A STUDENT from Cirencester is helping to shatter the stereotypical image of straw-chewing farmers after being named one of the sexiest in the country.

Alice Dyer, a student of the Royal Agricultural University, was included in the list, put together by Farmers Weekly, of the 10 most attractive farmhands in the UK.

Speaking to the Standard, she said: “It feels really good to have even been nominated. The whole thing has taken me by surprise.”

The 22-year-old, who is in her final year at the Cirencester-based university, was entered into the competition by her boyfriend Daniel, who said that “her personality matches her looks and I can’t think of anyone better to be sat in a tractor all day with”.

Alice saw off competition from 300 other hopefuls, wanting to be crowned the country’s sexiest farmer, to be included in the final 10.

The final 10, which is made up of five males and five females, have been canvassing for online votes with the winner being ultimately decided by television personality Gok Wan.

Alice explained that the competition was more than just a beauty contest as it raises awareness of young people in the industry.

She said: “Many people that farmers are all ancient men that smell, but we’re not all like that.”

After leaving university, Alice hopes to set up a charity that is able to help deprived farmers in developing countries around the world.

“I really want to use the education I’ve gained from the RAU to help people who are less fortunate than myself,” she said.

If crowned winner, Alice, who cares for the livestock on her family’s farm during the holidays, will receive a specially designed pair of Muck Boot wellingtons as well as eternal bragging rights.

For more information on the competition, visit www.fwi.co.uk.