Today is the final day to nominate Norfolk's food and drink heroes for the county's annual awards.

The EDP Norfolk Food and Drink Awards 2012 will take place in September, but organisers need food lovers to tell them about their favourite chefs, farmers, restaurants, producers and dinner ladies before they can come up with a shortlist of potential winners.

Self-nominations are also welcomed from businesses and individuals who believe they can compete with the best in the industry and deserve recognition.

The awards aim to celebrate everyone from the big hitters gaining national recognition and artisan producers building a reputation for first-class food, to the school cooks making a big difference in their community.

Peter Waters, EDP editor, said: 'The list of our winners through the years reads like a Who's Who of the country's outstanding food and drink characters, but we're always looking for the next people to join our hall of fame.

'Might it be you, or do you know anyone who deserves the accolades?

'You've only got until tonight to tell us, so make sure you log on to the website and put in your nominations.'

Past winners have included Michelin-starred chef Galton Blackiston, celebrities' favourite The Hoste Arms in Burnham Market, and multi-award-winning butchers M&M Rutland at Melton Constable. Angi Kennedy, editor of EDP Norfolk Magazine, said organisers were already very excited about the nominations coming in so far, but were always keen to hear about more of the county's food and drink heroes.

She said: 'Don't miss your chance to let us know who you think deserves this year's awards.

'We have been delighted with the interest shown across the county – people have been really keen to take part and to highlight the very best of Norfolk's food and drink industry.

'Make sure you get your nomination to us today, via the website. It's quick and easy to do and, if the judges feel the same way as you, your favourite could be this year's winner.'

Nominations and self-nominations must be received by the end of today.

It will then be the turn of the judges, including a host of industry sponsors, to work their way through your favourites. They will come up with a shortlist of nominees ahead of a new-style ceremony at the Norfolk Showground on September 10.

Once again, the awards will be one of the highlights of the EDP Adnams Norfolk Food and Drink Festival, in association with Norfolk County Council, which runs throughout September.

To nominate your food and drink favourites go to www.2012foodand drinkawards.co.uk