AN award in memory of an Ulverston farmer is being celebrated despite the pandemic seeing the leading dairy showcase where the accolade is normally presented being cancelled.

This month usually celebrates the British dairy industry through the Borderway UK Dairy Expo, in Carlisle.

In recent years, an integral part of this annual event has been the announcement of the winner of the John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award. John farmed at Scales Farm in Ulverston and was highly regarded as a breeder of the Denmire Holstein herd on the 1,000 acre family farm.

Yesterday, at his home, David Yates from Meikle Firthhead Farm, Castle Douglas, was presented with the award for his contribution to the dairy industry. Born in 1931 and from a second-generation farming background, David established renowned Holstein herds which his sons Brian and David now run today. With an international reputation, his life achievements have been an inspiration to future generations – which now include his own grandchildren.

Glyn Lucas, Harrison & Hetherington’s auctioneer and one of the judges said: “We did not want to cancel the award. 2021 would have been the 10th Dairy Expo, and the Dennison Family felt it would be appropriate to present the award, albeit in a different format. So, this year, we had the privilege of presenting the award at David’s home, following a “This is Your Life” video reminiscing on all his accomplishments. David Yates’ career stood out as an outstanding example of exceptional work ethic, astute business decisions and a driving passion to improve the animals he managed. He is an inspiration to his family, and to others, and presenting him with the award was a special honour.”