A FAMILY farm made up of the “most positive and fabulous ambassadors” for the industry has been nominated for this year’s Farming Awards.

Woodfields Farm, near Ledbury, was described as a “very close- knit family affair” by nominator Katherine Cripps.

A pedigree Clenchers herd was introduced in 1976 when Jim and Sheila Hitchon took over the running of the family business. They now have help from one of their twin daughters, Sarah.

Ms Cripps said: “One of the twin daughters, Shirley, is an agricultural tax adviser, but the other sister, Sarah, is very much a significant part of their succession plans.

“They really support the dairy sector, having worked with local dairy Cotteswold to whom they supply their milk.

“With definite plans to continue and thrive for the future, they have invested significantly over the past few years in new buildings, farm facilities and robots which makes a big difference, especially to the intensive labour that is needed on a dairy farm.

“A very close-knit family affair, Jim’s wife Sheila also has a fabulous cake-making business that is also based at the farm, and their young grandchildren are mad about farming too.

“They have encouraged the farm to be used for many educational farm visits and are always happy to show people around and encourage the next generation.

“I have known them for over 10 years and they are the most positive and fabulous ambassadors – true farming heroes.”

lTo nominate someone for an award visit herefordtimes.com/awards/ tcf