Finches Farm Welcomes the 47th FWAG National Silver Lapwing Award

On 23 June 2026, against the backdrop of a glorious summer’s day in the English countryside, the FWAG Association celebrated the very best of British farming at an award-winning Hertfordshire farm. Around 80 guests, including farmers, conservationists and industry leaders, attended as the venue hosted one of the country’s most prestigious farming awards.

The coveted Silver Lapwing Award.

The FWAG National Silver Lapwing Award is one of the UK’s longest-running and most respected environmental farming awards. It recognises farmers who go above and beyond to protect and enhance the countryside while running successful commercial businesses. Judges assess how environmental management is integrated across the whole farm, considering habitat creation, species conservation, soil and water management, the efficient use of natural resources, and the protection of the historic landscape.

FWAG East’s Jilly McNaughton talking the attendees through the plethora of invertebrates and aquatic plants on show in Andrew’s pond.

Finches Farm in Benington, Hertfordshire, hosted the 47th FWAG National Silver Lapwing Award, celebrating excellence in sustainable farming and wildlife conservation. Held at the 360-hectare farm of Andrew Bott, winner of the 2025 Silver Lapwing Award, the day began with the award ceremony, followed by a colourful summer lunch. Guests then enjoyed a guided tour of the farm, seeing first-hand the regenerative farming practices and conservation work that earned Finches Farm national recognition.

The tour included visits to and discussions on the farm’s chalk grassland, one of its numerous ponds, ancient hornbeam coppice, in-field agroforestry strips, and the use of Johnson-Su bioreactors to provide a natural source of nutrition within Andrew’s arable rotation. Together, these features demonstrated the harmony between productive farming and wildlife conservation at Finches Farm, reinforcing Andrew’s well-deserved reputation as a leading environmental farmer.

FWAG East’s Bradley Huggett discussing the management of the ancient hornbeam coppice at Finches Farm.

The highlight of the day saw Peter Clifford of Frampton Court Estate, Gloucestershire, announced as this year’s winner. His farm was recognised by the judges for its outstanding commitment to integrating productive farming with habitat restoration, biodiversity enhancement and long-term environmental stewardship.

Located on the banks of the River Severn, Frampton Court Estate impressed the judging panel with its diverse range of habitats, comprising 408 acres of arable land alongside 120 acres of species-rich grassland, 90 acres of woodland, and 100 acres each of developing wood pasture and lakes. Judges Chris Butler, Rebecca Inman, Martin Hole and Jim Egan particularly praised the restoration of several ghost ponds, the management of ancient hay meadows, and the estate’s collaborative approach to improving soil health and biodiversity.

The Winner Peter Clifford, from Frampton Court Estate, alongside his family, neighbouring dairy farmer Ed Spencer with whom he works closely, alongside the judges of this year’s competition.

Accepting the award, Peter Clifford said:

“I’m absolutely delighted and genuinely surprised. It’s a fantastic honour for everyone involved at Frampton Court Estate.”

He also acknowledged neighbouring dairy farmer Ed Spencer, who has worked alongside the estate over the past three years, praising his key role in helping the business:

“…transition to a more regenerative system, improving both soil health and the resilience of our farming business.”

Mr Spencer added:

“It’s great to celebrate some positive stories in farming, and we’re thrilled to have won.”

This year’s finalists included Andy Bason of Newhouse Farm, Louise Bond of Bedingham Hall Farm, the Price family of Long Bank Farm, and Adrian Baugh of Holme Farm.

The Silver Lapwing finalists for 2026.

Judge Martin Hole praised each finalist, stating:

“Every finalist showed how productive farming and nature can thrive together. Their commitment, innovation and resilience were inspiring, and Frampton Court Estate was a worthy winner.”

Together, the finalists showcased the remarkable work taking place across UK agriculture to restore habitats, enhance biodiversity and protect natural resources while continuing to produce high-quality food.

Now in its 47th year, the FWAG National Silver Lapwing Award continues to celebrate farmers who are setting the benchmark for environmental excellence, demonstrating that profitable farming and a healthy natural environment can go hand in hand.

The 2026 award was generously supported by Frontier Agriculture and Land App. Both organisations play an important role in supporting farmers and land managers through their expertise and services. The FWAG Association is delighted to have their support and thanks them for helping to celebrate and recognise excellence in agricultural and environmental management.