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The British Farming Awards 2021 has welcomed a record number of nominations this year as industry professionals, colleagues and peers recognise the innovative work being done on farms from all sectors throughout Britain.

Sixty individuals will now battle it out for the 15 categories up for grabs which highlight the diversity and diligence of UK agriculture.

Alongside farming's core sectors including dairy, beef, sheep, arable and machinery, there is also a celebration of new entrants coming into the industry, the wealth of diversification businesses and family farms and recognition to the evolving presence of agri technology within agriculture.

New to this year is the Sustainability Innovator of the Year award, which has seen outstanding entries from dedicated farmers whose passion for enhancing and protecting the environment are commendable.

A further two awards - Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture and ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Guardian Farming Hero - will be announced during the awards evening which will be held on Thursday, October 21 at the National Conference Centre, Birmingham.

Organised by AgriBriefing, parent company of ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Guardian, Arable Farming and Dairy Farmer, the British Farming Awards is supported by Morrisons.

Innovation

Now entering its ninth year, the British Farming Awards is a nationally recognised event which has celebrated, showcased and rewarded hundreds of British farmers who have successfully introduced innovation to drive their business forward, despite ever-increasing challenges.

Recognised as a year like no other, 2020 reminded the whole country of the role British farmers play in keeping the country fed and protecting the countryside, which now millions enjoy more than ever. The importance of food provenance and appreciation of local producers with a trust in farmers at an all time high, this year's event is more poignant than ever.

Sophie Throup, Head of Agriculture, Fisheries and Sustainable Sourcing at Morrisons, said the awards was a welcome reminder of the dedication and hard work demonstrated by UK farmers all year round.

She said: "In these unprecedented times, we would like to thank and celebrate the work of British farmers and growers who are helping to feed the nation.

"At Morrisons, we have always valued British farming and the effort, innovation and skills which go into providing food farmed to the high standards that we all enjoy and is something we should be proud of."

Meet our finalists

To find out who made it onto the 2021 shortlist visit www.britishfarmingawards.co.uk