Two former colleagues at a regional publisher have launched a new culinary awards scheme on their old patch.

Lindsay Molloy and Michaela Robinson-Tate, who worked together at Newsquest, have announced the launch of the Cumbria Food Awards 2022.

Lindsay was formerly Newsquest group creative director for lifestyle magazines and Michaela was formerly editor of Cumbria Life magazine

News website Cumbria Crack, owned by independent publisher Barrnon Media, will also serve as the scheme’s official media partner.

Lindsay Molloy, left, and Michaela Robinson-Tate

John Holliday, MD of Barrnon Media, the home of Cumbria Crack, Cumberland & Westmorland Herald and Keswick Reminder, said: “Cumbria is the food capital of the country – outside of London.

“We believe the awards will provide restaurants, chefs and everyone involved in the industry with a welcome boost during what’s been an incredible last 16 months.

“Our team Cumbria Crack and Barrnon Media is delighted to be associated with the Cumbria Food Awards.

“We want to celebrate the achievements of the hospitality sector, which continues to offer customers and diners an amazing experience and I’m confident our content will reflect that.”