County Durham family named Milkminder manager of the year
© Tim Scrivener The Pounder family of Stainton Hill Farm, County Durham, were awarded the Milkminder Manager of the Year award 2017 at UK Dairy Day.
Andrew and Pam Pounder, who run a 200-cow Holstein Friesian herd averaging 9,226 litres, with 4.19% butterfat and 3.3% protein, overcame tough competition from two other regional finalists to be recognised as top in their field.
The family impressed judge James Dunn, Promar’s managing director, with their attention to detail and clear succession plan.
See also: Succession prompts switch from mixed farming to dairy
“Andrew knows his business inside and out, and his attention to detail sees impressive results being realised on farm. Grassland management is one of Andrew’s strong points, which was further acknowledged when he was named a finalist in this year’s British Grassland Society competition,” said Mr Dunn.
The herd yields 4,754 litres from forage, which represents about 55% of the total milk yield – way above the recommended starting point of 30%.
Most recently, the third-generation farmers, which includes Andrew’s parents, John and Margaret, and Pam’s father, Dennis, have made 21-year-old Scott a partner in the business, with each generation playing equal roles in key areas and all being involved in big business decisions.
Runners-up were:
- Finalists and regional winners (South) – FJ and RF Banfield, Westwood Farm, Wiltshire
- Finalist and regional winner (Midlands) – IG Evans, Halton Farm, Wrexham.