NOMINATIONS for a major dairy accolade are now open.

One of the highlights of the Borderway UK Dairy Expo is the John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award.

This week organisers have announced that nominations for this award are now open and will be presented during the key dairy industry date on Saturday, March 12 2022.

The prestigious award, now in its ninth year, was established in memory of John Dennison, a highly respected Cumbrian farmer, after his sad and untimely death. John was a high achiever and exemplary role model within the dairy industry and the recipient must demonstrate the perfect combination of ability, sportsmanship, integrity, and character as the awards name’s sake did during his farming career.

Glyn Lucas, Senior Pedigree Dairy Auctioneer at Harrison and Hetherington said, “Since this award was initiated in 2014, we have had the privilege of recognising so many unsung heroes. John dedicated his life to the UK dairy industry and it is an honour to be able to highlight those who now follow in his footsteps.”

“Last year we were delighted to present this award virtually, however, we are all looking forward to presenting the award personally at Dairy Expo in March”

Anyone who would like to make a nomination should send a brief resume on the nominee to the John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award, c/o Glyn Lucas, Harrison & Hetherington Ltd., Borderway Mart, Rosehill, Carlisle CA1 2RS or by email to glynl@borderway.com. The closing date for nominations is Friday, February 4 2022.

John Dennison farmed at Scales Farm in Ulverston and established the Denmire Holstein herd. John was regarded as a legend in the industry. He was passionate about breeding and was a stellar ambassador to the younger generation. It was very important to his family and Harrison & Hetherington to find a fitting way to honour his memory, so in 2012 they introduced the lifetime achievement award.

The 2021 award was presented virtually to David Yates, from Meikle Firthhead Farm, Castle Douglas. Previous winners included: Ayrshire breeder, Blaise Tomlinson; Mike Miller from Shanael Holsteins; John Gribbon, noted UK and international figure in the dairy industry; Sam McCormick owner of the Hilltara Herd; Alister Laird of Blyth Bridge; Mark Nutsford from the Riverdane Herd; Jimmy Wilson from the Tregibby Herd in Wales.