Caroline Drummond, MBE

Kicking off the evening was the presentation for the Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture award, given to Caroline Drummond MBE. The leader of Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF) received rapturous applause from the audience for her achievements and influence on British agriculture, which has spanned 36 years. As Chief Executive, Caroline has made farming in the UK more environmentally responsible for the future by combining modern farming with conservation and engaging with the public out on the farm. She has held numerous positions on farming-related councils and plays a central role in changing the face of Britain’s farming policy. She was awarded an MBE for her services to agriculture in 2009.

Speaking to the British Farming Awards shortly after receiving her award:

Caroline, who is married to a dairy farmer and lives in Cornwall, said: “I am extremely humbled, proud and excited to be receiving this award for Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture.

“But it is really LEAF and all our farmers, staff, board and supporters that this award is for, so it is to them I salute and give recognition to for all their great work and achievements.

“I am indeed flattered as this is such a prestigious award, I am very lucky my role at LEAF allows me to have made so many friends across the industry and I take great pride in the values we stand for.

“This award is so very special and is an inspiration to me to work harder and continue our great work.  I will treasure this with great pride.”