Farmer is top of the crops

James Mayes, a farm manager with Sentry Limited in Bedfordshire, was the best candidate in the UK’s 2011 BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection.

He received the Barrie Orme shield from David Caffall, Chief Executive of the Agricultural Industries Confederation.

James, 32, said: “This accolade is much appreciated. I recognise what a prestigious award it is. Going forward I think holding professional qualifications will become more and more important. At a personal level it has also given me more confidence.”

As well as the trophy James was given travel vouchers to London, accommodation for two nights for two people with theatre tickets and spending money.

James grew up on a large farming estate in Suffolk and studied at Otley College and then Writtle before joining Sentry as a trainee farm manager in 2004.

He now manages 1100 hectares in Bedfordshire and works for three separate landowners.

Mr Caffall said: “Thank goodness we have the quality of young people like James coming into the industry.”