The finalists for the 2019 British Farmers Awards have been announced today!

Fifty-six farmers and growers will now battle it out for the 14 categories up for grabs which highlight the diversity of UK agriculture.

Alongside farming’s core sectors including dairy, beef, sheep, arable and contractor there is also a celebration of new entrants coming into the industry, the wealth of diversification businesses and family farms and the acknowledgement of an evolving digital presence within farming.

New to this year is Agri-Tech Innovator of the Year, bringing together farmers researchers and tech developers to accelerate innovation and production.

Organised by AgriBriefing, parent company of Farmers Guardian, Arable Farming and Dairy Farmer, the British Farming Awards is supported by Morrisons.

Now entering its 7th year, the British Farming Awards has become a nationally recognised event which has celebrated, showcased and rewarded hundreds of British food and drink producers doing fantastic work across the sector.

Innovation

With the agricultural industry contributing more than £24 billion to the UK economy, the role of our British farmers, families and rural businesses has never been so paramount.

Last year, the event welcomed more than 700 farmers and industry professionals to the National Conference in Birmingham, which will once again play host to this year’s evening taking place on October, 17.

A further two awards – Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture and Farmers Guardian Farming Hero – will be announced during the awards evening.

Ben Briggs, Editor of Farmers Guardian, said: “Our categories recognise how British farmers have successfully introduced innovation to drive their business forward, despite ever increasing challenges.

“From the smallest businesses to the larger units and from start-ups to those which are long established, the British Farming Awards is a reflection of the diversity, innovation and strength of spirit across our industry.”

Andrew Thornber, Manufacturing Director at Morrisons, said: “Morrisons is the single biggest supermarket customer for British Farmers and we are proud to support the British Farming Awards.

“Our business model is based on buying direct from British farmers wherever possible and we believe this approach strengthens British agriculture and supports farming communities.”

For more information on the awards and information on the finalists visit www.britishfarmingawards.co.uk

For more information and pictures of the finalists contact Sarah Murray, Senior Events Marketing Executive, on 01772 799 7423 or email [email protected]; Danusia Osiowy, Events Producer, on 01772 799 413 or email [email protected]