Nige the Nose - Lifetime Achievement Award

After 53 years serving the dairy industry Nigel Pooley and his masterful nose (famously insured for £5 million) was recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Cheese Board at the world renowned International Cheese Awards hosted by Nantwich Show yesterday.

Although he officially retired in April this year from his role as Quality Development Manager, our colleague and friend Nigel Pooley – affectionately known as “Nige the Nose” – can’t keep away from the maturing store and is still lending his smelling power and expertise to us after nearly 20 years of being part of our team and grading more than 1.5 million tonnes of Cheddar!

Dr Judith Bryans, Chief Executive of Dairy UK, said: “Over the course of a five-decade long career, Nigel has been a passionate champion of British cheese. He has done, and continues to do, a tremendous job in ensuring the cheese we eat is of the best possible quality. He is widely recognised throughout the industry and many have gained from his insight and expertise.”

Bruce Macdonald, Chairman of the International Cheese Awards, added: “Nigel can only be described as one of the UK’s biggest cheese enthusiasts. Throughout his career, Nigel has held a number of esteemed positions and it is great to see him recognised for his lifetime commitment to British cheese. Nigel is one of the best known and admired people in our industry, and is thoroughly deserving of this recognition.”