For the first time in six years the Chairman of The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) is an ‘active’ farmer and will lead the organisation during a challenging year in the industry post-Brexit.
Edward Ford, 26, a member of Chelmsford Young Farmers’ Club in Essex was elected unanimously by members at the Council meeting on 19 February in Coventry.
Ed, along with his father, mother and brother, manages a 1500 acre family farm in south Essex, cropping both winter and spring combinable crops.
He will be supported in his role by self employed livestock worker Lynsey Martin from Ashford and District YFC in Kent who will serve a second year as Vice Chairman.
Katie Hall from Gloucester YFC in Gloucestershire takes on the role of the second Vice Chairman alongside her full time job as a calf nutritionist and Regional Sales Representative for Bonanza Calf Nutrition.
The trio take on their roles at a critical time for the industry as negotiations and discussions continue about a future British Agricultural Policy.
As members who live and work in the countryside the top team have also first-hand experience of the cuts to rural services over recent years and are keen to raise awareness of the impact this has on rural young people and promote the benefits of YFC membership.
'Voice for the rural young'
During his year as Chairman, Edward plans to be the voice for rural young people and ensure Young Farmers are heard by Government.
Edward Ford, National Chairman of NFYFC, said: “I know how much it means to members to have an active farmer at the helm of the Federation during these uncertain times and I will do my best, along with the rest of the officer team, to ensure Young Farmers’ views are heard at the highest level.
“We’re not just an organisation for young people involved in farming – we offer support and a social life to all young people in the countryside and I am eager to promote how fantastic it is to be a member of this great organisation. Luckily I have an understanding family and team on the farm at home who understand I’ll have a few more commitments this year!”
Edward is also a trustee of the charity Forage Aid and played a key role in the setting up of the charity following his involvement in supplying forage to the Somerset Levels in February 2014.
The team will be responsible for leading the Federation’s Council, encouraging members of the Council to continue the development of the clubs that make up the NFYFC, to help them to meet the needs of YFC members and further enhance the image of YFC.
