Tatton Park’s Farm Manager, Jayne Chapman, has been nominated for an Unsung Hero Award

Tatton Park is proud to announce that Jayne Chapman, Manager of Tatton Park’s Farm, has been nominated for the Unsung Hero Award at the annual Visit Cheshire Tourism Awards. This prestigious accolade recognises individuals working in tourism who go above and beyond in their roles, and Jayne’s nomination is a testament to her exceptional dedication, leadership, and impact. Providing support to her team of five Farm Assistants and thirty-six volunteers she has created a tightnit group who share the highs and lows that are part and parcel of farming.

A passion for animals

Jayne has worked at Tatton Park for 35 years, beginning as a Farm Assistant before becoming Manager in 2009. Her passion for animals and education has shaped the farm into a vibrant, inclusive space that welcomes thousands of visitors each year. Under her guidance, the Farm has become a hub for learning, wellbeing, and community engagement.

“I want visitors to go home with a love for the animals and the outdoors,” says Jayne, whose commitment to mental health and accessibility is reflected in initiatives like the weekly visits from a Care Force group supporting adults with anxiety.  

A champion for rare breeds

Jayne is also a champion of rare breeds, playing a key role in Tatton Park’s Rare Breed animal adoption scheme and working with the British Breeds Revival Trust to help save the endangered Native Jersey Cow through an innovative embryo transplant project. Her belief that heritage breeds deserve the same attention as high-profile endangered species is central to her work. During her time at Tatton Park, Jayne has welcomed like-minded passionate speakers for example, the late Dame Jane Goodall, who gave a talk in 2005 after connecting with Jayne through her voluntary work at Goodall’s African sanctuary.

A love for community

Jayne’s influence extends beyond the farm gates in the strong relationships she has forged with local businesses and the wider community. She regularly represents Tatton Park at events such as the Knutsford May Day Parade, the Knutsford Great Penny Farthing Race and the Cheshire Show. She recently collaborated with Michelin-starred chef Aiden Byrne, who held cookery demonstrations at the farm during the Shop Eat Local weekend, an initiative driven by Jayne’s recently formed Sustainability Action Group.

A true hero

Jayne’s contributions have previously been recognised with a Rural and Recovery Award from the Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire, which included a visit to Buckingham Palace in 2024. This year, her colleagues hope she will receive further recognition for her tireless efforts.

“For her dedication, innovative spirit, and unwavering support of her team and community, Jayne truly deserves to be celebrated as an Unsung Hero,” says Farm Assistant Elly Edwards.

Tatton Park and the wider Cheshire community are proud to support Jayne’s nomination and celebrate her remarkable achievements in tourism, conservation, and community engagement.