HEREFORDSHIRE’S award-winning Home Farm – 2013’s Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – will open its gates to the public on Sunday (June 8) as part of Open Farm Sunday.

The Welsh Bicknor farm scooped last year’s prize – which recognises efforts to conserve and enhance the beauty of an area – and entrees are now being accepted for the 2014 competition.

“We just want to hear about those examples of great farming practice that enhance the landscape,” said Andrew Nixon, Wye Valley AONB development officer.

“Farms can be nominated for all sorts of reasons, they may demonstrate excellent examples of building restoration or conservation of drystone walls, care for wildlife habitats or conserve rare breeds or contribute to community life.”

Those looking to check out the gold standard, or just enjoy the Herefordshire countryside, will be able to take a 2.5-mile walk around Home Farm, on the Courtfield Estate.

The winning farm in 2014 will collect £400 in prize money – with cash prizes also awarded to second and third spots – and the farm award trophy made by local sculptor Steve Bluett.

The deadline for nominations is July 11 and the winner will be announced at the Monmouthshire Show on August 28.

Nominations need to be written up on a single side of A4 paper, explaining the special contribution the farm has made and including your name, address, telephone and email details, and sent to AONB Farming Awards, FREEPOST SWC 4106, MonmouthNP25 3ZZ.