FW Awards: Meet the 2025 Arable Adviser of the Year Finalists – Farmers Weekly

• Edward Vipond Suffolk farm manager Edward was crowned FW Farmer of the Year in 2021 and is the independent judge in the arable adviser category.
• Richard Tresidder Last year’s winner, Agrovista agronomist Richard is known for his hard work, adaptability and high level of service in Cornwall.
• Philip Case Farmers Weekly chief reporter and former arable reporter, Philip has been judging this category for the past four years.

When JC Lister Farms embarked on a pioneering journey towards regen agriculture at Newby Hall Farms, they knew they needed more than just conventional advice.

That’s where respected agronomist David Stead, Hutchinsons regional director for the north of England, stepped in.

His work with the farming business exemplifies how practical, science-backed agronomy can support both environmental stewardship and business resilience.

Newby Hall Farms, in Ripon, runs a diverse rotation of potatoes, sugar beet and cereals, alongside 2,500 sows and 200 pedigree Aberdeen Angus cattle.

“We’re just beginning our journey into regenerative farming,” says George Swiers, farm manager.

“We’ve gone from a full plough, intensively farmed system to a Mzuri strip-till drill. David came in just as we were making the transition and he has ensured we have progressed smoothly.”

David’s input was crucial in redesigning the farm’s rotation from a tight five-year plan into a longer, more resilient nine-year cycle, integrating livestock and cover crops.

“We’re not completely resetting the soil. We’re just getting there now to the point where we think we can keep everyone on the  tramlines,” says George.

This approach echoes David’s philosophy to balance environmental goals alongside profitable farming.

“The whole thing is only sustainable if it’s financially viable,” says David.

“I’m ever conscious as an agronomist that I’m no good without profitable customers. It’s a case of evolution, not revolution, making sure we don’t fall into any traps where we’re worse off.”

Part of the success at JC Lister Farms lies in David’s holistic approach, combining precision technology with deep industry knowledge and a farmer’s practical mindset.

George recalls how switching to Hutchinsons’ Omnia Digital Farming platform for soil scanning and variable-rate input applications has transformed their approach to precision farming.

“It’s how to get that 10% extra out of your land, isn’t it? Omnia is a really useful tool. I can record everything on my phone now.”

David’s expertise is especially valued on the farm’s potato crops, due to their scale, complexity, and commercial significance.

“We grow about 200ha of potatoes every year, for crispers and McCain’s,” says George. “David is very good at getting the quality right – the fazor timing, dry matter testing, variety selection and managing potato cyst nematode.”

On cereals and sugar beet agronomy, David’s advice on weed management, especially tackling grassweeds without relying excessively on chemicals, has also been vital.

“We are only stacking autumn residuals for brome control. But if we lose glyphosate, life would become very challenging,” David says.

David places a strong priority on meticulous planning and client care.

George notes: “He comes round every Friday. We plan the following week. He’ll see what’s in the store and efficiently plan crop production products to the nearest can.”

Mentoring younger Hutchinsons agronomists is a true passion for David, who splits his time weekly between two days of management and three days in the field.

“I’m proud to have been involved in coaching eight young agronomists who are now thriving in their own right,” he says.

“Coming from a family farm, I always wanted to be an agronomist. What I enjoy most is turning science into practical advice.”

• Excellent practical farming knowledge, raised on a family farm
• Field walked agronomy service with a focus on potatoes, cereals and diverse crop management
• Skilled in precision agriculture, seed, fertiliser and crop nutrition
• Collaborative use of specialists/consultants to support soil health and agri-environmental schemes
• Mentors and coaches young agronomists; leads a strong regional team

• 2010 Graduated from Harper Adams University
• 15 Years working as an agronomist at Hutchinsons
• 5,000 Hectares serviced annually across Yorkshire
• 800 Hectares of potatoes overseen
• 8 Agronomists mentored to date

• Progressive agronomist
• Demonstrates exceptional dedication and passion for role
• Undertaken mentoring role for eight junior agronomists
• Business growth by reputation
• ‘The little things’ that make the difference approach

David’s can-do attitude and drive for results is clear to see. He works closely with growers, communicates consistently, and leverages his regional expertise to deliver outstanding results for clients.