Blind farmer appointed new managing director at Inclusive Farm

Mike Duxbury, who was registered as blind at the age of six, has championed the importance of helping disabled people into agriculture

Chris Brayford
clock • 1 min read
Mike Duxbury has been appointed as the new managing director at Inclusive Farm
Image:

Mike Duxbury has been appointed as the new managing director at Inclusive Farm

A farmer with an ambition to make agriculture more diverse and accessible for people living with disabilities has been rewarded with a promotion to reflect his hardwork and commitment to the industry.

Mike Duxbury, who was registered as blind at the age of six, has been announced as the new manager director of the Inclusive Farm on the Woburn Estate in Bedfordshire - an organisation which was created to show people with disabilities a route into agriculture and give them the confidence to pursue a worthwhile and fulfilling career.

Also known as the blind farmer, Mr Duxbury told the Farmers Guardian earlier this year he wanted to help disabled people reach their ‘full potential' by entering a career in agriculture.

Having demonstrated the work of fostering diversity at Inclusive Farm, he has also worked to challenge other non-agricultural based businesses to review their own practices regarding employment of disabled people.

Vanessa Shillito, co-founder of the Inclusive Farm, said Mr Duxbury has made a ‘fantastic contribution' through his work ethic and dedication.

"Mike has steered this project from conception, right through to a very successful reality, resulting in significant growth," Ms Shillto added.

"With Mike officially at the helm, the company will continue to build the brand, effectively growing the original farm concept across the country, with the vision of reaching a global vision."

See also: Yorkshire Vet to help pick Downing Street's Christmas tree at South Yorkshire farm

More on Farm Life

Shadow Defra Secretary writes concerns to Met Police regarding its handling of Budget protests

Shadow Defra Secretary writes concerns to Met Police regarding its handling of Budget protests

Police arrested farmers who arrived in Whitehall in tractors although many were unaware of the ban given its announcement was less than 24 hours before the protest began

clock 29 November 2025 • 2 min read
Survey seeks farmer support ahead of pest control rule change

Survey seeks farmer support ahead of pest control rule change

Concerns mount as fears new rodenticide regulations will compound pest resistance

clock 28 November 2025 • 2 min read
Tractor driver arrested at the Budget Day Protest vows to fight on against family farm tax

Tractor driver arrested at the Budget Day Protest vows to fight on against family farm tax

Agricultural contractor says event raised awareness and showed public support for farmers

clock 27 November 2025 • 2 min read