Winners announced at National Women in Agriculture Awards 2026

A Northamptonshire farmer and social entrepreneur has been named Farming Woman of the Year at the National Women in Agriculture Awards 2026 for her work connecting communities with food, farming and wellbeing.

Milly Fyfe, founder of The Countryside Kitchen, was recognised for developing an education hub that supports children and families while promoting understanding of farming and food production.

See also: Welsh hill farmer named Farming Woman of the Year

Milly Fyfe with Emma Keller, head of sustainability at Nestlé UK & Ireland (left) and comedian Lucy Porter (right) © MAG/Jamies Hodgskin

Speaking to Farmers Weekly, Ms Fyfe said she was “over the moon” to receive the award.

“It was a brilliant night, and there were so many women lifting other women up, and it’s nice to be a part of that,” she said.

She added that the award came during a busy period on the farm, with school visits continuing throughout the week.

“This is a huge achievement, and this award is for my family and for the community.”

Third year for National Women in Agriculture Awards

Now in its third year, the awards continue to shine a spotlight on the breadth of talent across agriculture, from farm businesses and supply chains to education, sustainability and innovation.

The awards ceremony, held on Tuesday 5 May at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London, celebrated 13 women from across the UK farming sector for achievements in areas including education, sustainability, innovation and supply chains.

The awards were judged by a panel of female food and farming leaders, and the evening was hosted by comedian Lucy Porter.

The judging panel was chaired by Chloe Ryan, editor of Poultry Business magazine.

“Year on year, we are seeing not just incredible talent, but real leadership shaping the future of this industry,” said Mrs Ryan.

“The standard of entries was genuinely outstanding, with many applicants balancing innovation and business success alongside significant personal challenges.”

The awards are organised by Mark Allen Group, owner of Farmers Weekly, and supported by industry sponsors including Nestlé UK & Ireland, Co-op, HSBC UK, NFU and Noble Foods.

Other winners

Winners were selected from a highly competitive shortlist, reflecting the growing strength and visibility of women across the sector.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Christine Tacon

Christine Tacon with Lucy Porter (left) and Lucy Witter, agriculture Manager at Co-op (right) © MAG/Jamie Hodgson

Christine Tacon was recognised for her long-standing contribution to the UK food and farming sector.

From transforming the Co-op’s farming business to serving as the first Groceries Code Adjudicator, she has championed fairness, supplier protection and collaboration across the supply chain.

Alongside her leadership roles, she has supported education, mentoring and opportunities for women in agriculture, helping shape a more resilient and inclusive industry.

Agricultural Ambassador of the Year: Kate Rowell

Vet and farmer Kate Rowell was recognised for her leadership of Scotland’s red meat sector through major challenges including Brexit and Covid-19.

As chair of Quality Meat Scotland, she has promoted Scottish produce, influenced policy and supported greater public understanding of agriculture.

Rising Star of the Year: Emma Chapelhow

Emma Chapelhow was honoured for her work in agri-tech innovation, bringing together farmers, researchers and industry partners.

Her projects have encouraged collaboration, supported new technologies and promoted greater inclusivity and education within agriculture.

Agricultural Influencer of the Year: Hannah Jackson

Hannah Jackson with Tonia Antoniazzi, judge and MP for Gower (left), and Lucy Porter (right) © MAG/Jamie Hodgskin

Known as the Red Shepherdess, Hannah Jackson was recognised for using social media, education and on-farm experiences to connect the public with farming.

The first-generation Cumbrian farmer has also inspired younger people to consider careers in agriculture.

Agricultural Machinery Engineer: Shannon Howe

Development technician Shannon Howe was recognised for her contribution to agricultural machinery innovation, including work on Fastrac development and engine integration.

Business of the Year: CXCS Group

Agricultural consultancy CXCS Group was recognised for supporting more than 3,500 farming clients through compliance, carbon auditing and advisory services.

Judges highlighted its strong business performance and commitment to developing a predominantly female workforce.

Innovator of the Year: Caroline Wellon

Caroline Wellon, of O2 Agri, received the award for developing a nanobubble water treatment system designed to improve poultry health and reduce chemical use.

Supply Chain Woman of the Year: Lauren Hladun

Lauren Hladun was recognised for strengthening links between growers, retailers and packing operations.

Her work has focused on improving planning, reducing waste and coordinating agronomy teams across international supply chains.

Agricultural Adviser of the Year: Dawn Bowness

Veterinary adviser Dawn Bowness was honoured for her work supporting livestock farms through disease reduction and productivity improvements.

Sustainability Champion of the Year: Cora Cooper

Hill farmer Cora Cooper was recognised for developing a regenerative farming system focused on biodiversity, peatland restoration and adaptive grazing.

Her work combines environmental delivery with resilient food production at scale.

Trade Organisation Woman of the Year: Caroline Millar

Caroline Millar received the award for her leadership in developing Scotland’s agri-tourism sector.

Through Scottish Agritourism and the national strategy, she has helped secure investment and create new opportunities for rural businesses.

Training and Education Woman of the Year: Kate Mason

Kate Mason was recognised for expanding Vale Training Services into a major rural training provider.

Over her career, she has supported more than 40,000 learners and improved access to agricultural skills and education.