THE Terry family of Upper Hollowfields Farm, Hanbury, near Droitwich, has beaten tough competition to secure the top spot in the regional round of Natural England’s Future of Farming awards 2008.

Michael, Janette and Jo Terry’s farm was chosen as the winner, because of their hard work and determination over a number of years. The Terrys have demonstrated effective and sympathetic land management resulting in great benefits for many species found on their farm – they have even created a wildflower meadow using an unusual method of spreading seeds collected from a local site of special scientific interest.

Upper Hollowfields Farm is now home to many species as a result of their management including lapwing, curlew, skylark, lesser spotted woodpecker, yellowhammer and the brown hairstreak butterfly.

The family is also keen to show off the wildlife and farm’s historic features, which include traditional ridge and furrow fields, the site of a Roman road and traditional orchards through the educational access element of their higher level stewardship scheme. This access encourages groups of people to learn about the environment and have the opportunity to experience the farm in hands on way.

The Terrys said: “To win this award was totally unexpected and we will be celebrating. The benefits of stewardship have been terrific for conservation on the farm. We have been lucky to work with so many people who are passionate about wildlife.”

Roger Owen, regional operations manager of Natural England, the chairman of the judging panel, said: “The Terry’s enthusiastic approach and great sense of pride in their achievements was clear to see. Their innovative approach in providing access to and interpretation of their farm to such a diverse range of people from walking groups, local schools, photographers and artists as well as the work undertaken with nature conservation groups was hugely impressive.

“This, combined with the excellent land management techniques displayed in relation to the maintenance of hedgerows, grassland, the historic environment and the restoration of orchards, clearly showed that they had an understanding of effective land management, combined with empathy for habitat and species needs.

“Upper Hollowfields Farm also showed how an effective higher level stewardship scheme can be deployed to benefit nature while working alongside a productive farm.”

The Terrys will now go forward to the next round of judging which will decide the national winner of the Future of Farming awards at Ragley Hall, Alcester, on November 19.