Farming Achievements Recognised with Award
Huw Williams of Rhesgoed farm, Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd has scooped the NFU Cymru/St Merryn's Achievement in Farming Award. The award was open to all NFU Cymru members within the county of Clwyd who have made a significant contribution to the success of a farming related venture within the past five years. Receiving a prize of £250 and an engraved crystal goblet, Huw was presented with his award at a ceremony held at the NFU Cymru stand at the National Eisteddfod.
Huw began farming at Rhesgoed in 2003 and has since worked hard to prove that it's still possible to make a success of farming in the modern age. In the past four years Huw has carried out significant environmental improvement work and has opened a farm shop on the premises, but also sells to the public via the Rhesgoed farm shop website and through various local markets. In the future he hopes to expand the farm flock and herd of pedigree stock, and is in the process of developing a nature trail and picnic area in order to open the farm to the public.
Commenting on his award win, Huw Williams said, "Having worked hard for four years building up the farm and shop businesses, I'm very proud to have received this award as recognition of our achievements. Hopefully the next few years will bring us continued success at Rhesgoed."
Mark and Jayne Lewis of Lewis's Farm Shop, Eyton near Wrexham and Meilir Jones of Aberkinsey farm near Dyserth were also shortlisted for the award. The Lewis', who were placed second, run a thriving farm shop which in the last eighteen months has seen sales soar by 300%. They have an in-house butchery and in-house kitchen and are considering further expansion in the future by opening an on site coffee shop.
Third placed Meilir Jones is a young farmer who specialises in breeding pure Charolais and Texel sheep. He has the tenancy of a 300 acre sheep and cattle farm and has also diversified into running a livery and caravan park, adding another stream of income to the farm business. Most recently Meilir was seen on Gordon Ramsay's 'F-Word' programme for Channel 4, where the chef selected two of his lambs to follow from farm to fork, in a bid to educate the public about the origins of their food.
The award was presented by NFU Cymru president Dai Davies. Mr Davies said, "I commend all the applicants who entered the award, and congratulate Huw Williams on his deserved win. The applications were all of exceptional standard and are testament to the hard work and commitment of Welsh farmers."
