIGGA's website for more information, including the full list of entry criteria and an application form