The Scottish Agriculture Awards returned in spectacular fashion tonight (Thursday, 24th October), with over 500 attendees gathering to celebrate the sector’s most innovative and forward-thinking businesses and individuals.
Organised by AgriScot, RHASS (the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland), and The Scottish Farmer, the ceremony celebrated achievements across 17 prestigious categories. Among the new additions for 2024 were Mixed Farm of the Year, Contractor of the Year, and Farming’s Future Award. These joined established favourites like Adviser of the Year, Machinery Dealer of the Year, Supplier of the Year, Best Agroforestry Award, Unsung Hero, and the highly anticipated Farm of the Year awards.
The event was once again hosted by popular rural influencer Cammy Wilson of The Sheep Game, who entertained the audience throughout a memorable evening dedicated to recognising the sector’s most outstanding figures.
Proceedings began with the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to veteran journalist and editor Eddie Gillanders, in recognition of his lifelong impact on Scottish agricultural journalism spanning over 60 years, and the inspiration he has provided to both peers and readers.
Sandy Paul was presented with Shearwell Data’s Unsung Hero Award, who recently retired after 46 years of service with the Ross family of Strichen Mains. Employed in all aspects of the business before latterly taking on the role of lorry driver, Sandy’s dedication, knowledge and skill as a haulier was commended.
Robert Forrest Ltd, a family-run beef, sheep, and arable business, claimed the inaugural Mixed Farm of the Year accolade, sponsored by Thorntons, while James Hamilton was honoured with NFU Scotland’s Farming’s Future Award for his outstanding commitment to personal and professional growth, as well as his wider industry contributions.
The evening culminated in the crowning of Champion of Champions, sponsored by ScottishPower Renewables, which was awarded to W Murray (Farming) Ltd, the winner of Contractor of the Year. The judges commended the business for its outstanding customer service and strong commitment to sustainability, both of which are vital to the success of their clients’ operations and the future of farming.
AgriScot Chairman Robert Neill welcomed guests and said:
“The Scottish Agriculture Awards have once again shone a spotlight on the outstanding skill, innovation and resilience that defines our industry. But beyond the accolades, these awards provide a unique platform for sharing expertise, inspiring future leaders, and celebrating the remarkable contributions being made across the sector. I would like to congratulate all finalists as we collectively celebrate the strength and vibrancy of Scottish farming, and thanks all those who nominated, sponsored and supported the event. We are looking forward to continuing the celebrations on 13th November at AgriScot.”
James Logan, the Chairman of RHASS, said:
“As Chair of RHASS, attending this year’s awards was a truly rewarding experience, especially after such a challenging harvest. It was heartening to see so many individuals from across the industry come together to celebrate remarkable achievements. These recognitions represent the culmination of hard work, perseverance, and dedication, all made even more meaningful by the acknowledgement from peers within the sector. There are so many inspiring things happening across the sector, from the evolution of farming practices to the diversification of farmland, which is why this year’s award nominees and winners should be immensely proud of their achievements. Not only are they leading the way in demonstrating best practice in their fields, but they are supporting the future of Scotland’s agriculture community and inspiring the next generation of farmers and agricultural employees. We hope their stories inspire even more amazing entries and nominees for next year’s awards.”
John Sleigh, Editor of the Scottish Farmer, opened the evening:
“As an industry, we need nights like this to celebrate those who are doing an exceptional job. Personally, I’m particularly delighted because, in the paper, we must call out everything – the good, the bad, and the ugly. This evening provides the necessary balance, allowing us to highlight all the great work being done in Scottish agriculture. What strikes me most about our finalists this year is their ability to see opportunity where others only see challenges. This is something we shouldn’t shy away from, as change is the one certainty we face. Our finalists have embraced change and built resilient businesses fit for the 21st century.”
Launched in 2023 by AgriScot, RHASS, and The Scottish Farmer, the Scottish Agriculture Awards were created to consolidate various sector awards into a single, premier event that celebrates the best of Scottish agriculture. This complements individual awards presented at both the Royal Highland Show in June and AgriScot in November.
The 2024 ceremony, held at the larger DoubleTree Hilton venue in Glasgow, included a three-course meal showcasing some of the finest Scottish ingredients and live music. Winners of the Farm of the Year awards will also be recognised at AgriScot on 13th November, where they will receive their coveted plaques.
WINNERS:
Adviser of the Year presented by The Scottish Farmer
Craig Bothwell, SAC Consulting
Animal Health Provider of the Year presented by The Herald
Thrums Veterinary Group
Arable Farm of the Year sponsored by soilessentials
Over Rankeilour Farms
Best Agroforestry Award presented by The Forestry Journal
The Woolly Pig Company – The future forest company at Brodoclea Farm Woodland
Contractor of the Year Award presented by RSABI
W Murray (Farming) Ltd
Dairy Farm of the Year Award sponsored by GEA
J D Baillie and Sons, Crumhaugh Farm
Diversified Farm of the Year sponsored by SAC Consulting
Marshall’s Farm Shop
Farming’s Future Awards sponsored by NFU Scotland
James Hamilton
Machinery Dealer of the Year presented by AgriScot
AB Wight Engineering
Mixed Farm of the Year sponsored by Thorntons
Robert Forrest Ltd, Preston Farm
Scotch Beef Farm of the Year sponsored by ABP
Corskie Farm
Sheep Farm of the Year sponsored by Rumenco
Smailholm Mains Farm
Supplier of the Year presented by RHASS
Thorburn Group
Sustainable Farm of the Year sponsored by Virgin Money
Lower Mill of Tynet Farm
Unsung Hero of the Year sponsored by Shearwell Data
Sandy Paul
Champion of Champions 2024 sponsored by ScottishPower Renewables
W Murray (Farming) Ltd
Lifetime Achievement Award 2024
Eddie Gillanders