After more than 40 years of service to the NFU, Nick Utting retired at the end of 2009.
It would have been wrong not to celebrate this great landmark, therefore
with some gentle persuasion Nick agreed to a retirement party with the agreement that the proceeds go to his chosen charities - Eden Valley Hospice and Life Education Cumbria.
The event was held within the new marquee at Eden Golf Course on Saturday 26 June. Almost 500 people attended and were treated to an excellent meal and entertainment throughout the night.
Ian Powley was the superb host who ensured the smooth running of the evening which included Pimms reception with piano accompaniment from Gordon Brown, the 'Singing Waiters' an operatic trio, local entertainment from Richard Hodgson and Johny Reed and to finish it off a stunning firework display by Philip Hetherington and Carrs Milling.
On the evening, Nick was presented with the prestigious Blamire award by Trustee Mike Chester, for services to farming in the old county of Cumberland. Ian Watson then spoke about Nick’s many successes as well as the difficulties that Nick faced whilst in his time at the NFU.
Nick concluded the formal part of the evening with some of his own highs and lows of his career as well as thanking the many people who he has worked with and met over the years. Following the presentations the night carried on until the early hours of the morning with music from Loud and Bright Disco and Leroy Johnson and the Flicks as well as piano reprise from Gordon Brown.
Nick would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who helped make the night as special as it was.
Nick said: “This was a night I will always remember. Amongst 500 friends and colleagues with wonderful entertainment, who could ask for anything better. My thanks to everyone involved and for your immense generosity towards our target of £10,000 for the charities. Many donations have been received since the event and from others who were unable to attend.”
For those who know Nick, it will come as no surprise that although he is now retired, he is still very much active. He remains secretary of Dalston Show, Council member of The Cumberland Show, Chairman of The Dick Harrison Trust, Secretary of the Blamire Trust and Chairman of Life Education Cumbria.
In the little spare time he has left in the week, he continues to garden, fell walk, curl, tend to his newly acquired wood and hopefully take the
occasional holiday with his partner Margaret.
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