Reading professor receives honour in agriculture

Professor Richard Bennett from the University of Reading has been awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Agricultural Societies (FRAgS), recognizing his significant contributions to animal health and welfare in British agriculture. 

The fellowship was presented at a special ceremony held at the House of Lords on October 15th, 2024. The Rt Hon Lord Taylor of Holbeach CBE FRAgS hosted the event, which celebrated 28 trailblazers in the UK's food and farming industry. 

Professor Bennett was among eleven distinguished individuals advanced to Fellowship status this year, acknowledging his continued excellence in agricultural research. The award specifically recognizes his vital work in the field of animal health and welfare, policy and practice. In particular, Professor Bennett’s research has examined the economic and business cases for improving welfare, and controlling the spread of disease. He has also approached agricultural research from a social and behavioural perspective, asking questions such as “are farmers willing to pay for a TB vaccine for their cattle”. 

Professor Bennett said: "I am delighted to receive this award from the Council and honoured to be made a Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Societies.” 

Fellowship (FRAgS) is the senior award of the Council for Awards of the Royal Agricultural Societies (CARAS) and represents exceptional achievement in agriculture and related land-based industries. The award recognizes not only practical farming and husbandry practices but also achievements in research, technology, economics, education, farming care, communication and administration. 

Image: Professor Bennett (centre) being given his FRAgS certificate by Lord Taylor of Holbeach (right), wiith Nick Green (left), National Chair of the Council for Awards of Royal Agricultural Societies.