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Last night, Gloucestershire's finest food and drink producers faced a Dragon's Den panel of experts, including celebrity chef Adam Henson and rugby star Phil Vickery MBE, for the chance to win £10k and have their products stocked in Co-op.

Over the past few months, The Growth Hub has been working with Midcounties Co-op and Hartpury College to stage Food Glorious Food, a county-wide competition for the best of the best in food and drink. Along with winning a contract to retail through Co-ops throughout Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and beyond; the overall winner would be awarded £10,000 in cash to help their business grow.

The pitches, deliberation and awards took place at Over Farm last night and we were delighted to see that 4 of the 10 finalists were Growth Hub clients; including the inspiring overall winner Cinderhill Farm.

We want to extend our huge congratulations to all of the finalists, in particular:

• Health pioneer Ella Rauen-Prestes, of Fitbakes
• Vegan innovator Liam Swan, of Seitan's Grill
• Plant-based hero Joe Snow, of Just Wholefoods
• Idyllic entrepreneur Deborah Flint, of Cinderhill Farm.

And in a last-minute change of plans, it was also revealed that every finalist will have the opportunity to sell through Co-op stores; a superb opportunity that recognises the outstanding calibre and innovations taking place throughout Gloucestershire. 

The Growth Hub will also be offering its support to every single business which entered the competition, and we can't wait to get stuck in to their challenges. And their products...