Two rising young farmers in Somerset have been recognised for their passion and potential in shaping the future of UK agriculture.
Holly Sampson and Jack Tolman, both students at UCS College Group, were awarded Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursaries to support their studies and ambitions within the farming industry.
Ms Sampson, a first-year agriculture student at University Centre Somerset, received a £750 higher education bursary.
She grew up on a mixed beef and sheep farm and is committed to keeping farming productive and profitable while adapting to climate change, policy shifts, and sustainability demands.
She said: "The future of UK agriculture is entering a period of profound change, and I’m beginning to understand how science, technology and policy can shape a more sustainable and productive future for British farming.
"I hope to combine my farming experience with what I learn at university, returning home with ideas that can make our farm more resilient, efficient, sustainable and profitable."
Mr Tolman, who is studying a Level Two course in Agriculture at Cannington College, received a £500 further education bursary.
He grew up on a mixed farm and has been passionate about farming from a young age, with aspirations to help secure the future of his family’s farm.
He said: "I have loved farming since I was a small child.
"I was always in the tractor with my grandad learning, and I want to make him proud and keep everything he and his family have worked for.
"With the world changing and British farms struggling, I want to learn as much as I can to make our family farm more sustainable for many more generations."
Now in its fifth year, the Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursaries offer financial support to agricultural students across the South West.
Peter Beaumont, chief executive officer of Cornish Mutual, said: "Celebrating the young people who are passionate about the future of farming is essential.
"Jack and Holly both showed real insight, ambition and a clear commitment to developing the skills needed to support the farming industry through change."
The Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursaries are part of the Future Farming Programme, which supports the future of agriculture in the region.
More information about the scheme is available at the Cornish Mutual website.
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