CLA to present top Kent conservation award on free farm walk this summer
Walk and supper to be hosted by current winner, Watts Farms, a family-run business producing 60 different crops
A top award honouring conservation efforts in Kent is to be presented on a farm walk this summer.
The Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which represents hundreds of farmers, landowners and rural businesses across the county, will present the Emsden Trophy on Thursday, 11 July.
The awards presentation and drinks reception will be hosted in Farningham by the current winner, Watts Farms, a family-run business producing more than 60 different crops.
The recipient will once again be nominated by Kent Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG), with the event running from 4pm to 7.15pm and supported by BTF Partnership.
'Celebrating their work'
CLA South East Regional Director Tim Bamford said: “We are always thrilled to recognise the conservation and environmental efforts of farmers in Kent, and this year is no different.
“Farmers and landowners across the Garden of England are custodians of the landscape, as well as helping to feeding the nation, and we’re proud to celebrate their work in this small way.
“We’re also pleased to be visiting Watts Farms, to see first-hand the impressive work they do, and I thank them for hosting the farm walk and presentation.”
Last year head of technical and operations Caroline Ayears-Johnson and the Watts team were praised for their work supporting farmland birds and rare plant species, including the Deptford pink. They farm over 600 hectares, growing dozens of varieties of vegetables, fruits, salads and herbs from asparagus to mint, supplying over 500 restaurants as well major retailers and the NHS.
The trophy is awarded in memory of Brigadier Brian Emsden, the Kent and Sussex CLA Regional Secretary in the 1980s who died of cancer in post. He was very keen on wildlife and conservation, hence the award in his memory.
Tickets for the walk, drinks reception and light supper are free but must be booked in advance.
Book here, call 01264 358 195 or email mike.sims@cla.org.uk
Media are also welcome to attend. Please email mike.sims@cla.org.uk for more information.