Macclesfield’s MP David Rutley recently met local dairy farmer Danny Newton, from Gawsworth, following his nomination for the National Farming Union Community Farming Hero Awards.
The NFU launched the new award to recognise farmers who play an important role in their local communities. Alongside producing food, farmers often work above and beyond in rural communities.
Mr Rutley nominated Mr Newton, who runs a successful dairy farm at Trevor’s Close Farm, for the award. Mr Newton has hosted numerous open events on the farm, aiming to engage and educate the public, spreading the word about the world of farming and the work farmers do.
His 2022 open farm day attracted more than 800 people, and visitors were treated to activities ranging from tractor and trailer tours to sheep shearing demonstrations, explaining why this needed to be done, handling baby chicks and a chance to see new born calves.
The event also gave the chance for Mr Newton to provide further information on regenerative farming and how the farm was reducing its carbon footprint.
Mr Newton is one of the NFU North West farming ambassadors and was joined on the day by other members to answer any questions people might have, while free local produce such as butter and jam were available to try at the event.
Mr Newton has appeared on numerous regional news programmes speaking about issues affecting farms, and promoting Cheshire farming.
Mr Rutley said: “Farming is a much-valued part of the community, and I am grateful to all our local farmers for the important work they continue to do.
“I was pleased to nominate Danny for this award to highlight the impressive open days he has hosted and for being such a positive ambassador for farming. I wish him the best of luck as the awards progress.”
