We're honoured that Dr Johnny Wake has been shortlisted in a prestigious national farming award.

He is one of four finalists for the Sustainable Farmer of the Year in this year’s British Farming Awards. The award is sponsored by NSF.

The awards, which have been running for 12 years, are sponsored by Morrisons and organised by Farmers Guardian, celebrate excellence in the rural sector.

There have been a record number of entries this year for categories which include technology, science, food production and sustainability.  A further two special recognition awards will be announced on the night. The black-tie event is attended by 800 farmers and industry professionals from across the UK.

Dr Wake gave up his full-time job as a doctor eleven years ago to take over the running of Courteenhall and evolve it from being a business based around arable farming and residential property to one on a much more diverse and sustainable footing.

During that time, Johnny and the Courteenhall team have taken on board a number of new climate friendly farming practices to help secure a sustainable future now and for generations to come.

This has included building a wide variety of diverse and sustainable practices across the Estate’s farming activities, including investing in cutting-edge technology, increasing biodiversity and a dedication to soil health to maximise use of natural fertilisers. Traditional Hereford cattle and Rare Breed sheep have also been introduced to the land.

Dr Wake, Managing Partner of Courteenhall Farms, whose family have been farming at Courteenhall for over 350 years, said: “It’s exciting to be recognised for all the effort we are making to farm sustainably.”

“We’re a family-run business committed to farming as sustainably as possible, working with and protecting the environment, and pushing the boundaries so we can be at the vanguard of positive change.

“We have a long and proud legacy to preserve, and we’re passionate about supporting the local community and protecting the environment for future generations.”

The winner will be announced at an awards evening on Thursday, October 17 at The Vox Conference Centre in Birmingham.

Last year Dr Wake won the prestigious Bledisloe Gold Medal for Landowners.

* Find out more information about the awards here.