Blur guitarist Alex James presents organic farmer with top award

AN ORGANIC farmer from Kirton has been named Farmer of the Year at a prestigious national awards ceremony.

Andrew Dennis of Woodlands Organic Farm received his accolade from Blur guitarist Alex James at the 10th annual BBC Radio 4 Food and Farming Awards ceremony.

Held at Broadcasting House in London the event was attended by Prince Charles and his wife Camilla.

Andrew told the Target he was delighted to win the award, but stressed he was "accepting it on behalf of everyone at Woodlands who has worked so hard".

He said: "It is very satisfying that our work and vision for Woodlands has been recognised in this way.

"It is particularly gratifying to win this award as it is nominated by members of the public and it is satisfying to know what we are doing is appreciated."

Andrew is the fourth generation of his family to run the farm, which covers 690 hectares.

It is classed as a mixed farm with a herd of Lincoln Red cattle, Lincoln Longwool sheep, curly-coat pigs, rare breed turkeys and chickens and produces a wide range of organic vegetables.

Since 2000 the farm has run an organic vegetable box scheme which delivers to hundreds of homes in the area.

It also holds school visits, open days and has an active arts programme.

An awards spokesman said: "Andrew's driving principle is to reconnect people to the source of their food and his organic box scheme is proving to be a recession buster.

"He has reintroduced local rare breeds to his farm and demonstrates his passion for educating people about farming by encouraging schools to visit."