King’s Award for Enterprise for Northants regenerative farmer

Northamptonshire farmer and estate owner Johnny Wake has been granted a King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainability, in recognition of his efforts to advance sustainable farming practices across his land.

Managing partner of the Courteenhall Estate, just south of Northampton, Dr Wake says his whole philosophy is to “leave the land in a better place for the next generations” – something his family has adhered to for more than 350 years. 

See also: ‘Six of the best’ sustainable farmers receive Rase awards

Johnny Wake © Courteenhall Estate

Farming has long been central to Courteenhall, involving around 810ha of arable and “Pasture for Life” grazing, with regenerative practices embedded throughout.

These include reduced tillage, diversified crop rotations, and cover cropping – all designed to reduce soil disturbance, cut carbon emissions, and improve soil structure and fertility.

The estate has set a target to be net zero by 2030, supported by rigorous carbon modelling and renewable energy development on the land.

A sustained programme of woodland expansion, hedgerow restoration, and species-rich grassland creation are integral to this objective.

Beyond farming, the estate also runs New Leaf Learning, a charity aimed at helping primary school kids with learning challenges connect with nature and farming.

It is also a partner in the West Northamptonshire Good Food Plan, a county-wide initiative focused on building a more sustainable, healthy, and connected food system.

And Dr Wake is developing a new farm shop and restaurant at Courteenhall to provide an outlet for local food and produce.

Recognition

The award, granted by His Majesty the King on the advice of the prime minister, is intended to recognise such outstanding achievements in pursuit of sustainability.

Other categories unveiled on Wednesday (6 May) cover innovation, international trade, and promoting opportunity.

Dr Wake said: “This award is recognition of what our team has done in setting the vision and then all working our socks off to travel there.”

With consistent financial growth over the past three years, the approach demonstrates that responsible land stewardship and long-term financial resilience can be delivered together, he says.