UCAB student wins at Rural Awards

University Centre Askham Bryan (UCAB) agriculture student Ollie Tait won 2022 Student of the Year at last week’s Yorkshire Post Rural Awards.  The Rural Awards recognise and celebrate a cross-section of businesses, organisations and individuals in the Yorkshire rural community that have excelled in the past year. Ollie is currently in the third year of his Agriculture degree and in addition to his studies,  he works on various farms to help run their operations.  He also aspires to be a voice for British farming and support the next generation of future farmers.

Ollie says, “It was a huge honour to be nominated, let alone to win against some very good, hardworking candidates. It was a great celebration that highlighted businesses and individuals across Yorkshire who work tirelessly to champion our rural industries. The importance of the future of agriculture was certainly the focus throughout the night. As always, I am very grateful to all those who have supported me in my studies and career.”

UCAB student Hannah Johnson was also a finalist in the category. She adds that it was absolutely fantastic to be nominated for an award alongside her fellow finalists.

Alec Turnbull, Lecturer at University Centre Askham Bryan says, “The College and Agriculture Team are delighted to have Ollie and Hannah recognised for their tremendous work in the sector and their support for the farming community. Their commitment to food productivity and security is commendable. They also serve as excellent young ambassadors to the industry.”

Laura Black, Vice Principal at Askham Bryan College says, “We are delighted that we have two of our students shortlisted for this award. It is a true testament to their commitment and dedication to the agriculture industry and the promise of the next generation of farmers.”

The winners of the Rural Awards were announced on the evening of Thursday, 29 September at The Pavilions in Harrogate.