Dr Cain, who spent his early career as a farm manager in Northamptonshire and Berkshire after studying at Newcastle University, returned 27 years ago to establish the farm business management degree course which has since had a throughput of more than 1,000 graduates. He retired from the position in summer.

For the past 18 years, he was also director at the university’s two farms at Cockle Park, Morpeth and Nafferton, near Stocksfield.

These farms provide the research base for the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development as well as demonstration facilities for students while running as commercially as possible.

Dr Cain was also involved in Eastern European agriculture, running a farm in Romania for a children’s charity.

He said: “I’m thrilled to receive this award and to be recognised by my peers for my work. I am very proud of the graduates, many of who now hold responsible positions within the agricultural industry.”

IAgrM director, Richard Cooksley commented: “Philip has made an outstanding contribution to the whole discipline of farm management for more than three decades. This award recognises his commitment to the education of so many people within the agricultural and farm management sector.”