A FREE-range egg producer has reached the finals of a nationwide farming award thanks to the outstanding care and dedication to his hens.
William Maughan, who farms near Bolam, has been nominated for Producer of the Year at the 2023 British Free Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) awards, which are held in this month.
His flocks produce free-range eggs for the popular brand “the happy egg co”, which is known for higher-welfare and hen enrichment, such as increased tree cover, play kits and space to roam.
Mr Maughan has been a free-range producer for more than 24 years and has become a go-to expert for his experience and dedication to hen welfare.
Always keen to teach the next generation about the agricultural world, he has engaged with local primary schools, kicking off insightful conversations about food production.
During these visits, he has taken a practical approach by introducing hens and eggs, offering young minds a tangible connection to the intricacies of free-range egg production, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the origins of their food.
On the farm, his flocks have access to carefully positioned shelters and play kits to enhance the birds’ outdoor environment.
About 20 per cent of his farm has also been dedicated to the cultivation of shrub-type trees.
He said: “I’m really thrilled to be recognised for the award.
“Being a modern day free-range producer is a unique job and it’s one that I absolutely love.
“Our hens come first and it’s true that the happier the hens are, the better the eggs. I’m pleased that these awards help to shine a spotlight on the great work of the UK’s free-range producers, especially after a difficult year.”
In recent times, his focus has been directed towards the NFU’s Farmers for Schools initiative.
Through this, he has played an active part in delivering enlightening assemblies at various secondary schools.
This has led to discussions on food and farming with pupils.
Mr Maughan is a producer with Noble Foods, the 100-year-old, family-owned company behind “the happy egg co” and the UK’s largest egg producer. Each week, Noble Foods packages more than 30 million eggs for UK households to consume.
Graham Atkinson, Noble Foods’ agricultural director. said: “William's impressive record of forward-thinking initiatives positions him as a prime contender for Producer of the Year recognition.
“He is an inspiring role model for the farming community, embodying a spirit of innovation, sustainability, and animal welfare that any great free-range producer strives for.”
