A FAMILY farm committed to conservation is in line to win a prestigious national award.

Wick Grange Farm, in Wick, near Pershore is one of two final contenders for the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group's Silver Lapwing Awards 2004, an annual award for farmers dedicated to encouraging wildlife and enriching the countryside.

Tom Meikle, and his partners, parents Malcolm and Mima and wife Isobel's methods have created an abundance of wildlife.

The 330-acre farm, which includes land in nearby Cropthorne is used to grow sugar beet, salad onions, dwarf beans, barley and wheat.

In 1999 Mr Meikle joined the Countryside Stewardship scheme, an environmental scheme which awards grants for projects.

He introduced six-metre margins around hedgerows to protect and encourage wildlife.

They have proved to be a great success, attracting wildflowers, insects and birds.

"I get a buzz out of seeing any wildlife," said the 44-year-old, who won the NFU Farming for Wildlife Award earlier in the year.

"It's been tremendous. I've noticed a big increase in butterflies and birds, including Skylarks and Corn Buntings.

"I've noticed Barn Owls using them for hunting.

"I'm passionate about showing people that successful and intensive farming can work alongside a good habitat for wildlife."

Beetle banks have been another successful feature.

The two-metre wide banks of thick grass lie in the middle of large fields where there are no hedges.

They are an ideal habitat for beetles and other insects, as well as birds like the Skylark and Grey Partridge that use them for feeding and nesting.

An otter holt has been build near the stream that runs through the farm.

This concrete chamber is designed to provide a peaceful and quiet place for otters to rest and breed.

Although Mr Meikle has spotted otter tracks on the farm, there have not yet been any sightings.

The awards ceremony will take place in London in November.

The winner will receive a trophy and £1,000 and will go on to compete with national winners from Wales and Scotland.