Kaleb Cooper Opens 2026 Young British Farming Awards in the Cotswolds
Young farmers across Worcestershire and beyond are being recognised through a national awards scheme designed to celebrate the next generation of British agriculture.
Entries and nominations are now officially open for the 2026 Young British Farming Awards, an initiative aimed at highlighting innovation, dedication and leadership among young people working in the farming industry.
The awards were formally launched at LAMMA 2026, one of the UK’s leading agricultural machinery shows, by farming YouTuber Tom Pemberton alongside Clarkson’s Farm star Kaleb Cooper, who hails from Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds. Cooper also introduced the Kaleb Cooper New Entrant Award, a category he helped establish last year to support those taking their first steps into farming.
Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers
Speaking at the launch event, Cooper described his involvement as both an honour and a responsibility.
“This is a great honour to be involved with this, but more importantly to be standing on this stage with you guys here,” he said. “Hopefully it will be bigger and better than last year, and we’re going to keep growing this.”
Cooper explained that his passion for encouraging young people into farming has been a personal mission since his first appearance on Clarkson’s Farm.
“Since I was on Clarkson’s Farm for the first time in series one, I made myself a goal, and that was to try and get as many young people into this industry as possible,” he said. “I genuinely believe it’s the best job in the world.”
Recognising Hard Work and Commitment
The awards aim to acknowledge the realities of modern farming, where young workers often face financial pressure, long hours and increasing regulatory demands. Organisers say recognition through schemes like the Young British Farming Awards can play an important role in motivating and retaining talent in the sector.
“These youngsters are working incredibly hard, and they need rewarding,” Cooper added. “This is a great place to do that.”
How to Enter
Nominations and entries for the Young British Farming Awards 2026 are now open. Those wishing to take part can submit applications or nominate candidates via the official awards website.
The scheme reflects a growing emphasis within British agriculture on celebrating young talent, promoting career pathways, and ensuring the long-term future of farming in rural communities across the UK.
