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 Sheep Farmer of the Year finalists have been selected because of their efforts towards safeguarding the land for future generations and the steps they are taking to embrace sustainable farming practices which work in harmony with the environment. Our 2024 finalists all own or manage a farm in the UK, seeking to proactively reduce their carbon footprints whether that be through exploring regenerative agriculture, biodiversity, soil health, water management stockmanship and renewable energy to name but a few.

Finalists – Sheep Farmer of the Year

Jim Fletcher – J B Fletcher

Operating on 2,050 acres across Norfolk, Jim Fletcher runs a dynamic sheep enterprise that expertly blends traditional practices with modern innovation. His flock consists of Romney draft ewes purchased annually from Ashford market, which are mated with Highlander rams to produce crossbred ewes. This breeding approach allows Jim to effectively graze over 1,000 acres of floodplain designated for the RSPB and WWT, where the sheep thrive as they are bred for the job. 

Each year, Jim lambs 900 home-bred Highlander x Romney ewes in open yards, producing terminal lambs that are sold through Melton Mowbray market or a local marketing group, AQM, to Dunbia. The remaining ewes, comprising Romney and Romney x Highlander Shearlings, are lambed outdoors to provide replacements for the flock.

The family-run business includes Jim, his wife Sue, and their sons Jack and Joshua, alongside local shepherdess Nell. Jack, a recent Reaseheath College graduate, has gained invaluable experience in New Zealand and is now expanding his shearing business. Joshua has worked on local arable farms and is directly involved in implementing innovative practices such as direct drilling clovers and herbs into the pasture.

Jim's commitment to sustainability is evident in his entry into a mid-tier stewardship scheme, which aims to improve flock health and boost biodiversity. The recent purchase of an Aitchison 3-meter drill through the FETF grant will enhance productivity by establishing cover crops for grazing and offering drilling services to neighbouring landowners. With the use of Agriwebb software for efficient record-keeping, Jim is poised for continued success while ensuring the welfare of both his sheep and the environment.

Lorraine Luescher - Glendinning Farms 

At Glendinning Farms, Lorraine Luescher manages 2,200 hectares of hillside pasture in the Southern Uplands of Scotland, where she has revitalised the traditional practice of hefting sheep. This time-honoured grazing method relies on the sheep's natural homing instincts, allowing them to return to their native ground. Lorraine combines this extensive system with modern animal husbandry practices to create a sustainable farming solution that benefits local biodiversity and landscape health.

Her flock consists of five age groups, with all replacement females sourced from resilient homebred ewes. This deliberate breeding strategy ensures strong genetics and immunity to local challenges. Lorraine employs three dedicated shepherds, all skilled stockmen who play a vital role in maintaining the health and welfare of the sheep.

Recent years have seen Lorraine focus on improving flock health through a combination of veterinary expertise and preventive measures to tackle diseases while ensuring optimal nutrition. Her commitment to the Five Freedoms of animal welfare enhances sheep productivity and fosters a loyal customer base that values the quality lambs produced.

Navigating challenges such as political recognition of hill farming, climate change, and land use changes, Lorraine advocates for the hill sheep sector's essential role in food security and biodiversity. She actively works to educate others about the numerous public goods provided by well-managed hill livestock farming and seeks recognition in the hill farming community. 

Additionally, Lorraine's commitment to sustainable practices, including no synthetic fertilisers due to natural fertilisation through sheep manure, further reduces her carbon footprint while supporting a healthy ecosystem.

Chris Pye – AC & K Pye & Son

Dunkenshaw Farm, run by Chris Pye and his family, spans 750 hectares and is home to a thriving flock of 900 Swaledale ewes. As a third-generation farmer, Chris has cultivated a dynamic operation that specialises in producing North of England mule lambs through careful breeding practices. Their livestock is showcased at agricultural shows throughout the region, enhancing their reputation in the industry.

To ensure continued progress, the Pye family focuses on selecting tups with desirable characteristics, aiming to improve their stock quality and increase market demand. Their participation in local shows acts as a marketing tool, allowing them to showcase their livestock and engage with previous buyers.

In an effort to diversify income streams, Chris and his family have launched a mobile dipping service, providing valuable support to their farm during challenging times. This innovative venture not only bolsters finances but also secures connections with potential buyers and builds relationships that benefit their sheep sales.

Facing challenges such as rising costs and competition from imports, the Pye family remains committed to sustainable practices through effective animal health management. They strive to improve their farming methods while maintaining profitability, with the mobile dipping service serving as a vital asset for growth.

Chris's proactive approach ensures that Dunkenshaw Farm remains competitive and well-regarded in the sheep industry, while their commitment to improving livestock quality and sustainability paves the way for future success.

Oliver Harrison – Aimshaugh

At Aimshaugh, Oliver Harrison manages an upland sheep unit comprising 600 North Country Hill Cheviots and 600 Cheviot crosses, utilising a mob grazing system to enhance productivity and promote biodiversity across 850 hectares. Oliver and his family have adapted their farming practices to suit the unique conditions of their land, focusing on sustainability. 

Transitioning to a paddock grazing system has allowed Oliver to improve grass quality while encouraging wildlife to flourish on the farm. This method not only benefits the sheep but also contributes positively to the surrounding ecosystem. As they tackle labour shortages, the Harrison family is actively seeking new team members to help support their growing operation.

In addition to sheep farming, Oliver has initiated scrub planting and introduced cattle to manage vegetation effectively on the hills. This multifaceted approach to land management reflects his commitment to creating a balanced agricultural ecosystem that benefits both livestock and wildlife.

As they fine-tune their practices, the Harrison family is poised to embrace future opportunities that promote sustainability and farm profitability. Their focus on innovative grazing methods and environmental consideration ensures that Aimshaugh remains a model for sustainable sheep farming, contributing to both economic viability and ecological balance.

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