A farmer from Helston has been named top of the crop by Marks & Spencer at the company’s Farming for the Future awards.

Rob Stacey of Rowe Farming Ltd, who won the “England award” for being best in the country, triumphed thanks to his “dedicated approach” to staff development and welfare and his “innovative” integration of complementary enterprises.

He supplies daffodils to M&S, using the Cornish climate and early season in the South West that allows flowers to be picked from January right through until Easter.

He also recognised the suitability of his land for growing potatoes as well as daffodils due to the climate and coastline.

Mr Stacey said: “We’re thrilled to be recognised with this high profile award for the work we are doing in running a sustainable business, both financially and environmentally.

“It’s great to be working with a retailer like M&S to future-proof our business and ensure we are able to always deliver the best quality daffodils to be sold in M&S stores across the country.

“This award really means a great deal and is testament to our commitment to delivering unique, fresh products.”

The winners were announced on the first day of the Great Yorkshire Show last week.

Steve Mclean, M&S head of agriculture and fisheries, said: “Choosing the M&S Farming for the Future England Award winner was a very difficult decision for the judges. There is a great deal of innovation and quality across the agriculture sector in England.

“Rob impressed us with his dedication to investing in the future while providing fantastic flowers.”