Edward Garratt has taken up his post as Shropshire NFU county adviser following the departure of Jonathan Evans who left to take up a role at Arla.
He will also take responsibility for the NFU West Midlands dairy board working with its members from across the region.
Ed is a familiar face to the team and to NFU members having served in a variety of other roles during a career dedicated to farming and those in rural communities.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic he is currently working from home, however, is keen to engage with farmers at this crucial time for regional agriculture and horticulture.
Ed said: “I feel privileged to have been appointed as the NFU adviser for Shropshire.
“The county has a proud history within the NFU, right from its very beginnings and today members still produce food, across the range, to the very highest quality.
“For those of you that don’t know me, I have served the NFU in Shropshire for more than 20 years now."
Ed started as an assistant group secretary in Shrewsbury, with Alan Hudson, and more recently worked as a TB adviser covering Shropshire Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.
He said: “Agriculture faces many challenges at present, not least the Agriculture Bill and the uncertainties regarding Brexit.
“However, I am convinced that Shropshire farmers will rise to these challenges as you have to others in the past.
“With the added pressures of Covid-19, I don’t know when I will be able to meet you face-to-face, but whatever happens, the NFU will be here to support you, from the grass roots level upwards.
“I look forward to the challenge and helping members.”
Robert Newbery, NFU West Midlands regional director, welcomed Ed to the role and said he would be an excellent addition to the team.
For further information about the NFU’s lobbying work or to join the union, Shropshire farmers and growers can contact their local group secretary or call Mr Garratt on 01952 400500.