Landowner in Hidden Hero finals

The former Shropshire man was nominated by his staff.

The Food and Drink Federation’s Hidden Hero Award recognises the exceptional individuals who have demonstrated admirable dedication throughout the pandemic and beyond.

Lord Robert Newborough said, “I was truly honoured to have been nominated for this award. This has been a difficult time for all businesses. Throughout lockdown we have tried to stay positive and have used the time to adapt to the new demands of our customers. We appreciate these are difficult times for a lot of people as well. I am pleased that we found local good causes to donate food to. We have to be positive and use this time to prepare the business to be leaner, fitter and more efficient for when we start to return to normal. The wounds of the last 12 months will take time to heal."

The nomination said: "Lord Newborough deserves to win this award because he hasn’t even considered his own health during this whole pandemic. His concern has been for his staff, his animals on the farm, locals who had hit on hard times and making sure customers were able to get their essential shopping. He was already known locally for making generous donations to local groups and charities as well as being the main local employer with over 100 staff. During the lockdown periods he has made generous donations of food to Canolfan Ni Corwen, south Denbighshire’s Community Partnership and Hope House Hospice in Oswestry.”