Jonathan Powell, Agribusiness Relationship Manager for Clydesdale Bank, has been nominated, along with his wife Ruth, for Farmer of the Year in the Taste of Gloucestershire Food and Farming awards.

The awards, which are in their fifth year, take place on Tuesday 20th October at The Centaur, Cheltenham Race Course. They celebrate the cream of the crop in Gloucestershire food and farming.

Jonathan and his wife Ruth run the 150 acre Red House Farm in Cheltenham. They first rented the farm in 2006 where they manage a flock of sheep and small herd of Gloucester Cattle.

The Farmer of the Year category recognises those who have shown vision in developing their business to meet the requirements of the market. Jonathan and Ruth diversified their farm by adding a campsite in 2012 which operates during the summer months. This has increased the farm’s revenue as well as adding an interesting new angle to the business.

Jonathan grew up on a farm before studying agriculture at university and has always worked in the sector. He joined Clydesdale Bank in 2003 as an Agribusiness Manager and now works closely with businesses in the Gloucestershire and Herefordshire area to help them reach their growth ambitions.

Jonathan’s experience running the farm alongside Ruth gives him a strong insight into the challenges faced by family businesses, which has been crucial to his role with Clydesdale Bank.

Jonathan said: “Working on the farm has given me first-hand experience of the issues and opportunities faced by the sector. It is clear to me efficiency and diversification can help agricultural businesses thrive.

“At Clydesdale Bank, we are confident in the progress and innovation demonstrated by the farming industry and fully support these businesses’ growth ambitions.”

Jonathan and Ruth are eagerly anticipating the results of the awards, believing a win would demonstrate just how much progress their farm has made over the last few years.

David Hannon, Head of Agribusiness for Clydesdale Bank, said: “At Clydesdale Bank we are focussed on having a deep understanding of the opportunities and issues faced by the different sectors we work with. Having experienced and dedicated staff, like Jonathan, who has spent his entire life immersed in the agriculture industry, helps us deliver on that commitment. We wish Jonathan and Ruth every bit of luck for the awards on Tuesday.”