Lifetime Achievement Award Recognises Michael Scott's Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture

Respected farmer and former H&H Group Chairman Michael Scott has been named the 2026 recipient of the David Thomlinson Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his lifetime's dedication to livestock farming, rural communities and the agricultural industry.

Michael Scott, who spent much of his life farming at Thirlwell Castle, near Haltwhistle, has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to British agriculture, including more than two decades of service to H+H Group.

 The prestigious award, established in memory of respected livestock farmer and auctioneer David Thomlinson, recognises individuals whose dedication, professionalism and contribution have made a lasting impact on the livestock industry.

 Although unable to attend Borderway Agri Expo in person, Michael received his award at a special presentation at his home in North Yorkshire earlier in this week. His achievement was formally announced in the main show ring at Borderway Mart, Carlisle, on Friday 30th October, with a photograph of the presentation shared with exhibitors and visitors.

 Born and brought up near Haltwhistle, close to Hadrian's Wall, Michael has been involved in farming and livestock throughout his life. Alongside his brother Robert, he ran the family's 1,600-acre farm at Thirlwell Castle until 2014, producing Galloway and later Limousin-cross suckler cattle, alongside a mixed flock of Swaledale, Mule, Texel and Bluefaced Leicester sheep.

 His association with H+H began as a young boy, accompanying his father to the Earl Street mart in Carlisle. At just nine years old, he purchased his first animal, a Galloway heifer, at H&H's Newcastleton mart for £28, beginning a lifelong relationship with the livestock auctioneering business.

 In 2001, Michael was invited to join the Harrison & Hetherington Farmstock Board, just before the devastating Foot and Mouth outbreak. He subsequently served for 22 years as a Farmstock and Group Board member, including five years as Chairman of the H&H Group.

 During this time, he played an important role in guiding the business through periods of significant challenge, expansion and diversification, helping to strengthen its position at the heart of the agricultural and rural business communities.

 Among his proudest achievements was his involvement in establishing Borderway Agri Expo and UK Dairy Expo, creating important opportunities to showcase British livestock, celebrate breeding excellence and bring the agricultural industry together.

 Commenting,  Robin Anderson, Chief Commercial Officer of H+H, said, "Michael Scott has made an exceptional contribution to H+H and to the wider livestock industry over many years. His commitment to farming, his understanding of the people and businesses that make up our agricultural communities, and his dedication to maintaining the highest standards have earned him enormous respect throughout the industry.

 "He has always taken in account the importance of supporting the next generation and creating opportunities for the industry to develop and thrive.

 "The David Thomlinson Lifetime Achievement Award recognises individuals who have devoted their lives to the livestock industry, and Michael is an extremely worthy recipient. It is a great pleasure to recognise everything he has achieved."

 On receiving his award, Michael Scott said, "I have never been so overwhelmed in my life. For me, this is one of the greatest accolades in livestock farming. David was a huge part of my life, and I feel incredibly privileged to have my name associated with an award that celebrates his legacy. I would like to thank H&H for presenting me with this award on his behalf and for their support over the years. It really does mean more to me than words can express."

 Michael's contribution to the agricultural industry extends well beyond his leadership of H+H. Throughout his career, he has been a passionate supporter of livestock markets, recognising their importance not only as centres of trade but also as meeting places that bring farming communities together.

 He has also championed the development of young auctioneers, taking particular pride in the professionalism and talent of those entering the industry, while maintaining a strong belief in the importance of personal relationships, integrity and service to farming customers.

 Following his retirement from the H&H Group Board, Michael has continued to maintain close links with the agricultural industry and his family's farming interests.

 Created by H+H in 2021, the David Thomlinson Lifetime Achievement Award honours the memory of one of the livestock industry's most respected figures. David Thomlinson was a highly regarded auctioneer, livestock farmer and ambassador for British agriculture, whose dedication and influence left a lasting legacy.

 Michael Scott joins an impressive list of previous recipients, all recognised for their exceptional commitment to British livestock farming.

Previous recipients of the David Thomlinson Lifetime Achievement Award:

2025 – James (Jim) Goldie, Dumfriesshire
2024 – Richard Rettie, Falkirk
2023 – George Neill, Thornington Farm, Scottish Borders
2022 – John Hall, Inglewood Edge Farm, Cumbria
2021 – John Gent, Newark