THE Country Land and Business Association (CLA) and New Forest National Park Authority have announced the winners of the 2024 New Forest Awards.
The annual awards, now in their 11th year, celebrate the people who work hard to support the forest’s landscape and economy.
The winners were recognised at a special ceremony at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show, with individual trophies presented by president of the New Forest Show Society, Hallam Mills.
The winners of the 2024 New Forest awards were:
Young Farmer/Commoner: Christian Newman from Totton
Best Supporter of Local Produce: Cottage Lodge Hotel, Brockenhurst
Sustainability Champion: Rebecca Gabzdyl of East Boldre Community Stores
Young Champion: Gemma Hobbs from Boldre
Tim Bamford, regional director of CLA South East which represents farmers, landowners and rural businesses across the New Forest and beyond, said: “The CLA is proud to support the awards once again this year, as they highlight the hugely important role played by farmers and other rural businesses in managing the landscape and helping our communities prosper.
“With the New Forest National Park Authority we have been running these awards for more than a decade and it’s pleasing to see how well-established and respected they have become, and how excited our very deserving winners are at being recognised.
“We would like to thank everyone who took the time to enter.”
Alison Barnes, CEO of the New Forest National Park Authority, said: “It’s heartening to know that such an impressive array of people are working day in, day out to ensure the New Forest is protected and enhanced.”
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