NFU Mutual has opened entries for the 2018 Tidy Farmyard Awards and will accept nominations until 15 April. Farmers can enter themselves or be nominated by neighbours or family members (with their permission).

Entrants need to send in four pictures and an application form demonstrating why their farmyard is the best kept in Northern Ireland. Judges will be looking at how the design of each farmyard, its general tidiness and the approach to health and safety all contribute to making it safe and practical. For example, pictures should show how farmers:

Separate their farm and home.

Store machinery and equipment.

Approach signage, warnings and marked routes for deliveries.

Fence off dangerous areas.

County winners will go on to the final in May where the overall winner will win £1,000, with runner-up prizes of £100 to £500 for other finalists.

Visit the competition website to enter online or download a postal application form.

Down family scoops overall 2017 FBD National Farmyard Award

Is your farmyard the tidiest in NI?

Prizes of up to £1,000 are up for grabs in this year's competition to recognise the safest and most efficient farmyards in Northern Ireland.