Double Win for South Devon Dairy’s Niall Tewson at Devon Farm Business Awards
It was a night to remember for Niall Tewson of South Devon Dairy, 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, and Niall was named both ‘Devon’s Farmer of the Year’ and ‘Farming Champion’.
The Ipplepen-based dairy farmer impressed the judges with his tireless dedication to educating the public about food provenance and his forward-thinking approach to farm diversification. What began as a Jersey milking herd has grown into a thriving local food destination, complete with a milk vending machine, a vegetable shed, an ice cream parlour, a food truck, meat vending machine and even a children’s play park. His collaborative spirit and passion for continuous improvement set him apart.
Niall also won ‘Best Dairy Farmer’ at the 2023 awards and helped judge that very category this year, is widely respected for his commitment to innovation and community engagement.
Kellie and Niall Tewson, Devon’s Farmer of the Year 2025 and Farming Champion
The evening recognised excellence across eight categories, with the winners showcasing the diverse talent and entrepreneurial spirit driving Devon’s agricultural sector forward:
NEW! Best Family Farm - sponsored by Cornish Mutual
• Andrew and Nicky Branton, Locks Farm
Best Woman in Agriculture - sponsored by Westcotts
• Dr Louise Lethbridge
Farm Diversification Award - sponsored by Trowers & Hamlins
• Graham and Jocelyn Macklin, Hayes Meadow Organic
Best Farm Processor - sponsored by Azets
• Greg and Nicky Parsons, Sharpham Dairy
Best Dairy Farmer - sponsored by Crediton Dairy
• Andy Broomfield, Little Landside
Rising Star - sponsored by Savills
• Chris & George Courtier, Gooseford Dairy / Moor Milk
Farming Champion - sponsored by NFU
• Niall Tewson, South Devon Dairy
Devon’s Farmer of the Year - sponsored by PKF Francis Clark
• Niall Tewson, South Devon Dairy
In addition, Stephen Dennis, Regional Lead at FCN, was honoured for his outstanding contribution to Devon’s farming community. Sue English, Director at Addington Fund, said: “Everyone in Devon knows Stephen. He’s dedicated more than 25 years to supporting farmers—he truly is a legend.”
The evening also raised over £5,000 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 new Best Family Farm category. Thank you to the 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”.
Addington Fund would like extend 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.