A North Yorkshire farmer has won a national award after transforming his family farm with regenerative farming methods.
James Johnson, who runs Mallard Grange Farm near Ripon with his father Charles, was named Regenerative Farmer of the Year at the 2026 British Farming Awards.
The ceremony was held at The Vox, NEC Birmingham, on Thursday, October 15, recognising Mr Johnson’s work to cut fertiliser use, improve soil health and bring wildlife back.
James Johnson Mallard Grange Farm (Image: ADRIAN LEGGE)
Mr Johnson said: "Winning Regenerative Farmer of the Year is a very proud moment for our family and everyone who works alongside us at Mallard Grange.
"Seeing the land become more resilient and wildlife return, while building a stronger farming business for the future, has been incredibly rewarding.
"This award gives us confidence that we are moving in the right direction, although there is still plenty more for us to learn."
The Johnson family has farmed Mallard Grange for more than 90 years, combining arable crops with cattle, sheep and pasture-raised hens.
Charles and James Johnson Mallard Grange Farm (Image: Supplied)
Mr Johnson began changing the farm’s approach after a wet autumn in 2019 and a dry spring in 2020 exposed weaknesses in the system.
Over seven years, Mallard Grange has adopted regenerative methods including adaptive multi-paddock grazing, herbal leys, cover crops and direct drilling.
The changes have improved soil structure, cut reliance on outside inputs and helped the farm withstand extreme weather.
Insect and farmland bird numbers have also risen.
The farm also recorded its first successful hatching of English partridge chicks.
Mallard Grange has also belonged to Farm Stay UK for more than 30 years, offering bed-and-breakfast and self-catering accommodation.
The accommodation brings in extra income while letting guests experience life on a working farm and learn about food production.
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David Brown, director of Farm Stay UK, said: "This is a thoroughly deserved achievement for James, his family, and the team at Mallard Grange.
"Their work shows how regenerative practices can strengthen a family farm while benefiting its soil and wildlife, and everyone at Farm Stay UK is incredibly proud to see one of our long-standing members recognised nationally."
Organised by Farmers Guardian, the British Farming Awards celebrate farmers’ innovation, resilience and achievements across the UK.