During a ceremony at the Wales Young Farmers' Clubs' Field Day held on Saturday, Richard Lewis, of Pembrokeshire, was announced as the winner of the Welsh Livery Guild Young Farmers Award 2006.

Three finalists were interviewed by a panel of judges, including representatives from the Welsh Livery Guild and Wales YFC.

All judges were impressed with the calibre of the applicants, all of whom showed enthusiasm and passion for the agricultural industry through their thoughtful and well planned business ideas related to home farm and individual enterprises.

After tough deliberation, the panel came to the conclusion that Richard Lewis (pictured), who farms near Camrose, would benefit from the £1,000 reward to further develop his business.

His application displayed his determination and dedication to the agricultural industry, which has seen him start off milking on local farms, setting up his own foot trimming business which over time has enabled him to move from renting small plots of land and building up his livestock enterprise.

Recently, against all odds, he independently purchased his own holding, a true inspiration to young people trying to get into the industry; clearly highlighting that dedication and hard work can mean there is a future for young people in the agricultural industry.

The two runners-up were Kaye Davies, a farmer's daughter from Brecknock, and an applicant from Carmarthen, Deian Owen Thomas.

With the competition in its first year, Wales YFC hopes to work closely with Welsh Livery Guild in the coming year as they feel supporting young farmers and rewarding their enthusiasm is beneficial.