FOR more than 90 years young people wishing to learn more about dairy farming have received a grant set up by United Dairies in 1925.

This year the five finalists were interviewed at Crediton Dairy on Church Lane, the winner being Jack Elworthy from Golant in Cornwall.

The judges said how hard it had been to choose only one. Saying how proud he was to receive the award, Jack said it would allow him to concentrate on his university work instead of working full-time during the holidays.

He is in his final year at Harper Adams University in Shropshire. Jack added: “As a new entrant into dairy farming, I have come a long way from my first day on the farm aged 14.” He hopes to start his career in farm management after graduating.

“One day I will become a share milker, giving me the opportunity to manage my own business. I hope that by winning this award it will show others that you can have success in the agricultural industry without coming from a farming background. Although I have a great amount still to learn I feel eternally grateful to those who have supported me.”

The other finalists were: James Gould from Whimple, Devon, Mike Powell and Jessica Nurse from Somerset and Anna Macpherson from Dorset.

The awards are made to students from the South Western counties of Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset studying dairy industry-related subjects.

A cheque for £2,000 was presented by Richard Kallaway, chairman of the fund. “We are very proud that the West Country Dairy Awards provide some funding to all qualifying applicants every year.

“This year with help from our generous sponsors we have given more than £20,000, a record, to 32 successful applicants, the highest number for six years,” said Richard.

When Jack started working at a neighbouring farm to earn some pocket money at the weekends he would cycle there at 4am.

After A levels at Truro he travelled abroad to gain more farming experience which included on a 5,000 acre farm in Australia.

He has completed two years at Harper Adams following a Velcourt Scholarship Award and is now on a placement at Ilchester Estates, Dorset, before returning to Harper Adams for his final year.

Students of all ages undertaking further education courses relating to dairying are eligible to apply for the award. To find out more or for an application form please contact the administrator, Donna Evans, email: [email protected] or telephone 01823 680968.

Sue Read