Howard Revell has won the 2024 David Black Award in recognition of his longstanding efforts to help improve welfare of livestock and inspire others working in the British pig industry.

The announcement was made at the National Pig Awards in London on Monday, 18 November. Sponsored by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), the prestigious accolade is given to an individual or organisation that has made an outstanding impact on the pork sector through their work and Howard has devoted close to four decades to the industry.

Having studied agriculture at Newcastle University, Howard spent three years with Bowes of Norfolk before joining BQP/Pilgrim’s in 1987. For the last 25 years he was the company’s Pig Production Manager, and later Director; a role from which he only recently retired. Howard has twice chaired the National Pig Association (NPA) Producer Group, spending five terms involved with that assembly, and previously sat on the NPA Board. He has also been involved with the Pig Health and Welfare Council and has played a role in the development of outdoor breeding sites, with a lot more of his effort across the sector carried out behind the scenes.

One of Howard’s stand out roles is as a mentor, playing a pivotal role in developing talent and offering support and guidance to the next generation, including the likes of NPA Chief Executive Lizzie Wilson and her predecessor Dr Zoe Leach.

After presenting Howard with his award, last year’s recipient Hugh Crabtree said: “Sometimes people confuse outstanding with obvious or overt and of course, for those that know them, there are individuals who perfectly fit the criteria whose contribution is in the background, below the parapet if you like. Howard Revell is just such an individual who has been steadfast in his support of the industry, the representative organisations within it, and the people who work in it. His knowledge, careful consideration, and insightful contributions to discussion have just kept coming.”

Marcus Bates, NPA Board Member, endorsed Howard’s unpaid work within the industry: “Howard’s achieved much more than longevity. His most enduring legacy of all will be all the young people that he has helped to mentor throughout his career, offering support and guidance and helping to future proof the industry by nurturing young talent who will ensure the success of the British pig industry for years to come.”

Upon accepting his award, Howard said: “I’m extremely humbled to be this year's recipient of the David Black Award. I would like to thank those who nominated me and, more importantly, everyone with whom I’ve worked alongside in various industry bodies or collaborations for the benefit of the pig industry. I’m happy to accept this award on their behalf, in recognition of our collective efforts. I feel privileged to have worked alongside so many highly committed characters in the NPA and other bodies. The commitment and effort of these people, either as staff or volunteers, help make the industry stronger and deserve your ongoing support and recognition.”

You can find out more about the David Black Award ahdb.org.uk/david-black-award