An East Lancashire farmer is in the running for a top industry award for the care he provides to his herd.
The finalists have been revealed for the 2024 British Farming Awards, which over the past 12 years have honoured the hard-working people who put food on our plates.
Up for an award is Harry Roper, of Ribble Valley-based E Roper & Son, who has been shortlisted for Dairy Farmer of the Year.
Mr Roper has been a partner of his family farm since he took over its running 10 years ago, and since he joined its milk production has risen significantly, while it has also reduced its carbon footprint.
When he joined at Lyme House Farm in Thornley-with-Wheatley it was lambing 400 sheep and milking 120 cows.
Since 2014, he has invested in new machinery to keep everything in-house, and he has built a new rapid exit parlour which has boosted milk yields and helps his team manage their time better.
Today the farm milks 470 cows twice a day, with the milk sold through Arla cooperative on a contract with Tesco.
Mr Roper works with an independent nutritionist to create a specialised feed including whole-crop, ground maize and grass to provide the herd with the best diet he can.
When cows leave the parlour they walk through a special footbath containing a copper sulphate solution which has led to a big drop in lameness and dermatitis, with Mr Roper passionate about his herd’s health.
He has also put a strong focus on the farm’s sustainability to protect the longevity of the industry in the UK.
In 2020 he invested in the neighbouring Knott Farm and acquired 220 acres nearby to grow and harvest his own maize and move the herd to a more forage-based diet, reducing the farm’s carbon impact.
Mr Roper has also planted 50 acres of trees across his farm to help reduce emissions further.
He is up against Welsh farmer Emyr Bowen, Winchester’s Oliver Neagle, and Tom and Karen Halton of Congleton, for the award.
The British Farming Awards said the finalists were selected “because they are excelling in their field”, with judges looking for those exploring new ideas, championing sustainability, and using technology to improve their businesses.
The winner will be announced at the British Farming Awards’ ceremony which takes place on October 17 at The VOX Conference Venue in Birmingham.
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