Aberystwyth student wins dairy prize

Aberystwyth University student Owen Ashton has won this year’s RABDF/Dairy Crest award.

Mr Ashton, from Navan, Co Meath, was the only competitor not to hail from a farming background, and beat three other finalists to claim the title in what was called a “close” final round by judges.

The preliminary round took place last month at Reaseheath College, where a panel of judges questioned 11 shortlisted applicants on how a dairy farm could make room financially for the next generation.

Six then went through to the next round, where they were asked to make a presentation on the disadvantages and advantages of British dairy farmers compared to their competitors.

The four finalists then had to make a formal presentation in London on how they would further their career in dairy and what obstacles they may face.

Debating alongside other finalists Mr Ashton said the biggest obstacle facing new entrants like himself was the single farm payment.

“SFP prices young people out of the market,” he said.

But he was optimistic about the future and said he saw share farming as a positive step on to the ladder, adding: “Everyone says I can’t, but there’s no such thing.”

RABDF treasurer and joint judge Andrew Snodgrass said the caliber of finalists had been brilliant and it had been the closest call in his four years as a judge. “Anyone of them could have been a winner.”

However, he said Mr Ashton’s “drive, determination and focus” had really impressed him and he predicted a bright future for the winner, adding: “For someone who isn’t from a farming background I think he will end up a very successful dairy farmer.”

Mr Ashton, who “got the bug” helping out on his uncle’s farm in Wrexham, already has a job as a dairy farm manager when he graduates with a BSc Hons in agriculture in May.

“It was a brilliant opportunity and I didn’t think I would get this far, let alone win it, ” said Mr Ashton.

He plans to spend his £1,000 prize money on three heifer calves, which will help him on his way to building up his own stock.

Runners-up were Louise Hartley of Newcastle University, Helen Machin of Reaseheath College and James Purcell of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE).