I hope everyone is keeping well and is getting through harvest safely, even if it has arrived much earlier than many of us expected. With the prolonged dry weather, I hope yields are holding up well and that harvest is progressing smoothly.
It has been another busy month in Norfolk, with plenty of member engagement taking place across the county. It has been great to see so many of you at recent events.
Royal Norfolk Show
We had another fantastic Royal Norfolk Show this year, despite the exceptionally hot weather. A big thank you to our Deputy President, Paul Tompkins, for attending on the first day and taking the time to meet with so many of our Norfolk members.
It was great to catch up with so many of you over the two days. I would also like to thank the members who generously supplied produce for our new catering company. I'm sure those who visited the stand will agree the food was excellent. In particular, thank you to Algy Garrod for providing delicious Norfolk asparagus, Tim Young for supplying some fantastic local wine, and Mark Gorton for providing the chicken.
Norfolk Younger Members Visit to Westminster
Earlier in the month, we were delighted to take a group of Norfolk Younger Members to Westminster, hosted by Ben Goldsborough MP.
The visit was an excellent opportunity for members to gain a greater understanding of Parliament and the work the NFU undertakes on behalf of members. The group also visited the NFU's London office, where the External Affairs team explained how they engage with and influence MPs and policymakers to ensure the voice of British farming is heard. It was fantastic to see so many younger members engaged and making the most of the opportunity.
Pre-Harvest Health and Safety
Many of you will have attended one of this year's pre-harvest health and safety events, which once again proved to be extremely worthwhile.
This year we were pleased to welcome representatives from Norfolk Police and Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service alongside a range of industry trainers. Sessions covered first aid, vehicle weights, the Police Commercial Vehicle Unit, fire safety and tyre safety, providing a valuable reminder of the importance of staying safe during what is one of the busiest times of the farming calendar.
Thank you to everyone who attended, and if you weren't able to make it this year, please do look out for future events.
Water and Water Abstraction
With the continued dry conditions throughout June, water availability, irrigation and abstraction remain key concerns for many businesses across the county.
If you have any questions regarding water abstraction or require support, please don't hesitate to get in touch with either myself or the NFU East team. We're here to help and can provide the latest advice and guidance.
Finally, I would like to wish everyone a safe, successful and productive harvest.