A poultry farming couple from County Armagh has been recognised for their outstanding commitment to animal welfare at the 2026 M&S Select Farm Awards, presented during this year’s Balmoral Show on May 13, 2026.
Seamus and Adele Lennon were named winners of the Welfare Excellence Award in recognition of the exceptionally high standards they maintain while producing Oakham Gold chicken for M&S through Grove Turkeys Ltd.
Based in County Armagh, the family-run business manages two poultry units and Seamus and Adele carry out all day-to-day work on the farm themselves, while also supporting a small beef enterprise run by their son alongside his off-farm job.
The couple have been rearing chicken for more than 20 years and have continually invested in improving their housing and facilities to maintain the highest welfare standards for their birds.
Seamus Lennon said: “We are very honoured and delighted to win the award. You don’t take this type of thing lightly and we’ve put a lot of hard work into the business over the years.
“We want the very best for our birds and to maintain our excellent welfare standards.”
The farm places a major focus on stockmanship and bird comfort. The chickens are reared on straw pellet bedding with straw bales provided for enrichment and house conditions are carefully monitored throughout the day.
“Everything is always changing in the sheds and it’s vital we keep a close eye on the birds at all times to make sure we’re on top of things to ensure excellent care and welfare,” Seamus explained.
The judges particularly praised the family’s attention to detail and their proactive approach to bird welfare and management.
Peter Kennedy, Head of Agriculture and Fisheries at M&S, said: “Seamus and Adele are fantastic examples of the dedication and care that exists within our poultry supply chain. Their attention to detail, excellent stockmanship and commitment to bird welfare consistently deliver exceptional results. They are incredibly deserving winners of this year’s Welfare Excellence Award.”
Jemma Keappock, Agri Technical Manager for Grove Turkeys, who nominated the couple for the award, added: “Seamus and Adele are outstanding growers who consistently meet and exceed the highest welfare standards. Their farm is always
immaculately presented and the care they show towards their birds is clear to see in every aspect of the operation. They are thoroughly deserving of this recognition.”
The M&S Select Farm Awards celebrate farmers and producers across the M&S supply chain who are leading the way in areas including sustainability, welfare, innovation and emerging talent.
