Defra Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Steve Barclay MP, delivers his straightforward message to farmers: More Money, More Choice, More Trust!
8 A Chat with Will Evans
Club member and Welsh Farmer Will Evans is this year’s Chairman of the Oxford Farming Conference and was the driving force behind The Rock & Roll Farming Podcast.
10 Oxford Farming Conference 2024
The 2024 OFC theme was “The Power of Diversity” and this message resonated across the three days of the conference.
12 Farming Community Network
Jude McCann, CEO of the Farming Community Network and Club Member asks if it is time to change how we talk about mental health challenges in farming.
14 Farming Briefs
14 Can You Farm Carbon?
Ben Hunt, Nuffield Scholar and trained agronomist investigates the potential of adopting carbon farming practices.
16 TIAH Membership is Now Live!
The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture is a new agricultural professional body established with Defra funding.
17 Craig’s Corner
London offers a plethora of enchanting experiences to indulge in during the Spring Season.
18 Farming Figures
18 Golf Society
The 2024 golf season is well and truly underway.
19 Chef’s Page
A trip to Ireland in search of top-graded oysters.
20 U35s Recent and Forthcoming Events
A Night at the Carlton Club and dates for 2024 events.
22 Odes & Sods
This new column is an opportunity for members to send in unusual or improbable pictures, comments or sayings.
22 Club Information and Contacts
Chairman’s Comments
The sun has made a rare appearance, and we are in meteorological spring, but it comes as no surprise to read that we have endured the wettest winter for 130 years, and the warmest February in England and Wales. I don’t really need the papers to tell me, as I gaze out of the window to witness the mess made in the paddocks by Jo’s horses, and see a full day, in the not too distant future (hopefully), of harrowing and rolling.
Oxford Farming Conference
I have been distracted from the weather by a busy calendar starting with the Oxford Farming Conference in the first week of January with the theme of ‘The Power of Diversity’, chaired by Will Evans, and brilliantly organised by his committee. An excellent first day with Secretary of State Steve Barclay MP addressing Conference, followed by a panel session with Labour’s Steve Reed MP, Liberal Democrats Stuart Roberts and Caroline Van der Plas, co-founder of the Dutch Farmers Citizens Movement, who added a different perspective on politics.
The evening Oxford Union debate was entertaining and focussed on the not insignificant matter of farmers producing food versus farming wildlife. Of course, not a binary matter, but led to lively debate and was followed by dinner in the historic Christ Church College.
The Worshipful Company of Farmers Annual Banquet
Jo and I were delighted to accept an invitation from The Master, Guy Brogden, his Wardens and Court of Assistants to attend their annual banquet held at
Drapers Hall; a wonderful evening with entertainment, including our own Julian Sayers and Andrew Brown singing ‘The Farmers Boy’. Country File’s Tom Heap gave the address making the case for efficient food production, whilst allowing for further environmental improvements.
Evening Lectures
Whilst the evening date had to be amended at short notice, our Chief Executive did land the relatively newly installed Secretary of State, Steve Barclay for the January Lecture. With 80 members attending, a full hour of answering questions, including a further 30 minutes in The Club Lounge, Members had privileged access to cover a very wide range of subjects.
Shadow Minister for Farming, Daniel Zeichner, has confirmed his attendance at the next Evening Lecture on Monday 29th April, and I hope we shall see an equally strong attendance to pose questions on Labour’s strategy for food, wildlife habitat, water strategy, planning regulations, agri-tech…
Under 35’s New Chairman Gala Dinner It was a real pleasure to join the Under 35’s at their Gala Dinner in The Club, where 2024 Chairman Andrew Court introduced his new Committee. The Farmers Suite was full of exuberant chatter, and the guest speaker New Zealand High Commission Counsellor Hillary Curnow provided an interesting insight into the current state of primary agriculture in New Zealand. The revelry continued early into the next morning.
The NFU Conference
This was an opportunity to listen to the current issues affecting farmers in England and Wales, whilst also witnessing the handover from Minette Batters to Tom Bradshaw and his new team. The politicians were out in force with the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attending on Day One and Farming Minister Mark Spencer, Labour’s Daniel Zeichner and Liberal Democrat’s Tim Farron on Day Two.
There was a fascinating session with Minette chairing a conversation with Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environmental Agency. There were some pertinent questions from the audience, but you had to admire how Mr Lovell handled the session, with a final challenge to the Hall, that everybody had a role to play to improve water quality in our rivers. The whole Conference was brilliantly organised by Director General Terry Jones and his team, the Dinner well attended and included the Meurig Raymond Awards.
St David’s Day Dinner in The Club
A very enjoyable evening hosted by Puffin Produce and Pembrokeshire Creamery saw invited guests enjoy plenty of Welsh singing and delicious food. Puffin Chairman Rhys Iley and Chief Executive Huw Thomas updated VIP guests from the food trade on the progress of their new dairy, and plans for more superb Welsh food under the ‘Blas y Tier’ brand. The Farmers Club Kitchen provided an excellent dinner which was much enjoyed by all.
Looking ahead…
I am delighted that the Smithfield Market trip has been so well supported, so much so that another date is fixed for the 15th/16th October. The trip to Devon in May is full, and Jo and I look forward to meeting both Members on the tour, and also regional Members who will visit the Devon Show FC reception on Thursday 16th May. The Borough Market/City of London history tour is now fixed for Thursday 27th June, and we have a busy schedule of visits to Agricultural Shows over the summer, with the September trip to Sweden and Denmark looking very special indeed.
Follow us on-line: www.thefarmersclub.com @thefarmersclub The Farmers Club Page
Aspirations for the year ahead… Club News
Club Secretary and Chief Executive
Didi Wheeler writes these notes on the eve of the Easter weekend, a full 3-months into the year. We stepped into 2024 after a very successful previous twelve months, despite the difficult fiscal headwinds and challenges faced by the hospitality sector. Looking forward to an election year with the uncertainty it will inevitably bring; the ripples from Brexit/ Pandemic still playing out, compound effect of high food, people and product costs, one could be rather downbeat. However, I am delighted to report The Club is in excellent health: we started the year debt free, after repaying our pandemic loan; members have returned in strength, despite the traditionally quite first few weeks. The Club is busy and vibrant with a growing number of Club events this year, including the first overseas Agri-Tour to Denmark and Sweden since our return from the pandemic. There have been a series of highly successful members’ functions, and the Restaurant is continuing to grow in reputation and attract a steady stream of members and guests. Clearly the Winter to Spring Menu has landed extremely well, and we all look forward to the transition to the Spring to Summer Menu in early May. The Club has also supported the Pre-Study Briefing and Contemporary Scholars Conference for the 23 new Nuffield Farming Scholars for 2024 and will shortly support the final week of Institute of Agricultural Management Leadership Programme, The Club being the perfect agricultural ‘home’ for networking and building professional relationships. Its an exciting year that lies ahead as we continue to refurbish The Club, raise standards and enhance services through incremental improvements across the breadth of our activities whilst reinforcing the standards and ethos of this great Club.
Club Business
We welcomed our new Chairman, Richard Maunder, supported by his wife Jo, to The Club with a busy schedule of activities and events this year. In addition, there were 3 new members to the General Committee: John Henning, Bill Young, and Peter Jackson. As an aside John was also recently elected as President of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society. My thanks also go to those who left the Committee for their commitment, time and energy expended on behalf of The Club: Ian Bell, Tony Bell and Alan Plumb. The new General Committee sat in late January, with the Finance & General Purposes Committee meeting in March with a focus on the draft audit of accounts for 2023 and voted to propose the accounts to the General Committee. My thanks to Zarreena and the finance team for again producing a superb and accurate set of accounts which aided the process no end. The Club’s Trustees under Chairmanship of Tim Bennett conducted their 6-monthly review of the Investment Portfolio with our financial managers and discussed the financial effects of
global events on the markets and the consequences for our investments.
An Evolving Club Team Your Club Team continues to evolve. As many of you will know, recruitment and retention of personnel has been and remains a constant challenge, we continue to strengthen the Kitchen Brigade and over recent months have invested in the Reception, Food & Beverage with the arrival of Anslem Fernandes as a second assistant manager, and Front Office Teams. The arrival of Kusum Saha as HR and Jez Scholfield as Club Development Managers respectively, offer new opportunities; and with an ever-increasing number of Club Events, Craig is now joined by Sophia, as Events Coordinator, who many of you will meet at events over the coming months.
Sad News
We were all very saddened to hear of the passing of Rosemary Duffy. Rosemary retired from The Club over 10-years ago, and in her time was an extremely popular and a well-loved member of the Team who gave almost 36-years of service to The Club. Many members will have fond memories of Rosemary, as she ruled The Club Bar with a rod of iron. The Club Secretary said at the time of her retirement: ‘She has been a rock of consistency for us, never betraying a confidence and never accepting behaviour that stepped over the line. It can be a natural tendency for people who have been in one job for a very long time to be complacent. Not Rosemary. She took her responsibilities to The Club and its members very seriously indeed, from the beginning to the end, and for that am both tremendously grateful and humbled.’
Club Calendar
Events, both in and out of The Club, have come thick and fast this year. In early January, I accompanied the Chairman to the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) with a theme of ‘The Power of Diversity’, masterminded by member and OFC Chairman, Will Evans. The three days were a rich tapestry of learning, networking and engagement, with opportunities to meet so many members from across the breadth of the sector. In sum, the programme, speakers and opportunities to meet and engage were outstanding and would strongly recommend for those thinking of attending next year. The Defra Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Steve Barclay made his first visit to The Club and impressed members with his grasp of issues, enthusiasm to listen and drive change.
Club events such as the Cirque de Soleil evening continue to be an annual pilgrimage for many members to the Royal Albert Hall and the quite remarkable ‘Hidden London Series’ of visits to historical, now unused, underground stations have continued to attract large numbers of members.
The NFU Conference at Birmingham, was a unique event, with the Prime Minister speaking on day 1, and outgoing President and member, Minette Batters, handing over the baton to incoming President and member, Tom Bradshaw. Again, another excellent event with opportunities to meet with members and discuss the issues of the day.
We played host to Puffin Produce and Pembrokeshire Creamery as part of a fantastic celebration of Welsh produce during St David’s Day week, and also the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association with a celebration of Ulster’s finest produce as a backdrop to the International Food and Drink Event at the ExCeL Centre.
The U35s New Chairman’s Supper was a packed event to support the Chairman, Andrew Court and his new committee, and hear guest speaker Hillary Curnow, Counsellor (Primary Industries) at the New Zealand High Commission.
As I look forward, the programme of events continues to build with the Chairman hosting his first Club Tour of Smithfield Market, which has proven to be so popular, it will be repeated later this year. This month we have the Monday Evening Lecture with Rt Hon Daniel Zeichner MP for Cambridge and Shadow Defra Minister, General Committee meeting, Past Chairmen’s lunch, St George’s Day lunch with Major General Sir Christopher Ghika as guest speaker. Other events include a Food and History Tour to Borough Market, a busy season of agricultural shows with Club Pre-Show Dinners and Afternoon Receptions and a bespoke overseas Agri-Tour to Denmark and Sweden. With so much going on, look forward to seeing you back at The Club or out in the shires soon.
See the back page of this journal or The Club website for detailed information about Club Events
A New Year… with New Rooms!
With The Club’s refurbishment impacted by the pandemic, it was with great enthusiasm that we kick-started 2024 with a series of projects. No sooner had we returned from a well-earned festive ‘rest’ than we modernised the Housekeeping Operation before starting on 10 bedrooms on the Upper Ground Floor. Eight of these rooms had not been decorated for over 10 years! Work will be completed by the time you read this article, less for a few items of new furniture. This work has allowed us to remove remaining asbestos, improved the plumbing notoriously challenging in an old Victorian building, and updated the decor and bathrooms. All these bedrooms were originally all private apartments, so our work uncovered a few surprises, including a hidden fireplace and an eclectic collection of original floor tiles. The rooms have been individually designed, have their own colour schemes, are configured to provide more space, have sockets with USB ports and the bathroom mirrors have integrating and built-in magnifying mirrors.
Further into the year we will be improving the kitchens and replacing the carpets in the public rooms on the Upper Ground Floor. All this activity is part of an ongoing multi-year programme of work to ensure the continuing development and upkeep of The Club.
Club evening at Cirque de Soleil
City Food and Drink Lecture
Prime Minister at the NFU Conference
Hillary Curnow NZ High Commission
NFU Conference in Birmingham
The Rt Hon Steve Barclay MP
OFC Chairman, Will Evans
Tuesday Evening Lecture
Despite his relatively recent arrival in appointment, the Defra Secretary of State, The Rt Hon Steve Barclay MP, was crystal clear on his straightforward message to farmers on his plan, comprising of three components: More Money, More Choice, More Trust!
Welcoming the Secretary of State (SofS) to his first visit to the Farmers Club, Chairman Richard Maunder, opened and chaired a very lively discussion in a refashioned ‘Tuesday Evening Lecture’. SofS opened by complementing members, “Coming to The Farmers Club is a bit like coming to Mark Spencer’s living room, because he’s a regular here, but with Robbie Moore here as well it’s almost as if the department has some serious representation within The Club. I think it underscores just how important The Farmers Club is, not just to the industry, but to us within the Department.” With important policy announcements already made at the Oxford Farming Conference and with the NFU Conference yet to come, SofS offered a slightly more informal conversation, providing a sense of the direction and the priorities for his ministerial team.
From the outset, SofS was keen to emphasise to members the importance he placed on food production and food security, and how he viewed that it mattered not just to the farming sector but also to the huge number of jobs linked directly to the ‘Farm to Fork’ supply chain. He was clear on the requirement for sustainable, productive and profitable farming businesses to feed the nation. His pandemic experience as Chief Secretary to the Treasury had clearly informed his views on protecting, strengthening and recognising the value of food production and food security now, if it is to successfully protect the nation at a time of crisis in the future.
More Money
Firstly, he wished to reduce energy and planning costs, and accelerate timeliness of decision making to provide greater certainty for farmers.
Secondly, he looked to boost profits through better legislation, new supermarket labelling designed to highlight high animal welfare standards in the UK to better reflect value and help distinguish against cheaper imported products with lower standards.
Thirdly, he highlighted the new funding increases to support environmental and management schemes.
SofS highlighted the importance of productivity, nowadays a lesson common term, adding that the Government’s growing annual R&D budget of c£20bn would allow long term development choices to be applied to the agricultural sector. Evolving agricultural technology, he believed, should be seen as an ‘enabling tool’ to drive greater productivity and overcome some of the workforce challenges raised by John Shropshire’s Independent Review into Labour Shortages in the Food Supply Chain. He sensed there was more work to be done on the Land Use Strategy, wanting food production to take an important central component and also ensuring sustainability schemes were much more closely linked to soil quality, precision farming, pollinators, the issues so beneficial for food production. He stated that adjustments were being made to environmental schemes to allow them to be tilted to less productive land where they would probably be better suited and be far more cautious around our best agricultural land.
More Choice
The recent OFC announcement of 50 additional Sustainable Farming Initiative (SFI) actions which support an environmental approach underpinning food production was used as an example of increasing choice. Recognition was made of the requirement to tailor Defra’s approach to the differing components of the diverse supply chain community, specifically mentioned was the work with Baroness Rock, to better support and enable of tenant farmers through the evolution of new schemes. Other examples included the expansion of new overseas markets, such as Chile, and supported by the introduction of a growing Attaché network.
More Trust
“The paradox is that the farming community are the ones that care the most about nature, however for some the relationship starts with a sense of suspicion rather than trust”. SofS was keen to see a re-set in the relationship between regulatory bodies and farming communities. He also believed there should be work to explore how more environmental funding could be directly funnelled to farming community. “I strongly believe that the farming community care about nature so the SFI scheme should be reinforcing that approach” as the farming community are the first responders to the consequences of climate change. Throughout, bureaucracy needs to be tackled, and processes streamlined and simplified.
SofS repeatedly returned to the importance and success of an ‘active listening’ approach by his team. “Since my first week in the job I’ve been out and about on your farms listening to how can best support you.” Whether on the farms, in the forums or in The Club, the essential requirement of listening to the important insights made by colleagues and responding in a timely manner
to effect constructive and agile change were directly improving the development of the schemes.
A lively Q&A session followed under ‘Chatham House Rules’, covering an extremely diverse series of subjects, including: a requirement to better integrate SFI and Conservation Stewardship schemes; concern SFI was reducing food production; the challenge of better funding water management, an acknowledged critical component of food production to meet the consequences of climate change and empowering the local drainage boards; steering the complexities of farm assurance schemes; growing the regional abattoir capability to support meat production; the importance of being precise when articulating an evidence based requirement for the specific mental health and wellbeing needs of the farming community; clarification of the emerging changes, the timetable and prospectus for the evolving SFI programme; cross-Government frictions in addressing seasonal worker requirements and a trajectory of greater tech utility and reduced reliance on workforce; Defra working closely with the Institute for Agriculture & Horticulture should provide opportunities to enhance support for facilitation, training, and education for farmers under the growing demands of SFI.
At the conclusion of the evening, the SofS joined the chairman for a glass of wine and further questioning by enthusiastic members. In summary, this was an extremely impressive performance by a SofS still relatively new in appointment, who was clearly eager to make rapid improvements and importantly was willing to actively listen to the farming community on the important issues of the day.
A Chat with Will Evans
Didi Wheeler chats with member, Will Evans: a prominent Welsh Farmer who was this year’s Chairman of the Oxford Farming Conference, a popular Farmers Weekly columnist and the driving force behind The Rock & Roll Farming Podcast.
“As a tenant farmer there is a desperate need for reform in England and Wales if I am to be allowed to diversify the way I want, and to provide some longer-term securities.”
Home and Farming
Coming from a multi-generational North East Wales farming family, at least 10th generation on my father’s side (it’s not easy tracing an Evans in Wales!) and almost everyone in farming on my mother’s side, I was always going to be a farmer. Typically, remember a childhood of chasing my Dad around on the farm on the tractor and just wanting to be like him. Sadly, I spent too much time looking out the window at tractors whilst at school – a classic farming story, but I regret not making the most of my early education and would urge my four young daughters to grasp these opportunities to learn as they come along. The later challenge of BSE and recognition of my lack of qualifications led me to later spend 3-years at Harper Adams. I now farm in partnership with my parents who are both in their 70s and work as hard as ever and love it as much as they ever have. We have a mixed farm of about 500 acres with c330 beef cattle, which we buy in as calves from neighbouring dairy farms and take them through to finishing; we have an integrated system where we don’t buy in any feed, we grow it all ourselves and we
have a range combinable crops as well and maize, so generally it works very well. I’m also in the process of going into a partnership with my wife’s family, if working closely with your own family wasn’t enough but it will lead to a significant expansion.
Opportunities
As a positive, open-minded farmer I’ve always looked for opportunities. The challenge of our time is clearly producing food in as environmentally sensitive way and that’s only going to become more important. I believe there are huge opportunities in technology advancements, private sector emissions offsetting, and think there is finally recognition of farmers doing a significant amount of good for the environment. There’s much more we can do if we’re supported and there is a genuine enthusiasm to seize these opportunities. I think there are lessons we can perhaps learn from the poultry and pig sector innovation and if you look at some of the most innovative growers at the moment they’re doing some really interesting things with bi-cropping, use of beneficial insects to reduce pesticide use. I think there’s a lot of real innovation going on at the moment and people who are willing to try different things are really being quite successful. We’ve
seen a high number of people who have switched to direct drilling or minimum cultivation and it’s certainly working very well for us. Despite Rishi Sunak’s NFU Conference comment of farmers ‘not being in it for the money’, we are business-minded and we have to make a profit to reinvest for the future.
Tenancy Reform
As a tenant farmer, there is a desperate need for reform in England and Wales if I am to be allowed to diversify the way I want and to provide some longer-term securities to allow me to invest for the future. Even the Welsh government views that if a new Sustainable Farming Scheme doesn’t work for tenant farmers, then it doesn’t work for anyone. The Tenant Farmers Association and George Dunn alongside the NFU Tenants Forum do loads of brilliant work, and senior politicians when visiting our farm are starting to listen but progress is painfully slow as always.
On Sustainability
We used to suffer really bad flooding once a decade but now it’s pretty much every year and the damage it’s causing makes me question whether I can continue growing and losing crops on our lower lying fields. We may have to look at alternative land use and the new schemes could actually work for us. I do see what the Welsh government trying to do through the Wellbeing of Future Generations of Wales Act. It requires us to ensure we provide the same quality of life for the generations to come. I do think the world is going to look very different and I worry about what kind of world my children and grandchildren will grow up in. Therefore, as farmers, we need to play our part and that’s not just planting 5 trees in one corner of a field, it’s about doing so much more. However, I remain concerned the Welsh government is just not listening to farmers and think the evolving SFI programs in England make so much more sense, the uptake is self-evident.
Rock and Roll Farming Podcast
I heard a US podcast where a guy called Rob Sharkey was talking to farmers and it just captured my imagination and I questioned why there wasn’t something similar in the UK. Instead of ranting why no one was taking a lead, decided to fill the gap myself. Being far from computer savvy, with no media experience, but with a genuine interest in social history, what could go wrong? sensed there were so many interesting human stories behind food production, farm life, and just everyday family situations that would attract listeners. learnt how to make a podcast on YouTube and Google, struggled with poor rural mobile/ internet signals which sounded as if I was interviewing from the bottom of a well, but in 2017 it all started, despite
no one really knowing what a podcast was then. It took off like a storm. Many farmers felt they were misrepresented in the media, and I was able to champion the diversity of the people, farming systems and geography and try to make programs accessible for nonfarmers by being not too technical. I needed to make people feel at ease as we spoke, so my approach was to make them laugh a little, and feel as if they were chatting with a friend in a pub or market café. People responded but just opening-up on subjects that I never expected them to talk about, such as mental health which was pretty much unheard of at that time. It was an amazing experience, I loved every moment and it was a privilege to have those rich and honest conversations with people. Producing a podcast every week was brutal and took all my spare time away from the farm with researching, recording, editing, marketing and meeting so many interesting people. built an amazing network and many have gone on to be really good friends. After 3-years and a huge amount of work, was exhausted, and with so many other great farming podcasts on the scene called it a day.
Mental Health in Farming
Oxford Farming Conference
I was utterly shocked when hundreds of people got in touch after a podcast about mental health. even had some people message me to say this podcast had probably saved their life. We keep in touch and check-in with each other every now and again which is probably the best thing about doing the whole podcast. I think sometimes it just shows that every time someone talks about mental health or opens up on how they feel, and someone is listening, it will help them significantly. When I was doing the podcast didn’t realise at the time what was actually happening to me. I suppose it’s the classic ‘tears of a clown’ situation really. Whilst was trying to make everyone laugh and getting amazing traction on the podcast, I was actually seriously ill myself, it was due to this struggle that eventually gave up the podcast in 2019. When I was at my worst, I felt was a burden to everybody and they would be better off without me.
That’s what mental illness does: it twists your thinking. The reality is everybody, my friends and family, were so worried about me. I eventually sought help from a doctor, was on antidepressants for a year, eventually got better but I still have to watch my mental health. I’ve put things in place to look after myself: exercise and concentrate on my breathing – it’s a form of mindfulness, eat well and after a bad day, rather than bottling it all up, I talk to my wife. The first steps are that you have to reach out and talk to someone.
I stepped into the OFC many years ago, when Matt Naylor, then director, asked me to take part in the ‘Emerging Leaders’ programme. Arriving at Oxford University I was a bit intimidated to be honest. I felt really out of place, but I just couldn’t have been more wrong. I was absolutely blown away by the whole experience and learned so much. Without exaggerating I was a changed man. Years later I was invited to apply to be a director – clearly there weren’t many applicants that year, and I was brought onto the board. It’s an amazing group of directors, and I found you can really shape the conference as you see fit. It’s a very diverse group of people and that breeds real dynamism, ideas, passion, a challenge culture, but all in a supportive context. As chairman I was very fortunate to have a truly talented and brilliant group of directors around me, and was delighted that we delivered this year’s Conference on the ‘Power of Diversity’. I was extremely proud of what we managed to achieve.
I thought the speakers, without exception, were outstanding and the chat over coffee was exceptional; it really was an egalitarian audience. There was a genuine buzz as we discussed diversity across the sector in its widest sense. could not have asked for more.
Advice to Next Gen Farmers
We need you; we need youth in this industry! You are the future of farming and it is you that will be taking this industry forward and meeting the challenge of producing food for the world in an environmentally friendly way. You are a more tech-savvy generation, more able and willing to adapt, are climate aware and understand the social division of today. You are open-minded, adaptable, and up for the challenge. You are hopeful for the future, not old, beaten-down and cynical; rather you, have bags of energy, and you know that’s absolutely what we need in this industry now. What we need to do is to help provide the pathways to assist younger people.
Oxford Farming Conference 2024
Marcus Webb, a U35 member of The Farmers Club, was selected to be a sponsored scholar at this year’s Oxford Farming Conference. He graduated from Loughborough University in Accounting & Financial Management and is now working in the City of London as a Corporate Audit Manager. He is committed to the family farming enterprise with routine arable and livestock work during evenings, weekends and holidays, and takes an active part in strategic planning for the future.
The 2024 Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) theme was “The Power of Diversity” and this message resonated across the three days of the conference. The word diversity, by its very definition, is wide-ranging and delegates heard how diversity, whether that be in farming practices, agribusiness, people or nature all play a key role in the future of farming in the UK.
We heard from a huge number of outstanding speakers: tomato producers, dairy farmers, food waste charities, an ADHD representative highlighting opportunities within the Halal meat industry, farm shop businesses, service station operators, gin producers, chefs, UK and overseas politicians, seaweed specialists, and of course HRH The Princess Royal and many more…
As an OFC ‘Scholar’, it was a great opportunity to meet a number of young farmers or those involved in the food production sector from across the country. The OFC Directors gave freely of their time and organised a session focusing on leadership training and how to get the best out of a team of diverse individuals, led by Dr Paul Horwood.
This was such an exceptional event, so selecting highlights is potentially challenging. Steve Barclay announced the new SFI developments for 2024, despite these lacking any meaningful detail, the increased payment rates and additional 50 actions came as a needed reassurance to farmers across England. “More money, More Choice, More Trust” focusing on the increased payment rates, additional actions and an effort to improve interactions between farmers and Defra. “Food security is fundamental to the wider UK national security.”
Several partner events and main conference talks highlighted the importance of mixed farming and how managing livestock alongside arable systems creates positive externalities both directly for output and for the environment.
This year’s OFC Debate Motion was: ‘This house believes that farming for food is holding back nature recovery in protected landscapes’. The Debate was held in the esteemed Oxford Union and consisted of opening remarks from Ben Goldsmith (For) and Will Cockbain (Against). We heard about overgrazing, under grazing, dung beetles, examples of positive impacts on nature for food production and the counter. With some incisive contributions from the floor, including the younger demographic, the ‘Noes’ won it with roughly two-thirds of the votes.
The Conference closed with a truly inspirational speech from Mike Duxbury, who self-certified as the ‘UK’s only blind farmer’. His projects at Inclusive Farm, in Bedford and now also in Scotland, enable individuals with disabilities to work and be involved within an agricultural setting, despite living with challenging disabilities. Mike talked frankly through his inspiring story and the huge demand for his farming programmes. This was the perfect way to round off the Conference theme of Diversity.
I’d like to take this final opportunity to thank The Farmers Club for sponsoring my place at the conference, and if anyone is thinking of attending in the future, I would strongly advise making the trip. This is an event in the agricultural calendar that is definitely not to be missed.
HRH The Princess Royal
Blind farmer Mike Duxbury
Marcus Webb, U35 member and OFC Scholar reviews the 2024 conference
Will Cockbain (in debate)
Ben Goldsmith (in debate)
The OFC Scholars
Is it time to change how we talk about mental health challenges in farming?
With a growing understanding of the scale of mental health issues in farming, Jude McCann, CEO, The Farming Community Network and Club Member shares his thoughts and observations.
The FCN regularly hears from people within the farming community and wider agricultural sector about the pressures they’re under and concerns they may have for the future. As a national charity with over 300 volunteers, all of whom ‘speak the language’ of farming and understand its unique challenges, we are in a privileged position to listen, support and help people find a positive way forward.
We want farmers to thrive, and each year we help hundreds of farmers and their families to continue doing what they do best in the industry they love. This includes providing emotional
or pastoral support, assistance with succession planning, and helping farmers to explore their options. This in turn has a positive impact on farmers’ mental health and wellbeing, as it helps to reduce some of the stresses they may experience.
There endures in farming a stoicism that in some respects can be a productive quality. It helps farmers to stay resilient through uncertainty; overcome setbacks and bounce back when things don’t go to plan. With so many factors in farming outside of farmers’ control – be it the weather, market prices or animal disease, it is important to maintain a pragmatic
mindset: whatever will be, will be, and more often than not, the best laid plans will go astray.
This attitude is not without its drawbacks, however. It can encourage people to keep their thoughts and feelings bottled up; to feel ashamed and to shy away from asking for help. It can also cause people to wait a long time before asking for support, at which point things may be more difficult to resolve. Regrettably, it can also lead to some being dismissive or choose not to engage with the conversation around mental health in farming.
There is immense strength in asking for help, and we reassure people when they do decide to contact FCN that it is a first positive step towards finding a solution.
But we also acknowledge that for every individual who does contact our charity, there will be others who don’t. We want to better understand why this might be, and to address the barriers that may be present for some.
We recognise that conversations around mental health can be challenging, and that there perhaps needs to be a change in how we talk about it in our sector. So, during this year’s LAMMA Show in January at Birmingham NEC, we took the opportunity to dig deeper and working with the excellent show organisers, we chaired a panel discussion titled “Is it time to change how we talk about mental health challenges in farming?”
We aimed to discuss what more we can be doing as an industry to engender good health and wellbeing and to support people before they reach a crisis point. Speakers included farmer and FCN Trustee Stuart Roberts, farmer and FCN Ambassador Charles Anyan, Farmers Guardian editor Olivia Midgley, and Hannah Garner from PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide. They each provided insights on the role we can all play in helping to create a healthy and
prosperous industry. A prevailing theme was the strong sense of community in farming. The speakers provided the following tips for helping to create a positive mindset:
• Taking guilt-free time to ourselves helps us to recharge; we need to find a work-life balance that allows for us to take a break every now and then.
• Recognise when we have had a good day and celebrate successes and wins, big and small.
• Appreciate the things we have and try not to worry too much about the things we don’t.
• Avoid digesting too much social media and ‘doom-scrolling’ through negative stories.
• Open up, talk and share: whether that’s talking to a friend, a colleague, a family member, or a charity such as FCN.
During LAMMA we also ran a survey where we invited over one hundred farmers to share their thoughts on what they enjoy most about farming. Being close to nature, making a positive impact, and a feeling of success and achievement were among key reasons given.
Our industry must work together to ensure farmers can continue to thrive. Farming is at the heart of addressing many global challenges: from climate change to food security. We must ensure careers in agriculture are fulfilling to the next generation, and we will continue to work with Young Farmers’ Clubs and agricultural colleges. Indeed, focusing on the essential and positive aspects of farming could be the key to helping us to talk about mental health and wellbeing in a more productive way.
Jude McCann, CEO Farming Community Network Farming Community Network Volunteers
Speakers at LAMMA 2024: farmer and FCN Trustee Stuart Roberts; farmer and FCN Ambassador Charles Anyan; Farmers Guardian editor Olivia Midgley; Hannah Garner from PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide.
Farming briefs
Can You Farm Carbon?
Technology is making vertical farms ever more efficient, with Jones Food Company’s new Glos unit cost competitive with lower carbon emissions than imports, despite high energy prices. Computer controlled LED lights and a steady 27°C / 75% humidity ensure 15 tiers of lettuce and herbs grow three times faster than on farms in Spain or Morocco.
A novel polymer could replace current fungicides and protect wildlife, say Nottingham University researchers. In a field trial in wheat it passively resisted fungal spore attachment to markedly cut Septoria tritici infection. Optimisation could see it used with existing fungicides, or replace them.
Lincolnshire sheep farmers Jade and Richard Bett, who burned their sheep’s fleeces earlier this year, say they do so every year, as wool is worth so little, reports Sourcing Journal. Wool selling for 26p/kg doesn’t even cover transport costs to buyers, they say.
Farmers are training robots to spot slugs more effectively in Defra’s £2.6m SLIMERS project.
‘Slug sleuths’ are using special rigs to improve complex machine-learning algorithms, so future robots can rove fields and spot treat slugs with pathogenic nematodes with no human input.
Ben Hunt is a 2022 Nuffield Scholar, who studied a business degree at Loughborough University, then trained as an agronomist and took up various technical and commercial roles within agriculture. His project received funding through the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust with contributions from the John Oldacre Foundation whilst taking part in the IBERS Distance Learning Program at Aberystwyth University.
Farmers face increasing challenges, such as rising costs, climate change and growing environmental regulations. Clearly, agriculture requires change, especially for farmers inside environmentally sensitive catchments, but the question we must ask ourselves is whether carbon farming is the answer? If it is, then how do we incentivise it?
The emerging Soil Carbon Market (SCM) has generated much enthusiasm. Companies pay farmers to adopt practices that remove atmospheric carbon into the soil, known as carbon farming, thereby offsetting the company’s emissions. On one hand it seems like a ‘winwin’ whereby increasing soil carbon could assist farmers to cope with future challenges by improving
farm productivity, environmental performance and climate resilience while mitigating emissions for third party off-setters. On the other hand, the approach seems fraught with challenges around ‘greenwashing’, with people often calling it the ‘wild west’. I investigated several overseas projects in Europe and North America that provided hope these challenges could be addressed, interviewing a range of stakeholders involved. My investigations found that these overseas projects weren’t really addressing these challenges and exhibited issues regarding additionality and permanence. Most farmers had adopted all or most of the accredited carbon farming practices in the past, rather than adopting new practices, indicating minimal additional soil carbon
storage. The SCM was therefore not delivering its intended benefits of climate change mitigation nor was it increasing the adoption of carbon farming. Substantially higher carbon pricing is likely to be required to drive material change and additionality. Otherwise, companies gain credit for farmers’ existing actions, a form of greenwashing that farmers risk getting embroiled within.
So, in really simple terms you can farm carbon; and adopting carbon farming practices could demonstrably boost soil carbon with a myriad of benefits for farmers and the environment.
But are SCMs a suitable tool for driving the adoption of carbon farming and its associated advantages? This is unlikely at present, in the case of nascent carbon offset markets, though future potential exists if integrity and carbon pricing improve. Currently though, risks seem to outweigh opportunities for farmers. A safer route for farmers may be found in fledgling private markets for non-offset carbon outcomes, such as insetting, which have fewer restrictions. The scale of soil’s potential to mitigate climate change also remains debated. Therefore, climate change mitigation is currently best seen as a potential co-benefit, rather than the primary focus of carbon farming.
Key Findings
• The soil carbon market (SCM) is nascent, with substantial challenges around additionality and permanence yet to be overcome if market integrity and carbon prices are to improve for farmers. Therefore, it is uncertain whether the offset SCM, where farmers are paid for carbon credits from companies or individuals outside their value chain, will be a suitable instrument for driving genuine climate impact, or the adoption of new carbon farming practices.
• The risks currently outweigh the opportunities for farmers in the offset SCM. However, farmers can mitigate some of these risks by pursuing non-offset based SCMs, such as insetting, within their value chain.
• Carbon farming benefits farmers and the environment. However, the potential of carbon farming to mitigate climate change is uncertain and still strongly debated. Farmers should therefore focus on climate change adaptation as opposed to climate change mitigation.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ACTION Farmers
• Spearhead internal transformation of the sector, otherwise, external forces will likely impose unwanted changes instead.
• Proceed with caution and consider the risks of SCMs.
• Keep expectations of SCMs realistic, don’t allow it to delay decision making. The challenges for farmers are clear enough to proceed in a direction.
• Pursue non-offset based markets for soil carbon outcomes, such as insetting.
Water Companies
• Support the research and development of other private non-offset based markets for soil carbon outcomes.
• Partner with food and beverage companies on insetting activities. There are opportunities to co-invest in reducing scope 3 emissions for mutually beneficial outcomes, without competing for the same carbon outcomes.
• Attract and support transformative new entrant entrepreneurs AKA ‘Regenpreneurs’ to start landbased businesses specifically inside high-risk drinking water catchments.
Government & Farming Industry Bodies
• Provide leadership to the farming sector to navigate SCMs, to avoid the potential pitfalls for farmers, supply chains, the agricultural sector and the climate.
• Hold voluntary SCMs accountable, don’t accept greenwash.
• Introduce regulation and incentives to discourage extractive supply chain behaviour by food and beverage companies, so farmers receive fair value for their produce and carbon insets.
• Introduce greater regulation and incentives for farmers in environmentally sensitive catchments to nudge farmers in the direction needed, at the pace that’s required.
• Consider a very substantial N-fertiliser tax to boost farmer innovation, as opposed to complacent, input-dependent farming.
• Provide greater incentives and support specifically to new entrant farming entrepreneurs AKA ‘Regenpreneurs’.
In summary, SMCs may not be the panacea once thought for driving agricultural transformation or climate change mitigation. Carbon farming merits adoption for its multiple benefits, but SCM suitability depends on the model – offset or non- offset. While immature, nonoffset approaches like in-setting appear better aligned to incentivise carbon farming practices, but there are many factors beyond SCMs that are required to truly transform agriculture including policy, regulation and entrepreneur-led innovation.
Farm in France selling soil carbon credits to an offsetter Ben Hunt
Dutch farmer organisation ZLTO partners with 15 farmers to develop a carbon farming project in association with a local wind farm.
TIAH Membership is now Live!
In June 2023, Stephen Jacob, was appointed CEO at The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture, more commonly referred to as TIAH.
It is a new agricultural professional body recently established with Defra funding. “It is our purpose to address the skills and labour problems within the industry, promote our profession, encourage lifelong learning and be the overarching body that brings together training and professional development across England.”
Membership offers a gateway to everything an individual needs to grow their skills, progress their career and demonstrate their professionalism, whatever their sector or experience level. At the heart of TIAH membership is its online service: an innovative digital skills and careers platform, developed in close collaboration with farmers and growers.
The online service makes support, training, and professional development easier to find and access, 24/7. The system tracks how individuals use it, and draws on their background experience, to deliver personalised information and training recommendations. There are tools to help users assess their existing skills and identify any gaps. A host of online learning resources, as well as a directory of training providers, help people develop at their own pace, and importantly, each user has their own online dashboard where they can record and demonstrate their achievements.
Steve Barclay, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, talking with Linda Christofferson, TIAH Membership Manager, and TIAH Board member Janet Swadling OBE
Other membership benefits include access to webinars, toolkits, templates, and related resources featuring expert advice on topics central to a thriving farming and growing businesses. Among more than 400 farmers and growers who have helped TIAH develop the online service is Staffordshire farmer Andrew Court, and The Farmers Club U35 Chairman. Andrew founded the regenerative agriculture-focused Court Farming Partnership with his family in 2020. He is excited about what TIAH membership offers farmers and growers, saying: “It has been refreshing to be involved in helping TIAH develop the online service. The focus has been on ensuring that the content is approachable and inclusive for everyone working across the breadth of farming disciplines. As the agriculture and horticulture industry is evolving, access to platforms that aid professional development is becoming ever more important. The real benefit of the TIAH service is that is helps people roadmap out where they want to go and makes it easy for them to identify the routes to get there.”
The launch of TIAH membership is a major milestone and the virtual doors are now open to the farming and growing community to help enhance their approach to learning and development. For further information and to sign up, visit www.tiah.org/membership.
As Winter’s chill gradually gives way to the warmth of Spring, London emerges from its cocoon of grey skies and chilly winds into a city bursting with colour and life.
The capital offers a plethora of enchanting experiences to indulge in during the Spring Season. From leisurely strolls through picturesque parks to cultural escapades. So, I thought I would offer a few of my local suggestions to help put a spring in your step whilst you are in town…but also an indoor few just in case of those April Showers:
Open-Air Theatre
If you’re a fan of the performing arts, there are few better ways to enjoy a show than at an openair theatre. There are several options in London to choose from, including Opera Holland Park, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and Regent’s Park Open-Air Theatre. Each one offers a diverse and exciting line-up of performances.
With ticket prices starting from £5 it’s a wonderful way to spend a Spring Evening, please reach out to me regarding this Season’s Program.
‘Light into Life’, Kew Gardens
Saturday 4th May to Wednesday 29th September
Springtime in London would not be complete without a visit to Kew Gardens. As nature awakens from its winter slumber, the gardens come alive with a kaleidoscope of blooming flowers.
From May you can explore a unique exhibition from renowned artist Marc Quinn, featuring over 20 newly created artworks in collaboration with Kew’s scientists and horticulturists. This is an opportunity to experience nature and art coming together in a truly special way.
‘Swan Lake in-the-round’, Royal Albert Hall
Wednesday 12th to Sunday 23rd June
True love triumphs over evil in this epic ballet, set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious score, brought to life by the English National Ballet Philharmonic.
With 60 ballerina swans shimmering in white tutus, moving in unison, flocking across the Hall’s arena floor, this outstanding production will captivate and enthral you.
‘Untold Lives’, Kensington Palace
Friday 14th March to Thursday 27th October
London has no fewer than 8 Royal Parks and nestled into Hyde Park you will find Kensington Palace. The Palace’s newest exhibition uncovers the forgotten stories of those who worked at the Royal Palace over 300 years ago. Shedding light on the diverse and essential roles that were necessary to maintain the Royal Residence. From gardeners and cooks to cleaners and seamstresses, these individuals played a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of the Palace. The exhibition also showcases the changing social norms and expectations of these roles over time.
The Paddington Experience, London County Hall
Opens Friday 31st May
It’s 65 years since Paddington Bear was introduced to the World, and his special cameo at the 2022 Jubilee Celebrations renewed the Nation’s affection for this lovable bear.
This unique experience unfolds across multiple themed rooms inspired by iconic locations from the Paddington stories where guests will meet their favourite characters as they participate in interactive games and activities. No matter the age, this experience will capture the hearts of the entire family. Our Restaurant has plenty of marmalade, so make sure you have a good breakfast before you go!
Craig Godfrey-Swanney Member Experience Manager
UKCEH, Defra
Golf Society
By the time members read this journal The Club golf season will be well and truly underway.
Our season starts with a match on Monday 8th April versus the XL Club at the historic Royal St George’s Golf Club in Sandwich, followed in late April with a visit to the New Zealand Golf Club in Surrey for our annual match v EPICS.
Society Captain Charles Wylie looks forward to welcoming members old and new at the venues around the country during the season. More details on fixtures will be added to The Club Secretary’s frequent Newsletters.
New members wishing to play and receive golf related emails should contact Martin Shaw at: martin.edwardswale@gmail.com
The matches and meetings arranged for 2024 are as follows: April
Sunday 7th April Dinner at Royal St Georges
Monday 8th April v XL Club at Royal St Georges Friday 26th April v EPICS at New Zealand Golf Club
May
Thursday 2nd May v NFU at Oswestry Golf Club
Tuesday 14th May v New Club at Luffness New Golf Club
Wednesday 15th May v HCEG at Muirfield
Wednesday 22nd May v BVAGS at Tadmarton Heath Golf Club
June
Wednesday 12th June v WRNFU at Doncaster Golf Club
July
Wednesday 3rd July Club Championships at Blackwell Golf Club
August
Thursday 29th August John Alliston Tankard at Stratford upon Avon Golf Club
September
Tuesday 17th September Autumn Meeting at Whittington Heath Golf Club & Wednesday 18th September Sutton Coldfield Golf Club
October
Tuesday 1st October Bath Club Cup at Woking Golf Club
Thursday 31st October Members and Border Golfers at Alwoodley Golf Club & Friday 1st November Seaton Carew Golf Club
A Pearl Amongst Oysters
I was recently invited to Ireland by one of my fish suppliers to visit an oyster farm with 45 other Chefs from London. Having left Heathrow very early on Sunday 21st January we were greeted at Dublin Airport by Kian Louet Feisser, Managing Director of the Carlingford Oyster Company.
Kian’s father, Peter, has always been attracted by the sea and was inspired by a broadcast he had heard on BBC Radio 4 to begin growing oysters and founded the company in 1974.
He arrived on the shores of Carlingford in the late 1960s sailing his own handbuilt wooden yacht, accompanied by his wife Anna and two chickens. They were enchanted by the Lough’s natural beauty and seduced by the allure of the Irish way of life. Now in his 80s, Peter is still there, perfecting new growing techniques devised to create the ultimate Carlingford Oyster. His son, Kian and his wife, Mary continue to build on that romantic notion today.
We spent time out on the beds taking in everything we were being told about this humble little creature that brings great joy to some and dread to others! They are so passionate about what they are producing, how they are producing it, and how they are looking to improve the finished product and are trialling some clever naturally occurring practices. It takes 3-years from young (spats) to create the perfect size oyster and they don’t all grow at the same rate.
A late lunch was back at the newly constructed visitor centre. Plates of oysters and some lovely dishes created by local Chef Connor from The Bay Tree Restaurant awaited us along with some pints of Guinness and some rather nice local gin. Later, a delightful
five-course dinner of local produce, overseen by Great British Chef entrant Raymond McArdle.
The following morning it was back to the oyster farm to see the processing that takes place before the oysters are graded and packaged for markets, hotels and restaurants all over the world. The handpicked top-graded oysters known as ‘Louët Feisser’ were destined for some of the top hotels in London whose chefs were with me on this visit.
What a great way to see Ireland for the first time and so much was learnt.
I can`t wait for you all to try Carlingford Oysters here at The Club, they are delicious raw or cooked. Enjoy Chef
Tadmarton Heath Golf Club
Chairman’s Jottings
Andrew Court Under 35s Chair 2024
Unfortunately, I must begin these jottings on a somewhat low note. Despite the success of our first dinner of the year (detailed on the next page), I must confess to you all that, despite my best efforts, I am unable to provide pictures of either our Chairman or our Chief Executive, frequenting the dance floor of ‘Bunga Bunga’ (a well know nightclub!), that know you were all keen to see. Indeed, I decided to avoid a trip to Covent Garden, instead favouring an eye-wateringly expensive trip to the Velvet Bar at the end of the Whitehall Court.
Brushing this small failure swiftly aside, however, am happy to say that we continue to move from strength to strength. By the time this is published we will have completed and reported on our most in depth U35s members survey to date. Ensuring we continue to remain relevant and accurately represent the views of our group.
What does it take to attend
your first U35 event?
Pencil in the date, buy your tickets, buy an outfit, and pluck up the courage to attend an event where you may not know anyone! Let me tell you that once you do these things, it will be so worth it. I have never felt more at home with a group of strangers. As well as beautiful surroundings and excellent food, the conversation flowed so easily. You end up having connections in different ways to different people, resulting in an interesting evening of varied conversations. During my first event there was also rotation in the seating arrangements halfway through dinner, allowing you to meet many people throughout the evening. Dinner was followed by a guest speaker, which was also a highlight.
A Night at the Carlton Club
Younger members were welcomed with open arms to the glamorous Carlton Club on St James’ Street, for a joint dinner with the Carlton Club’s Younger Members. Aled Thomas reports
The Club was founded in 1832, following the massive reform majority in the 1831 general election, by Tory Peers, MPs and others, in order to improve the organisation and effectiveness of the Conservative Party.
c/o The Farmers Club • 020 7930 3557 generaloffice@thefarmersclub.com U35s Feb Dinner Guest Speaker
The spring dinner will have been held where we will have been joined by Journalist, Author and Nuffield Scholar, Anna Jones. Our third Jill Willows training day and a trip to see the Red Roses play Ireland at Twickenham will have taken place as well. Attention will now be focussed on the impending farm walk weekend in Staffordshire.
As you can see, we are keeping busy!
The Farmers Club Under 35s Committee
There are so many types of connections to The Farmer’s Club, including working in the industry, family ties, or often both. Whatever brought them to the club, everyone has chosen to be part of a member’s group in order to socialise and connect. Once you attend your first event, each subsequent experience will only get better and better… I look forward to continuing to participate in the varied social calendar of the group and welcoming new members as I was so warmly welcomed.
Katie Taris
Under 35s Forthcoming Events for 2024
19TH APRIL
Jill Willows Training Day: Environmental Schemes & Renewable Energy Training (Day)
19TH APRIL Spring Dinner (Evening)
20TH APRIL
31ST MAY
Friends of Agrespect Dinner (Evening)
1ST JUNE
Visit to Suffolk (Kenton Hall Estate & Acre Farm)
28TH JUNE
‘A Taste of Scotland’ Summer Dinner
The evening began with a glass of bubbly on arrival, and members of both clubs getting acquainted with their fellow dinner guests in the Morning Room. Dinner followed and was served in the Churchill Room, where members enjoyed a fantastic three course meal with wine, and great conversation.
Following dinner, and after Carlton Club Young Members Chair Stephan Fifield and Aled Thomas, the Farmers Club InterClub representative, exchanged some after dinner jokes – including a comparison between Aled’s flying pigs tie and the Conservative Party’s chances of winning the next election – younger members were given tours of the club and an opportunity to see some of its fantastic architecture.
The Carlton boasts some great facilities for its members, including the Wellington Room, Cads Corner, The Cabinet Room, The Thatcher Drawing Room and indeed the Wine Room, full of many different wines and history.
The Farmers Club U35 Committee and the Carlton look forward to continuing club exchanges like this in the coming future, providing members with more for their membership!
Aled Thomas
Hillary Curnow Counsellor (Primary Industries) at the New Zealand High Commission in London
Guinness Women’s Rugby Union 6-Nations
18TH / 19TH MAY
Chairman’s Farm Walk Weekend (Staffordshire & Shropshire Border)
24TH MAY
New Members Evening
27TH SEPTEMBER
Jill Willows Training Day: Details TBC (Day)
27TH SEPTEMBER
Mystery Dinner (Evening)
29TH NOVEMBER
Festive Dinner (Evening)
ODES&SODS
This new column within the Journal, is an opportunity for members to send in unusual or improbable pictures, comments or sayings. Members can send their contributions to The Club Secretary at: generaloffice@thefarmersclub.com
I would also challenge you to send me the best name for this column, Member Robin Hicks, inspired this idea and thought up the ‘Odes and Sods’ play on words: Sods being agricultural and odes meaning stories. In fact Odds and Sods. Robin has sent in our inaugural copy, a photograph of French Farm Protest and also a plaque on the wall of the old Corn Exchange in Devizes. Robin remarked that his favourite yarn was when he was a Ministry of Agriculture adviser and saw a large sign proclaiming: “NO SMOKING ALOUD!” on a farm in Hertfordshire.
If you think you can add to the merriment, send in your pictures or amusing comments to me at The Club, the best making the editorial cut will feature. Give it a go!
020 7930 3557 • www.thefarmersclub.com
Office Holders
HONORARY VICE PRESIDENTS
Barclay Forrest OBE, Sir Mark Hudson KCVO, Peter Jackson CBE, Mrs Susan Kilpatrick OBE, John Parker, Paul Heygate OBE
THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT OF THE CLUB 2024
VICE PRESIDENTS
Julian Sayers, Nicki Quayle
PRESIDENT AND CHAIRMAN
Richard Maunder
TRUSTEES
Tim Bennett (Chairman), John Lee OBE DL, Jimmy McLean, Keith Redpath
VICE-CHAIRMAN
Karen Mercer
HONORARY TREASURER
Christopher Riddle
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN
Meurig Raymond CBL DL
CHIEF EXECUTIVE & CLUB SECRETARY
Didi Wheeler
CLUB CHAPLAIN
The Reverend Dr Sam Wells
COMMITTEE
Elected 2021 to serve from 2022 to 2024 inclusive: Stephen Butler, John Hardman (re-elected), Tom Rawson, Janatha Stout
Elected 2022 to serve from 2023 to 2025 inclusive:
Sue Bullock (re-elected), Sarah Cowlrick (re-elected), Sophie Dwerryhouse, Nick Green, Lindsay Hargreaves, Mark Riches, John Wilson
Elected 2023 to serve from 2024 to 2026 inclusive: Anthony Snell (re-elected), Bill Young, Peter Jackson, John Henning OBE
Co-opted: Nick Green (Chairman, FCCT), Andrew Court (Chairman Under 35s), Ben Barton (Vice Chair Under 35s) Ed Whattoff (Under 35s)
THE FARMERS CLUB CHARITABLE TRUST TRUSTEES
Nick Green (Chairman), Vic Croxson DL, Meryl Ward MBE, Des Lambert OBE, Dr Jenna Ross OBE, James Squier, Christine Tacon CBE, The Chairman and Vice-Chairman of The Club (ex officio). Patron Mrs Stella Muddiman
New Members
The following were elected:
UK Members
Councillor T Allebone Northamptonshire
Mr S Gilder Gloucestershire
Mrs T Woodhouse Kent
Mr T Boddy Leicestershire
Mr R Kallaway Cornwall
Mrs MJ Hutchinson Norfolk
Mrs D Pollock Gloucestershire
Mrs FE Blanch Wiltshire
Mrs LA Nottage Gloucestershire
Mrs E Howard-Solegaard Dorset
Mrs C Godber Buckinghamshire
Mr W Webb Cheshire
Ms R Penny Oxfordshire
Mr M Enskat Surrey
Mr A Dakin Kent
Mr D Bailey Derbyshire
Overseas
Mr A Ellis Portugal
Mr JC Dickie Mexico
Mrs L Vitry Trapman Switzerland
Mr J Coyle Ireland
U35s
Mr C Bayliss London
Mr T Bletsoe Cambridgeshire
Mr K Burgon Cheshire
Mr RJ McGowan Essex
Mr C Eccles Somerset
Mr B Legard Yorkshire
Miss B Speakman Essex
Miss R Moore Lincolnshire
Miss L Rowton-Lee Oxfordshire
Miss E Parrish Bedfordshire
Miss A Tetlow Sussex
Mr G Roach Yorkshire
Mr JP Wright Somerset
Function Rooms
If you are looking to book a function at The Club, contact functions@thefarmersclub.com or call our Conference & Banqueting Sales Manager on 020 7925 7100, who will be delighted to assist.
Deaths
It is with regret that we announce the death of the following members:
Mr David Bowen Monmouthshire
Mr James Brodie Northamptonshire
Mr Maurice Buchanan Suffolk
Mrs Olive Clarke OBE JP DL Westmorland
Mr David Cummins Wiltshire
Mr Arthur Ellis London
Mr Eric Holmes Somerset
Mr John Hudson Berkshire
Mr Archibald Kerr Lincolnshire
Mr Christopher Knock Suffolk
Mr David Laing Northamptonshire
Dr Thomas Martin Oxfordshire
Mr Cark Maunsell Hampshire
Mr David McCreath OBE Northumberland
Mrs Helen Pinkerton Surrey
Dr Ken Pollock Worcestershire
Mr Peter Reynolds Somerset
Dr David Rhodes Berkshire
Mr Christopher Trapman Overseas
Mr Jeremy Walker JP Somerset
Honours And Awards
Peerage
His Majesty The King was pleased to confer a number of Life Peerages which included Lord John Fuller OBE, a member of The Club
Knight Bachelor
Professor Neil Mortensen, Professor of Colorectal Surgery at the University of Oxford Medical School was appointed a Knight Bachelor for services to Surgery
The Rt Hon Mark Spencer MP; Minister of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries and Member of Parliament (MP) for Sherwood, was appointed a Knight Batchelor for Public and Parliamentary Service
OBE
Paul Heygate was appointed to the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Paul was recognised for services to the Food Industry and Charity.
Philip Wynn was appointed to the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Philip was recognised for his leadership in large-scale farming and food-related businesses.
MBE
Dr Catherine Baxter was appointed to be a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for services to Higher Education.
Next Issue
The Summer issue of The Farmers Club Journal is due with members in early August.
It will include reports on The Club’s AGM, the St. George’s Day Lunch, the Monday Evening Lecture from April and a wide range of articles on topical farming issues.
Club Contacts
THE FARMERS CLUB
Serving the farming industry for over 180 years 3 Whitehall Court, London SW1A 2EL
