Award-winning invention from Pocklington farmers helps stop costly water waste

L-R: Jason and Belle Richardson of SealStop with Helen Wyman, founder of TwoCan, who also won an award, and David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire (Image: Supplied)

A simple device is helping farmers, gardeners, and smallholders save time and water.

Created by Pocklington farmers Jason and Belle Richardson, the SealStop automatic shut-off valve has already picked up 12 major accolades in just two years.

The product, now sold in six countries, has been recognised for its impact on reducing water waste, a common issue caused by forgotten running hoses that can flood yards or fields.

Most recently, the device won the Agri-Tech Start Up Award at the 2026 Great Yorkshire Show's Innovation Awards.

Dr Dave George, chair of the Farmer Scientist Network at the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, said: "The UK Agri-Tech Start-Up Award celebrates emerging businesses bringing new thinking and fresh ideas to agricultural challenges.

"For our winner, the judges loved the simplicity of the design and admired the way it addressed a clear industry challenge through practical innovation.

"They described the product as being driven by constructive discontent and noted that, fundamentally, this is exactly what innovation should be.

"Several judges commented that they wished they had thought of the idea themselves."

SealStop says it helps households, farmers, equestrian yards, and gardeners "make every drop count" by preventing accidental overuse of water — a problem that can lead to costly damage and resource loss.

The Richardsons developed SealStop after experiencing such problems on their own farm.

Since its launch, the device has earned praise for its ease of use and effectiveness in addressing a widespread and often overlooked issue.

Ms Richardson said: "We were absolutely thrilled to win such a prestigious award at the Great Yorkshire Show.

"It is an immense privilege to be honoured at one of the very greatest farming shows in the UK.

"We enjoyed a very productive three days at the GYS, meeting customers old and new, and introducing SealStop to the agricultural community.

"We were so busy, and I was lucky enough to have my young son Oscar with me to help.

"No one was safe going past our stand as he talked to everyone and anyone who would give him the time of day.

"He did so well and underlined our aim of creating a family business.

"Our children are heavily involved and are very knowledgeable about all things SealStop.”

With the latest win, the Richardsons have tallied 12 awards since launching their product — including the 2024 UK Start Up Customer Satisfaction Award and a place among the 2025 42 Under 42.

Ms Richardson said: "We are determined to add to this list, with Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards and the Made in the UK national finals coming up.

"It means so much to be recognised by business leaders, our peers, leading media outlets and the farming and equestrian community."