A POULTRY farmer’s “dedication and desire to improve all aspects of the business” has seen him nominated for this year’s Three Counties Food and Farming Awards.

Penrhos Poultry, near Lyonshall in north Herefordshire, uses technology to improve efficiency as it provides chickens to industry giant Avara Foods, which has a factory in Hereford.

Lee Baxter, who manages the business, has been nominated for the Poultry Farmer Award by Penrhos Farm owner Richard Williams.

Hereford Times:

“Lee should be considered for poultry farmer of the year for his dedication and desire to improve all aspects of the business,” said Mr Williams.

“During the lockdowns and restrictions with bird flu in place, Lee has carried out the management of the poultry site without hesitation and in a very organised and professional manner.

“Bird welfare has always come first in any decision that has been made, and Lee is very passionate about his role and undertakes all tasks with the utmost care and attention to detail.”

He continued: “As a contract grower to Avara Foods, the marketing is beyond our control, but profitability on farm is closely monitored and influenced by material costs, particularly more recently with spiralling energy costs and the cost of raw feed materials.

“By ensuring the birds are growing as efficiently as possible, by monitoring performance, ensuring the best standard of health and welfare and following strict hygiene protocols that are in place, this can enable the business to keep costs as low as practical while still producing a quality product which is still relatively cheap in the supermarket, which is what the consumer requires.”

How to enter

Entries are now open for the Royal Three Counties Show-backed awards, which take place at the Three Counties Showground on June 15, so if you or anyone you know merits recognition for dedication, professionalism or innovation, visit herefordtimes.com/awards/foodandfarming and complete the online form to make a nomination.

Award categories

  • Cattle Farmer
  • Poultry Farmer
  • Arable/Fruit Farmer of the Year
  • Hop Farmer of the Year
  • Family-run farm or Smallholding
  • Farm Conservation & Diversification
  • Best Farm Shop
  • Best Dairy Producer
  • Best Food Producer (exc dairy)
  • Best Drinks Producer
  • Best Butchers
  • Best Bakery
  • Chef of the Year