Helsby agricultural consultant earns farming industry recognition

Dec 31 2009 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

AN AGRICULTURAL consultant is celebrating after being highly commended at the 2009 Food and Farming Industry Awards.

Philip Wright, of Lodge Hollow, Helsby, who runs his own consultancy company called Independent Agronomy North West, was praised in the agronomist of the year category at a dinner at the House of Commons on December 11.

He said: “It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s varied, challenging and I love it, and winning this commendation is just the icing on the cake.

“It is always special though when your industry selects you for special recognition.

“Consultancy work means that you get to be involved in all stages of crop management, from tillage techniques and seed-bed management through to rotational planning and harvest management.”

The field-crop production and soil expert – who began his career in crop protection in 1995 – collected the commendation at the event, hosted by James Paice MP, Shadow Secretary of State of agriculture and rural affairs.

Alan Whibley, publisher of Farm Business magazine, which organises the awards, said: “Agronomists are an essential part of the UK farming network today.

“Their extensive knowledge and expertise in deciding which chemicals, fertilisers, seed feed and machinery to use is vital to a well- run and profitable business.

“Over the years Phil has gained an excellent understanding of different farming systems and has been heavily involved in the correct application of fertilisers.

“His commendation is richly deserved and we hope that Phil continues to utilise his wealth of knowledge and experience on many more projects.”