NFU member Lionel Mills has announced his retirement from European duties after promoting the cause of ornamental plant growers for more than 30 years.
He said it had been an honour to represent the interests of NFU members in Europe since 1981, adding that his work had opened his eyes to an incredible industry.
He said: “I have represented and promoted our industry on many visits to Brussels, Europe and the rest of the world and have been lucky enough to see horticulture at its best. I have met many knowledgeable people, many of whom are now my friends.”
Maeve Whyte, director of the NFU’s Brussels office, said: “Lionel’s record speaks for itself. His experience and knowledge of the European institutions has ensured the interests of growers have been well represented for over three decades on a whole range of topics.
“Lionel will be missed in Brussels but we wish him well for the future and thank him for his unrivalled service to the NFU in Brussels.”