CAFRE students attend BBC Food and Farming Awards

Date published: 28 October 2026

Hosted by BBC presenters Holly Hamilton and Eve Blair, the event recognised some of the best people, businesses and initiatives from across the food and farming industry. Many Northern Ireland businesses were among those honoured, reflecting the region's strong reputation and continued commitment to the agri-food sector.

Representing CAFRE at the awards ceremony were BSc (Hons) Sustainable Agri-Food Management students Lucy Kirkland and Alix Dalzell, BSc (Hons) Sustainable Agriculture students Ashley Neill and Anna Short, and Level 3 Horticulture student Barry Wheeler, alongside Head of Food Education, Fintan McCann, and Head of Food Technology, Peter Simpson.

Fintan McCann, Head of Food Education at CAFRE, said: “Northern Ireland’s agri-food industry is a major contributor to our economy, employing almost 24,000 people directly in food and drink manufacturing and over 109,000 people in the wider supply chain. As the industry continues to face challenges and opportunities, it will require talented graduates who can drive sustainability, competitiveness, innovation and resilience.

“I was delighted to bring together students from our agriculture, food and horticulture education branches to attend the BBC Food and Farming Awards. Events such as these provide a valuable opportunity for students to see the breadth and strength of the industry and to hear first-hand from those making a real impact. I hope they left feeling inspired about the important role they can play in shaping the future of the agri-food sector.”

BSc (Hons) Sustainable Agriculture final-year student Ashley Neill was among the CAFRE students who attended. She commented: “I was delighted to represent CAFRE at the BBC Food and Farming Awards and celebrate alongside like-minded individuals from across the industry. This year's event was especially memorable, as it marked the first occasion in the awards' 26-year history that they have been hosted in Northern Ireland. The inspiring evening highlighted the connection between primary production agriculture, food manufacturing and the wider agri-food sector, while recognising and celebrating those driving innovation and progression within the industry.”

CAFRE is Northern Ireland’s specialist agri-food and land-based college, offering courses from Level 2 through to MSc degree level across its three campuses. With full-time, part-time and apprenticeship study options available, CAFRE provides pathways to suit a wide range of interests and career ambitions. Applications for all courses are currently open. Visit the CAFRE website to discover more and find the pathway that's right for you.