Devon boy, 7, wins young animal handler of the year

A seven-year-old boy from Devon has won a major award at the 2025 Young British Farming Awards.

Jack, from near Kingsbridge, won the junior Young Handler of the Year award after having success in the last two years showing sheep and cattle.

The awards ceremony took place at Cannon Hall Farm last week, with Jack being praised for his “enthusiasm, confidence and ability” to get the best out of his animals.

Jack’s recent success includes Champion Junior Handler at the Royal Cornwall Show, and Reserve Champion overall junior handler.

A young handler is a young person who goes in with a sheep and tells the judge what they know about the breed of sheep they have. It is also about who can show off the sheep the best.

Jack’s mum, Sadie, said: “I’m very, very proud and surprised.

“He was the youngest on the day and to come home as the winner was an amazing moment.”