Dairy stalwart and Holstein UK classifier Geoff Bone, is the recipient of the coveted John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mr Bone joined the Holstein UK classification team in 1997 and his expertise and dedication have been instrumental for the past 27 years.

Announcing this year’s winner, Harrison and Hetherington’s senior pedigree dairy auctioneer, Glyn Lucas said: “When this award was initiated its aim was to recognise high achieving individuals within the dairy industry who are admired and respected by their peers.

“We received several nominations for Geoff, making it hard to ignore him as the perfect candidate! In good days and bad Geoff is always a constant, his character and personality and chirpy way is his trademark. He is one of the most popular and respected guys in the dairy business.”

Born in the village of Berkermet, Cumbria, Geoff began his career in the industry helping his father, a skilled herdsman, manage top herds of his time, including John Jordan’s Primsland herd. His first job was managing the Newroddige herd for the Mallaber family, and then moving onto the Hallwood herd.

In 1977, the Hallwood herd was acquired by emerging breeder Alan Swale, owner of the Joylan herd. This marked the beginning of a formidable partnership, where Geoff's cow skills combined with Alan’s drive led to two decades of unprecedented success.

As well as his job with Holstein UK, Geoff has been an enthusiastic part of the Holstein Young Breeders (HYB).

Today, he resides happily with his wife of 45 years, Christine near Garstang in Lancashire surrounded by family.