Lincolnshire farmers win at national awards

For fourteen years the British Farming Awards has been shining a light on the best in British farming.

During this annual event Britain’s farming industry comes together to celebrate the achievements of its contemporaries.

Pioneering farmers and industry professionals across all sectors were highlighted through 21 categories such as technology, science, food production and sustainability. With a further two special recognition awards being announced during the evening.

This year saw a record number of award entries, painstakingly shortlisted by the team of judges, with winners of each category being crowned on October 15 at the VOX Birmingham.

During the night guests heard inspiring stories from across the country, enjoyed an amazing performance from The Hawkstone Choir and even had a special visit from Jeremy Clarkson himself.

Beef Farmer of the Year was won by J. H. Allis and Son, of Alford.

The farm has evolved from a traditional arable farm into a diverse, 320-hectare enterprise, centred on a 2,500-head Angus dairy-cross beef unit.

Run by Gary Allis and his son Charles, the cattle-rearing business supplies Sainsbury’s through the Gamechanger scheme, prioritising daily liveweight gain, feed conversion and a low carbon footprint.

Following the wet autumn of 2023, the business shifted towards forage-based feeding, growing grass, maize and fodder beet alongside wheat. This has reduced exposure to volatile commodity prices, introduced profitable break crops and helped tackle blackgrass. Three Heston square balers and a chaser provide additional income and year-round employment.

Judges praised Gary’s resilience, positive attitude and strong performance analysis, highlighting the business’s adaptability, efficiency and commitment to long-term sustainability.

Commenting on the win, Gary said: “I’m very proud of the team at home as it’s a big team effort.”

James Casswell, of Louth, won the Small/Medium Diversification of the Year award for transforming a traditionally intensive 1,300-hectare arable business through a pioneering compost venture focused on soil health, biodiversity and resilience.

Growing wheat, barley, beans, peas and oilseed rape, the family farm has diversified since launching compost production in 2021. The rotation now includes 100 hectares of green cover crops and eight hectares of willow on previously unfarmable wet ground.

Initially developed to tackle high fertiliser costs and improve organic matter, the venture has evolved into a peat-free compost business, supported by Lincoln University and a major garden centre franchise.

An on-farm bagging line creates a closed-loop operation, from growing and processing to finished product, all within five miles. The diversification has reshaped James’s approach to growth, prioritising healthier land over acquiring more acreage. Both enterprises benefit from improved soils, water management and environmental practices.

Judges praised his entrepreneurial spirit, willingness to take risks, market insight and ambitious vision for sustainable, regenerative farming.