Shining a spotlight on the incredible women who are making their mark in agriculture

This International Women’s Day, the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT) is shining a spotlight on the incredible women who are making their mark in agriculture and related industries. 

Throughout March, we’ll be sharing a series of inspiring stories on our social media channels, highlighting the women living and working on farms, as well as those contributing to the broader agricultural community.⁠ 

⁠At the CRT, women are making a difference at every level. From our tenants and graziers to our volunteers, staff, and trustees, women are driving positive change and inspiring others through their work and passion. 

Agriculture is often seen as a male-dominated field, but we know at the CRT that women are not only present—they’re thriving and leading in innovative ways. 

Here are just a few of the inspiring women at CRT who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of farmers. 

Kayleigh Robb: A New Vision for Pierrepont Farm 

Kayleigh Robb, our first-generation tenant at Pierrepont Farm, took over the farm in April 2024. In less than a year, she has made remarkable strides, reducing the herd of Jersey cows while introducing sheep and pigs to foster a more regenerative approach.  

Kayleigh reflects on her journey: 

“I feel very fortunate to be able to farm in such a beautiful area, but I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that the last 11 months have come with challenges. However, I’m excited about the future. I’m almost one year into a 10-year plan, and I can already envision how the farm will evolve, playing a greater role in the surrounding ecosystem and habitat.” 

Pierrepont Farm was gifted to the CRT in 2006 by the late Jo Reader, another inspiring woman in agriculture. Jo dedicated her life to supporting environmental causes, medical charities, and aspiring musicians through her own charity, the Josephine Baker Trust. 

Kayleigh Robb at Pierrepont Farm

Izzi Rainey: Breaking Boundaries at Bates Moor Farm 

Izzi Rainey, our grazier at Mayfields in Norfolk, brings a powerful perspective to the table: 

“Farming is an industry where people are still surprised to see women, which I find hard to comprehend. I know so many AMAZING women & lots of friends in farming, which is why I don’t see it as a big deal.  

“However, from personal experience, I can see it is still a surprise to others. That is why I think it is important to shout about women and diversity within the industry!"⁠ 

Izzi Rainey of Bates Moor Farm

Liz Wallis: Carrying on a Family Legacy at Twyford Farm 

Liz Wallis, our tenant at Twyford Farm in West Sussex, is part of a long line of women farmers in her family. She shares: 

“Farming is in my blood, I am the third generation of women farming in my family, both my grandmother and mother were widowed young.  

“Women are patient and thorough, so are good at rearing young calves and lambs, complementing the men on the farm.”

Liz of Twyford Farm with her partner Bob 

Betsie Edge: Running Nutfield Dairy at Brays Farm with her young family

Betsie Edge, our tenant at Brays Farm in Surrey, runs Nutfield Dairy with her partner Matt Elphick.

She says: "I love farming as a family here at Brays, although it's a difficult industry with many trials, it's also very rewarding. Juggling farm work as well as caring for our boys can be challenging but I feel so grateful to be able to raise them in this beautiful place and teach them about food, farming and our environment."

Betsie Edge with her family at Brays Farm

Empowering Women Across CRT

At the CRT, we’re proud to be a place where women are empowered to lead and innovate. Currently, 88 per cent of our staff are women, and we have several female trustees, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and diversity in every aspect of our work. 

Bere Marsh Farm in Dorset is run by our farm estate manager Hannah Bosence and before that by Elaine Spencer-White. Both are proud to have taken on the legacy of Angela Hughes, who did so much to pioneer farming in an environmentally friendly way. Our nature reserve at Bere Marsh is named in her honour. 

Danielle Dewe, our CEO, said: “I’m incredibly proud to empower women to thrive and lead in agriculture. Women have always been a vital force in British agriculture, even when their contributions haven’t always been fully recognized. 

“Too often, women have been reduced to titles like ‘farmer’s wife’ or ‘daughter,’ but today, they are breaking barriers and carving their own paths. I’m honoured to stand alongside and support the diverse, dynamic women who are driving change in this industry. 

“International Women’s Day provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate the invaluable role women continue to play in shaping and advancing agriculture.” 

Danielle Dewe, CEO of the CRT