For Mike, who successfully sells raw milk, was crowned Dairy Farmer of the Year, in the hotly-contested Northern Farmer publication awards.
A judging panel submitted votes in secret and NFU Penrith member Mike, who has opened up a self-service milk bar selling unpasteurised milk from his 100-cow herd, was handed the top award at a ceremony enjoyed by more than 400 leading industry professionals from across the North of England, including 29 finalists and ten category winners.
Although it's only been operating for a short while, Mike's milk bar is attracting a stream of customers from all over the globe.
Housed in a converted former dairy at the family farm at Bunkers Hill, Greystoke, the unpasteurised milk is dispensed from a machine specially-imported from Italy.
"I got a surprise telephone call from Northern Farmer saying I was nominated for the award. I was in the top three," said a delighted Mike.
"Then they came out and did a video interview, which they used on the actual awards evening," he added.
"I was absolutely gobsmacked when my name was called out and I made my way onto the stage."
Mike runs the Bunkers Hill Dairy with partner Neil Harrison, his parents Ian and Judith, son Zac, 17, and daughter, Robyn, 14.
Mike, 41, has named the brand 'Udderly Good - From Moo To U'.
"I was presented with a certificate which is hanging in the milk room. I also got a glass award which will also make its way into the milk room," said Mike.
Mike's category was sponsored by the Lely Centre at Longtown.