A MAN made redundant three years ago is now in the running for an award after setting up his own farming services business.

Colin Warne was made redundant from Countrywide Farmers (CWF) after 31 years, but overnight set up his own ‘middle man’ business Colin Warne Farming (CWF!).

While Countrywide has since ceased Colin’s business has gone from strength to strength – despite the uncertainty in the industry at present.

Colin, based at Belmont, sources and supplies all types of farming needs – feed, seed, fuel, animal health products, fertilisers.

His customers mainly come from Herefordshire but he also has people ringing him from Bridgenorth, the Welsh borders and, just recently, someone from Portsmouth who had been let down at the last minute and needed his help finding bean seed.

Colin says he offers ‘legwork, advice, guidance and a friendly voice at the end of the phone.’

And that friendly voice has become more important during the Covid crisis.

‘Everything has gone very quiet. There is a not a lot of confidence and things have been getting a bit hand to mouth.

“No-one knows what the markets and prices at going to be like. People are making decisions on the spur of the moment.

“These are strange times. No-one has a crystal ball to look forward.

“I try to be an honest broker and try to look after everyone.’

The Three Counties Farming Awards highlight best practice and outstanding work in the farming industry.

To nominate someone just go to www.herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/ and fill in the online form.

Entries close on September 18. Categories are: Sheep Farmer Award; Farm Conservation; Cattle Farmer; Family Run Farm; Pig Farmer; Young Farmer (under 25); Poultry Farmer; Farming Hero; Arable Farmer; Farming Contractor; Fruit/Hop Farmer; Outstanding Achievement.

This year’s awards ceremony takes place in November in the form of a digital live broadcast and includes a star-studded array of stars either hosting or dropping in with special messages.