2019 Aviagen scholarship winner: Nancy-May Thorne

Nancy-May Thorne, 21, from Bedford in Bedfordshire, has been awarded a British Poultry Council Aviagen scholarship, sponsored by Aviagen. Nancy, BSc Agriculture with Animal Science (Hons), has said she's long been drawn towards working with livestock but isn't from a farming background.

On being awarded the scholarship Nancy said: "It was a great honour to be awarded the British Poultry Council scholarship with Aviagen. I am extremely excited about the opportunities that will follow and would like to thank Aviagen for their faith and ongoing support. With a strong passion for livestock genetics and an increasing interest in the ever-growing poultry industry, I strongly believe that breed development is one of the few ways we can continue to farm profitably and efficiently. I have confidence that this scholarship is well suited to my personality, but also notably; my long-term career ambitions.

"The focus for my future career involves the enhancement of animal health and production. I wish to work towards maximising the overall efficiency of livestock whilst maintaining high welfare standards and educating farmers on appropriate management practices.

From this scholarship I wish to gain a true understanding of the fundamentals of a large and prestigious business such as Aviagen. I am confident that my placement role will provide me with a wealth of knowledge and a strong foothold within the poultry industry."

Outside of her studies Nancy represents Harper Adams as the 1st team Netball captain and believes that keeping team moral high and her players happy is the key to success.