Clinton Devon Estates secures innovative tenant farmer using video applications

Following a review of its farming operations, long standing KOR client Clinton Devon Estates, decided to create an opportunity for an innovative tenant farmer to take on an Estate farm, which had previously been managed in-hand.

Having been working with Clinton Devon Estates on communicating its 2030 Strategy, the Estate asked KOR to help publicise the vacancy and generate interest amongst potential applicants for this rare opportunity.

At a time of unprecedented change in the agricultural sector, the Estate sought a tenant whose support for farming methods balanced food production, with the needs of nature and biodiversity. Someone who shared its commitment to regenerative farming and the principles of land stewardship.

Upon advertising the vacancy, Clinton Devon Estates asked candidates to apply by recording a short film about why they would be the best tenant to support the Estates’ 2030 Strategy and ethos of “doing today what is right for tomorrow”.

KOR crafted a script and produced a film for the Estate, featuring their Surveyor, Clare James, giving more details of the farm. Combining aerial video of the farm and stunning East Devon countryside, with covering shots of the farm activities and wildlife, the video was an impactful advertisement for the tenancy.

The video was used in a social media campaign across the Estates’ channels – posting the video and a series of photographs of the farm to publicise the tenancy opportunity. A press release was issued, securing coverage in local and regional news and sector press.

Following an extremely high level of interest and some excellent candidates, the Estate selected Ollie White, a fourth-generation farmer who has been running Farm2Fork from Somerset County Council owned Greenway Farm near Ilminster for the past 9 years.

KOR reported on Ollie’s successful appointment by way of a press release and news item for the Clinton Devon Estates website, which included press photography of him and his family at Dalditch Farm, alongside the Clinton Devon Estates team. This received extensive coverage in local and industry-specific press.