Tim Barford Biography
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Tim Barford is widely regarded as one of the UK’s pioneering figures in the modern vegan movement and live events scene.
A vegan since 1984 and active within the movement for more than four decades, Tim is the founder of VegfestUK and creator of some of the UK’s most influential vegan festivals, helping bring veganism firmly into the mainstream.
In 2003, Tim launched the original Bristol Vegan Fayre, one of the UK’s first major vegan festivals, which later evolved into VegfestUK Bristol and helped inspire a new generation of vegan events across the country.
Over the years, VegfestUK events in Bristol, London, Brighton and Scotland, attracted hundreds of thousands of attendees and played a major role in supporting the growth of vegan businesses, charities, campaigns, speakers and entrepreneurs throughout the UK.
Many organisers, traders and activists working in the vegan events sector today first connected through VegfestUK, with numerous independent vegan festivals and businesses emerging in its wake.
Tim’s work helped create a platform for the vegan community to grow commercially, socially and created much positive awareness for veganism too.
Alongside his work in events Tim is also the co founder of award winning hemp company Yaoh - having been involved in the UK hemp sector since the early 1990s. He remains a passionate advocate for ethical veganism, sustainability and social justice.
Known for his humour, honesty and down to earth approach, Tim is an experienced media contributor and public speaker, appearing regularly on radio, podcasts, television and panel discussions.
His style combines strong ethical conviction with warmth, intelligence and accessibility, helping engage audiences across the UK.
Over the years, Tim has received a number of accolades recognising both his advocacy and community impact, including awards from Viva!, The Vegan Society and the PEA Awards.
Tim continues to be a respected voice within the vegan world and remains committed to creating up lifting festivals that inspire connection, conversation, activism and positive change.
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