We are kicking off this month’s update with an insight from Grace’s first few weeks with the team in county.
My name is Grace, and I have recently joined the team as Assistant County Adviser for Devon, working alongside Sophie.
As Sophie mentioned in her last update, I have been with the NFU for nearly two years, covering a variety of roles and areas across the organisation. I am delighted to now be working in Devon and look forward to supporting our members across the county. Before joining the NFU, I worked for a rural events company in Devon while also working on a local dairy farm.
Outside of work, much of my time is spent playing sport and being actively involved with my East Devon Young Farmers’ Club. I am excited to work with you all over the coming months, ensuring that the voices of Devon farmers and growers are represented at every level.
Enough about me, it has been another busy month across Devon, with plenty for our members to contend with, not least the recent hot and dry weather.
Our local branch summer events are now underway, with a number of successful farm walks already taking place across the county. A big thank you to all our local offices and hosts who have helped make these events such a success. Be sure to check your branch newsletters for details of upcoming events in your area.
On Friday 4 July, we held our What Does the NFU Do For You? event, kindly hosted by Devon County and Regional Board Chair, David Chugg. We were delighted to welcome a panel comprising NFU South Sector Board Chairs, alongside our newly appointed Director General, Sophie Throup. The event was extremely well supported and provided a valuable opportunity for members to hear first-hand about the NFU’s work, achievements and priorities across all commodity sectors. Thank you also to the teams from our Barnstaple, Bideford and Halwill offices for their support with catering and refreshments.
On Tuesday 14 July, we held our NFU Devon Health and Safety Event at Westpoint, Exeter, supported by DCAA. The event was well attended, with more than 50 members joining us for a day of informative sessions. Members took part in a range of interactive sessions, including defibrillator training, machinery safety, a TB Champions workshop, working at height, and legal guidance from our NFU panel firm, Birketts. Attendees also had the opportunity to engage with representatives from Trading Standards and HSE, who provided valuable advice and information throughout the day.
In addition, FCN and Mason Kings were on hand with exhibition stands, giving members the chance to learn more about the support and services they offer. A huge thank you to all our exhibitors, speakers and partners for their support in making the event a success.
As we move further into the summer, show season is fast approaching across Devon. We look forward to seeing many of you at events over the coming weeks. Keep an eye on your local branch newsletters for details of NFU activities and plans in your area.
Save The Date:
Annual Devon Winter Conference - 18th November, location to be confirmed shortly.
Some of you may remember the success of the NFU Devon Big Bash…we're delighted to announce that it's returning!
Friday 29 January. Tickets are expected to go on sale later this summer, so keep an eye out for further details. We look forward to seeing you there!
Sophie & Grace