Doctor turned landowner recognised for outstanding stewardship at Rase Awards
8th September 2023
Dr Johnny Wake, who took over the running of the historic Courteenhall estate ten years ago, was presented with the prestigious Bledisloe Gold Medal for Landowners at the Royal Windsor Estate yesterday (Thursday 7th September).
Courteenhall Farms is a 2,500-acre estate in South Northamptonshire that has been farmed by Dr Wake’s family for over 350 years.
Since taking over in 2013, Dr Wake has evolved Courteenhall from being a business based around arable farming and residential property to one on a much more diverse and sustainable footing.
In recognition of his outstanding management of the estate, Dr Wake was awarded this year’s RASA Bledisloe Gold Medal, which is supported by Evelyn Partners.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Dr Wake said: “It is a real honour to be awarded the Bledisloe Gold Medal for Landowners and it’s a testimony to the hard work of the whole team at Courteenhall.
“We’re a family-run business committed to farming as sustainably as possible, working with and protecting the environment, and pushing the boundaries so we can be at the vanguard of positive change.”
Sustainability is at the heart of all farming activities carried out at Courteenhall estate, with some of the work aimed at increasing biodiversity, improving soil health through maximising the use of natural fertilisers, carbon sequestration and utilising a range of renewable energy sources to power on-farm operations.
Work is also ongoing to reintroduce traditional Hereford cattle and Rare Breed sheep to the parkland at Courteenhall where animals will be allowed to graze naturally all year round before being sold to The Ethical Butcher.
“We have a long and proud legacy to preserve, and we’re passionate about supporting the local community and protecting the environment for future generations,” Dr Wake added.
This year, the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) recognised six members of the agricultural community for their outstanding contributions to farming for food, people, the environment and profit at the annual RASE Awards Day.
David Grint, CEO at RASE, said at the awards ceremony: “Bringing people together to celebrate the leaders in the industry and to be inspired by what can be achieved is what these awards are about.
“The Bledisloe Gold Medal is awarded to a landowner who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in the successful land management and development of an agricultural estate in England.
“Dr Wake puts community, sustainability and legacy at the heart of every decision made, demonstrating an exceptional model of best practice and one which sets examples for estates across the whole of England,” he added.
Mr Grint went on to thank the award supporters and The Crown Estate’s Windsor team for organising the inspirational event in celebration of outstanding achievements in agriculture.
