Jimmy Doherty announced as 'small farms ambassador' for NFU Mutual

Celebrity farmer, famous for being on screen with chef Jamie Oliver, will become the NFU Mutual's new small farms ambassador
Celebrity farmer, famous for being on screen with chef Jamie Oliver, will become the NFU Mutual's new small farms ambassador

Celebrity farmer Jimmy Doherty has been announced as the NFU Mutual's small farms ambassador to promote a support package for small farmers.

In his new role, Jimmy will be sharing his experiences of turning a piece of run-down Suffolk land into a successful farm and visitor attraction with new entrants to farming and those who have worked the land for generations.

"We need small farms to look after the land, keep rare breeds going and to hold the fabric of the countryside together," said Mr Doherty.

"Small farmers have a great story to tell – but are so busy working that they don't get the chance to talk about the great work they're doing so I hope to be able to use this role to spread the message and support farmers - from those who have just started out to families who have been working the land for generations.

"Farming today isn't just about riding on a tractor; you have to be the vet, you have to be the engineer, you even have to now be the shopkeeper with a farm shop. To protect a dynamic farm business you need an insurer with farming expertise and local people to grow the business with you – and that's why I'm with NFU Mutual."

Gina Fusco, NFU Mutual Strategy and Marketing Director, added: "Jimmy is a brilliant communicator whose TV programmes captured the hearts of viewers by showing how his passion for farming helped him meet the challenges small farmers face.

"As the insurer of three quarters of the nation's farms, we understand the intense pressure small farms are under and are determined to help them survive and thrive for the benefit of present and future generations."