The award was presented this afternoon [Friday 21 September] during a graduation ceremony where agriculture, business, agri-food and land management students received their degrees, alongside a range of masters and PhD graduates.
Mrs Batters was invited to speak at the ceremony where she highlighted the importance of young people coming into the industry.
She said: “I’m truly honoured to receive this award and to speak to the young people who will be responsible for shaping the British food and farming industry in the years to come.
“The landscape of farming is always changing. With every new generation of farmers, agronomists and nutritionists comes a new way of thinking and new ways of doing things, enabling us to be ever more productive and innovative.
“This is a very exciting time for food and farming. Public interest in food and the environment is at an all-time high, and having people coming into the industry with fresh eyes, new ideas and different backgrounds is crucial if we are to deliver what the country wants and needs.
“The industry has a lot to offer and it is fantastic that so many enthusiastic and passionate students are ready to make their own mark on the sector.”
Peter Wright from Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet also received an honorary award for his role in raising the profile of the veterinary profession.