A farm which offers guests the chance to muck in and meet the animals has harvested two honours at the Cornwall Tourism Awards.

James and Tracy Wilson, who run Farmer James Farm Holidays, scooped a Gold award for Outstanding Customer Service, and a Commendation in the Self Catering Holiday of the Year category.

James and Tracy have run their niche holiday business at Higher Trevinnick Farm in St Kew since 2008, where their working farm boasts a herd of pedigree Aberdeen Angus cattle, sheep and Gloucester Old Spot pigs amongst many other friendly animals. The spacious four star, gold-rated self catering accommodation is nestled in the heart of the farmyard – and guests are genuinely encouraged to join Farmer James in the daily farm routine, from feeding the farm animals to wildlife or conservation activities, learning about animal husbandry and countryside stewardship, and generally re-connecting with nature. James said: “Being so central to our guests’ farm holiday experience, I can very quickly attend to their requirements, recommend places to visit and things to do depending on the weather and time of year. We really enjoy sharing the farm and I’ll often stop a job midway to explain what I’m doing and involve my guests if they wish – this could be rebuilding a stone wall, mucking out the pigs, fixing the water wheel, hay making, repairing a chicken house, walking the dogs, TB testing the cows or chatting with the farrier - always attentive to creating a safe yet inclusive environment.”

It’s this flexibility and commitment to delivering the best possible holiday experience that saw Tracy and James scoop this coveted award.

Tracy, who picked up the award with James at the Headland Hotel, Newquay, said: “It’s wonderful to win, and it’s recognition that we’ve created something very different to your usual accommodation. Yes, we have the beautiful North Cornwall landscape, and we do cater for those who holiday with their pets or who just want peace and quiet – but what defines us is the way we can offer a truly educational yet enjoyable hands-on experience, one that creates lasting memories and appeals to families with children of all ages.”

With all guests greeted on arrival, the business is attracting customers all year round and seeing a 70 per cent repeat visitor rate year-on-year.