This year the UK farming industry is facing some of its toughest challenges in recent memory. From Government policy changes on Inheritance Tax to pressures on land use and environmental regulations, British farmers are under immense strain.
Industry celebration
However, farmers and the wider agricultural industry continue to push on and achieve incredible successes. The British Farming Awards is a place for those farmers to come together and celebrate this incredible industry. The event, supported by Morrisons, is back for its 13th year, to celebrate the diversity and resilience of UK farmers and their businesses.
Alongside the core farming sectors – arable, beef, dairy, sheep and beef – the huge importance of sustainable and regenerative farming practices, innovations within agritech and those who have diversified successfully will be recognised. The awards also champion the role of family farms, new entrants and agricultural students, all of which are vital to the future of the industry.
READ NOW: BFA winner and ag student from non-farming background thrives despite challenges
Special recognition awards
This year, the British Farming Awards will present two special recognition awards during the ceremony for the following categories, Service to the Industry, Farming Hero: Flying the Flag for British Agriculture, and Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture.
These awards are given to members of the agricultural community who have shone due to their significant involvement in the industry, whether that be through years of service, promoting the industry, or through going above and beyond to better the community.
READ NOW: New entrants turn to pig farming in search of food security
New for 2025
The British Farming Awards is delighted to welcome a new award for 2025, the Regenerative Farmer of the Year Award. This increasingly popular and environmentally responsible farming system is paving the way towards the industry's net zero goals, and as such, it is being championed by the British Farming Awards.
Sponsored by the Ethical Butcher, this category promises to highlight those in the industry who are helping to future-proof their farms and agriculture on the whole through these regenerative farming techniques.
Visit the British Farming Award website for more information
Previous winners
"This is for my team, my customers and my family. The team of people behind me are the real stars. It's a time to champion British farming and show people the great work that we do, we're all champions in farming, we need to shout about it."
Nigel Harper, ND Harper 2024 winner of Contractor of the Year (sponsored by Farming Community Network)
"We are absolutely ecstatic, amazed and dumbfounded to have won. The background to most farms is a family, and my family was raised along with the farm, and now the next generation has families of their own and are doing the same."
The Ladds family, R&E Ladds 2024 Winner of Family Farming Business of the Year (sponsored by Goodyear Farm Tires)
"We are overwhelmed by the award, we've tried so hard to take every opportunity and make every opportunity we can, alongside the support of our family and local farming community, that's how we make it work, we are so determined. This award will inspire people - if someone picked up a copy of Farmers Guardian, read about the awards and thought they could have a go too, that's what this award means."
Sam & Samantha Edwards, Edwards Farming Partnership New Entrant Award: Against the Odds (sponsored by Massey Ferguson)
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From Farmers Guardian's editor Olivia Midgley
As we open nominations for this year's British Farming Awards, we are reminded of the passion, resilience and innovation that define British agriculture. These awards not only honour our dedicated farming community, but also shine a spotlight on the crucial role farmers play in ensuring food security and a healthy, vibrant environment.
At a time of significant transformation for our industry, we seek to champion those who are utilising digital as well as traditional platforms to elevate the conversation around farming. These content creators are not just advocating for the sector; they are educating wider audiences about the complexities and triumphs of agricultural life.
The British Farming Awards serve as an essential platform to recognise the unsung heroes whose hard work shapes our landscapes and nourishes our nation. Join us in a major celebration of British farming and the people and businesses who are driving our industry forward.
