Ynyr Pugh recognised for innovation and determination in share farming journey
A DEDICATED Mid Wales farmer has been named the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Brynle Williams Memorial Award.
Ynyr Pugh, who farms in the Dyfi Valley, was recognised in January for his commitment to building a sustainable and forward-thinking agricultural business.
Raised in a close-knit farming community, Ynyr’s passion for agriculture began at a young age, working alongside his grandfather and taking part in Young Farmers’ Club activities. He later continued his studies at Coleg Glynllifon and Aberystwyth University, strengthening his knowledge and ambition.
“A big part of my interest has come from a childhood of being on the farm where I have very fond memories,” he said.
After spending six shearing seasons in New Zealand to broaden his experience, Ynyr returned home to establish his own shearing and agricultural contracting business. However, with limited opportunities to step directly into a family farm, he knew he would need to think creatively to achieve his goal of running his own enterprise.
“Even though my parents had some land, I had to look beyond the family business to find a full-time opportunity in farming,” he explained.
“That is when I reached out to Farming Connect to help me turn my goal into a reality.”
Through the Start to Farm service delivered by Farming Connect, Ynyr became a business partner on a 600-acre farm in the Dyfi Valley.
He formed a partnership with the Ryder family, who wished to remain connected to their land but did not have a successor to manage day-to-day operations. Since taking the lead, Ynyr has introduced changes aimed at improving productivity and securing the farm’s long-term future.
He is particularly focused on technology and efficiency, describing his laptop as his most important tool for benchmarking and monitoring business performance. EID readers and plate meters also play a key role in his management approach.
After completing a detailed business plan with Farming Connect support, Ynyr aims to increase stock numbers through improved grassland management and reduce reliance on external inputs. As part of the Welsh Pasture Project, he has installed new fencing and water systems to implement rotational grazing for cattle and sheep.
“My hope for the future is to create a business that is sustainable in terms of the inputs spent on the farm,” he said.
“I want to farm with nature, transforming a 150-acre block into a regenerative system that supports animal health and welfare.”
Ynyr has taken part in a wide range of Farming Connect services, including discussion groups, the Agri Academy 2025 programme, mentoring and advisory support. He has also attended “Our Farm” events and completed additional training, including a Level 2 Award in Rodent Management.
He credits networking and continuous professional development as key to his progress.
“Take every opportunity to meet new people and do not stop learning. Push yourself out of your comfort zone,” he advised.
Ynyr said he was surprised and grateful to receive the Brynle Williams Memorial Award, describing it as recognition of the hard work invested in building his share farming partnership.
As he continues to implement regenerative practices and develop his business, his journey stands as an example of how the next generation is helping to shape the future of Welsh agriculture.
