Former AHDB Beef Lamb Chairman awarded prestigious Royal Smithfield Club prize

John, who farms in Norfolk, was presented with the Bicentenary Trophy by the Royal Smithfield Club for his outstanding contributions to the livestock sector. He received the trophy from former Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) Chairman, Donald Biggar, at the annual Smithfield Club Dinner.

Every year over 20 outstanding candidates, deemed to have made a significant contribution to the UK meat industry, are considered for the honour by the Royal Smithfield Club selection panel.

His award recognised his various achievements in the industry, which included being appointed chairman of the newly-formed English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX) in 2002, leading EBLEX (now AHDB Beef Lamb) until March 2015, helping to establish it as an internationally recognised levy body and playing a considerable role in helping to grow export markets for beef and lamb.

Reflecting on his achievement, John said: “I am thrilled to have been awarded the Bicentenary Trophy by the Royal Smithfield Club. This is a highly sought after and respected achievement within the agriculture industry and I am humbled to, not only have been nominated, but also awarded the title.

“As both a farmer and former Chairman of AHDB Beef Lamb, the development and success of the meat industry remains one of my top priorities and I will continue support and champion it wherever possible.”

Geoff Burgess, Secretary of the Royal Smithfield Club, said: “John is the 16th winner of the award since its creation. It is great to see his contributions to the meat sector being recognised in this way. He stands out as someone who has tirelessly worked for the industry to which he is totally committed.”