After months of anticipation the South West Farmer Awards 2017 took place at Somerset County Cricket Ground tonight.

The best in farming from all over the South West gathered together to find out who had won the prestigious awards in their category.

Compere Rob Venner introduced the awards saying that there were so many nominees that they couldn’t possibly be fitted into the final selections.

First up was young farmer of the year sponsored by Coodes Solicitor which was won by Sam Bullingham.

Sustainable farmer of the year sponsored by Natural Generation was won by Fionagh and Richard Harding from Norton Barton Farm.

Family run farm of the year sponsored by Mole Valley was won by the Gibson family.

After a break for a delicious three course meal provided by Somerset Cricket Club it was on to the remainder of the evening.

First up was the innovation award sponsored by Old Mill.

A tough category which was won by Andy and Jenni Guy.

Dairy farmer of the year sponsored by Omex was won by Gordon Davis of Westcott Farm.

Beef farmer of the year was won by James Kittow of Kilhallon Farm.

Sheep farmer of the year was won by Peregrine Aubrey.

Farm manager of the year went to James Coumbe.

There were so many commendable nominees this year that it was decided to add a few special recognition awards. The first went to Nancy Dart for her impressive commitment, love and passion in all things family and farm and for his fabulous contributions to the community and environmental considerations the other went to John Walter Symons.

The evening took a more sombre and emotional turn as a special recognition award was presented to the family of Derek Mead, a passionate advocate of British farming and agriculture who sadly lost his life in a tragic farming accident this year.

The outstanding achievement award sponsored by Cornish Mutual went to an emotional Fionagh and Richard Harding.

Well done to all our nominees and look forward to seeing you all next year.

Full coverage in the next edition of South West Farmer