Lancashire farm named 'Family Farming Business of the Year'

A Lancashire farm was named ‘Family Farming Business of the Year’ at the 2025 British Farm Awards.

At Lane Side Farm in Lancashire, the Coar and Walker family run a sustainable mixed beef and sheep enterprise.

The fam has 1,000 Logie x Aberfield ewes lamb outdoors on a grass-based system, prioritising easy lambing and strong maternal traits.

The 50-strong pedigree Hereford herd, celebrated with a milestone production sale, reflects a focus on structure, longevity, and consistency.

A three-generation partnership, Stephen and Lizzie Walker lead breeding, livestock management, and marketing, while parents and children contribute.

Innovations like outdoor lambing and pedigree Herefords have improved welfare, reduced costs, and enhanced resilience.

Judges were impressed at how they balance tradition and innovation, the family secures a sustainable future for the farm and industry.

A spokesman for the farm said: “We’re just shocked, never in a month of Sunday’s did we think we’d win.

“It’s the best and most important industry in the world so this is very humbling.

“It’s good to let our hair down and celebrate with fellow farmers.”

For 13 years the British Farming Awards has put the spotlight on the best in British farming.

During this annual event Britain’s farming industry comes together to celebrate the achievements of its contemporaries.

Pioneering farmers and industry professionals across all sectors were highlighted through 19 categories such as technology, science, food production and sustainability.