Attendees heard from guest speaker NFU North Environment and Land Use Adviser James Copeland, who spoke about access to a working landscape; public rights of way, bridlepaths and footpaths, and reducing risk. He also discussed the importance of knowing your stock and advised on signage and risk assessments.
Further topics discussed included livestock worrying and waste exemptions. Members had the opportunity to ask questions in a Q&A session.
The Supper Clubs, run by the NFU Halifax team, take place twice a year and have been running for nine years. Topics covered in recent events include topics as Halal food, rural vulnerability and urban farming and rural crime.
The team hosted the September meeting to help address local farmers’ concerns about the recent rise in the number of people accessing footpaths in the town’s rural areas.
Attendee feedback has been positive, with members praising the interesting content and advice given.
A great success
Emily Mitchell, NFU Halifax Group Secretary, said: “We are always open to new people coming along to the Supper Club. We advertise it on our Facebook page NFU Halifax and through NFU emails.
“The evening was a great success, James was a great speaker, very clear - and a lot of the members really appreciated the conversation. There was a lot of engagement from the floor. The meal is always delicious.
“I hope the next Supper Club will be as well attended. The Supper Clubs are open to all members and all farmers – it’s about getting the whole farming community to come along and enjoy the event. If anyone is interested in attending the next Supper Club in February, do please contact us at the office nearer the time.”
To enquire about the Supper Clubs, call NFU Halifax on 01422 310225.