Double Triumph for Devon Farmer Joe Mawle at 2026 Farm Business Awards
It was a night to remember for Joe Mawle of Odstone Farms Ltd, who took home not one but two top honours at the prestigious Addington Fund Devon Farm Business Awards.
Held last night, the awards ceremony celebrated the very best of farming across the county. Joe was named Devon’s Farmer of the Year and also the Farm Diversification Award, in recognition of his innovative and commercially driven approach to modern farming.
Based in Okehampton, Joe impressed the judges with his entrepreneurial mindset, strong attention to detail, and clear focus on achieving sustainable returns through diversification. His forward-thinking plans, including the development of storage units, demonstrate a keen eye for commercial opportunity while maintaining the core farming business.
David Williams, Director at PKF Francis Clark said, “Joe’s entrepreneurial spirit in tough market conditions seemingly helping the security of the farm through diversification, whilst maintaining the core farm activities, is impressive. The farming industry is one that has seen many changes in recent years with grants, taxation and cost bases all having alterations to them in quick succession and being able to adapt with such success feels very commendable”.
Joe Mawle, Odstone Farms Ltd, Devon’s Farmer of the Year and winner of the Farm Diversification Award 2026
The evening recognised excellence across eight categories, with the winners showcasing the diverse talent and entrepreneurial spirit driving Devon’s agricultural sector forward:
Best Family Farm - Sponsored by Cornish Mutual
J Tucker Farms, Mount Folly Farm
Best Woman in Agriculture - Sponsored by Addington Fund
Amy Hamlett, Firebeacon Farm
Farm Diversification Award - Sponsored by Trowers & Hamlins
Joe Mawle, Odstone Farms Ltd
Best Farm Processor - Sponsored by Azets
Helen and David Camp, Daynes Farm
Best Dairy Farmer - Sponsored by Crediton Dairy
Andrew and Diane Heard, Yarde Farm
Rising Star - Sponsored by Savills
Coral Heath, Mount Folly Farm
Callum Linzell accepted the award on behalf of Coral Heath
Farming Champion - Sponsored by NFU
Trevor Wayborn, The Sheep Show
Devon’s Farmer of the Year - sponsored by PKF Francis Clark
Joe Mawle, Odstone Farms Ltd
In addition, The Richardson Family from Harling Farm were honoured with Special Impact and Contribution Award for their work with local organisations and families supporting young people who are not engaged in education, employment, or training due to struggles in mainstream environments. The family are supporting neurodiverse people from one to 90 years old and have created a space where everyone feels valued and respected.
Jane Quicke, Non-Executive Director Cornish Mutual said; “Against a national context where our healthcare system is under extreme pressure and primary care providers are struggling to meet the needs of patients in the community and our education system is under similar pressure making it difficult to provide individualised education and care - this family has identified and is helping to fill a gap that is desperately needed.”
The evening also raised over £6,200 in support of the Addington Fund’s vital work, thanks to a lively auction and prize draw led by James Morrish of Symonds & Sampson. All funds will go toward providing emergency relief and housing for farmers across England and Wales, including support through Forage Aid and the charity’s New Entrant Scheme, which helps first-generation farmers take their first steps in agriculture.
Peter Beaumont Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Cornish Mutual said “The celebrations of Devon’s farming community is always a highlight and Cornish Mutual is particularly proud to be Principal Sponsor and sponsor of the Best Family Farm category. Thank you to Addington Fund for its inspirational work within our rural community and congratulations to the winners and finalists, all shining examples of the outstanding individuals and agricultural successes seen across an industry fundamental to Devon”.
During the event, Addington Fund presented a short video recognising the roots of the charity and highlighting how its support has evolved over the past 25 years.
Simon Mountjoy, Addington Fund Chair of Trustees said “It has been wonderful to welcome so many people to celebrate the 12th Devon Farm Business Awards, particularly in our 25th anniversary year. This milestone offers an important opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved thanks to the dedication of our staff, trustees, donors, legators and supporters. Their vision and generosity have helped shape everything the Addington Fund has become, and we are incredibly proud of what has been accomplished together.”
The awards raise funds for Addington Fund, supporting farmers and those in rural communities through housing, disaster relief and a new entrant scheme.
Addington Fund would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors, guests, supporters and, of course, the finalists and winners for making the evening such a success. Thanks also go to the Devon County Agricultural Association for the use of their Members Marquee.