Two Shropshire farmers have beaten off competition from farmers across the West Midlands to win awards from Natural England for making the greatest contribution to conserving wildlife and the countryside.
Mark and Liz Lea of Greenacres Farm, Kemberton, Shifnal have won the regional Future of Farming Award for their achievements in educating children about where their food comes from and managing the natural environment sustainably.
Earlier this year, the couple built a green oak framed educational building in the heart of their organic mixed farm. A nearby pond fed by rainwater, provides a rich habitat for wildlife.
"My aim is to excite and educate children about the food they are eating, where it comes from and how it is produced," said Mr Lea. "This summer we've hosted 16 school visits, and had tremendous feedback from the schools as well as huge interest from the local authorities.
"By finding a niche and forging partnerships with the environment and education in mind, it is possible for small, family farms like ours to look forward to a viable and sustainable future."
The Leas will find out whether they have won Natural England's national Future of Farming Awards at Burghley House, Stamford on 15 November, where the national winner will be announced.
Neil, Stephanie and Georgina Dobson, a family of farmers at The Wall, Kynnersley, are the regional runners up for their novel techniques for wetland management including hay strewing and wind pumps.
The Dobsons are also committed to educating young people about the countryside and, through the Countryside Trust, regularly run visits for disadvantaged youngsters from Birmingham and the Black Country.
Natural England launched The Future of Farming Awards scheme at The Royal Show in July to recognise farmers who have made a special contribution to conserving England's special wildlife and landscapes while helping people have greater access to our natural environment.
In future years Natural England will expand the Awards, introducing more categories to recognise other areas of environmental excellence.
Mark and Liz Lea, regional winners
The Dobsons, regional runners up
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