2007 Farmers Weekly Awards-Why winning helped their businesses
Farmers Weekly Farmer of the Year and Arable Farmer of the Year
Robert Law, Royston, Hertfordshire
“I only realised what an honour it was to receive this award on the awards night itself. The response I received then and since has been overwhelming. It’s 25 years since I started farming, so it’s a landmark and recognition for those who have the belief and confidence to back me on my quest, as well as the team at Thrift Farm.”
Farming Champion of the Year
Ian Pigott, Harpenden, Hertfordshire
“I, like many others who commit time and energy into reconnecting people with agriculture, do it to share the positive message that UK farming deserves and not for accolades. To be recognised by Farmers Weekly was extremely humbling but, most importantly, the award defines that FW has highlighted the importance of reconnection and communication and have raised the profile of the good story UK farming has to tell the public.”
Alternative Enterprise of the Year
Heather Gorringe, Wiggly Wigglers, Hereford
“Winning the category helped us raise our brand. Before, people thought of us just as worm farmers. Now, they see us as a more rounded company with a wide range of products. When I attend meetings people always say: ‘You won the Farmers Weekly competition I’d recommend it to anyone’.”
Beef Farmer of the Year
Robert Neill, Jedburgh, Borders
“The awards night was the equivalent of the farming Oscars – amazing. I wasn’t prepared for the high profile winning gave me. I’ve already spoken at various cattle events and conferences and have more booked throughout the year, coupled with a huge demand from producers and pedigree breeders to host farm tours at home. It has provided me with immense confidence in the industry and the knowledge that my business is progressing in the right way for the market.”
Contractor of the Year
Daniel, Gareth and Edward James, Stepside, Ceredigion
Daniel: “Winning Contractor of the Year, along with being an accredited NAAC member, has given us real integrity, so that we are truly recognised as being the best in our field. Winning meant a great deal to our family and team.”
Countryside Farmer of the Year
David Felce, Midloe Grange, Cambridgeshire
“Winning the award brought an incredible amount of profile. It helps differentiate you from everyone else when it comes to trying to win new business and developing your existing business. It’s helping me build a new Countryside Management business based on practical experience.”
Dairy Farmer of the Year
Henry Lewis, Tack Farm, Herefordshire
“Being named FW Dairy Farmer of the Year has been a huge recognition of what we’ve done in creating a profitable, sustainable business. It’s also been a huge morale boost for the staff and given them the motivation to continue helping move the business forwards. It’s helped focus my attention on promoting the good news farming has to offer.”
Farm Manager of the Year
Adrian Cannon, Great Tew Estate, Oxfordshire
“The awards raised my profile and that of the business in an exceptionally positive manner. It was an enjoyable and fun competition and the awards night was a very special occasion.”
Poultry Farmer of the Year
Tony Burgess, Trawsgoed, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion
“The award has raised our business profile and recognition incredibly. We are taking advantage of the subsequent potential business growth and marketing opportunities. The long term value of winning this award will be hugely beneficial to our business.”
Sheep Farmer of the Year
David MacTaggart, Hawick, Borders
“Capitalising on winning Sheep Farmer of the Year is high on our agenda. I’ve already done a few speaking engagements and expect more to follow. But the main thing is the reward for the years of hard work and innovation we’ve put into the farm. This is only the beginning.”
Young Farmer of the Year 2006
James Peck, Scotland Farm, Cambridge
“It has given me confidence to focus harder on my business plan and broadened my interest to other areas such as focused environmental management to produce genuine environmental gains. The win was a great experience but not an end in itself it was a credit to the whole team who are determined to ensure that the business develops offering customers the best service.”
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