Maureen Hodges

King Charles III sent a message praising Cumbrian farming families and commemorating the county’s severe losses during the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak 25 years ago. At the sixth Cumbria Farmer Awards at Carlisle Racecourse, farmers and rural organizations celebrated achievements in sustainability, innovation, livestock, and community leadership. Will Cockbain received the Lifetime Achievement Award, while John Hall, Robbie Tuer, the Hetherington family, and the late Nick Utting were among other special-recognition recipients. A charity auction and raffle raised £11,234 for four rural and community charities.

The sixth Cumbria Farmer Awards will be held at Carlisle Racecourse to recognize outstanding farmers, food producers, agricultural businesses, students, new entrants and innovators across the county. Hosted by Adam Day and partnered by David Allen Chartered Accountants, the event marks 25 years of farming coverage and includes awards spanning dairy, livestock, contracting, agri-tech and farm diversification. The ceremony also raises awareness for the Farming Community Network and supports Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, while organizers and judges highlight the resilience and innovation of Cumbria's farming sector amid challenging economic and regulatory conditions.