Yorkshire farmer Mark Turner has been named Syngenta’s Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year (FSOOTY) 2025 competition, at this year’s Cereals Event.

Representing East Riding of Yorkshire, it was even more special for this year‘s winner after four consecutive years as a finalist.

Joining two other finalists from across the UK on the first day of the event, Mark operates a  Bateman RB35 with a 30m boom and Ag Leader terminal. 

“I’m still in shock, I didn’t think I’d win after all these years trying and I don’t know why I put myself through it, says Mark. “This year the competition was tough, but it means so much to me that I’ve won.” 

Now in its 36th year, Syngenta’s FSOOTY competition celebrates excellence in spraying, recognising individuals who combine technical skill with a commitment to best practice and innovation.

“It’s a big decision for farmers to put themselves forward for these competitions,” explains Scott Cockburn, business manager at Syngenta. “We’ve found most of the farmers are usually shy guys and Mark is no exception to this.”

“What set Mark apart from the others this year is that he’s not just an incredible operator, but he also took on any suggestions made by the judging panel each year, which put him on top.”

Alongside the prestigious trophy, Mark was awarded an all expenses paid trip to the Agritechnica Event in Germany later this year.