THE search is on to find the Wales Woman Farmer of the Year 2022.

After a break of two years due to the coronavirus pandemic, NFU Cymru and sponsors NFU Mutual have again begun the search for the nation’s best female farmer.

Now looking for its 24th winner, the NFU Cymru/NFU Mutual Wales Woman Farmer of the Year competition aims to celebrate the contribution of women in the farming industry.

The winner of the 2022 award will receive £500 and a Welsh Royal Crystal bowl. The closing date for the competition is Monday, June 13. The award will be presented on Thursday, July 21, at the NFU Cymru stand at the Royal Welsh Show.

NFU Cymru deputy president Abi Reader, a former winner of the award who will be one of this year’s judges, said: “The Wales Woman Farmer of the Year Award is there to champion the contribution that women make to farming businesses and wider rural life.

“Over the years we have had a variety of winners, all representing different sectors and parts of the farming industry, and we look forward to receiving applications for the 2022 title.”

Gwenllian Jones, NFU Cymru & NFU Mutual group secretary, who will be judging alongside Abi, said: “We’ve seen a fantastic rise in the number of women farmers in the industry, many running farms and leading diversification enterprises to increase farm income.

“We are proud to recognise the critical role women play in Welsh agriculture and hope that this award will inspire other women in Wales to take centre stage and influence farming in the future.”

If you are interested in entering, or know someone who you think is worthy of a nomination for the title of Wales Woman Farmer of the Year 2022, visit the NFU Cymru website to download an application form or contact the NFU Cymru office on 01982 554200 or email clare.williams@nfu.org.uk.