First of all, a huge thank you to everyone who joined us at the Fox and Hounds last month for our NFU Cheshire social evening, the brainchild of our County Chair, Rob, and his wife Lorraine. There was no set agenda and no formalities, just a great opportunity for members to get together, catch up and enjoy a chat away from the farm. We often underestimate the value of taking a few hours out to meet with others, and it was fantastic to see so many faces. We're hoping to run another social evening in February, so let us know whether you'd like us to stick with the same venue or move it around the county.
The NFU North Dairy Board recently travelled to Jenkin Cragg Farm near Kendal and enjoyed a virtual tour of Kendamil, giving members the chance to see two dairy success stories up close. From the Young family's award-winning dairy enterprise to Kendamil's journey from local manufacturer to global brand, the day provided plenty of inspiration and insight. A big thank you to our hosts and to all the members who attended.
Education has also been high on the agenda recently. Stuart Chacksfield and I spent a fantastic morning at Ysgol Saltney Ferry Primary School in Flintshire as part of our Farmers for Schools programme. After speaking to pupils about farming and food production, we were given a tour of the school's farm. It was wonderful to see how engaged the children were, from handling chickens to feeding the goats, and their knowledge was impressive. The school spoke passionately about the positive impact the farm has had on pupils, and it was a great reminder of the importance of helping young people understand where their food comes from.
The following day, Jack Williams and I headed to Let's Farm in Winsford to celebrate its fifth birthday. For those who haven't come across it before, Let's Farm is a working farm that provides opportunities for people with learning disabilities and additional support needs the rangers to take part in farming activities. Huge congratulations to Rosie, Nicola and the whole team. What they have achieved over the last five years is truly inspiring.
With both the Farmers Guardian Awards and Farmers Weekly Awards taking place recently, it was fantastic to see so many Cheshire members recognised for their achievements. Congratulations to everyone who was shortlisted.
A quick reminder that the Cheshire Rodent Management Course will take place on Wednesday 9 December at the NFU West Cheshire Office, Chowley Five, Tattenhall. The course offers the opportunity to gain the Rodent Management Level 2 Award, now required for anyone purchasing or using rodenticides. To book your place, call NFU North on 02476 939401 or email [email protected].
Finally, we're looking forward to seeing many of you at our NFU AGM with NFU President Tom Bradshaw on Wednesday 18 November at 7.30pm at Bidlea Dairy, Holmes Chapel. It will be a great opportunity to hear from Tom, ask questions and catch up with fellow members. We hope to see you there. To book your place, call NFU North on 02476 939401 or email [email protected].