Future Farmers of Yorkshire look for positive opportunities after Brexit vote

A young competitor in the dairy handlers class at the 2015 Great Yorkshire Show

he Future Farmers of Yorkshire group is hosting an informal networking breakfast on Wednesday 13 July to discuss the outcome of the referendum and what happens next for UK farmers. A range of topics will be discussed including a look at future trade, payments, currency movements and the impact on foreign workers. It will also look at positive opportunities in the new political landscape, with many Future Farmers keen to roll up their sleeves and work together, determined to be part of a successful food and farming industry.

The Great Yorkshire Show is England’s premier agricultural show and runs from Tuesday 12 – Thursday 14 July when more than 130,000 people are expected to attend.

Organiser Elizabeth Hudson said: “This presents an opportunity for farmers to tell policy makers what they would like to see in a UK agricultural policy which could ultimately make the industry stronger. Farmers produce the ingredients for the UK’s largest manufacturing industry - food and drink, and it is vital that their voices are heard at this important time.”

The headline speakers are NFU President and Pembrokeshire farmer, Meurig Raymond and Professor Wyn Grant, Professor of Politics of the University of Warwick and lead author of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s Brexit Report. Closer to home, Escrick arable farmer and agronomist Rob Daniel will chair the meeting. Rob works for event sponsors, Agrii, and is club leader of Escrick YFC, as well as being an active member of Future Famers.

The group was established by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and comprises farmers, vets, consultants, machinery dealers and land agents, keen to network and share best practice. The breakfast meeting has become a regular diary fixture for farmers keen to catch up with friends and business contacts, before enjoying a full day at the Great Yorkshire Show.

The meeting begins at 7.45am and takes place at the NFU Stand. Talks are expected to start at 8.15am and finish by 9am. The event is free and to register, please email [email protected].