Dairy farmer elected regional chair of NFU

By timesecholife on in All News, Uttoxeter news

A dairy farmer from Staffordshire has been elected chairman of the NFU West Midlands regional board. David Brookes, of Lower Loxley, near Uttoxeter, will represent farmers across the West Midlands at what he described as a ‘critical time’ for the industry.

A dairy farmer from Staffordshire has been elected chairman of the NFU West Midlands regional board.

David Brookes, of Lower Loxley, near Uttoxeter, will represent farmers across the West Midlands at what he described as a ‘critical time’ for the industry.

David was voted in at an NFU regional board meeting, in Telford, this month and takes over from Oswestry livestock farmer Malcolm Roberts who stepped down from the role he has held since 2013.

David said: “I am honoured to have been elected and consider it a privilege to represent farmers and growers from this very important and productive part of the country.

“This is a critical time for our industry and the NFU, with many big issues in the months ahead and there are challenges on farm with prices for feed, fuel, fertiliser and other costs spiralling; many are at record levels.

“We are facing immense pressure due to this and an ever increasing regulatorily burden, which is resulting in reduced farmer confidence at a time of great uncertainty.

“We have a lot of work to do to inform members of what the NFU can offer and is doing and there is a huge amount of work going on for farm businesses, now is the time to show strength and leadership.

“Clear signals and actions are needed from Government, processors and the markets over food security and the value of our farms as places of food production and their value to the economy, society, and environment should not be taken for granted – I will take every opportunity to make this point and lobby on members’ behalf.

“I also welcome farmer and grower views from the grass roots up and would urge members to speak with me about their issues and concerns.”

Shropshire livestock farmer Richard Yates, of Middleton Scriven was elected as vice-chairman for a two-year term.

The regional board represents a diverse range of farm, food, agricultural and horticultural businesses with representatives from Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire.

For further details about the regional board call (01952) 400500 or email: west.midlands@nfu.org.uk.

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