Worshipful Company of Farmers award winner

21st October 2026 – Tags: Agriculture

An Easton College student who developed a passion for dairy farming, coupled with a deep commitment to animal welfare within the industry, has been presented with an award from the Worshipful Company of Farmers. 

Lily Showers, who completed her agricultural studies with Easton College this summer, was recognised for the resilience, professionalism, and commitment to agriculture shown during her two years at the college.

Pursuing an interest in dairy farming  

Lily decided to study agriculture because she saw it as a challenging and rewarding career path that brings tangible results from the work you put in; she enjoyed helping to look after sheep and chickens on her dad’s smallholding but had a growing interest in working with cattle.

It looked fun and I wanted to give it a go, and Norfolk is a good place if you want to get into farming,” says Lily.

During the first year of her course, Lily began a work placement with Nortons Dairy, Frettenham, and it was this experience that ignited her passion for dairy farming.

It’s one of the most hands-on and involved areas of farming. You’re with the animals all day, every day. You get to know each individual cow and their behaviours. You are fully involved and you can see the outcomes of how you treat them.”

Investigating dairy cow behaviour

A specialist project during the second year of the course allowed Lily to investigate dairy cow behaviour in greater depth, as she explored how an understanding of social hierarchy could be used to improve welfare and management outcomes.

Lily’s research highlighted how using different strategies to interpret cow behaviour within a herd can improve both welfare and productivity.

Using different strategies to minimise conflict and better understand social hierarchy within the herd is beneficial for both the animals and for the farm. The happier your cows are, the more productive they are. Cow comfort makes a real difference,” says Lily.

Resilience in completing her studies  

Lily’s studies were disrupted by a serious accident when she was kicked in the face by her horse, causing severe concussion and requiring reconstructive surgery.

Carrie Burridge, Agriculture Course Leader and lecturer at Easton College, says that Lily’s response following the accident was “nothing short of remarkable”:

From her hospital bed Lily asked her Mum to stay in touch with the teaching team. She remained committed to her college work, ensuring she stayed on track with her learning despite missing a substantial amount of teaching time. Her ability to maintain her academic progress under such difficult circumstances is a testament to her resilience and strength of character.”

Looking back on her decision to continue with her studies while still recovering from the accident, Lily says:

I was desperate not to fall behind. This was my one chance to get my foot into farming, and I wanted to prove I could still go on and do it. The staff at Easton College were always so supportive and encouraging. They’ve taught me a lot and given me the perfect stepping stone to get into the industry.”

Driven to make a positive difference

Carrie adds:

Dairy farming is where my own passion lies, so it was exciting to support a student who shared that same enthusiasm and commitment.

 

The dairy industry is not an easy sector to work in. It involves long hours and a lot of hard work every single day. While production is important, the welfare of the animals must always remain at the heart of everything we do.

 

What stands out most about Lily is not only her work ethic, but her determination to always do the best for the animals in her care. Even after a significant setback following her accident, she remained focused on her goals and continued to demonstrate outstanding resilience and professionalism.

 

Lily is exactly the type of young person the dairy industry needs. She is compassionate, hardworking, and driven to make a positive difference. I have no doubt that she will continue to be a real asset to the industry and a strong advocate for high standards of livestock care throughout her career."

Starting out in the dairy industry

The team at Nortons Dairy have been equally impressed by Lily’s commitment and the contribution she has made on the farm. Not only did they welcome Lily back to continue her placement in her second year, but they have since taken her on as a full-time stockperson, looking after the 70-strong milking herd.

Lily is now thriving in this practical and varied role at Nortons. “They are really good to me, and they are very proud of this achievement too,” she adds.

Nick Major, Liveryman of The Worshipful Company of Farmers, said:

The Worshipful Company of Farmers is delighted that Past Master David Bolton was able to present this award to Lily.  In particular, it recognises Lily’s resilience and commitment to her studies and the dairy sector. We wish Lily well with her career in the industry.”