Courteenhall Farms has been recognised for its approach to sustainable regenerative farming.
The South Northamptonshire Estate has won an award for its excellence in land management and nature.
Courteenhall is run by Johnny Wake, a former doctor, who won Sustainable Farmer of the Year 2024 at the British Farming Awards.
He has become the first land manager in Northamptonshire, and one of only five nationally, to receive Wildlife Farms & Estates England and Wales Level Two accreditation.
Johnny Wake, Rosie Davis and Jack Rawson from Courteenhall’s team were presented with the prestigious award at Groundswell, the annual regenerative agriculture festival in Hertfordshire, by Mark Tufnell, the Chair of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.
WFE accreditation is a gold standard label of excellence in championing the enhancement of wildlife and biodiversity through independent assessment.
The Level Two award is made to farms and estates that provide evidence of holistic and sustainable environmental, economic and social land management practices and who recognise the multifunctional role of rural business and land use.
Johnny said: “We’re really thrilled to have been presented with our Level Two accreditation, and to be the first estate in Northamptonshire to receive this prestigious award for our excellence in land management and nature.
“At Courteenhall we’re committed to continuous improvement and to making sure the business is as sustainable as possible for both the bottom line and the environment.
“Our strategy is to go above and beyond when it comes to farming and for working for nature, because everything we do on the land is about leaving a legacy to be proud of.”
Tom Leicester, The Earl of Leicester and Chairman of WFE, said “Courteenhall Farms has embraced the start of its environmental journey with ambition and pace.
“With every corner of the land assessed through a biodiversity lens, and meaningful collaboration with neighbouring estates via the Tove Valley Cluster Group, their efforts already extend well beyond estate boundaries with continuous hedgerows.
“From native cattle grazing and woodland regeneration to rewetting parkland and restoring historic ponds to mitigate flooding and drought, Courteenhall’s integrated approach blends ecological enhancement with productive land use.
“Removal of insecticide and innovative changes to farming methods to boost soil health are to be applauded, while plans to create local business hubs, a farm shop, and café reflect a commitment to place-based sustainability.
“Courteenhall embodies a strong sense of place, with the value of nature deeply woven into its ethos and shared widely through its work with schools, natural history groups, charities, and government-led schemes.
“Led by Johnny Wake, with the support of his team, the estate’s growing momentum is rooted in knowledge, passion, and a genuine sense of connection to nature. With robust ecological monitoring in place, we’re excited to watch their Level 2 accredited journey unfold.”
