A scheme designed to encourage more young people to learn traditional land and coastal-based trades and skills is now open for 2009 nominations.

The Duke of Cornwall’s Award will be presented at the Royal Cornwall Show in June 4, 5 and 6. The winner receives a perpetual trophy (held for the year), a signed certificate and a cash prize of £1000 from His Royal Highness the Duke of Cornwall.

The award will be made to the individual, partnership or organisation that is adjudged to be providing the best opportunity for young people to learn traditional skills, within the county of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

It is established practitioners who are providing training to apprentices and trainees who qualify for the award. Educational establishments are not eligible to enter but can make nominations.

The award was first presented in 2007, when the first winner was the Guild of Cornish Hedgers. In 2008 the winner was master thatcher Christopher Robinson from Kilkhampton near Bude.

All traditional coastal and land-based skills are covered by the award so entrants come from a wide field, including disciplines such as cob building, woodland skills and boat building and maintenance.

“Such skills are seen as historically important but they are needed today if we are to maintain a healthy agricultural landscape, if we are to maintain traditional buildings and build new ones in traditional style and if our coastal trades and environment are to remain in a healthy state,” said Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association secretary, Christopher Riddle.

“It is also vital for jobs and the economy of Cornwall for these skills to be in good supply in the future.”

Any appropriate individual, business or organisation can be nominated by a third party. A short list of finalists and judging will take place in March and April.

Application forms can be obtained from Christopher Riddle, Secretary, Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association, Wadebridge. PL27 7JE or telephone 01208 812183 or email info@royalcornwall.co.uk