South East Farmer correspondent Nigel Akehurst has been awarded a Lund Fund Fellowship to enable him to shine a light on the inspiring stories of regenerative farming and nature restoration across the High Weald.

Nigel, third-generation farmer, agricultural journalist and founder of
Indie Farmer, was awarded the newly created fellowship in October 2024 and will spend the next year visiting 12 farms to produce a series of multimedia case studies featuring interviews, photography, and short films.

His aim will be to inspire both fellow farmers and ethically minded consumers and to build momentum around a growing network of landowners and producers who are working in harmony with nature.

The project will explore key themes including:

  • Access to land and innovative sharing models for new entrants
  • Enterprise stacking, from farm tours and food events to direct-to-consumer sales
  • On-farm baselining for soil health and biodiversity
  • Collaborative approaches, such as farm clusters and landscape recovery schemes
  • Farm storytelling and branding, using social media and newsletters.

Stories will be published on www.indiefarmer.com and shared across social media to help spark a wider shift towards regenerative farming in the UK.

“I see this as a great opportunity to explore the remarkable work that is being done by far-sighted farmers across the High Weald and to share that knowledge with a wider audience,” said Nigel.

Meanwhile the Lund Fellowship is looking for others who would like to take advantage of a similar opportunity.

Anyone with a connection to the High Weald and a passion for enhancing its landscape and communities can apply for a fellowship, which offers up to £7,500 for innovative research and projects that benefit the area.

The fellowship complements the High Weald Nature and Community Fund (formerly Sussex Lund), which is also currently accepting applications.

Key details

  • Deadline: Monday 14 July 2025
  • Maximum grant: £7,500
  • Fellowships awarded: Up to two per year

Fellowship aims

  • Inspire people, enhance knowledge and exchange ideas
  • Improve the High Weald’s natural environment
  • Create a greener economy within the High Weald.

Find out more and apply

www.highweald.org/grants/lund-fellowship

The Lund Fellowship is supported by Lund Trust and delivered by the High Weald National Landscape Partnership.