16/10/2026
We have a WINNER
Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture ~ Sponsored by Intertek SAI Global
Awarded to Joanna Hilditch British Farming Awards
Fourth-generation farmer Joanna Hilditch has spent nearly 30 years leading Whittern Farms in North Herefordshire, building on her family’s 150-year legacy to create a diverse, resilient rural business.
As owner and managing director, Joanna oversees the 700-acre mixed farm, producing blackcurrants for Ribena, c***r apples for Bulmers and Aspall Cyder, grapes, arable crops and poultry, alongside sheep, woodland and renewable energy.
Diversification includes premium drinks through White Heron Drinks and luxury accommodation and agri-tourism at White Heron Estate.
Innovation and sustainability underpin the business, with investment in solar panels, biomass boilers and battery storage, alongside Higher-Level Stewardship, biodiversity initiatives, woodland management and a new wetland project.
Beyond the farm, Joanna has chaired the Blackcurrant Foundation and Visit Herefordshire and served on the NFU Poultry Board and CLA. Taking over following the deaths of her brother and father, she has demonstrated resilience in a traditionally male-dominated industry, championing diversification, sustainability and women in agriculture while securing the farm’s future for generations to come. Upon winning the award, Joanna said, “I’m just so shocked, and so honoured, it’s fantastic! To get this award for my family and my team has been just outstandingly good”.
Congratulations Jo Hilditch DL
Ribena UK ***r Aspall Cyder - Y Do Ordinary?🥂 Visit Herefordshire Love Blackcurrants!
