0:00:02 > 0:00:03Across the country,
0:00:03 > 0:00:07thousands of farming families work tirelessly around the clock.
0:00:08 > 0:00:10Bring them up, Isabel. Well done.
0:00:11 > 0:00:12Here they come!
0:00:12 > 0:00:14Shake it, baby, shake it!
0:00:14 > 0:00:16But there's one day each year...
0:00:16 > 0:00:17Go on, girl. Up you go.
0:00:17 > 0:00:19..where they get to leave the daily routine behind.
0:00:19 > 0:00:22Woohoo!
0:00:22 > 0:00:24These are show days...
0:00:24 > 0:00:26Welcome to the Pembrokeshire County Show.
0:00:26 > 0:00:29..when they come together as a community...
0:00:29 > 0:00:31Salute!
0:00:31 > 0:00:33..to showcase the fruits of their labour...
0:00:33 > 0:00:36Had a quick look at the competition. I'm in with a chance!
0:00:36 > 0:00:40..and try to win prizes for their breed champions...
0:00:40 > 0:00:42Well done. Wa-hey!
0:00:42 > 0:00:44It's show business, folks!
0:00:44 > 0:00:45..and award-winning produce.
0:00:45 > 0:00:47I got first!
0:00:48 > 0:00:50You had the last two jars!
0:00:50 > 0:00:51There will be highs...
0:00:54 > 0:00:55..and lows...
0:00:55 > 0:00:57No, no, no.
0:00:57 > 0:01:00..for the dedicated farmers who give everything
0:01:00 > 0:01:02to walk away a champion.
0:01:03 > 0:01:04No way!
0:01:16 > 0:01:19There is one event in the agricultural calendar that
0:01:19 > 0:01:22celebrates the achievements and enthusiasm of Britain's
0:01:22 > 0:01:26up-and-coming farmers - the British Farming Awards.
0:01:29 > 0:01:33This year's category for Agricultural Student Of The Year has
0:01:33 > 0:01:37five exceptional and ambitious young finalists.
0:01:37 > 0:01:39Good girl.
0:01:39 > 0:01:41These are the farmers of the future.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48They've impressed the judges with their dedication to succeed in a
0:01:48 > 0:01:49challenging industry.
0:01:49 > 0:01:51Good boy. Steady.
0:01:51 > 0:01:57All five finalists bring their own ideas and initiative alongside a
0:01:57 > 0:01:58belief in the future of farming.
0:02:01 > 0:02:07To win this award would acknowledge their passion, drive and dedication.
0:02:07 > 0:02:09If you get that one out, though.
0:02:09 > 0:02:13But in a few days, only one of them can receive this prestigious award.
0:02:30 > 0:02:34Ten miles off the coast of northern Scotland lie the Orkney Islands,
0:02:34 > 0:02:38home to our first finalist, 20-year-old Robbie.
0:02:42 > 0:02:46People have been farming these islands for 5,000 years
0:02:46 > 0:02:51and Backakelday Farm has been in Robbie's family for over 300 years.
0:02:55 > 0:02:57Go on, then.
0:02:57 > 0:03:01Robbie is now at the helm, with the help of his uncle, Richard.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04Together, they manage the 260 acres,
0:03:04 > 0:03:06rearing cattle and sheep and growing barley.
0:03:09 > 0:03:12Cattle is the main enterprise on this farm.
0:03:12 > 0:03:18We have 170 breeding ewes and they come second to cattle in terms of income.
0:03:23 > 0:03:27Robbie's greatest inspiration was his grandfather.
0:03:27 > 0:03:28I spent a lot of time with Grandad.
0:03:28 > 0:03:32All my spare time was spent on the farm with him and I learnt a lot
0:03:32 > 0:03:34from him and was very close to him.
0:03:35 > 0:03:39My memory is, you know, a very small boy in a blue boiler suit.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43Any opportunity, he would be up with Grandad on the farm.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50We always knew that he was destined to be a farmer.
0:03:50 > 0:03:55- Yes, yes.- And it was always in him, from the beginning, really.
0:03:57 > 0:04:01When he turned 18, Robbie knew what he wanted to do.
0:04:01 > 0:04:03Despite it being more than 100 miles away,
0:04:03 > 0:04:06he enrolled in agricultural college in Aberdeen.
0:04:10 > 0:04:13Tragically, just after he began his studies,
0:04:13 > 0:04:15he lost his beloved grandfather.
0:04:19 > 0:04:23I got a phone call from my stepmum on the Thursday morning
0:04:23 > 0:04:27to say that Dad had passed away in the night, which was
0:04:27 > 0:04:31very difficult for us all.
0:04:31 > 0:04:38It was a very sudden, a very sudden loss and a terrible shock at the time.
0:04:38 > 0:04:44Robbie was in Aberdeen but he flew home that evening and
0:04:44 > 0:04:50in many a way, he's grown-up overnight since that happened.
0:04:53 > 0:04:56With Robbie's parents busy running their plumbing business,
0:04:56 > 0:05:01there was no-one else with the skills to take on his grandfather's farm.
0:05:01 > 0:05:03Robbie knew what he had to do.
0:05:03 > 0:05:07I had to step up and lead the day-to-day running of the farm
0:05:07 > 0:05:10alongside my uncle, Richard.
0:05:10 > 0:05:16From there, we've managed over the two years to keep the farm going.
0:05:17 > 0:05:21It wasn't, like, a task for me, it was something I really was keen to do.
0:05:22 > 0:05:25It's my passion, I suppose,
0:05:25 > 0:05:29and it's something I wanted to succeed in.
0:05:33 > 0:05:38Robbie was committed to preserving his grandfather's legacy and despite
0:05:38 > 0:05:42the challenges, remained determined to complete his education.
0:05:42 > 0:05:46Richard included and ourselves, we were all very keen that Robbie
0:05:46 > 0:05:48did get the opportunity to finish his studies.
0:05:48 > 0:05:52Yeah, well, I think it's important, when I'd started it,
0:05:52 > 0:05:55so it was. It was quite important to be able to finish it.
0:05:58 > 0:06:02On top of his college work, Robbie made a 260-mile round trip
0:06:02 > 0:06:07between home and university as often as he could to keep up with the
0:06:07 > 0:06:08demands of the farm.
0:06:10 > 0:06:14Never was the support of his family more vital.
0:06:14 > 0:06:17Running the farm over the past two years certainly wouldn't have been
0:06:17 > 0:06:19possible without the help of the family.
0:06:20 > 0:06:24To be able to finish the college course, I've needed that help,
0:06:24 > 0:06:25because I can't be here the whole time.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29Richard, he's done an excellent job,
0:06:29 > 0:06:31seeing to cattle and sheep when I've been away.
0:06:31 > 0:06:36Mum has worked tirelessly, the office-based work.
0:06:36 > 0:06:40There's a huge, huge amount of work that goes completely unseen.
0:06:40 > 0:06:42I'm very proud of Robbie.
0:06:42 > 0:06:48He is a very driven young man to manage to achieve what he has
0:06:48 > 0:06:53achieved through his studies and coming home and working on the farm.
0:06:59 > 0:07:04After graduating with distinction, Robbie is back on the farm full-time.
0:07:06 > 0:07:07That's right.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13The daily routine at this time of year is basically just to check all
0:07:13 > 0:07:14the livestock in the morning.
0:07:15 > 0:07:19We feed the young cattle now because the best's out of the grass.
0:07:20 > 0:07:23The sheep are quite low-maintenance at this time of year.
0:07:23 > 0:07:26It's just a case of checking them in the morning just to make sure
0:07:26 > 0:07:27they're all there, basically.
0:07:32 > 0:07:34Having fought hard to save the farm,
0:07:34 > 0:07:37Robbie has one more permanent battle on his hands.
0:07:37 > 0:07:40The unpredictable Orkney weather.
0:07:44 > 0:07:47Yes, farming here's a lot more unforgiving.
0:07:47 > 0:07:50You are constantly working against the weather.
0:07:50 > 0:07:56You can get four seasons in one day quite often and it's the wet weather
0:07:56 > 0:08:01that really is a problem, I suppose, and we get very high winds.
0:08:06 > 0:08:10But the weather doesn't faze this determined Orkney-born farmer.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13He's pulling out all the stops to make a success of his
0:08:13 > 0:08:16grandfather's farm...
0:08:16 > 0:08:19- All right, here, here. - ..bringing in new cattle...
0:08:22 > 0:08:23This is our new Charolais bull, Giles.
0:08:23 > 0:08:27We've gone for the Charolais because there's quite a demand for
0:08:27 > 0:08:29Charolais store cattle.
0:08:29 > 0:08:33..and making the most of the island's spectacular views.
0:08:33 > 0:08:36Tourism is a big thing in Orkney.
0:08:37 > 0:08:39We've obviously got good views over Scapa Flow here,
0:08:39 > 0:08:42so there would be a demand for holiday lets,
0:08:42 > 0:08:44so that's something the farm could look to diversify into.
0:08:48 > 0:08:52Robbie has gone above and beyond to preserve the farm for future
0:08:52 > 0:08:57generations and his nomination for the British Farming Awards
0:08:57 > 0:08:59has delighted his uncle Richard.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02Bit jealous initially.
0:09:02 > 0:09:04THEY LAUGH
0:09:06 > 0:09:08No, I wish him all the best with the awards.
0:09:08 > 0:09:13He deserves it. If I could be down there, I'd be having a great time.
0:09:15 > 0:09:16But I've not been invited.
0:09:18 > 0:09:19That's not strictly true.
0:09:24 > 0:09:28Robbie's hard work is keeping his grandfather's farming dream alive.
0:09:31 > 0:09:35What I've learned from him, I can now put into practice and hopefully
0:09:35 > 0:09:38there's a good future for the farm going forward.
0:09:38 > 0:09:41So I'm sure he'd be happy to see that
0:09:41 > 0:09:44the farm's going to be continued.
0:09:45 > 0:09:49Striving to keep his Orkney farm running while studying for a degree
0:09:49 > 0:09:54over 100 miles away has earned Robbie his place in the finals for
0:09:54 > 0:09:56Agricultural Student Of The Year.
0:10:07 > 0:10:11Also in Scotland is the breathtaking Isle of Mull,
0:10:11 > 0:10:13home to our second finalist.
0:10:16 > 0:10:2126-year-old Claire recently graduated with a first class degree in agriculture,
0:10:21 > 0:10:25achieving the highest grade in the whole of Scotland.
0:10:26 > 0:10:30Originally from Switzerland, she now lives on a remote island
0:10:30 > 0:10:34farm over ten miles from the Scottish mainland.
0:10:34 > 0:10:35OK, come, come. Come.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40Claire discovered her calling almost by chance.
0:10:43 > 0:10:46All my life, I wanted to become an astrophysicist.
0:10:46 > 0:10:50As you do! Just a kind of average child's dream, really.
0:10:50 > 0:10:52And I had never considered farming.
0:10:52 > 0:10:56Although I spent some of my teenage years on my stepfather's farm,
0:10:56 > 0:10:59so I believe that kind of gave me that insight,
0:10:59 > 0:11:02the respect for and appreciation of farming.
0:11:08 > 0:11:12The first time I came to Scotland was almost seven years ago.
0:11:12 > 0:11:16I came back for all my holidays after that and it was different
0:11:16 > 0:11:19people who suggested to me, why don't you come over for work experience?
0:11:20 > 0:11:24The combination of all these things made me decide 18 months after my
0:11:24 > 0:11:28first trip to Scotland to quit my job in Switzerland and come over to
0:11:28 > 0:11:31Scotland, start working here and here I am.
0:11:37 > 0:11:38Come on.
0:11:39 > 0:11:44It was on that first visit that Claire struck up a friendship with
0:11:44 > 0:11:46tenant hill farmer, Ian.
0:11:46 > 0:11:47Needing 11 mil.
0:11:49 > 0:11:52A friendship that was to have a huge impact on her future.
0:11:54 > 0:11:57Claire's really interested in outdoors, farming,
0:11:57 > 0:11:59all that sort of stuff,
0:11:59 > 0:12:01but I didn't think she was going to study agriculture.
0:12:01 > 0:12:07She told me about her interest in astrophysics but I stupidly said,
0:12:07 > 0:12:09"Oh, you should study agriculture."
0:12:09 > 0:12:14Ian was a real support, as a friend, and what started as a friendship is
0:12:14 > 0:12:16now a partnership and relationship.
0:12:16 > 0:12:20- I think our skill sets complement each other quite well.- Yes.
0:12:21 > 0:12:22I hope so.
0:12:27 > 0:12:31While studying hard at Scotland's rural college,
0:12:31 > 0:12:35Claire worked part-time with Ian on his 8,000-acre rented hill farm.
0:12:38 > 0:12:43Together, they now look after Ian's 55 Highland cows
0:12:43 > 0:12:45and 1,800 native sheep.
0:12:47 > 0:12:49Here, boy.
0:12:49 > 0:12:53She may be good in the field, but what makes Claire stand out is
0:12:53 > 0:12:57her ability to manage the business side of farming.
0:12:57 > 0:13:01I run all the finances, pay bills, monitoring cash flow.
0:13:01 > 0:13:03I know a lot of people find it so boring and my partner,
0:13:03 > 0:13:05he doesn't like doing it either,
0:13:05 > 0:13:08he likes to be out on the farm checking the cattle and sheep.
0:13:08 > 0:13:10I just look at a form and my mind goes blank.
0:13:10 > 0:13:12It just switches off.
0:13:12 > 0:13:16I don't want to do this. But you seem to be able to cope with that
0:13:16 > 0:13:20- really easily.- I'm just one of those sad individuals that enjoy
0:13:20 > 0:13:22paperwork, that's my problem.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24But I do enjoy this as well.
0:13:24 > 0:13:26Yes. You don't enjoy it, no.
0:13:32 > 0:13:37Always keen to be on the cutting edge, Claire is championing the use
0:13:37 > 0:13:42of hi-tech data recording equipment in her quest for excellence.
0:13:42 > 0:13:46I'm a bit of a techie. I like technology and I think technology's
0:13:46 > 0:13:49a very useful tool to improving business performance.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54We've got a weigh crate with an electronic weigh head.
0:13:54 > 0:13:58The weight that it shows me there, that's all recorded and I can have a
0:13:58 > 0:14:00look at average changes over so many months.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03Which ones are the heaviest, which ones are the lightest ones?
0:14:03 > 0:14:06You know, it's really expensive, but in the long-term,
0:14:06 > 0:14:08it'll actually save us money and hopefully time.
0:14:08 > 0:14:11- Well, it already has saved us money. - Yep.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18A multi award winner, former class representative and
0:14:18 > 0:14:21active member of the wider rural community,
0:14:21 > 0:14:25Claire is bringing her dedication to improving the industry
0:14:25 > 0:14:26back to the farm.
0:14:28 > 0:14:30Claire constantly questions what I'm doing.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32Why are you doing this? Why are you doing that?
0:14:32 > 0:14:34- Not that it's annoying or irritating.- Are you sure now?
0:14:34 > 0:14:36Claire will say, when she's been studying something,
0:14:36 > 0:14:38"Oh, but I read this, or I looked this up and these people
0:14:38 > 0:14:41"do this and they do that and it seems to work really well for them.
0:14:41 > 0:14:42"What about trying it here?"
0:14:42 > 0:14:46My tutors, they were extremely patient because they had to put up
0:14:46 > 0:14:49with so many questions. What could I have done better?
0:14:49 > 0:14:52Why was it this grade and not that?
0:14:52 > 0:14:54But, no, they were actually really good.
0:14:59 > 0:15:02Aye, he's a bit bigger than you.
0:15:03 > 0:15:05Claire may have finished her studies,
0:15:05 > 0:15:09but her quest to improve how we farm is just beginning.
0:15:09 > 0:15:10You hiding now?
0:15:11 > 0:15:15I think most of us have an aspiration to make a difference to
0:15:15 > 0:15:16our surrounding, our environment.
0:15:16 > 0:15:20What more important industry to be involved in than agriculture?
0:15:22 > 0:15:26I would quite like to be involved with problems of looking after our
0:15:26 > 0:15:29land whilst feeding the world in a sustainable manner,
0:15:29 > 0:15:33so as not to compromise the resources for our future generations to come.
0:15:33 > 0:15:39I think that's an exciting, maybe a bit scary challenge, but I'm
0:15:39 > 0:15:43really, really passionate about it and I would love to make a difference as well.
0:15:50 > 0:15:53Claire's hugely ambitious.
0:15:53 > 0:15:57She's not content just to go through the humdrum of daily agriculture.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00She wants to achieve more, she wants to improve the industry,
0:16:00 > 0:16:03she wants to see improvements in the industry.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13Thanks to her outstanding academic achievements and practical
0:16:13 > 0:16:15contributions to farming,
0:16:15 > 0:16:20Claire is now in the running for Agricultural Student Of The Year.
0:16:20 > 0:16:24It's an honour and a compliment to be in the finals along with these
0:16:24 > 0:16:26kind of people, because they are really inspiring.
0:16:26 > 0:16:31You would hope that this gives the farming industry as a whole a boost
0:16:31 > 0:16:36to see all these people wanting to work within the industry and that's
0:16:36 > 0:16:37the kind of future.
0:16:53 > 0:16:56Nestled in the unspoiled Wiltshire countryside
0:16:56 > 0:16:58is the home of our third finalist.
0:16:58 > 0:17:05This small family farm is the focus of 22-year-old graduate, Hannah.
0:17:05 > 0:17:08After completing her degree and time working in an agricultural
0:17:08 > 0:17:12consultancy firm, Hannah is now firmly back on the farm.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17So, what I love about farming is being surrounded by nature and being
0:17:17 > 0:17:21outside and being surrounded by animals.
0:17:21 > 0:17:23I live and breathe it and I wouldn't have it any other way.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25The fourth generation to live here,
0:17:25 > 0:17:28Hannah is working hard to secure its future.
0:17:28 > 0:17:30Come on. That's it.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32A farm girl through and through,
0:17:32 > 0:17:35Hannah has fond memories of growing up in the countryside.
0:17:37 > 0:17:41I remember one time riding on one of our cows, Molly,
0:17:41 > 0:17:44getting her in for milking, and yeah. Definitely remember milking.
0:17:44 > 0:17:48She's always been involved in the farm, right from day one.
0:17:48 > 0:17:49Always a pleasure to have around.
0:17:49 > 0:17:52She's always happy, loves working with the animals.
0:17:55 > 0:17:59But there were hard times to come for dairy farmers...
0:17:59 > 0:18:01If you get that one out though, I'll get that one.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04..and Hannah's family were no exception.
0:18:04 > 0:18:08Back in 2000 when the milk price plummeted,
0:18:08 > 0:18:12Dad looked into various different ideas that would support our family.
0:18:12 > 0:18:14Come on, Fred.
0:18:14 > 0:18:18My dad used to be a security guard for a period of time.
0:18:18 > 0:18:23I was probably four-years-old but I knew the cows had gone and
0:18:23 > 0:18:25I knew Mum and Dad were struggling.
0:18:25 > 0:18:30In 2006, Hannah's family made a decision that they hoped would
0:18:30 > 0:18:34change their fortunes and set-up a glamping site.
0:18:34 > 0:18:37Have you checked the other three tents, Luce?
0:18:37 > 0:18:38No, not yet.
0:18:38 > 0:18:40I must have been 11 at the time.
0:18:40 > 0:18:44We were one of the first to put up tents and to have people come stay
0:18:44 > 0:18:46in them, in the UK.
0:18:46 > 0:18:47Lucy, bring the rubbish outside.
0:18:47 > 0:18:52So, I got a fantastic job of helping clean out tents and cleaning toilets
0:18:52 > 0:18:54and bringing in new guests.
0:18:54 > 0:18:55At the time, we just thought
0:18:55 > 0:18:57it was absolutely rubbish, didn't we?
0:18:57 > 0:18:59And you got away with most of it, of not having to do it.
0:18:59 > 0:19:01Well, I was only seven.
0:19:01 > 0:19:02I got the worst end of the stick.
0:19:08 > 0:19:12Determined to bring more to the farm than her talent for cleaning toilets,
0:19:12 > 0:19:17Hannah went to study agriculture at Harper Adams University in Shropshire.
0:19:20 > 0:19:24Over the years, the farm's glamping has expanded into the luxury market.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27They have also rebuilt their calf herd.
0:19:27 > 0:19:32With things looking up, Hannah is determined to keep the momentum going.
0:19:32 > 0:19:36Coming back from university, she's been an absolute godsend.
0:19:36 > 0:19:39Her skills are becoming phenomenal and a very,
0:19:39 > 0:19:41very great help to the farm.
0:19:41 > 0:19:433702 in group one, Lucy.
0:19:44 > 0:19:46My family aren't so confident in terms of paperwork.
0:19:46 > 0:19:48They hate it and with everything else going on,
0:19:48 > 0:19:52they just don't have the time to do it, so it was nice to come in and be
0:19:52 > 0:19:56able to add to that and enable us to do what we have.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01Since coming home, Hannah has succeeded in securing a
0:20:01 > 0:20:05grant for the farm's largest and most ambitious project to date.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08Our latest project was the tree house and we've just completed that.
0:20:10 > 0:20:13And she has no intention of stopping there.
0:20:14 > 0:20:17We're seeing here now, since she's been involved - weddings.
0:20:17 > 0:20:19I never thought that would happen.
0:20:19 > 0:20:22Lots of things are beginning to take shape now.
0:20:25 > 0:20:27Oh, one of the chickens has escaped.
0:20:27 > 0:20:29Oh, no.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32As well as building up the farm, Hannah's other great passion is
0:20:32 > 0:20:36trying to get people involved with the farming industry.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39So, the chickens aren't allowed out?
0:20:39 > 0:20:41No, they're not supposed to be,
0:20:41 > 0:20:44- because Mr Fox will come along and get them.- Oh, yeah.
0:20:44 > 0:20:48One way to do that is to pass her knowledge down the line.
0:20:48 > 0:20:51I do a lot of getting kids involved on the farm,
0:20:51 > 0:20:54sort of teaching them about farm animals because a lot of them have
0:20:54 > 0:20:55never seen a chicken.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58- You've had six eggs? - And we ate all of them.
0:20:58 > 0:21:01You ate all of them? What, for breakfast?
0:21:01 > 0:21:04People want to bring their families and the children to see the
0:21:04 > 0:21:09farm and the animals, so it's very important that we continue with agriculture.
0:21:09 > 0:21:11You like it here? That's what we like to hear.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14I told my mum, can we stay here for another three weeks?
0:21:18 > 0:21:20Despite all her achievements,
0:21:20 > 0:21:24being put forward for a British farming award came as a surprise.
0:21:25 > 0:21:29I was nominated by the university themselves and I was absolutely
0:21:29 > 0:21:31astounded when I got a phone call
0:21:31 > 0:21:32saying they were putting me up for the award.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35And I never thought in a million years that I would get this far,
0:21:35 > 0:21:39so it's absolutely overwhelming.
0:21:39 > 0:21:42- I think it's great. I'm really proud of her.- Oh, thanks, Luce.
0:21:42 > 0:21:43That's OK.
0:21:44 > 0:21:45Ready, pull.
0:21:46 > 0:21:50A tireless worker with an endless supply of new ideas,
0:21:50 > 0:21:53Hannah is a great source of pride.
0:21:53 > 0:21:54So, I'm here for the long haul.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57I'm very much part of everything we have here.
0:21:57 > 0:22:00It's the same with all my brothers and sisters.
0:22:00 > 0:22:03We're thrilled that they're taking an interest in what has been their
0:22:03 > 0:22:06lifeblood for many years and they are actually instrumental in taking
0:22:06 > 0:22:08the farm forward, which is fabulous.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13How are you, little babies?
0:22:13 > 0:22:17That's why Mum and Dad have fought for everything, to keep us here.
0:22:17 > 0:22:21We live and breathe it. Like, we do everything we can to keep this place running.
0:22:21 > 0:22:23And that is our aim, it always has been.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28It's this commitment to her family's farm and desire to share her
0:22:28 > 0:22:32knowledge that has earned Hannah a place in the finals for
0:22:32 > 0:22:34Agricultural Student Of The Year.
0:22:48 > 0:22:51The north Nottinghamshire countryside is home
0:22:51 > 0:22:52to 22-year-old Ben.
0:22:54 > 0:22:56Ey up, Bessie.
0:22:56 > 0:23:00A recent graduate of Nottingham Trent University's
0:23:00 > 0:23:02Brackenhurst Campus,
0:23:02 > 0:23:06Ben finished his studies as one of the most successful and innovative
0:23:06 > 0:23:07students they have ever had.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10I knew I wanted to do something outside and I didn't like being
0:23:10 > 0:23:13crammed in an office, so I suppose it was always there,
0:23:13 > 0:23:14but without me seeing it.
0:23:18 > 0:23:22As farming is such a varied and demanding industry,
0:23:22 > 0:23:25Ben embraced every subject thrown at him.
0:23:25 > 0:23:27Go and feed some cows.
0:23:28 > 0:23:31From the science of crops, soil and livestock...
0:23:32 > 0:23:33Get back, go on.
0:23:35 > 0:23:39..to farm finances, new technologies and rural skills.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42Woo!
0:23:44 > 0:23:51He's just really interested and energetic, even on a Friday
0:23:51 > 0:23:54afternoon when that's like the worst time of the week.
0:23:54 > 0:23:59There's just like a wide array of farming, a broad spectrum.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01What you wouldn't necessarily see if you was just at home,
0:24:01 > 0:24:04so coming here was kind of like, wow, you know?
0:24:04 > 0:24:08This is farming, you know.
0:24:08 > 0:24:10No matter who you are, he's not bothered.
0:24:10 > 0:24:13It could be the Queen, Ben will question and ask you,
0:24:13 > 0:24:14why do you do it that way?
0:24:16 > 0:24:20He's achieved a distinction in every single module since he's been here.
0:24:20 > 0:24:21He's never dropped into a merit.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23He's always been a distinction student.
0:24:26 > 0:24:30So, this is the Roundhouse where we did loads of cattle work and stuff.
0:24:31 > 0:24:35Today, he's brought his father, Jamie, to the student's farm where
0:24:35 > 0:24:38he worked so hard over the last two years.
0:24:38 > 0:24:40So you have the halter around them, round their head.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42- You can control them a bit more. - Whoo!
0:24:42 > 0:24:46Don't get too close to them bad boys, then, hey?
0:24:46 > 0:24:48Not quite a natural in the farmyard,
0:24:48 > 0:24:52Jamie has worked for the past 20 years as a gardener.
0:24:52 > 0:24:55I don't come from a farming background and nor does Ben, really.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58I mean, I'm into horticulture, so I don't normally have to worry
0:24:58 > 0:25:01about any beast that big giving me the head-butt.
0:25:01 > 0:25:05Ben's family couldn't be prouder that he's following his dream
0:25:05 > 0:25:06to become a farmer.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10My father was a miner, well, they've all been miners,
0:25:10 > 0:25:13to be honest with you, so Ben's the first one.
0:25:13 > 0:25:16It wasn't until I started getting more responsibilities and doing
0:25:16 > 0:25:18more jobs that I realised how much
0:25:18 > 0:25:21of an impact you as a farmer have on the land.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23Go on.
0:25:23 > 0:25:24It's a lot of responsibility to have,
0:25:24 > 0:25:26but I do think it's very enjoyable.
0:25:27 > 0:25:30So I thought, yeah, you've got to do something you love.
0:25:34 > 0:25:37Ben's remarkable motivation
0:25:37 > 0:25:41has proven to be a lifeline for him and his family.
0:25:41 > 0:25:44Dad got diagnosed with MS, which is multiple sclerosis.
0:25:45 > 0:25:47My dad's always said from that,
0:25:47 > 0:25:49you never know what's going to come in the future,
0:25:49 > 0:25:52so you should always take every opportunity that comes your way,
0:25:52 > 0:25:53that you can get a chance of,
0:25:53 > 0:25:57because you never know what's going to come round the corner.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59It's no big deal. We get on with it and we get by things.
0:25:59 > 0:26:03But Ben was, you know, he was really good in the early days when I was
0:26:03 > 0:26:05first diagnosed, because obviously I lost it completely.
0:26:05 > 0:26:07I didn't even know what MS was.
0:26:07 > 0:26:09So, yes, you know, he's been my rock sort of thing.
0:26:09 > 0:26:12He's a good strong lad. I'm proud of him in every way.
0:26:18 > 0:26:22On top of his studies, Ben seized the opportunity to master as many
0:26:22 > 0:26:24practical skills as possible.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28From gaining his chainsaw certificate...
0:26:29 > 0:26:33I made quite a big start on an owl.
0:26:33 > 0:26:35Morning, Radar.
0:26:35 > 0:26:38..to showing cattle at county shows.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45So, we did that at Newark Show and Lincoln Show,
0:26:45 > 0:26:48where they won and they also came breed champion.
0:26:48 > 0:26:50It's a lot different than walking the dog.
0:26:50 > 0:26:53It's from down here to up here and it can be...
0:26:53 > 0:26:55It is really, it's quite daunting.
0:26:55 > 0:26:56It's fun.
0:27:00 > 0:27:04Ben's lasting legacy at university is one that will be enjoyed by
0:27:04 > 0:27:06farming students for years to come.
0:27:08 > 0:27:11This is the farming college for Nottinghamshire and I thought,
0:27:11 > 0:27:14it's a bit strange that there was no young farmer's club.
0:27:14 > 0:27:17So, I had a word with the people at Nottinghamshire Young Farmers
0:27:17 > 0:27:21and we all decided on a vote and we made a Brackenhurst Young Farmers.
0:27:23 > 0:27:27Now in its third year, Brackenhurst Young Farmers have competed in
0:27:27 > 0:27:32numerous national farming competitions and raised over £200 for charity.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37I'm quite proud of it, because I helped make it and it's really good
0:27:37 > 0:27:40to see everyone having fun and interacting with each other.
0:27:40 > 0:27:41Come on.
0:27:41 > 0:27:46Ben has succeeded in making a huge impact at his university.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49He's graduating with the highest possible grade
0:27:49 > 0:27:51and an award for best practical student.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56So, when I was at work, I see myself as a lad what helped people out,
0:27:56 > 0:27:59you know, the lad what did all the jobs.
0:27:59 > 0:28:02But now, I suppose, now I've got these qualifications,
0:28:02 > 0:28:04I'm still the divvy lad, but I can do better jobs.
0:28:08 > 0:28:13Ben's boundless energy and enthusiasm for learning earned him
0:28:13 > 0:28:15his place on this year's shortlist.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18We put Ben forward for the Student Of The Year Award because
0:28:18 > 0:28:22of the energy that he's got and the desire to learn.
0:28:22 > 0:28:25I just thought that someone with that much desire to learn should be
0:28:25 > 0:28:27Student Of The Year, basically.
0:28:27 > 0:28:32It's no surprise to me, because I've always seen how Ben works hard.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35All the shows he goes to, the Young Farmers he's set up.
0:28:35 > 0:28:38Like, he's just been waiting in the wings for the show to begin,
0:28:38 > 0:28:40you know what I mean? He's just, he's there, poised,
0:28:40 > 0:28:42ready to pounce on it, sort of thing.
0:28:42 > 0:28:45I was reading about the other people this morning and it seems like
0:28:45 > 0:28:50they're all up another league really compared to what I've done.
0:28:50 > 0:28:54Yeah, but you're proving that you don't have to come from a farming
0:28:54 > 0:28:56background to... And to even get nominated.
0:28:58 > 0:29:01Yeah, I mean, obviously, it feels good to be up for the award,
0:29:01 > 0:29:03because you feel good about yourself.
0:29:03 > 0:29:06You think, I'm up with the top five students in the country.
0:29:06 > 0:29:07Not just in the college, I'm up there.
0:29:07 > 0:29:10So if I can do it, a lad from Worksop, then anyone can do it,
0:29:10 > 0:29:11do you know what I mean?
0:29:27 > 0:29:30Just an hour south-east of Nottingham,
0:29:30 > 0:29:35the tranquil Rutland countryside is home to some very special sheep
0:29:35 > 0:29:40belonging to third-year agriculture student and our final nominee,
0:29:40 > 0:29:4120-year-old Georgie.
0:29:44 > 0:29:48Come on. Good boy.
0:29:48 > 0:29:53Georgie keeps her flock of 20 sheep with a local farmer who helps her to
0:29:53 > 0:29:55take care of them while she's studying.
0:29:55 > 0:29:59Ready? Go. Good boy.
0:30:02 > 0:30:07Her interest in farming began at 11-years-old when her mother, Mary,
0:30:07 > 0:30:10got a job as a contract shepherdess.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13Me and Mum started going out in the fields and checking the sheep and
0:30:13 > 0:30:18helping with lambing and shearing and dosing and things.
0:30:18 > 0:30:20Come on, girls.
0:30:20 > 0:30:25It was never difficult to persuade Georgina to come and help and she
0:30:25 > 0:30:29loved it. And it was pretty obvious from fairly early on that she was
0:30:29 > 0:30:33developing an addiction to the fresh air and the sheep
0:30:33 > 0:30:34and a love of what she did.
0:30:42 > 0:30:44Georgie's love of sheep continued.
0:30:45 > 0:30:47And even though she was still at school,
0:30:47 > 0:30:49she was determined to start a flock of her own.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54When I was about 17, I went to do some work experience
0:30:54 > 0:30:57with a magazine and they paid me, which I wasn't expecting.
0:30:57 > 0:31:00So I used that money to go into the sheep
0:31:00 > 0:31:03and bought my first eight ewes with that money.
0:31:06 > 0:31:10Georgie bought her a fledgling flock from local sheep farmer, Wilfred.
0:31:12 > 0:31:16And it was here at his farm in the East Midlands that she got her first
0:31:16 > 0:31:18taste of real farming life.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23She picked out a few lambs we had here.
0:31:23 > 0:31:26There was sheep she picked which I thought was good and there were some
0:31:26 > 0:31:29I thought, maybe not, but I didn't say anything.
0:31:29 > 0:31:32I let her have her own decision because you learn from your own
0:31:32 > 0:31:35judgments and what you do right and wrong, so...
0:31:38 > 0:31:42Impressed with Georgie's enthusiasm and a natural ability,
0:31:42 > 0:31:44Wilfred decided to offer her a job.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48She had a keen interest and that's what I liked about her.
0:31:48 > 0:31:52If you have the interest, you don't mind the longer hours.
0:31:53 > 0:31:56She's done perfect for us, so she has.
0:31:56 > 0:31:59It's just we need more of these young people coming into the
0:31:59 > 0:32:01industry, but they seem hard to come by.
0:32:07 > 0:32:09All too aware of this problem,
0:32:09 > 0:32:12Georgie set out to turn things around...
0:32:14 > 0:32:16Good boy.
0:32:16 > 0:32:21..launching a Twitter account and using her love of writing to connect
0:32:21 > 0:32:22other young farmers.
0:32:22 > 0:32:26The industry as a whole is really dynamic and changing all
0:32:26 > 0:32:28the time and there's stuff going on,
0:32:28 > 0:32:31so there's always something to write about.
0:32:32 > 0:32:37Georgie has now created one of the most successful social media forums
0:32:37 > 0:32:39for up-and-coming farmers in the country.
0:32:39 > 0:32:44I set up the Young Farmers of the UK Twitter account just to really give
0:32:44 > 0:32:48some of the young farmers that are on Twitter a bit of a voice.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51We're up to about 2,000 followers in a couple of months,
0:32:51 > 0:32:56so it's going really well and I hope that it will keep growing and
0:32:56 > 0:32:58getting bigger and more popular, hopefully.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01When I first started on Twitter,
0:33:01 > 0:33:03there wasn't that many young farmers,
0:33:03 > 0:33:05or I didn't find many young farmers.
0:33:05 > 0:33:07So that's where the Twitter account comes in,
0:33:07 > 0:33:10because it sort of brings the young farmers together.
0:33:14 > 0:33:18Come on. Good boy. Good lad.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22Georgie's hard work and endeavours to represent a whole new generation
0:33:22 > 0:33:24of farmers has earned her a nomination.
0:33:26 > 0:33:32When she got the call to say that she'd been shortlisted,
0:33:32 > 0:33:33I did get a bit tearful.
0:33:33 > 0:33:36I just had a mummy moment for a while.
0:33:36 > 0:33:39- Remember how you felt? - Yeah, I know, it was really good.
0:33:39 > 0:33:43A bit of a shock to the system, really, but...
0:33:43 > 0:33:46Mum is definitely my biggest fan, I'd say.
0:33:46 > 0:33:48Yes, she's always encouraging me.
0:33:48 > 0:33:50Definitely pushed me to be where I am.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53Come on, pup. Come on!
0:33:53 > 0:33:56I've never known a child work so hard.
0:33:56 > 0:34:00She works and works and works and has got such determination.
0:34:02 > 0:34:04Good boy.
0:34:04 > 0:34:08With all that she's achieved so far,
0:34:08 > 0:34:11Georgie continues to strive towards her ultimate dream.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15I'd like to be with a decent size flock,
0:34:15 > 0:34:19concentrating on the breeding as well as continuing with my writing.
0:34:19 > 0:34:22It's always been the dream to farm and then write about it,
0:34:22 > 0:34:26so hopefully once I've graduated, that will be what's happening.
0:34:29 > 0:34:33Georgie's passion for farming and encouraging other young farmers
0:34:33 > 0:34:36through her writing has secured her place as a finalist
0:34:36 > 0:34:40at this year's British Farming Awards.
0:34:51 > 0:34:55All five nominees have shown their absolute commitment and dedication
0:34:55 > 0:35:01to agriculture, studying hard and working tirelessly to make their
0:35:01 > 0:35:03farming dreams a reality.
0:35:06 > 0:35:10So, I would never have imagined to be nominated for a prestigious award
0:35:10 > 0:35:13like this and I'm delighted to have the chance
0:35:13 > 0:35:15to take part in the competition.
0:35:15 > 0:35:20I would feel really, really honoured to be the recipient of this award.
0:35:20 > 0:35:24People would see - there's somebody young and motivated within the
0:35:24 > 0:35:26industry wanting to make a difference.
0:35:27 > 0:35:29In that room, it's, you know, the top people in farming.
0:35:29 > 0:35:33If I was to win, it would just show where all the hard work's gone, really.
0:35:33 > 0:35:35You can say, look, Dad and Mum, look at this.
0:35:35 > 0:35:39You know, I've made something, kind of.
0:35:53 > 0:35:55This year's British Farming Awards
0:35:55 > 0:35:58are being held in the vibrant city of Birmingham.
0:36:00 > 0:36:04Now in its fifth year, this prestigious event will bring
0:36:04 > 0:36:08together over 700 farmers and industry professionals to reward
0:36:08 > 0:36:11and celebrate their outstanding achievements.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16The tables are set and the bubbles are flowing.
0:36:17 > 0:36:21It's time for these hard-working farmers to enjoy a well-earned night
0:36:21 > 0:36:23of celebration.
0:36:23 > 0:36:27The British Farming Awards are about sort of recognising people who are
0:36:27 > 0:36:29doing a fantastic job.
0:36:29 > 0:36:31They have shown real innovation,
0:36:31 > 0:36:34real determination and a real passion for what they do.
0:36:34 > 0:36:35Often in agriculture,
0:36:35 > 0:36:38we're really good at hiding that all under a bit of a bushel,
0:36:38 > 0:36:41so these awards are trying to really celebrate the things that are best
0:36:41 > 0:36:43about Britain's farming industry.
0:36:47 > 0:36:51The finest farmers in the country are travelling from far and wide to
0:36:51 > 0:36:54attend tonight's dazzling event.
0:36:56 > 0:37:0022-year-old distinction student, Ben, is bringing his girlfriend,
0:37:00 > 0:37:03Melissa, to enjoy the glamour of the occasion.
0:37:04 > 0:37:06I told her I'm taking her places now,
0:37:06 > 0:37:08going to award ceremonies and being on telly.
0:37:10 > 0:37:12Not just going down the miners' welfare.
0:37:14 > 0:37:20A long way from their Scottish hill farm are 26-year-old Claire and partner, Ian.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24We did have quite a bit of a journey. It was a two-day trip.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27Yesterday, we had to come off the island.
0:37:27 > 0:37:29Compared to having to deal with the traffic down here,
0:37:29 > 0:37:32it is definitely easier to run after cattle and sheep.
0:37:33 > 0:37:39Like Claire, 20-year-old Robbie and girlfriend, Julia, also made the
0:37:39 > 0:37:44long journey down from Scotland, swapping boiler suits for bowties.
0:37:44 > 0:37:47Obviously not used to being dressed for an occasion like this.
0:37:48 > 0:37:51It's fun for a change to get out of the wellies, I suppose.
0:37:55 > 0:38:00Third-year student and budding sheep farmer, Georgie, and 22-year-old
0:38:00 > 0:38:05graduate, Hannah, have brought their families along to join in the celebrations.
0:38:05 > 0:38:09We work as a team at home and being able to celebrate with everyone is
0:38:09 > 0:38:12just wonderful. It's great to share it all.
0:38:12 > 0:38:14Yes, it's a real privilege just to be here.
0:38:14 > 0:38:16Absolutely fabulous.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18You're going to recognise somebody?
0:38:18 > 0:38:22Ladies and gentlemen, if you'd be kind enough to take your seats as
0:38:22 > 0:38:26soon as you possibly can, as soon as you've found your table.
0:38:26 > 0:38:27Living the dream.
0:38:29 > 0:38:33This year, the Student Of The Year category had a record number of
0:38:33 > 0:38:37nominations, making it a difficult task for the judges.
0:38:37 > 0:38:42The award isn't just about recognising academia,
0:38:42 > 0:38:46it's looking at what they are doing outside of their studies,
0:38:46 > 0:38:51looking at how committed they are, how determined they are to do well.
0:38:51 > 0:38:55How resilient they are, how adaptable they are and how they are
0:38:55 > 0:38:58welcoming other opportunities that
0:38:58 > 0:39:01will help them later on with their career.
0:39:01 > 0:39:05There's stiff competition tonight and each one of them absolutely
0:39:05 > 0:39:06deserves to be in the room.
0:39:08 > 0:39:13Good evening and welcome to the British Farming Awards 2017.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17It's time for the main event to begin.
0:39:17 > 0:39:19About to kick off.
0:39:19 > 0:39:22Tonight, 14 awards will be presented.
0:39:22 > 0:39:25Our first silver winner is...
0:39:25 > 0:39:27Charlotte Shipley from Field and Forage.
0:39:28 > 0:39:30From beef innovator...
0:39:33 > 0:39:34Next up...
0:39:34 > 0:39:36..to Farming Family Of The Year.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38The winner is the Fairburns.
0:39:39 > 0:39:43With ten categories to get through before Student Of The Year is
0:39:43 > 0:39:47announced, it's a long and anxious wait.
0:39:47 > 0:39:48My heart's proper going now, yeah.
0:39:48 > 0:39:52Everyone's been saying good luck and everything.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55You kind of just want yours out the road, then you know.
0:39:56 > 0:39:58Yeah, I think I'm a bit nervous, yeah.
0:40:02 > 0:40:05Finally, their wait is over.
0:40:05 > 0:40:10So, next up it's one of our most important awards.
0:40:10 > 0:40:13And it's all about the next generation, with
0:40:13 > 0:40:15Agricultural Student Of The Year.
0:40:15 > 0:40:16Good luck, Hannah.
0:40:16 > 0:40:18Thank you.
0:40:18 > 0:40:20Oh!
0:40:21 > 0:40:24Hannah Dyke, Harper Adams University.
0:40:24 > 0:40:25CHEERING
0:40:27 > 0:40:30Georgina Gater-Moore, Harper Adams University.
0:40:30 > 0:40:31CHEERING
0:40:32 > 0:40:37Claire Simonetta, Scotland's Rural College.
0:40:37 > 0:40:39Robbie Stevenson, Scotland's Rural College.
0:40:39 > 0:40:42CHEERING
0:40:42 > 0:40:46And Benjamin Theaker, Nottingham Trent University.
0:40:53 > 0:40:54And the winner is...
0:40:57 > 0:41:00..Benjamin Theaker.
0:41:11 > 0:41:16Oh, I can't believe it. Thank you very much.
0:41:18 > 0:41:21Oh, chuffing heck. Cheers. Thank you very much.
0:41:21 > 0:41:24I think that's a very happy winner.
0:41:24 > 0:41:29Oh, I feel like I could cry. Oh.
0:41:29 > 0:41:32Oh, I can't believe that. Oh, I'm really chuffed.
0:41:38 > 0:41:41It was disappointing, obviously, because there's always this tiny
0:41:41 > 0:41:44little bit of hope where you think, Well, maybe, you never know.
0:41:44 > 0:41:48But it's been a great evening with so much kind of positive energy
0:41:48 > 0:41:51about the room, which was absolutely amazing.
0:41:52 > 0:41:56Both, obviously, travelled down from Orkney today and it's been a very
0:41:56 > 0:41:58worthwhile trip. We've definitely enjoyed the evening.
0:41:58 > 0:42:00It's been fantastic.
0:42:00 > 0:42:03- We're very proud of you, darling. - Thank you.- Very, very proud.
0:42:04 > 0:42:07It's been slightly terrifying waiting for the result but it's been
0:42:07 > 0:42:09amazingly inspiring and for my future,
0:42:09 > 0:42:13it just gives me ambition and motivation to go out and achieve.
0:42:16 > 0:42:20- Good girl. Well done.- Second place is fine with me.
0:42:20 > 0:42:25It's really nice to get a bit of recognition for what you're doing
0:42:25 > 0:42:28and it just sort of makes me want to inspire people even younger than me
0:42:28 > 0:42:31to just take a chance and work hard
0:42:31 > 0:42:34and you will get where you want to go.
0:42:34 > 0:42:37- Son, did you win? - No, I did it, I got gold, I won it.
0:42:37 > 0:42:41- You won it?- Yeah, I won first prize Agricultural Student Of The Year.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45- He's won it, Sarah.- Oh, well done. - Yeah, I got it.
0:42:45 > 0:42:48All my hard work paid off and everything.
0:42:48 > 0:42:50Oh, I'm crying here.
0:42:51 > 0:42:53This is making me want to succeed.
0:42:53 > 0:42:54I want, when I'm older,
0:42:54 > 0:42:58I want to have a long line of British Farming Awards.
0:42:58 > 0:42:59I want to go for something else now.
0:42:59 > 0:43:02I want to keep doing it, keep getting better.