Efforts by farmers to drive their business forward have been rewarded by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

The winners of this year's Tomorrow's Farmer award and a cash prize are Ean and Jo Parsons of Baljean Farm in Laxey. A special award for a young farmer was given to Alan Teare and Rachel Ranson of Ballakelly Farm in Andreas.

John Speakman, a senior buyer with Shoprite and one of the judges, said: 'Manx- produced food is important to our business and our customers and it is reassuring to know that there is a strong commitment to the industry’s future. As a judge, I was particularly impressed by the innovation and determination to succeed showed by these committed, forward-looking, commercially driven young people in the industry.'

Agriculture Minister Richard Ronan added: 'It’s important for the future of the economy and the environment that farmers are encouraged to look to the future, adapt and diversify.'

Judges and winners, pictured left to right, are DEFA Minister Richard Ronan, Daniel Christian, Ean Parsons, John Speakman, Alan Teare, Stuart Howard and Chris Kneale.

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