A FARMER has been praised for always having the welfare of his animals at the forefront of his mind when making any decision.

Dave Richards, who farms in Wichenford near Worcester, has been nominated by a Hereford veterinary surgery for not only his hard work, but his best practise.

The team at Belmont Farm and Equine Vets, said cattle farmer Mr Richards comes from a farming background and his love of the job shines through.

They said: "Dave Richards is part of a long family line of cattle farmers of character. Dave's enthusiasm, passion and love for his livestock and the industry is second to none.

"He has taken his family herd of 30 cows to 300 cows through natural organic growth and hard work with his father and mentor John alongside him.

"Dave employs best practice wherever he can and puts the health and welfare of his animals at the front of all decisions on farm.

"He never fails to embrace any visitors to the farm with his warm welcome, sharing his plans and aspirations and inviting you into his home.

"Dave thoroughly deserves this award, please go and meet him."

Mr Richards is just one of the farmers who has been nominated for the cattle farmer of the year category at this year's Farming Awards, run by the Hereford Times.

With an aim to highlight the hardworking farmers in the county, the awards ceremony will take place in November, albeit in a new digital format because of the coronavirus pandemic.

To nominate yourself or someone you know visit herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/

The categories are: Sheep Farmer; Farm Conservation; Cattle Farmer; Family Run Farm; Pig Farmer; Young Farmer (under 26); Arable Farmer; Farming Contractor; Fruit/hop farmer.