Gemma Smale-Rowland from Launceston on the Cornwall/Devon border is a third generation farmer of the Glebewin Herd of pedigree Holsteins. She previously worked for Mole Valley Farmers and is Club leader of Launceston YFC. Gemma has also previously sat on the Dairy Crest Forum Board representing around 100 local dairy farmers.
Ian Harvey also farms at Launceston, helping to manage a family farm partnership of 400 acres. Ian currently sits on the NFU’s Dairy Environmental Issues Group and is also the Finance Director for Dairy Crest Direct (DCD). A strong advocate of Dairy producer organisations, Ian believes in the importance of farmer cooperation to improve the dairy supply chain.
Tim Lock farms in partnership with his wife Kate as tenants on 820 acres in Arundel, West Sussex, and contract farms an additional 950 acres on a neighbouring estate. The main farming enterprises are a 200 cow dairy, with associated young stock, and around 1200 acres of arable land along with a Countryside Stewardship Scheme. Tim is a former NFU Chichester Branch Chairman and currently Chair’s the M&S National Milk Pool.
John Alpe is an organic farmer from Lancashire who runs a small dairy herd of 45 milking cows alongside young dairy stock, beef cattle and a flock of 1000 breeding sheep. Actively involved with LEAF, John hosts educational access visits to people with special needs and liaises with schools to deliver a presentation on food production with a focus on educating inner city areas. John is part of the NFU’s Organic Forum and also sits on the NFU North West Dairy Board.
Cheshire dairy farmer Phil Latham has been re-appointed for a second term. Phil farms 1000 acres in partnership with his father, Robin, in Cheshire with a herd of 450 pedigree Brown Swiss cows. The owned farm has diversified into commercial let properties and an equestrian centre with a range of facilities and livery options. As well as being appointed to the National Dairy Board, Phil is Cheshire County Chairman for the NFU.