51AVÊÓƵ

Farming Hero: Flying the Flag for British Agriculture Award - Sponsored by Myton Food GroupÌý

The Hawkstone Farmers Choir has won the Farming Hero: Flying the Flag for British Agriculture award at the British Farming Awards, recognising its outstanding contribution to championing British farming and raising awareness of mental health across the industry. What began as an opportunity to come together through music has grown into something truly special, with choir members sharing the pride, passion and realities of farming with audiences around the country. Their achievements have helped shine a spotlight on British agriculture, while their message highlights the importance of community, connection and checking in with one another, particularly during challenging times.Ìý

For members, the greatest reward is not the success or recognition, but the opportunity to spend time with fellow farming professionals who understand the highs and lows of the industry. Whether celebrating an unexpectedly weed-free crop or sharing the disappointment of discovering disease or losing stock, the choir offers a sense of belonging and understanding that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Speaking about performing at the British Farming Awards, choir member Katryna Shell said: "It means more to us singing to these 900 people than any others, these are the people that voted for us."Ìý

On winning the award, fellow member Ben Brooke said: "It just makes us feel like we're doing the industry proud." Reflecting on an extraordinary 12 months, Katryna added: "Even doing the [Hawkstone] advert in the first place was surreal, but to win Britain's got talent, and now to raise awareness for what we love is amazing – to provide a voice for these people in the industry is incredibly important." The award celebrates the choir's powerful role in uniting farming communities, encouraging conversations about mental health and flying the flag for British agriculture.Ìý

Hawkstone Farmers' Choir member Abbie Condon: "Everyone will have to take their boots off at the door of the tour bus"

The 51AVÊÓƵSafety Award – Sponsored by RABI Farmers AidÌýÌý

Callum LindsayÌý

This award is a new addition to the British Farming Awards this year. The 51AVÊÓƵSafety Award is sponsored by RABI's FarmersAid App, is also being supported by the Lawman family, in honour of Andrew Lawman who lost his life at the age of 35 in a farming incident in May 2023. The family want this award to raise the profile of farm safety, encourage everyone to think about how they can work more safely, make a positive difference on farms, and potentially save lives.  Ìý

Scottish farmer, Callum Lindsay, was seriously injured in 2023, in a quad bike accident while moving sheep during severe flooding. He suffered major head trauma, neck and back injuries, but despite this went on to work with RSABI and Yellow Wellies to raise awareness of the importance of wearing a helmet. The judges commended Callum for using such a negative experience, which had potentially life-changing consequences, for the greater good. He has been brave in his desire to tell his own story, and the judges could see Callum's personal passion in making sure what happened to him does not happen to someone else. Commenting on the win Callum said, "it's an overwhelming experience, it's a great honour to actually be here with people I look up to, I just want to put food on people's tables and produce it safely."Ìý

Agricultural Student of the Year – Sponsored by Arable FarmingÌý

Emma Burgess, Shetland Ìý

Shetland farmer Emma Burgess is bringing new knowledge and ambition back to her island community after four years studying agriculture at Harper Adams University. Growing up on her family's 130-cow dairy and 1,000-ewe sheep enterprise, she also gained experience running the island's creamery, developing an understanding of the journey from farm to consumer.Ìý

At 17, Emma left Shetland to contract lamb on mainland Britain, inspiring her to pursue a career in agriculture. She has since gained experience across UK and international farming systems, including a placement in New Zealand, and received the CLA Scholarship.Ìý

Now working alongside her dad, Emma is combining his 40 years of experience with her own knowledge to improve herd genetics, staff training and soil health, while developing a new creamery product. Judges praised Emma's industry ambassadorship, clear career ambitions and commitment to bringing fresh ideas home, with changes already underway within the family business.Ìý

Agricultural Supplier of the Year – Sponsored by Farming Community NetworkÌý

Daw Refrigeration, Exeter 

Family-run Daw Refrigeration has spent 45 years supporting the South West's food, drink and farming businesses, evolving into a leading supplier of dairy technology. Based near Exeter, the business became a DeLaval dealer for Mid Devon in 2013, introducing robotic milking systems in 2017. Today, it supplies and installs DeLaval VMS V300 robots alongside labour-saving technology including robotic feed pushers, activity monitoring, automatic calf feeders and heat recovery systems.Ìý

Data-led solutions help farmers reduce labour requirements while improving herd health, productivity and work-life balance, with software providing round-the-clock insights into individual animals. Daw also offers a comprehensive service covering site surveys, installation, servicing and 24/7 breakdown support. Its commercial refrigeration division serves businesses from farm shops and butchers to cheesemakers, breweries and juice producers. With 13 employees, Daw combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to apprenticeships and skills development. Success is measured through customer satisfaction, repeat business and helping the next generation of engineers build careers in agriculture.Ìý

Agriculture's Woman of the Year – Sponsored by NFU MutualÌýÌý

Clare Wise, Co Durham Ìý

Fifth-generation farmer Clare Wise draws on a 14-generation family farming legacy, combining business innovation with passionate advocacy for British agriculture. After facing barriers entering the industry as a young woman, Clare transformed the family farm, replacing its pedigree Texel flock with 500 commercial sheep, introducing TMR feeding and bringing more operations in-house. Today, the business runs a progressive mixed beef, sheep and arable system, with a strong focus on grassland, animal health and welfare. Her achievements have been recognised with Sheep Farmer of the Year.Ìý

Beyond the farm, Clare is a prominent NFU advocate, campaigning for practical agricultural policy and challenging government on issues including inheritance tax. She has addressed 40,000 farmers at Whitehall, while championing women in agriculture, farmer wellbeing and greater industry representation. Through school visits and agricultural events, Clare also inspires the next generation. Combining resilience, empathy and leadership, she is helping shape a stronger future for British farming. Commenting on winning the award, Clare said, "Growing up you did not just have to be as good as a man, you had to be better, do not think you are not enough because in this industry you absolutely are".ÌýÌý

Agri-innovation of the Year - Sponsored by LAMMAÌý

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Lancashire-based Wolfenden Concrete is addressing one of dairy farming's persistent challenges – lameness – with its AgriStride Vario hybrid flooring system. Combining high-grip concrete with 40mm rubber inserts, the system provides traction, comfort and shock absorption while supporting efficient slurry management. Its patented diagonal chevron design accommodates wider passages, suspended floors and heavier machinery.Ìý

Developed in response to farmer feedback, the Vario took more than two years to engineer. Structural reinforcement allows the slats to be used in either direction, while interchangeable rubber inserts can be replaced without removing the concrete base, reducing waste and disruption. Wolfenden has invested around £600,000 in bringing the AgriStride range to market, securing more than 30 orders since launch. The Vario has also won engineering and overall innovation awards at the Great Yorkshire Show. Judges praised the product as a passionate, well-engineered response to a clear industry problem, highlighting its market potential and proven ability to work within the business.Ìý

Arable Farmer of the Year – Sponsored by RibenaÌý

Russ McKenzie, Cambridgeshire  Ìý

Cambridgeshire farmer Russ McKenzie is combining regenerative agriculture with high-performing crops at Howson's Lodge, where he farms 140 hectares of heavy clay. Growing wheat, oilseed rape, beans and oats, Russ has used cover crops and direct drilling for over a decade, retaining strategic cultivation to manage compaction and weeds. His five-year average winter wheat yield is 11.06t/ha, with 12t/ha achieved using just 180kg/ha of nitrogen.Ìý

Focused on nutrient efficiency, trials comparing conventional fertiliser applications with foliar phosphate have delivered comparable or better results at a fraction of the cost. Cover crops capture around 35–40kg of nitrogen, while further trials explore biostimulants and plant health. The farm hosts extensive trials of varieties, establishment systems, fungicides and nutrition. In dry seasons, direct-drilled crops have outperformed conventionally established crops by more than 1t/ha. Judges praised Russ as an advocate for British farming, impressed by his premium seed crops, access to new varieties and evidence-led approach to improving sustainability and profitability.Ìý

Beef Farmer of the Year – Sponsored by Fat Cow SkincareÌý

J. H. Allis and Son, Lincolnshire  Ìý

Lincolnshire-based J. H. Allis and Son has evolved from a traditional arable farm into a diverse, 320-hectare enterprise, centred on a 2,500-head Angus dairy-cross beef unit. Run by Gary Allis and his son Charles, the business supplies Sainsbury's through the Gamechanger scheme, prioritising daily liveweight gain, feed conversion and a low carbon footprint. Around 80% of cattle arrive as weaned calves, with most finished at 15 months, averaging 310kg across steers and heifers.Ìý

Following the wet autumn of 2023, the business shifted towards forage-based feeding, growing grass, maize and fodder beet alongside wheat. This has reduced exposure to volatile commodity prices, introduced profitable break crops and helped tackle blackgrass. Three Heston square balers and a chaser provide additional income and year-round employment. Judges praised Gary's resilience, positive attitude and strong performance analysis, highlighting the business's adaptability, efficiency and commitment to long-term sustainability. Commenting on the win, Gary said, "I'm very proud of the team at home as it's a big team effort."Ìý

Content Creator of the Year – Sponsored by HillsgreenÌý

Ben Best, Dumfries & Galloway Ìý

Dumfries & Galloway farmer and content creator Ben Best is using social media to connect millions of people with authentic farm life. Across Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Twitch, Ben has built a combined following of 2.5 million, blending education and entertainment to demystify modern agriculture. Through 24/7 Twitch streaming and regular live content, viewers can ask questions and see the realities of farming, including its challenges and difficult decisions. His candid coverage of managing Johne's disease in a pedigree Golden Guernsey goat herd showcased the emotional realities of farming. Looking ahead, Ben plans collaborations, long-form content and greater engagement.Ìý

The judges commended Ben for using his enormous social media reach to give millions of people an honest and transparent view of farming. His willingness to show the difficult realities alongside the good, while educating and engaging a largely non-farming audience, made him a hugely effective ambassador for British agriculture. Upon winning the award, discussing the industry, Ben said, "We need to take the opportunity the media is giving us at the moment, we need to show the trails and tribulations of farming, but we also need to show the great stuff as well".Ìý

Contractor of the Year – Sponsored by Case IHÌý

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Family-run Kirby Cattle Services, based in Cheshire, has built an international reputation for improving cow grip, mobility and welfare through specialist concrete grooving and hoof care. Operating across the UK and Ireland, the business also undertakes major projects in Hungary, Bulgaria, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Services include diamond-saw grooving in collecting yards, parlours, feed passages and slats, alongside hoof trimming, surface renovation and advice on cow flow.Ìý

The business evolved from founder-led hoof trimming after farmers sought solutions to slippery concrete. Further training in the USA highlighted the connection between flooring, hoof health and mobility, prompting investment in its first grooving machine. Today, a six-strong team completes more than 250,000m² of grooving annually. Having developed its own machinery to improve reliability, productivity and operator comfort, Kirby continues to innovate while minimising disruption on farm. Judges praised its entrepreneurial approach, focus on profitability, strong customer relationships and successful international expansion, recognising a business built around solving farmers' practical challenges.Ìý

Dairy Farmer of the Year – Sponsored by AsterraÌý

Wallhope Farm, Gloucestershire  Ìý

Sarah Bevan and Paul Williams have developed Wallhope 51AVÊÓƵinto a resilient, community-focused dairy business, combining sustainability, diversification and a strong commitment to their herd. Farming 90ha with 200 cows, the couple operate predominantly a spring block-calving system and have followed a grass-fed system since May 2022. Their herd and grassland quality have earned recognition at the Monmouthshire Herds Dairy Competition and Chepstow Show.Ìý

Sustainability underpins their approach, from efficient milk cooling and heat recovery to responsible nutrient use, waste reduction and improved grassland management. Biodiversity is also a priority, with flowers, trees, bird feeders, bat boxes and beehives supporting wildlife. Diversification has strengthened the business and its community connections. Moo HQ sells farm-produced milk and gelato, while The Nook offers holiday accommodation, giving visitors an insight into countryside life. Judges praised the farm's resilient approach, highlighting its commitment to sustainability, biodiversity and diversification while keeping the dairy herd at its heart. Commenting on the win, Sarah said, "We have only been doing this for 4 and a half years, and it's such an honour to receive this award, it makes it all feel worth it".ÌýÌý

Large Diversification of the Year – Sponsored by 51AVÊÓƵBusiness InnovationÌý

Glebe 51AVÊÓƵFoods, Cambridgeshire  Ìý

Cambridgeshire's Glebe 51AVÊÓƵFoods has transformed a 500-hectare family farm into an integrated oat-to-food business, demonstrating the potential of diversification to add value to British-grown crops. Founded by siblings Philip and Rebecca Rayner in 2008, the business identified an opportunity to produce 100% gluten-free oats, establishing Europe's first dedicated gluten-free oat mill of its kind. Its range has since expanded to include oat flakes, flour, granola, oat milk and food ingredients, supplying UK and international customers.Ìý

A multi-million-pound Tetra Pak facility, installed between 2020 and 2023, brought oat milk production in-house, eliminating hundreds of thousands of HGV miles and reducing the distance between processing and packing to just 150 metres. Employing 65 people and generating around £1.7m in monthly sales, Glebe 51AVÊÓƵalso reuses oat chaff for biomass energy and manufacturing wastewater on its fields. Judges praised its genuine farm diversification, highlighting how increased margins benefit the established farming operation.Ìý

Small/Medium Diversification of the Year – Sponsored by the Land Leisure and Tourism ShowÌý

James Casswell, Lincolnshire  Ìý

Lincolnshire farmer James Casswell is transforming a traditionally intensive 1,300-hectare arable business through a pioneering compost venture focused on soil health, biodiversity and resilience. Growing wheat, barley, beans, peas and oilseed rape, the family farm has diversified since launching compost production in 2021. The rotation now includes 100 hectares of green cover crops and eight hectares of willow on previously unfarmable wet ground.Ìý

Initially developed to tackle high fertiliser costs and improve organic matter, the venture has evolved into a peat-free compost business, supported by Lincoln University and a major garden centre franchise. An on-farm bagging line creates a closed-loop operation, from growing and processing to finished product, all within five miles. The diversification has reshaped James's approach to growth, prioritising healthier land over acquiring more acreage. Both enterprises benefit from improved soils, water management and environmental practices. Judges praised his entrepreneurial spirit, willingness to take risks, market insight and ambitious vision for sustainable, regenerative farming.Ìý

Employer of the Year – Sponsored by Agri-WorksÌý

St. Ewe Free Range Eggs, Cornwall Ìý

Cornwall-based St. Ewe Free Range Eggs has combined rapid growth with a strong family culture, creating a workplace where employees feel valued and supported. The business employs 152 people across its farms and Egg HQ and was named one of the UK's Best Medium-Sized Organisations to Work for in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026. Employee engagement is encouraged through annual and pulse surveys, action planning and three major team events each year. In 2025, St. Ewe achieved a 96% Engagement Net Promoter Score and 90% survey response rate. Every employee receives a bonus, while new agricultural apprenticeship pathways launched in 2026 support future talent.Ìý

Safety and psychological wellbeing are central, with a no-blame culture encouraging open communication and continuous improvement. Community initiatives and charitable giving extend its positive impact beyond the workplace. In 2025, St. Ewe became Europe's first egg packer to achieve B Corp certification. Judges praised its progressive approach, measurable success and ability to preserve family values while growing rapidly. Commenting on the win, Bex Tonks stated, "it's an absolute privilege to be around so many brilliant people, it's an amazing industry with so many passionate and incredible people, and this award is for our team".ÌýÌý

Family Farming Business of the Year – Sponsored by Goodyear 51AVÊÓƵTiresÌýÌý

Padfield Family, Wiltshire Ìý

Wiltshire-based Padfield Porkies is a third-generation family farming business that has strengthened its resilience by taking greater control of its supply chain amid challenging pig prices and rising costs. John and Sandra Padfield, alongside their daughters Sammie and the wider family, rear pigs on their 48-hectare farm before sending them to a local abattoir just two miles away. The pork returns to their on-site butchery, producing sausages, pies, sausage rolls, Scotch eggs and homemade faggots.Ìý

Their hog roast and outside catering business has grown from six events annually to more than 100, with capacity for several events in one evening. The butchery has also expanded, now employing two full-time butchers and two self-employed staff. Around half of the farm's pigs are sold through these ventures, improving control over pricing and reducing reliance on intermediaries. Judges praised the family's enthusiasm, entrepreneurial spirit and thoughtful succession planning, highlighting how strong family values underpin a diverse, forward-thinking business with a clear future for the next generation. Commenting on the win, the family said, "We're not millionaires financially, but we are in our hearts."

51AVÊÓƵAdviser of the Year – sponsored by Agri-Works  Ìý

Chloe Rodriguez, Midlothian Ìý

Midlothian-based Chloe Rodriguez combines animal behaviour, research and practical farm experience to help livestock producers improve animal health, welfare and productivity. An Animal Welfare Specialist at Galebreaker, Chloe has worked in farm advisory roles for around three years after a bursary placement while studying Bio Veterinary Science at Harper Adams. She has since qualified as a CowSignals Licensed Master, completing 116 advisory visits and knowledge-exchange engagements in the past year.Ìý

Working mainly with dairy cows and youngstock, Chloe assesses ventilation, airflow, temperature, humidity and animal behaviour, producing tailored recommendations on calf health, respiratory disease and heat stress. She has written more than 25 detailed advisory reports, translating technical findings into practical improvements. Her work also includes research projects CEVEC and A-SHED, conferences, calf clubs, webinars and training. Judges praised Chloe's proactive approach, technical knowledge and commitment to evidence-based advice, highlighting her potential to make a lasting contribution to livestock farming. Upon winning the award and discussing the evening, Chloe said, "I think it's important to celebrate and promote our industry, we are the foundation of everything and it's important to support that".ÌýÌý

51AVÊÓƵWorker of the Year – Sponsored by IsuzuÌýÌý

Mollie Farney, Gloucestershire Ìý

At Manor 51AVÊÓƵin Gloucestershire, Mollie Farney plays a key role managing 250 commercial sheep across 132 hectares, alongside grassland management and crop rotation. Joining the business in late 2024 following a local farming contact's recommendation, she quickly progressed into a full-time role. With a Level 3 Diploma in Agriculture and experience in sheep and cattle AI, veterinary work and machinery operation, Mollie brings a practical, proactive approach to the farm. Her responsibilities include flock health, lambing, feeding, crop management, equipment and identifying opportunities to improve profitability.Ìý

Her contribution has delivered measurable results, including improved ewe health through bolusing, better organised lambing cover to increase survival rates and more strategic culling to strengthen the flock. Passionate about developing future talent, Mollie welcomes agricultural students for work experience and encourages involvement in farming communities and Young Farmers' Clubs. Judges praised her focus on profitability, use of grants, commitment to professional development and initiative in improving farm facilities and business performance. Commenting on winning the award, Molly said, "for someone from a non-farming background it is unbelievable".Ìý

Grassland Farmer – Sponsored by GerminalÌýÌý

Graham Parks, Cheshire Ìý

Graham Parks has made proactive grassland management the foundation of his beef enterprise, using rotational grazing to improve productivity, profitability and sustainability across 117.6ha. He buys around 250 calves annually from a single spring-calving Arla dairy herd, predominantly Aberdeen Angus and Hereford, developing them into grass-fed beef cattle. Having rotationally grazed for 23 years, Graham now sources around 95% of their diet from grass and forage, reducing concentrate costs.Ìý

Since taking on his current tenancy 10 years ago, he has reduced ragwort and creeping thistle by more than 99% through grazing management and topping, without sprays. Herbal leys, weekly grass-growth recording and reduced fertiliser use have further improved soil health and drought resilience. Finishing age has fallen from 32 to 27 months, while profitability has tripled in five years. Environmental measures include fenced streams, new hedgerows and carbon audits. Judges praised Graham's enthusiasm, financial understanding and commitment to sustainable, nature-friendly farming.ÌýÌý

New Entrant to Agriculture Award – Sponsored by Addington FundÌýÌý

Rodrigo Navarro, Hampshire  Ìý

Hampshire-based Rodrigo Navarro is demonstrating how collaboration can help newcomers overcome barriers to farming. A former London chef, he and his wife Kirsten, a primary school teacher, founded Wandering Feathers Ltd after the Covid pandemic prompted them to rethink food supply chains and their connection with the land. Through the Pitch Up! scheme with Kingsclere Estates, they established a mobile, certified organic egg enterprise on the North Wessex Downs. Their pasture-raised hens live in mobile units rotated behind organic dairy cattle, creating a circular system in which chickens feed on insects and fertilise the soil naturally.Ìý

Rodrigo manages farm operations, while Kirsten leads community engagement and business development. Direct sales include weekly deliveries and an automated Egg Shed vending machine. Having overcome challenges accessing land and capital, the couple plan to develop educational programmes, explore solutions for spent hens and grow the business. Judges praised their forward-thinking approach and commitment to sustainable poultry production. Commenting on the win, Rodrigo said, "It's important to show other people who do not come from a farming background that you can do it".ÌýÌý

Regenerative Farmer of the Year – Sponsored by The Ethical ButcherÌýÌý

Mallard Grange Farm, North Yorkshire Ìý

At Mallard Grange Farm, a 300-hectare family-run mixed farm in North Yorkshire, regenerative agriculture is transforming production, profitability and biodiversity. Following extreme weather in 2019 and 2020, the family adopted adaptive multi-paddock grazing, diverse herbal leys, reduced tillage and direct drilling. Its 140 suckler cows and 400 ewes use native, forage-efficient genetics, while pasture-raised hens follow grazing livestock, helping control pests and return nutrients naturally.Ìý

Arable practices include diverse cover crops, manure applications and reduced artificial fertiliser use. Sheep also graze cereal crops in spring, helping reduce disease pressure and fungicide requirements. These changes have cut fertiliser costs to around a third of previous levels, while improved soil structure and deeper rooting increase resilience to drought and heavy rainfall. Reduced wormer use has also lowered veterinary costs. Diversification includes pasture-raised eggs, meat boxes, pick-your-own flowers and accommodation, creating new income streams while supporting healthier soils, greater biodiversity and long-term farm resilience. Upon winning the award, James Johnson said, "Farming is going through the hardest time at the moment, there are so many uncertainties, but I've always been a glass half full kind of person, so it's amazing to come together and showcase what we do to all the people in the industry, especially the youngsters coming up".ÌýÌý

Sheep Farmer of the Year – Sponsored by Farmers GuardianÌý

William Roobottom, Staffordshire Ìý

Staffordshire farmer William Roobottom has transformed a small sheep enterprise into a progressive, low-input business focused on maximising grass production while controlling costs.Ìý

Farming 200 hectares at Cowley Hill Farm, William runs 535 breeding ewes and hoggs, predominantly Lleyn, alongside EasyCare genetics. Rotational grazing and careful pasture management underpin the system, with neither ewes nor lambs receiving concentrates. Lambs now achieve daily liveweight gains of 300–330g from grass alone, up from around 180g when William began recording performance.Ìý

Switching from indoor to outdoor lambing has reduced labour, bedding and feed costs while enabling flock expansion. Over the past two years, these changes have increased margins by £40 per lamb. With MV accreditation, data-led parasite control and easy-care genetics, William continues to build resilience. A new council farm tenancy and growing social media presence are supporting further development. Judges praised his forward-thinking approach, highlighting how he has transformed the business through an efficient, grass-based system. When William received his award, he said he was, "absolutely ecstatic, it's beyond anything I ever believed possible."  Ìý

Sustainable Farmer of the Year - Sponsored by NSFÌýÌý

Cole Farming, Mid Devon Ìý

Mid Devon's Cole Farming is putting self-sufficiency and circularity at the heart of its expanding family business. Across 180 hectares, the third-generation farm produces more than one million broiler chickens annually, alongside 16,000 free-range laying hens, 400 beef cattle, sheep and pigs. An on-farm biogas plant provides heat, power, fuel and digestate fertiliser, using animal waste and poultry litter. Waste heat warms poultry sheds and dries woodchip for biomass boilers. The farm has imported no electricity for 10 years and now operates two biomethane-powered tractors.Ìý

Biodiversity initiatives include more than 5,000 trees, three wildlife ponds, herbal leys and 10 beehives. A chemical-free market garden supplies a growing veg-box scheme, while a recently acquired pub offers a direct route to consumers. With a farm shop and café planned, Cole Farming is combining technology, innovation and diversification to create an integrated, sustainable business built for the next generation. Upon winning the award Greg Cole said he was "over the moon, I can't quite get my head around being recognised in this manner for what we do. I've been farming all my life, we love what we're doing and we challenge ourselves every day to do better and we just hope that we're doing the right thing".ÌýÌý

Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture – Sponsored by Intertek SAI GlobalÌýÌý

Joanna HilditchÌýÌý

Fourth-generation farmer Joanna Hilditch has spent nearly 30 years leading Whittern Farms in North Herefordshire, building on her family's 150-year legacy to create a diverse, resilient rural business. As owner and managing director, Joanna oversees the 700-acre mixed farm, producing blackcurrants for Ribena, cider apples, grapes, arable crops and poultry, alongside sheep, woodland and renewable energy. Diversification includes premium drinks through White Heron Drinks and luxury accommodation and agri-tourism at White Heron Estate.Ìý

Innovation and sustainability underpin the business, with investment in solar panels, biomass boilers and battery storage, alongside Higher-Level Stewardship, biodiversity initiatives, woodland management and a new wetland project. Beyond the farm, Joanna has chaired the Blackcurrant Foundation and Visit Herefordshire and served on the NFU Poultry Board and CLA. Taking over following the deaths of her brother and father, she has demonstrated resilience in a traditionally male-dominated industry, championing diversification, sustainability and women in agriculture while securing the farm's future for generations to come. Upon winning the award, Joanna said, "I'm just so shocked, and so honoured, it's fantastic! To get this award for my family and my team has been just outstandingly good".ÌýÌý