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

MPs to debate shotgun licensing merger following countryside backlash

MPs to debate shotgun licensing merger following countryside backlash

South Norfolk MP Ben Goldsborough will open the debate, triggered by a petition which has gained more than 120,000 signatures, to stop section 1 and 2 firearms licences being merged

Chris Brayford
clock 22 February 2026 • 3 min read
Great British Wool Revival: Wiltshire farmer finds farm-to-consumer outlet for wool

Great British Wool Revival: Wiltshire farmer finds farm-to-consumer outlet for wool

A new farm-to-fabric project aims to help showcase the qualities of wool by connecting farmers and designers. Emily Ashworth finds out more

clock 22 February 2026 • 4 min read
NFU Conference: Defra Secretary and leadership elections set to dominate this year's event

NFU Conference: Defra Secretary and leadership elections set to dominate this year's event

Packed programme for members as union heads back to Birmingham

clock 21 February 2026 • 3 min read