Mart's The Heart Awards 2026
The support for this year's awards has been incredible. Your votes show just how much the livestock marts and the people who work in them mean to this industry. Being shortlisted is an achievement worth celebrating.
Congratulations to everyone who made the list.
WINNER OF AUCTION CAFÉ OF THE YEAR
The Gavel Café,Thirsk Auction Mart
A great auction café is about much more than food. It's where conversations happen, deals are discussed, and communities come together. The Gavel Café has built a reputation for serving a fantastic range of meals and snacks at affordable prices, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Welcoming everyone from farmers and traders to local residents and visitors, it has become a destination in its own right and a key part of life at the mart.
A well-deserved award for a café that truly sits at the heart of its community.
Congratulations to the whole team!
WINNER OF AUCTIONEER OF THE YEAR
Llyr Jones, Nock Deighton
From starting his career straight from school to becoming one of the most respected figures in the auction mart sector, Llyr has dedicated his working life to supporting farmers and livestock markets. His passion, expertise, and commitment have helped shape successful markets across the industry.
After playing a key role in the development of Newcastle Emlyn Market, Llyr went on to help rebuild Carmarthen Mart into the thriving business it is today, demonstrating outstanding leadership and dedication every step of the way.
A true champion of the auction mart sector and a thoroughly deserving winner.
WINNER OF THE NEW AUCTIONEER OF THE YEAR
Dafydd Waters, Carmarthen Livestock Market
Dafydd's enthusiasm, dedication and passion for auctioneering impressed the judges and highlighted the exciting future of the industry. Through hard work and determination, he has successfully built weekly and seasonal sheep sales from the ground up, helping strengthen Carmarthen Mart's offering and making a significant contribution to its ongoing success.
His ambition and commitment to serving local farmers make him a worthy winner of this year's award.
WINNER OF THE MORE THAN A MART AWARD
Ashford Market
Ashford Market is much more than a place to buy and sell livestock. It sits at the heart of the rural community, providing a vital hub where people come together to do business, catch up with friends and access support. The judges were particularly impressed by the market's commitment to charitable fundraising, its support for local Young Farmers and its work with school farms, helping inspire and educate the next generation.
A fantastic example of what it truly means to be More Than a Mart.
Congratulations to everyone involved!