CLINTON Devon Estates (CDE) has beaten the odds to win a prestigious award for the second time.

CLINTON Devon Estates (CDE) has beaten the odds to win a prestigious award for the second time.

The estate was told in 2005 when it won a Queen's Award, the success was 'unlikely' to ever be repeated.

Yesterday CDE was told it had achieved the impossible - and won the award for the second time.

Clinton Devon Estates director John Varley said winning the Queen's Award sustainable development category for a second time was an 'extraordinary' achievement and a 'testimony to the vision and dedication of the team'.

Mr Varley said: "We believe this award acknowledges, for the second time, our responsible stewardship and our effectiveness in managing a very complex countryside business based around a 500 year old estate.

"Our aim is ultimately to demonstrate that it is possible for the countryside to be a place for people to enjoy while providing a platform for the economic activity necessary to sustain a viable local economy and society.

"Through the sensible development and careful conservation of our land, we are providing a fertile environment for business success while effectively preserving it for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations."

Winners are entitled to display the Queen's Award emblem for a period of five years.