Described as a “shining example of nature-friendly, sustainable farming on the Lizard Peninsula”, the Richards family run Tregaminion Farm, near Porthallow and Bruggan Farm between Ruan Minor and Cadgwith.
Receiving the award on Friday from the Duke of Cornwall himself, Prince William, was James Richards, joined by his wife Sarah and their two children.
James runs the farms with his father Roger. Spanning 440 acres, they combine a pedigree Ruby Red Devon herd with pioneering environmental work, from herbal leys and wetland creation to becoming carbon negative.
They are also well known in the area for supplying families across west Cornwall with freshly cut Christmas trees every December.
The Richards family with Prince William (Image: Rebecca Harris) The Duchy of Cornwall Award is presented annually to a farm business that has successfully delivered a sustainable approach to farming, forestry and/or food production within Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly.
The family said: “We are delighted and proud to have been chosen for this award. Creating natural habitats and farming with the environment in mind has always been a priority to us, but to have recognition for our hard work spanning 22 years at Bruggan Farm is a real honour.”
Their work includes soil-first farming and reduced fertiliser; six ponds, reedbeds and marshland for wildlife; woodland, orchards and species-rich grassland; and local, low-impact meat boxes and Christmas trees.
The Royal Cornwall Show said: “Congratulations to the whole team at Tregaminion — your work is inspiring!”
They have also been congratulated by the Cornwall National Landscape, who said: “We’re especially proud to have supported part of this journey through Farming in Protected Landscapes, with funding towards new ponds, orchard planting, flood resilience and habitat creation right in the heart of Section 08 of Cornwall National Landscape.
“Their leadership, innovation and deep care for the land has not only improved biodiversity and soil health, but created a legacy for future generations.
“A huge well done to James, Sarah and the team at Tregaminion – a truly well-deserved honour.”
Prince William chats to Fergus Muller of Ann’s Pasties while at the show (Image: Matt Keeble/PA) Prince William, who when in Cornwall is known by his Duke of Cornwall title, rather than as the Prince of Wales, is patron of The Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association.
He was joined at the show on Friday by Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, who is patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO).