It was definitely third time lucky for young farmer Helen Reeve's growing business, Waveney Dexters.

As runner-up for the last two years, it was finally Helen's chance to climb on the stage to be presented with a �5,000 cheque and the top prize in the fifth annual Growing Business Award.

Helen, who started keeping Dexters with a single heifer in 1996, was determined to prove to the judges of the competition that her business was worth backing.

Kit Papworth, chairman of buying group Anglia Farmers, and also of the judging panel, was hugely impressed by her enthusiasm and her practical plan to develop her home-grown business.

And while Mr Papworth was gushing in his praise, Helen, who is chairman of the Norfolk Federation of Young Farmers' Club, was clearly initially lost for words as she addressed the 150-strong audience at the Easton College stand on the first night of the Royal Norfolk Show. 'I'll be urging the other finalists to apply again and follow Helen's example,' he added.

She thanked the judges, sponsors and especially her mentor, south Norfolk businessman Rod Tuck, for his sage advice over the past few years. And, of course, it was Helen, who had been travelling by train to London with Mr Tuck, then eastern region YFC president, raised the alarm when he had collapsed. She had the train stopped and arranged for medical attention to get him to hospital, which saved his life.

Since 2007, Helen's Dexter herd has increased to a total of 34 head and she is looking to drive sales forward of her own beef, particularly to local consumers. 'This award is fantastic and it means that I can invest in the business and grow it faster,' she said.

The Norfolk Federation of YFCs has been encouraging a new generation into the industry by working with other groups and organisations by offering a �5,000 prize.

It also started the Norfolk Farming and Business Forum as a sub-group of YFC and now has more than 40 members, who are keen to develop their knowledge and skills.

This joint initiative involves Norfolk YFC and the Rural Enterprise Hub and is based at Easton College. As part of the Fresh Start Academies, it aims to support new entrants into farming for those aged 18 and 35.

The prize fund donated by Anglia Farmers, the Clan Trust, Norfolk Farmers' Trust, Rackham Trust and the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association has been critical.

The 2010 award was won by south Norfolk young farmer, Sam Steggles, of Fielding Cottage Goat Cheeses, of Great Ellingham.

The other finalists in the 2011 Growing Business Award are:

? Vintage Tractor Funerals run by Will Patrick and Sarah Buckle. Agricultural contractor and self-employed grave digger for four years, he has restored a classic 'Grey Fergie' or Ferguson TE20 tractor to transport a coffin for funerals.

? AON Services Paddock Maintenance is a venture run by Angus Newton. He provides an 'all-in' paddock care service, including fencing, drainage and hedge/tree cutting.

? Old Vicarage Camping was started by Bernie Wright. He wants to offer a camp site for a maximum of 50 plots within a three-acre site.

Details are available at www.oldvicaragecamping.co.uk.

michael.pollitt@archant.co.uk