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Winners of the British Farming Awards 2024, New Entrant Award: Against the Odds, Sam and Samantha Edwards, of Edwards Farming Partnership, have turned a modest hobby into a flourishing livestock enterprise in the heart of Dorset. What began with just a few ewes grazing pony paddocks has grown into a 700-strong flock, producing high-quality prime lambs using an entirely grazing and forage-based system.

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Business model

Operating with no buildings or fixed-base tenancies, and relying entirely on grazing licences, their business model is both flexible and resilient. It is a structure that enables them to adapt swiftly to changing conditions without compromising performance. Their strategy is clear: produce lamb as efficiently as possible, keeping input costs low while maximising output and maintaining high margins.

Key to their success is a strong focus on genetics. By selecting Highlander ewes for their superior traits, easy lambing, high scanning rates and the ability to finish on grass alone, the Edwards have built a flock that thrives outdoors year-round. Shifting all lambing to April has not only streamlined operations and reduced labour costs, but it has also significantly improved productivity.

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Situated in a rich arable region within the Poole Harbour catchment, the couple have capitalised on access to 303 hectares (750 acres) of cover crops, grazing a mixture of stubble turnips, forage rape and nitrogen-fixing clovers. This has allowed them to cater to the varying nutritional needs of their flock while building beneficial relationships with arable farmers.

Facing the odds

Their journey has not been without its hurdles. With no inherited land, limited capital and restricted access to funding, Sam and Samantha have faced the odds head-on, relying on determination, shared decision-making and the unwavering support of their family and local farming community. Their reputation for quality and reliability has opened doors for additional grazing opportunities, enabling the business to continue expanding.

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On winning the award, the couple said: "We are overwhelmed. We have tried so hard to take every opportunity, and make every opportunity we can. This award will inspire others; if someone reads our story and thinks, ‘maybe I could do that too', then that is what it is all about."

In a challenging year, their win is a testament to what passion, perseverance and partnership can achieve.

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