For twelve years, the British Farming Awards has shone 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.

The 2024 Contractor of the Year finalists have been selected because of their ability to thrive in a competitive market where margins are tight and efficiency is key. Each agricultural contractor operates an enterprise in the UK, either through mainstream services or niches in a particular sector. Our 2024 finalists demonstrate an exceptional ability to provide practical solutions for farmers, develop strong customer relationships and offer cost-effective services to farms regardless of their size.

Finalists – Contractor of the Year

Nigel Harper - ND Harper Limited

Nigel founded ND Harper Limited 14 years ago, transforming a small contracting business into one of Cheshire's leading agricultural contractors. With roots in potato farming, he began with three silage trailers, a maize drill, and a buck rake. Today, his operation boasts a fleet of 16 Case tractors, two JCB shovels, two foragers, and two combine harvesters, employing 34 dedicated staff members and serving 75 customers within a 10-mile radius.

Nigel specialises in providing a comprehensive range of services tailored for farms of all sizes, from 30-acre operations to large dairy farms milking 2,500 cows. His offerings include silaging, cultivation, muck and slurry handling, spraying, and harvesting. By developing a skilled team with specialist offerings, such as a unique engine-driven slurry pumping system, he enhances customer profitability and operational efficiency.

Passionate about machinery and dairy farming, Nigel has consistently invested in modern technology. This year, he introduced the AgDrive app to streamline planning and tracking, allowing team members to access essential job details and customer information on the go. His commitment to innovation extends to partnerships with local manufacturers, developing advanced slurry application systems that reduce labour and fuel costs while doubling output.

Nigel's dedication to customer relationships is evident, as many clients have been with him for over a decade. In response to the challenges posed by low milk prices and rising costs, he collaborates with farmers to create flexible payment plans. His proactive communication ensures that customers feel supported and valued. As ND Harper Limited continues to grow, Nigel remains focused on delivering an exceptional service while maintaining a sustainable and profitable business model.

Will Odam - Philip Odam Agricultural Services Ltd 

Founded by Will Odam's parents, Philip Odam Agricultural Services Ltd has been serving Gloucestershire's farming community for years. Today, Will takes the reins, overseeing a team of five full-time staff and three seasonal employees while managing daily operations and customer relations with mum and dad (Phil and Sue Odam) still active within the business. With a comprehensive range of agricultural contracting services, the business caters to beef, dairy, and arable farmers, ensuring their needs are met efficiently.

The company's diverse offerings include arable contracting, clamp silage, baling, mowing, and muck spreading, complemented by the management of approximately 1,000 acres of rented land. Will emphasises the importance of investing in modern machinery, operating a large fleet including 400hp tractors and a Lexion 600 combine. By providing high-capacity equipment, the business can serve larger-scale farmers and adapt to changing agricultural demands.

Will's vision for Philip Odam Agricultural Services focuses on growth and innovation. The introduction of slurry spreading services allowed the company to respond to increasing local demand for efficient manure handling. With investments in advanced technologies such as the AgDrive app, the business can accurately record work undertaken and improve operational efficiency.

Recognising the competitive nature of the contracting market, Will prioritises customer satisfaction through open communication and reliable services. He believes that building strong relationships with clients is essential for long-term success. As a second-generation contractor, Will remains committed to adapting and expanding the business, ensuring that Philip Odam Agricultural Services remains a trusted partner for farmers in the region no matter how the agricultural landscape changes. 

Nik Johnson - JSE Systems Ltd

At the forefront of agricultural contracting in Lincolnshire, JSE Systems Ltd specialises in the application of recycled nutritional and conditioning products. Operating from Grantham, Nik Johnson leads a dedicated team of 13 full-time staff and expands to 20-25 seasonal workers during peak seasons. The company has evolved over its 45-year history, adapting to industry demands and introducing innovative products and systems.

JSE Systems has made significant strides over the years in fertiliser spreading services, starting with ash-based recycled products back in the 1990's. By developing specialised application systems, the company has positioned itself as a leader in this niche market. With a focus on sustainability, JSE has seen its biosolids department grow over the past two decades, applying approximately 450 to 500 thousand tonnes of organic materials to land annually.

Innovation is the cornerstone of JSE Systems' success. The company employs satellite technologies across its fleet to enhance accuracy and efficiency in fertiliser application. The introduction of a web-based app has improved health and safety communication and operational record-keeping, enabling real-time access to essential information for all team members.

Nik believes that successful contracting relies on effective communication, collaboration, and the continuity of service delivery. By building close relationships with clients and understanding their evolving needs, JSE Systems has built a reputation for reliability and quality. As the agricultural industry faces new challenges, Nik is confident that JSE Systems will continue to adapt, innovate, and thrive, providing essential services to farms across the UK.

Richard, Bobby & Michael Barnes - The Barnes Brothers at Barnes Contracting Ltd

Barnes Contracting Ltd is a family-run business led by brothers Richard, Bobby, and Michael Barnes, alongside two other directors. With a strong foundation in Devon's agricultural community, the company focuses on four key sectors: agricultural contracting, crop spraying, agricultural mechanics, and steel frame building. Their deep understanding of farmers' needs allows them to provide tailored services that enhance productivity.

The Barnes brothers have concentrated their efforts on servicing local dairy farmers, offering silage, slurry, tub grinding, and animal feed solutions. By utilising advanced technology, such as the Strip Till Rotavator Maize Drill, they aim to improve efficiency while minimising the negative impact on soil health. Their innovative approach has positioned them as leaders in the area, providing services that are both effective and environmentally responsible.

Incorporating the AgDrive software program has further streamlined operations, enabling the contracting team to register jobs and timesheets in real-time, reducing errors and improving accuracy. The team is young, ambitious, and eager to contribute, bringing fresh ideas and a strong work ethic to the business.

As the agricultural industry evolves, the Barnes brothers are committed to staying ahead of the curve, recognising the growing importance of drone technology and variable rate fertiliser applications. By investing in innovative solutions, they aim to enhance their services while positively impacting the environment. The Barnes brothers' dedication to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement has solidified their reputation as a trusted partner for farmers in Devon, ensuring the success of their family business for generations to come.

Taking place on October 17 at The VOX in Birmingham, the event will welcome industry professionals from across the country to celebrate British agriculture and the successes it has had this year.

Get your tickets here to celebrate with the finalists at The British Farming Awards: https://www.britishfarmingawards.co.uk/britishfarmingawards/en/page/table-packages