Honouring Sheila Trafford’s Legacy in Agricultural Education
The purpose of the Trafford Fund is to support ambitious young people working in agriculture and allied industries to develop their skills, raise aspirations and unlock their full potential.
Funded by the generosity of the late Miss Shelia Trafford, the fund provides grants, bursaries and scholarships to help individuals attend agricultural conferences, undertake training, or pursue innovative career development projects.
Beyond career progression, the Trafford Fund offers opportunities to build valuable networks and enhance both personal and professional skills. Beneficiaries also become part of the wider LAS community with opportunities to engage, contribute and grow.
We particularly welcome applicants from individuals who:
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Have strong connections to Lincolnshire including living and/or working in the county in agriculture or a related sector.
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Have demonstrated a commitment to supporting the wider farming or rural community.
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Are pursuing professional development through training, courses or conferences.
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Are active or aspiring members of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society and intend to remain engaged.
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Have supported or intend to support future LAS activities.
Legacy of Sheila Trafford
Sheila Trafford passed away on 5th January 2015 and probate was granted on 1st February 2016. Miss Trafford's wish was that the farm should be used “for the support and education of young people in agriculture”.
The farmhouse had been unoccupied since Miss Trafford’s death and it was decided to renovate the property before letting it on the local market from May 2018. Until the Autumn of 2019 the land was farmed under various annual agreements organised by J H Walter.
Since October 2019 a young tenant has been occupying and farming the land in a modern and sustainable manner. It has been necessary to improve the drainage on some of the farm, particularly due to the very wet autumn of 2019, this aspect will need further attention over the coming years. A total of over £180,000 has been spent on modernising the house and farmland.
As a result of the letting of both the house and the land, the LAS receives an appreciable rental income. Part of this income has funded the appointment of an Education Executive for the Society, while additional funds have supported local young farmers and those interested in agriculture in attending high-profile events such as the Oxford Farming Conference and specialised programme like the Advanced Course in Agricultural Business Management, run by the Worshipful Company of Farmers.
The LAS has supported a range of projects and people already and look forward to helping many more in in the future.
The Lincolnshire Agricultural Society is proud of its roots and committed to supporting young people across the county. Through our grant funding programme, we aim to help the next generation grow and thrive within the agricultural sector and beyond.
Applications are reviewed three times a year, with closing dates on 28th February, 28th June and 28th October.
To find out more about the application process and submit your application, please follow the link below.
Robert Nelstrop, Chairman, Trafford Fund
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