An 11-year-old has been named Senior Young Handler of the Year.
Elliw Grug Davies from Ceredigion received the award at the 2025 Young British Farming Awards, which took place on Saturday, September 13, at Cannon Hall Farm.
She was previously named Junior Young Handler of the Year in 2024 and has continued to impress judges with her growth and dedication.
Elliw said: "It's a nice feeling to win this year again, it’s opened the door and it gives you more options when you’re older.
"Last year, since winning, I’ve got to be on TV on programmes and it’s been a great opportunity.
"I love to be around animals, showing them, preparing them before the shows and farming and I’m proud to be a farmer."
Over the past year, she has secured several awards for her cattle handling, including Intermediate Beef Champion, Young Handler Champion, and Overall Cattle Handling Champion at the Royal Devon County Show.
Her skill and passion have led other cattle owners to ask her to show their animals in the ring, though she prioritises her own livestock and schoolwork.
One judge said: "Elliw handles strong animals with a calm confidence and impressive showmanship beyond her years."
Another said: "She is eager to shine a light on young people in farming and is the perfect ambassador to help demonstrate the importance of showmanship skills and livestock husbandry."
This year’s event featured eight categories, including four new awards for 2025.
The awards are sponsored by Massey Feeds, Harpers Feeds, and Lantra, with support from Brooksby College.
They aim to inspire and support the continued growth of the British farming industry.
Elliw’s win in the senior young handler category follows her junior title the previous year, marking her as a rising star in the farming community.
Her achievements highlight the potential of young people in agriculture and the value of early experience and encouragement.
Other 2025 winners include:
- Sam Hale from Hertfordshire, named Farmers Guardian Young Farming Hero
- Jack Darke from Devon, crowned Junior Young Handler of the Year
- Robert Craddock from Worcestershire, winner of the Kaleb Cooper New Entrant of the Year
- Ashleigh Campbell from Sutherland, named Young Farm Worker of the Year
- Joe Hilyer of Netherseal YFC in Derbyshire as Young Farmers Club Community Hero
- Sophia Tibbs of Spalding YFC in Lincolnshire as Young Farmers Club Leader
- Strathearn JAC in Perthshire was named Young Farmers Club of the Year.
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