Girl, nine, wins national farming award

A nine-year-old girl has been recognised at a national awards ceremony celebrating the next generation of British farmers.

Edie King from Lancashire was named Junior Young Handler of the Year in the six to 10 age category at the Young British Farming Awards 2026.

Judges praised her dedication to sheep showing and animal welfare. They said she takes an active role in caring for her animals, from lambing season through to preparing them for agricultural shows.

The award organisers said Edie is responsible for washing, trimming and preparing her sheep for competition and already has a collection of championships and rosettes to her name.

Away from the show ring, Edie helps with day-to-day livestock care, including feeding, bedding, worming and foot care, and has developed an interest in sheep genetics and breeding.

The Young British Farming Awards celebrate young people making an outstanding contribution to agriculture across the UK and were presented at Cannon Hall Farm in South Yorkshire.

Organisers said the awards aim to recognise and encourage the next generation of farming talent.

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