Sponsored by: Lely Atlantic

John Beckett Memorial Cup

Winner Bovaer DSM-Firmenich

This award recognises the standout company or product among all entries.

This year’s recipient exemplifies exceptional innovation and impact – they not only entered but also won the Award for Innovation. The 2024 Cream Award was presented to DSM – Firmenich for their revolutionary emission-reducing feed ingredient, Bovaer. This groundbreaking product has been adopted by various dairy initiatives, including the entire M&S milk pool, yielding substantial environmental benefits with estimated savings of over 110,896 tonnes of CO2.

This achievement highlights the significant role Bovaer is playing in mitigating global warming and the potential for innovative solutions to address pressing environmental challenges.

Read More in British Dairying.

Sponsored by: National Farmers Union

Winner David Christensen, Kingston Hill Farm Ltd.

There are many people who work tirelessly to help the dairy industry prosper and deserve acknowledgment, and none more so than David Christensen, who has always gone the extra mile to assist. It’s for this reason the judges were unanimous in their decision when selecting David as the recipient of this prestigious award.

Whether offering opinions on practical farming issues or addressing broader industry concerns, both technical and political, David’s actions and the respect he commands speak volumes.

David manages Kingston Hill Farm Ltd, a family-owned business in the Thames Valley, with 750 milking cows and 600 rearing cattle on 526 hectares (1,300 acres) of rented land. His extensive contributions include being a Farmer Director of Milk Link, a member of the Board of Representatives for Arla, part of the Prince’s Rural Action Programme for Dairy Farming, and a Regional Advisory Board Chairman for NFU Mutual. David is also a trustee of the Oxfordshire Agricultural Society Trust and has advised and overseen the implementation of recommendations made by the Farming Regulation Task Force.

David’s exceptional achievements and dedication to the industry are truly commendable.

Sponsored by: British Dairying

Winner Ryan & Adam Fisher, T Fisher & Co, Geltbridge Farm

This award honours two remarkable young farmers who represent the future of British dairy farming. At just 22 and 25 years old, Ryan and Adam Fisher have already made impressive strides in the industry. They are keen learners and problem-solvers, continuously seeking ways to improve their operations by visiting dairy farms across the UK and abroad.

Committed to enhancing cow welfare, productivity, and profitability, they have significantly reduced antibiotic use and demonstrated commendable innovation and team-building skills. Their nominators couldn’t think of two more deserving individuals for this accolade.

Sponsored by: Progiene

Winner Ian & Cath Ratcliffe, Weavian Farms

Cath and Ian run a 370-cow, autumn-calving dairy farm in North Devon, focusing on breeding highly efficient, fertile, and healthy grazing cows by leveraging genomic testing. Committed to animal welfare, they maintain excellent youngstock management and breed robust beef calves.

All replacement heifers are born in the first 3-4 weeks of calving, predominantly outside to ensure a strong start. Calf accommodation is meticulously maintained, with facilities such as steam cleaning and disinfection to reduce pathogen risks. Colostrum management is pivotal to calf health as is minimising stress, with innovative practices like sedation for disbudding, enhancing welfare and reducing stress.

Beef calves are equally prioritised and Cath and Ian have established strong market relationships. Their care and advanced breeding strategies ensure every calf’s value, supporting the farm’s sustainability and success.

Highly Commended Joshua & Lauren Fincham, JF Dairies Ltd, Hampreston Manor Farm

This first-generation farming duo are honoured for their exceptional youngstock health and vitality through rigorous protocols and innovative practices. This is shown with an exceptionally low calf mortality rate of 0% from 48 hrs to weaning and 0% from weaning to calving.

Strict protocols, strong colostrummanagement and continuing to tag and test for BVD has seen their youngstock grow from strength to strength. They also work closely with their vets and consultants to ensure they meet all targets and stand out from the rest.

Sponsored by: Wynnstay

Winner Ruth & Stephen Ashley, PJ & PE Ashley & Son

Ruth and Stephen’s unwavering dedication has transformed Meadow Bank Farm into a model of efficiency and innovation, with a herd of 120 cows producing an average of 15,000 litres annually. Their team’s attention to detail, coupled with a passion for continuous improvement, drives the farm’s success. Selective dry cow therapy is used and currently 89% of cows only receive a teat sealant, with a mastitis vaccine and good hygiene practices helping keep any problems at bay. With a young family, the duo strives for a work-life balance, something they are achieving with good staff management and the use of four Lely robots. The team are always looking at the next step with a real focus on improving soil management and composting manures.

Highly Commended Peter Hockridge, High Park Farm, SJ Hockridge & Son

High Park Farm demonstrates dedication and continuous improvement in dairy farming. Their remarkable commitment spans fertility and lameness management, youngstock care, and achieving a better-than-average carbon footprint within the Arla milk pool in their 250-cow herd. Such attention to detail has seen their antibiotic spend for youngstock halved to just over £400 a year.

Prioritising both staff and cow welfare, they invest significantly in team development and facilities. Diversifying into pasteurised milk sales via a vending machine highlights their innovative spirit. With Pete’s questioning mind and forward-thinking approach.

Sponsored by: KW Feeds

Winner Charlie Hughes, Southview Farm, CWF Hughes & Son

Revolutionising forage production and soil health through innovative practices is what bagged this award for Charlie Hughes. By establishing short-term grass leys after maize harvests, Charlie has significantly increased forage output and improved soil quality, hitting 3,500 litres from forage out of a total average yield of 11,500 litres, with a target of 5,000l. This approach, adopted after facing challenging weather conditions, now yields up to nine tonnes per acre and enhances soil health, reducing erosion risk and compaction. The judges praised Charlie for his drive to increase milk from forage whilst adopting sustainable farming practices to improve soil health.

Sponsored by: Advanced Ruminant Nutrition

This category has been exceptionally challenging for our judges, given the remarkable achievements of the three finalists. Each farm exemplifies excellence in dairy farming, making the decision incredibly tough. Therefore, in recognition of their outstanding contributions and commitment to the industry, all three farms are being awarded the Most Efficient AMS Farm of the Year accolade.

Winner Craig & Robert Sloan, Shawsmuir Farm

The Shawsmuir entry was a great example of what is achievable from robotic milking, maximising output through healthy high productive cows. Driven by a vision to create the best environment for their cows, they have shown unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and meticulous attention to detail. Understanding the critical importance of every aspect of a cow’s day – from diet and management to health – they have achieved remarkable consistency, producing over 14,500 kg of milk per cow annually. This exceptional performance, coupled with high health standards and fertility, makes their achievement in the challenging conditions of South West Scotland truly deserving of this award.

Winner Joe Ives, W & P Ives

This farm embraced robotic milking nearly five years ago, and they have achieved exceptional efficiency but were chosen for their commitment to education so others may follow their lead.

Opening their farm to both farming and non-farming groups and hosting visits from MPS. Environmental stewardship is also a priority, with an ARLA climate check showing a CO2 emission of just 1.04kg CO2/litre. Additionally, they have been genomic testing all heifer calves for four years, ensuring continued genetic progress. Their achievements in efficiency, health, education, and sustainability make them deserving of this award.

Winner Tom & Kate Nicholls, Acland Farm

This farm’s entry was a great example of maximising the milk contract with exceptional milk quality proving the Holstein cow can produce high yields while maintaining near on 5% butterfat and 3.5% milk protein.

Their dedication to efficiency shines through in their holistic approach to dairy farming. Central to their success is the strategic use of seven robots. In recent years, their dedicated team – comprising a nutritionist, consultant vet, and breeding advisors – has focused on key areas to drive improvement. These include enhancing herd health and fertility, optimising milk quality through selective breeding compatible with robotic milking and reducing antibiotic usage. By utilising high-quality forage and achieving exceptional financial efficiency, Acland Farm has set the standard in robotic milking. Their innovative use of AMS and unwavering commitment to continuous improvement make them truly deserving of this award.

Sponsored by: ForFarmers

Winner Andrew & Bill Higgins, Wilderley Hall Farms

Wilderley Hall Farms, led by Andrew & Bill Higgins, typifies dairy farming excellence with an average milk yield of 13,704 litres per cow annually, and impressive butterfat and protein percentages of 4.02% and 3.32%, respectively. Their herd’s lifetime daily yield averages 20.39kg, with heifers producing 14.2kg by the end of their first lactation.

Through meticulous protocols and a commitment to high standards, the Higgins have scaled their herd from 220 cows in 2012 to 577 milking cows and 334 followers. Their success is rooted in exceptional fertility management, with a 29.9% pregnancy rate in the main herd and 35% in maiden heifers, and innovative protocols like selective dry cow therapy and stringent parlour hygiene.

With a focus on continual improvement, the farm maintains a low antibiotic usage of 6.62mg/PCU and a low mastitis rate per 100 cows. Bill and Andrew’s dedication extends to training a skilled team, enhancing cow welfare, and sharing their expertise with the wider industry.

Highly Commended Brendan & Mark Larwood,  Oak House Farm, ET Larwood & Sons

Oak House Farm, managed by Brendan and Mark Larwood, has elevated its dairy operation with consistent, strategic improvements. With 250 Holsteins averaging 11,017 litres of milk per cow annually, their focus on detail has pushed fertility to impressive levels, achieving a 40% pregnancy rate and over 50% conception rate using sexed semen.

Key advancements include upgraded dry cow housing, reducing retained cleansings from 11% to 4% and milk fever cases to <1.6%. Enhanced space and improved nutrition have led to a mastitis rate below 14% and somatic cell counts of 76.

Their commitment to foot health, feed management, and sustainability, supported by expert advice, underscores their dedication to high performance and continuous improvement.

Highly Commended Dan & Liz Nattle, Rosewarrick Farm

Dan and Liz excel in breeding a pedigree spring calving herd of 254 Friesian cows, focusing on longevity, health, and fertility. Their impressive results include a 93% submission rate, 5% empty rate, and a mastitis incidence of just 1.7 cases per 100 cows. With a 305-day yield of 5,554 litres and a SCC of 122, their commitment to high health standards is evident. Using advanced genetics and managing a rotational grazing system, they prioritise cow comfort and staff training. Their efforts extend to consumer engagement with a farm shop and milk vending machine, fostering transparency and education about dairy farming.

Sponsored by: Mole Valley Farmers

Winner Nick & Lucy Tyler – Kingsplay Farming Company Ltd

Managing 450 milking cows and 400 replacement heifers across 850 hectares, the Tylers are dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint and aiming for net-zero emissions. Their commitment is highlighted by LEAF Marque certification, optimised nitrogen use, and innovative biostimulant trials. By incorporating Bovaer, a methane inhibitor, they significantly cut methane emissions. Their comprehensive soil management plan and biodiversity efforts, including planting over 2,500 metres of hedgerows and creating pollinator habitats, demonstrate a holistic approach to both productivity and environmental health. Their proactive engagement with the public and educational initiatives effectively promotes British agriculture and inspires future generations.

Sponsored by: Trouw Nutrition and

Willsbro Holsteins

Winning the Anthony Wills Memorial Cup

Winner Neil Ridgway, Stowell Farms

Neil Ridgway has transformed Stowell Farms with visionary leadership and innovation. Since taking over as farm manager three years ago, Neil has revitalised the dairy unit by replacing the rotary parlour with 12 Lely robots, boosting herd size by 300+ to 780 cows, and improving yields from 9,000 to 11,200 litres all whilst reducing labour requirements for milking. His sustainable practices include growing short-term grass leys and optimising homegrown feed, while his commitment to staff welfare and education shines through, with a dedicated classroom used by companies such as Mole Valley Farmers, local colleges and universities. Neil’s hard work and strategic thinking exemplify excellence in modern dairy farming.

Highly Commended Russel Abbiss, Pickthorn Farm

Since 2017, Russel’s ambitious expansion plans has seen him double the herd to 253 milking cows and 255 in calf cows, and dramatically improved yields, achieving 3kg/day of milk solids through twice-a-day milking. Key investments in facilities and genomic testing have driven health and productivity gains, with average yields rising to 10,700 litres/cow/year and a notable reduction in lameness. Russel’s commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability, alongside his active involvement in the Pathfinders discussion group, showcases his exceptional leadership and innovation.

Sponsored by: REAL Success

Winner Rupert Major, Major Farming Ltd,  Castle Hayes Farm

Rupert Major’s visionary approach to being a ‘Great Employer’ has set a new standard in workforce management. Since 2016, Major Farming Ltd, home to 620 cows and 350 followers, has continuously refined its people management strategies, investing a minimum of 3% of annual labour spend in comprehensive training and development for its team, resulting in significantly increased staff retention and satisfaction. Through their work with a specialist people consultant, they have a structured recruitment process, job descriptions and contracts for all staff, clearly defined company values, a thorough onboarding process, and a career path for their team.

Highly Commended Chris Spence – Miresdale Dairy, Lowfield Farm

Chris Spence’s people-first philosophy has revolutionised his dairy business. Drawing from his experiences in Australia, he has expanded his herd size to 1,200 cows, implemented a 24-hour milking system, and built a dedicated team of 14. He also introduced three new managers, enhancing operational efficiency and staff development. He ensures high staff retention and satisfaction by focusing on flexible work arrangements, investing in modern accommodation, and fostering a positive workplace culture. His proactive approach to training and communication further underscores his dedication to his people and the industry.

Sponsored by: British Dairying

Winner Michael Oakes

Michael has been a long-term advocate for the industry, working tirelessly to improve trust and cooperation across the supply chain and ensure the dairy sector has a strong, resilient future. In particular, Michael has gone above and beyond in his efforts to support producers across the UK who reach out to him personally, some in quite desperate situations, whilst advocating for charities such as the RABI and the FCN. He has given up much of his personal time to help individuals who don’t feel they have anywhere else to turn. This work is often unrecognised, and certainty unpaid, and comes at some considerable personal emotional expense.

Dairy Farmer and NFU Cymru Deputy President Abi Reader commented: “I can’t think of any individual more worthy of this award. Michael has given so much to the dairy industry, it’s time he got something back.

“Michael Oakes has served as NFU Dairy Board Chair for a total of 8 years and done an incredible service for the industry. His crowning glory is without a doubt seeing the regulation of dairy contracts over the line. The work that has gone into this, dreamt up in 2016 has been incredible and dairy farmers everywhere owe Michael a lot for being one of the key driving forces. He has done many other things, guiding the Dairy Roadmap, and always very conscious of diversity.

“He gave board members opportunities and helped them develop. His phone was never off, while he still ran a business at home. During Covid he fought for support funding, he assisted during the demise of numerous processors, helped with Open Farm Sunday events, supported WeAreAgRespect events and did his bit raising awareness of mental health.

“Michael never misses an opportunity to celebrate others’ successes, always viewing any win as a team accomplishment.”

Sponsored by: Arla Foods

Winner Joe Ives, W & P Ives

W & P Ives have achieved remarkable success with the highest yielding herd on Lely robots in the UK, producing an impressive 14,384kg of milk per day. Robotic milking for nearly five years, they have inspired many prospective robot clients. As members of the Premium Cattle Health Scheme, they are certified BVD, LEPTO, and IBR free, ensuring a high herd health status, which is key to their performance success. Their targeted antibiotic use is at 4.95mg/PCU. Hosting educational visits, including vet students and non-farming clubs, their efforts also include reducing CO2 emissions to 1.04kg/litre and achieving a margin over purchased feed of £3,260.

Highly Commended Mark Stewart, Smallholmburn

Starting with 100 hectares (250 acres) and 130 cows, the Stewart family has grown to manage 400 hectares (1,000 acres) and 600 Holstein cows, showcasing remarkable growth and commitment. Cows are yielding 13,964 litres a year, with investments in animal health and welfare, including new housing, a modern parlour, and proactive lameness prevention protocols, including quarterly foot scoring and regular professional trimming helping cows achieve such figures.

The Stewart family’s focus on youngstock includes installing fans in sheds, improving colostrum management, and enhancing nutrition, resulting in healthier calves and reduced antibiotic usage.

Sponsored by: Kite Consulting

Winner Joshua & Lauren Fincham, JF Dairies Ltd, Hampreston Manor Farm

Josh and Lauren’s journey from non-farming backgrounds to successful contract farmers is a testament to their exceptional ambition and dedication. At Hampreston Manor Farm, they have transformed a 9-week autumn block calving system into a thriving operation with 270 crossbred cows. Their detailed approach to herd health, innovative breeding practices, and commitment to sustainability, including advanced slurry management and environmental stewardship, set them apart according to the judges. They have never given up, despite facing some challenging hurdles. Meeting significant milestones, such as improving calf health and securing a contract farming agreement, reflects their resilience and forward-thinking vision.

Highly Commended John Butler, Lower Barker Farm

Farming alongside his parents and wife, John manages 500 cows with exceptional efficiency, producing high-quality milk tailored for cheese production, with plans to increase to 600 cows. His dedication to improving calf health and mastitis management, alongside his innovative approach to herd fertility and farm expansion, shows his commitment to excellence. John’s leadership in embracing modern technology and sustainability further highlights his forward-thinking vision. And he is praised with sharing his knowledge through various farm talks and open days.

He is also commended on his ability to manage staff and his passion, clear vision, and impactful community engagement make him an exemplary candidate for this prestigious award.

Sponsored by: Virbac

Winner Will Balhatchet, George Farm Vets

Will’s dedication to improving health, welfare, and productivity on dairy farms, combined with his practical experience as a former dairy herdsperson and innovative approach, sets him apart. His clear advice and workable action plans, effective problem-solving, and proactive initiatives, such as the embryo transfer service he set up and robot discussion group he initiated, have made a significant impact to his dairy farming clients. His clients say he goes above and beyond to improve the health, welfare and productivity of the animals he cares for, and they strongly endorse him as a worthy winner of this award.

Highly Commended Hana Ward, Torch Farm Vets

Hana has made remarkable strides since graduating in 2020. She has seamlessly balanced client training, student mentoring, and proactive herd management. Hana excels in delivering critical training, including Milksure and RAFT courses, and has been a driving force in sustainable practices and lameness prevention, having completed her mobility mentor training.

Hana’s dedication is evident from her work with Weavian Farms as just one example, where her blend of knowledge, compassion, and practical solutions has driven significant improvements. Her achievements, including winning the MSD Research Bursary and developing her skills through a PGCE and Train the Trainer course, further highlight her exceptional contributions.

Sponsored by: G Shepherd Animal Health

Winner Bovaer: DSM-Firmenich

This revolutionary product, developed after fifteen years of dedicated research, represents a major leap forward in

sustainable livestock production. Bovaer effectively reduces methane emissions from ruminants by 30%, making dairy cows ‘climate heroes’ rather than villains.With extensive research and industry accolades, Bovaer has already saved over 110,896 tons of CO2. As the product scales, it will further drive sustainability in dairy farming, supported by major partnerships with Nestlé, Arla Foods, and Marks & Spencer.

Their innovation is setting new standards in reducing carbon footprints and advancing global sustainability and really is a true innovation for global livestock production.

Highly Commended Bimeda – ImmunIGY Bovine IgG

ImmunIGY Bovine IgG is a groundbreaking point-of-care test that measures IgG levels in calves up to 42 days old, addressing the critical issue of Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT). Unlike traditional tests, which are indirect and require blood samples only up to 7 days of age, ImmunIGY offers direct IgG measurement with results in just 10 minutes using a novel reader. This innovation enables farmers to monitor calf health more effectively, reduce mortality, and improve performance.

Highly Commended Hoofcount – Pedivue

Hoofcount has transformed lameness management in dairy farming with their automatic footbaths and the innovative PediVue system, with their popularity growing from five footbaths in the first year to over 1,000 in 2023. PediVue, leveraging AI and machine learning, detects digital dermatitis up to 3-4 weeks earlier than traditional methods, reducing lameness and enhancing cow welfare. With 90% accuracy in hoof identification and 80% in detecting lesions, Hoofcount’s advancements highlight their leadership and dedication to improving animal health.

Highly Commended Trouw Nutrition – MyMilkPrint

Trouw Nutrition GB has made a significant impact in dairy farming through their innovative nutritional solutions and commitment to emission reduction.

As part of the Nutreco Group, they offer advanced products and services, including premixes, minerals, and feed additives, aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability. Their pioneering MyMilkPrint tool helps farmers measure and reduce their carbon footprint by providing actionable insights for more sustainable production practices. Trouw Nutrition’s dedication to improving environmental impact and advancing dairy farming with precision nutrition and sustainability initiatives exemplifies their leadership in the industry.

THANK YOU TO THIS YEARS’ SPONSORS

LELY ATLANTIC, PROGIENE, KW FEEDS, ADVANCED RUMINANT NUTRITION, FORFARMERS, WYNNSTAY, WILLSBRO HOLSTEINS,  TROUW NUTRITION, MOLE VALLEY FARMERS,  ARLA FOODS, KITE CONSULTING, VIRBAC, NATIONAL FARMERS UNION, REAL SUCCESS, G SHEPHERD ANIMAL HEALTH

JUDGES

Senior Panel:

David Cotton, Bridge Farm, Chairman of Judges

Sean Rickard, Business Economist

Mike King, Kingspool Holsteins

Neil Baker, Bakers of Haselbury Plucknett

Sarah Tomlinson, AHDB

Category Judges:

Stewart McAlister, Proposition Manager Milking & Digital Business UK & Ireland, Lely Atlantic

Paul Tompkins, Farmer and NFU Dairy Board Chair

Paul Dover, UK Agricultural Director, Arla Foods UK,

Tom Forshaw, Agriculture Manager, Arla Foods UK

Anna Sutcliffe, Ruminant Technical Manager, KW Feeds

Eileen Bulloch, Farm National Sales Manager, Virbac

Becki Reay, Head of Corporate Commercial, Kite Consulting

Georgina Thomas, Technical Sales Manager, Trouw Nutrition

Mathew Wills, Willsbro Holsteins, Trevor Birchall, TBA Ltd

Paul Harris, CEO, REAL Success

Bruce Forshaw, Product Manager, ForFarmers

Emily Hall, Product Manager, Progiene/Nettex

Eoghan Mullery, Technical Director, Advanced Ruminant Nutrition

Matt Witt, Sustainability and Technical Manager, Mole Valley Farmers

David Howard, Wynnstay Head of Dairy Services

Dr Graham Shepherd, Director, G Shepherd Animal Health

Additional judges for Innovation category included

George Lester, Chris Gowan, David Christensen, Ruth Ashley