David Black Award

The David Black Award has been honouring exceptional contributions to the pig industry for over 60 years. Inspired by the East Anglian pig farmer of the same name, this prestigious accolade is awarded to an individual or organisation that has made an outstanding impact on the British pig sector during the course of their work.

The award has previously celebrated those from across the industry, including producers, processors, academics and the allied industry.

Find out more about this award from Mike Sheldon, Pork Sector Council Chair 2023

2023 winner: Hugh Crabtree

Hugh Crabtree won the 2023 David Black Award for his exceptional contribution to the British pig industry spanning over 40 years.

Hugh has dedicated his career to improving the welfare and economic production of the industry. He co-founded Farmex Ltd. – a market leader in ventilation systems for pig production in the UK – in 1980.

2022 winner: Dr Zoe Davies

Dr Zoe Davies, Former CEO of The Nation Pig Association (NPA), was presented with the award by Mark Spencer, Minister of State at Defra, at the National Pig Awards held in London on 22 November.

Until July 2022, Zoe was Chief Executive of the NPA, a position she held for eight years. During her time at the helm, she became a figurehead for the British pig industry, leading from the front on every major issue affecting the pig industry over the last decade.

2021 winner: Professor Jim Scudamore

Professor Jim Scudamore is a former UK Chief Veterinary Officer. The award was presented by the Rt Hon Lord Benyon, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at Defra.

Since his retirement in 2004, he has worked tirelessly for the pig industry in his roles as Chairman of both the Pig Health and Welfare Council (PHWC), and the Disease Surveillance subgroup, as well as being a member of the Welfare subgroup.

2020 winner: Marcus Bates

Marcus Bates, CEO of the British Pig Association (BPA), was presented with the award by Mike Sheldon, former Chariman of the AHDB pork sector board.

Mike said: “Marcus has led the British Pig Association for over 20 years, and, in that time, has enabled pedigree pig breeders to thrive and to enhance their reputation for delivering quality and diversity, not just in the UK but overseas as well."

Submit your nomination

The closing date for nominations for the 2024 award is 31 August.