NORTHUMBERLAND farmer David Thompson has been named North-East regional winner of Natural England's Future of Farming Award.

The scheme - now in its second year - celebrates environmental excellence and innovation in wildlife-friendly farming.

It shows how first-rate environmental land management and sound farm business can go hand in hand.

The Thompson family has farmed at Broxfield, near Alnwick, since the 1820s.

The farm is a haven for wildlife, with many features which encourage insects, birds and mammals.

There are grass field margins, strips sown with plants that provide wild bird seed, and nectar and pollen sources for insects throughout the farm.

Ladybirds and other beneficial insects help control pests such as aphids in crops, and such a rich harvest of insect life means that bird species and numbers are high.

The 195 hectares at Broxfield are farmed organically, producing cereals and beef from a herd of Aberdeen Angus Cross suckler cows.

Lambs graze the clover-rich pastures over the winter months and the clover and farmyard manure from the cattle adds fertility to the soil.

Mr Thompson has opened his farm up for children with many school visits organised through the Country Trust, a registered charity.

The children learn how their food is produced, about the diverse range of wildlife on the farm, and enjoy the views and landscape.

A blacksmith's workshop has been converted into a classroom.

As well as receiving £13,500 from Natural England, and contributions from other sources, Mr Thompson has invested his own money in the project.

Mr Thompson, who now goes through to the national finals, said: "At Broxfield, we try to farm in harmony with the environment, while providing opportunities for visiting groups to find out more about how the farm works and how we produce food."

The award is supported by the Country Land & Business Association, the National Farmers' Union and the Tenant Farmers' Association, who are all represented on the judging panel.

Christine Venus, of Natural England, chaired the regional judging panel, and said: "David Thompson is a worthy winner and Broxfield is an excellent example of a farm where the agri-business is fully integrated with the needs of wildlife.

"His farm is providing much needed feeding, nesting and breeding habitat for farmland birds in Northumberland."

Annabelle Morshead, CLA North-East regional chairman, said: "People come from far and wide to enjoy the countryside and wildlife of North-East England, and we owe a great debt of thanks to the region's farmers who play a vital part in maintaining it."

Louise White of the NFU said: "David's passion for what he does was evident throughout our visit.

Not only does he put the environment at the heart of his approach to farming, but he is also an excellent ambassador for the industry, working tirelessly to present a very positive picture of local food production."

The national winner will be announced on November 19.