THIS YEAR’S edition of the Young British Farming Awards celebrated remarkable achievements from rising stars in British agriculture. Held at Cannon Hall Farm on Saturday, 13 September 2025, the ceremony brought together young farmers whose passion, innovation, and dedication are shaping the industry’s future.
Supported by Massey Feeds, Harpers Feeds, Lantra, and Brooksby College, the awards honour the next generation of agricultural trailblazers — encouraging growth, resilience, and excellence across the farming community.
The event, hosted by farmer and content creator Tom Pemberton, featured guest judges including Charlotte Ashley and Rebecca Wilson. In a nod to the awards’ evolution, four new categories were introduced in 2025. These recognise not only traditional roles such as “Young Farm Worker” and “Young Handler” (Junior and Senior), but also broader contributions to rural communities — including “Young Farmers Club Community Hero,” “Young Farmers Club Leader,” and “The Kaleb Cooper New Entrant of the Year.” Kaleb Cooper himself introduced the final category, designed to encourage newcomers to agriculture, commenting on the importance of creating pathways for those outside traditional farming families.
Eight deserving winners were celebrated at the ceremony, each selected from a shortlist of outstanding finalists. Among them:
Young Farming Hero – Sam Hale (Hertfordshire)
Just 14 years old, Sam captures hearts with his blend of practical farming, family-run enterprise, and public advocacy. Alongside managing his own flock and supporting on-farm butchery diversification, he has shone in public engagement, questioning MPs at NFU meet-ups on issues such as fly-tipping and taxation (IHT, SFI). The judging panel praised his impassioned advocacy, noting he is “clearly beyond his years” and giving young farmers a vital voice.
Young Handler (Junior) – Jack Darke (Devon)
At only 7, Jack is the youngest finalist of this year’s awards and excels in animal handling. Notable achievements include Champion Junior Handler at Royal Cornwall and success in cattle ring judging. Judges applauded his confidence and aptitude with both sheep and cattle and highlighted his presence in the show ring
as immensely promising. Young Handler (Senior) – Elliw Grug Davies
(Ceredigion)
Having won Junior Young
Handler of the Year in 2024, Elliw upped her game this year. Now 11, she claimed top honours in the Intermediate Beef Championship and cattle handling categories at the Royal Devon County Show. Judges commended her composed showmanship and high-quality livestock handling — skills that inspire and raise the bar for peers.
Kaleb Cooper New Entrant of the Year – Robert Craddock (Worcestershire)
Robert embodies the spirit of the new entrant award. Starting with a few hens after his family moved home, he now operates a thriving egg business and has raised pigs and lambs — even contracting with an abattoir at 12 years old. Kaleb noted Robert’s initiative, passion, and self-reliance as hallmarks of a standout
young farmer.
Young Farm Worker of the
Year – Ashleigh Campbell (Sutherland)
Ashleigh’s dedication to rural life is evidenced through her family croft work and local farm apprenticeships in Durness. At 17, she’s learning essential skills such as shearing and is continuously commended for her eagerness, resilience, and passion for growth.
Young Farmers Club Community Hero – Joe Hilyer (Netherseal YFC, Derbyshire)
Joe’s commitment to club and community service sets him apart. Whether organising churchyard clean- ups, charity fundraising, or first aid training, he epitomises rural leadership and altruism. Judges praised his integrity and drive to positively influence others.
Young Farmers Club Leader – Sophia Tibbs (Spalding YFC, Lincolnshire)
Though not working in the
agricultural industry, Sophia leads with remarkable spirit and compassion. As club secretary, she’s organisationally central and a firm believer that “you don’t have to be a farmer to be a great YFC leader.” Her nomination highlighted adaptability and a deep sense of inclusivity.
Young Farmers Club of the Year – Strathearn JAC (Perthshire)
Strathearn JAC was celebrated for igniting community-wide agricultural involvement. With over £5,000 raised for local charities, stellar performance at district shows and the Royal Highland, and a growing member base beyond traditional farms, their motto “Not just for those who wear wellies” rings truer than ever.
Looking Ahead
The Young British Farming Awards 2025 not only honoured individual excellence but reinforced
the collective future of UK agriculture. Judges, sponsors, and peers all aligned in believing these young awardees are the stewards of tomorrow’s fields.
Robert Craddock, the Kaleb Cooper New Entrant winner, said: “It feels amazing to win. I think it gives people a lot of confidence.” Similarly, Sam Hale reflected on the deeper meaning behind his title: “I’m very proud to be a farmer… I see it as my future.”
From inspirational handlers and hands-on young heroes, to visionary community leaders and passionate newcomers, the awards have once again spotlighted the tireless work and promise nurturing British farming. As the applause settles and trophies are displayed, one thing is clear — the future of British agriculture is in capable, enthusiastic hands.
