MAGB Malting Barley Grower Competition 2010The Maltsters Association of Great Britain is delighted to announce the winners of its inaugural Malting Barley Grower Competition.
James Cox of Hazlecote Farm and James Storrar of George Storrar (Farmers) Ltd, have earned the title of MAGB Malting Barley Grower of the Year 2010 for England/Wales and Scotland respectively.
The contest, which was launched in May, aimed to find the most professional malting barley growers in Britain.
Entrants had to demonstrate exemplary crop production, focussing on excellent harvesting, storage and marketing.
Two panels of judges composed of representatives from agronomy, marketing and malting considered a total of 34 entries, shortlisting 6. The finalists were visited on their farms during harvest, then contacted again in October to answer questions on the marketing of their crop.
A high standard of entries impressed judges, who were faced with a tough choice when making the final decisions.
The two regional winners were each rewarded with a cheque for £200, while the runners up - Mark Ireland of Irelands’ Farms Ltd for England/Wales and Martin Birse of Pitgaveny Farm for Scotland - received £100.
England/Wales winner James Cox of Hazlecote Farm near Tetbury was presented with his award certificate by Steve Rowley, Chairman of MAGB, at the MAGB Annual Luncheon at the Armourers' Hall in London.
Mr Rowley said: “James impressed the judges with his clear understanding of his business. He operates in a very responsive manner, adapting his cropping to market needs. He is committed to the supply chain and is able to adjust his marketing in response to market information and changing conditions, which is essential in these volatile times.”
Scotland champion James Storrar of George Storrar (Farmers) Ltd, Auchtermuchty, will be invited to attend accept his award officially at a special MAGB luncheon later in the year. The judges commented: “James’s attention to detail in sampling and traceability, combined with good storage facilities, precise knowledge of production costs and effective use of contracts in his marketing strategy made him the winner. “James maintains an impressive set of records and was able to chart his management and grain quality over many years, encompassing production costs and adjusting management to ensure market acceptance.”
The Maltsters are looking to expand the competition in 2011 and details will be here on the MAGB website in the Spring. ***** |
