Tuesday 13th October saw over 120 women from across Yorkshire’s farming and rural communities come together at Tennants Garden Rooms in Leyburn for this year’s Women in Farming Autumn Gathering.
In partnership with Barclays and sponsored by HECK! and Irwin Mitchell, this annual event brought together women from across the agricultural sector for a day of inspiration, networking and shared experiences.
Celebrating Career Journeys and Resilience
The event welcomed four speakers including Charlotte Kingham, Laura Millar, Nicola Bowers and Alicia Martin who inspired the audience through their determination along their career journeys, and resilience during set-backs.
While each story was unique, several common themes emerged. The speakers spoke passionately about the importance of building strong connections and they guided them and believed in them to take the next step. Their experiences highlighted how support, encouragement and the willingness to seize opportunities can help shape successful careers in agriculture.
“Nobody knows everything. Be interested in helping each other. Your network is your reputation and build relationships because relationships matter.”
Laura Millar, Director and Head of Operations. Harrison & Hetherington
Their messages resonated strongly with attendees, demonstrating the many different pathways available within the industry and encouraging others to pursue their own ambitions with confidence.
The Next Generation of Agricultural Leaders
One of the most inspiring aspects of the day was seeing what the speakers had already achieved at relatively early stages in their careers. Their determination, resilience and ambition left attendees feeling positive about the future of the industry and the talented individuals helping to drive it forward.
“Sometimes the biggest barrier is believing that you are allowed to be there. Say yes to the opportunity when it comes along, don’t be afraid of the challenge when it does. Remember the people who helped you along the way because none of us get very far on our own.”
Charlotte Kingham, Clarkson’s Farm
Head Butcher of Hops & Chops at The Farmer’s Dog
Supporting Women in Business
Representing event partner Barclays, Lorna Beston provided valuable insight into the support available for women in business including funding opportunities, mentoring, coaching, networking and investment support.
Networking and Connection
The networking zone proved a popular feature throughout the day, giving attendees the opportunity to meet with Barclays, Irwin Mitchell and HECK!, alongside The Samaritans and TwoCan®.
A little healthy competition emerged at HECK!’s Tin Can Alley challenge where delegates could win a pack of HECK! sausages, while conversations and connections continued long after the formal presentations had ended.
Attendees also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of Tennants, creating further opportunities to network and exchange ideas with others working across the rural sector.
Women in Farming Network
A special thanks goes to Helen Wyman from TwoCan® , who hosted the event and concluded the day with an open, honest and engaging panel discussion.
The Women in Farming Autumn Gathering is hosted by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s Women in Farming Network. The network is free to join and all are welcome.
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Grateful thanks to our Autumn Gathering sponsors:
Coming up next
Join us for the annual Future Famers Autumn Debate 2026.
“Heads Up: Practical Steps for a Safe and Productive Farm”
Monday 23 November 2026 at 6pm
Pavilions of Harrogate, Great Yorkshire Showground
HG2 8NZ
This November sees the return of the ever popular Future Farmers Autumn Debate. In collaboration with the Yorkshire Rural Support Network, this year’s theme is Heads Up: Practical Steps for a Safe and Productive Farm and will explore the everyday actions that can make a real difference to the safety, wellbeing and efficiency of farm businesses.
The evening begins at 6pm with a free supper and networking session, providing attendees with the opportunity to connect with fellow farmers, industry experts and rural organisations before the panel discussion starts at 7.30pm.
Guests can claim 2 x BASIS points for attending the autumn debate.
