Sheep farmer proud to win sustainability award

Farmer James Horn was nominated for the award by local vet Gina Rigby

A Leicestershire farmer has received an award recognising his work in creating a sustainable livestock business.

James Horn, from Lutterworth, has won Sustainable Sheep Farm of the Year, after being nominated by his vet.

He has worked over five years to reduce the amount of resources, including antibiotics and fuel, needed to raise a healthy flock.

Mr Horn said: "It's an honour and a bit of a shock. I don't do this for recognition but I am very proud."

Mr Horn has changed the breed of his flock to a variety that uses less resources

Mr Horn initially worked with his uncle and then went into partnership with another local farmer, but has recently struck out on his own.

He said the rising cost of supplies and utilities had made him review his business carefully.

"We used to have a flock of sheep which required fairly intensive care so we have sold them.

"So we have focused on the New Zealand Romneys which lamb outside.

"We use very little antibiotics and things like that and we are trying to integrate them into the arable system for grazing as well so the arable boys are using less chemicals," he said.

Mr Horn is expanding his flock of 250 and has 200 acres of grassland and only uses local grazing to cut down on transport costs.

Vet Gina Rigby, who nominated Mr Horn, said: "He has a really good working relationship with us, he is never afraid to pick up the phone and ask questions.

"He has an excellent stockmanship style, which means not only is the flock as a whole managed well, but there is a lot of care for the individual animals.

"Sustainable food production has impacts on both animal and human health.

"The less of things like antibiotics we use now, the better it will all work in the future."

The award, run by the VetPartners group, is in its second year.