The Kent Cobnuts Association was proud to be represented at the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference by our Chairman Tom Cannon.
Representing both the Association and the wider cobnut industry, Tom discussed the importance of maintaining and promoting cobnuts as a distinct part of Britain’s horticultural heritage.
During the conversation, Tom also shared insights from his Churchill Fellowship, drawing on his international learnings of how different countries are developing hazelnut farming, and the opportunities this presents for innovation and growth within the UK.
Tom said “It was fantastic to hear that Her Royal Highness was already well aware of Kent cobnuts and it was a privilege to share with her the work being done to support orchards, encourage new planting, and build a stronger future for cobnuts and hazelnuts alike”.
The meeting was a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of the sector at a national level, and a proud moment for the Association to see cobnuts represented in such a setting.
Tom was attending in his capacity as a member of the Oxford Farming Conference’s Inspire Programme. A programme formerly called Emerging Leaders, the Inspire Programme offers opportunities to those in the sector to attend the conference and build lifelong networks.