Pembrokeshire beef and sheep farmer, Brian Thomas, who started his farming career at the age of 15, has been recognised with the Farmers’ Union of Wales internal award for services to agriculture.

Presenting the award at the FUW President’s reception (Wednesday, July 24) at the 100th Royal Welsh Show, Union President Glyn Roberts said: “Brian has been a rock solid friend and working partner for over 20 years. He is always willing to help, support and give advice. It is fair to say that Brian is someone I could and can rely on.

“Over the years Brian has gone above and beyond in serving not just this Union but the industry as a whole. He is not afraid to ruffle a few feathers if it means farmers get a better deal, be that through leading protests or campaigning at Government level. 

Farmers from across Wales joined a busy discussion group with Welsh agriculture Minister Lesley Griffiths at a special meeting hosted by the Farmers’ Union of Wales at the Royal Welsh Show (Wednesday, 24 July).

Focusing on the current ‘Sustainable Farming and Our Land’ consultation, which comes to a close at the end of October, members discussed proposals such as future support, the desire of pursuing a single Sustainable Farming Scheme which would be linked to a Sustainable Farming Payment, farmers delivering Public Goods and the possibility of capping and tapering payments.

Speaking after the meeting FUW President Glyn Roberts said: “This is a significant step forward and in essence farmers welcomed the tone of the proposals. However, there are some fundamental differences of opinion. We discussed these in detail with the Minister yesterday and will continue those discussions in the months ahead.

It’s the end of an era. Young farmers are officially old when they reach 26.

But now the FUW has set up a new way of keeping in touch for the over 20s, with a special home targeted at giving younger farmers the chance to keep in touch - and keep on enjoying meeting up. 

The Farmers’ Union of Wales has reiterated warnings about the disastrous consequences of a no-deal Brexit, as new Prime Minister Boris Johnson takes on the role of leading the country.

“We are absolutely clear, no responsible UK Government would allow the UK to leave the EU without a deal.

“We have been relentless in highlighting the grave economic impacts for agriculture, rural communities and other industries of a hard Brexit.

“The latest analysis by Hybu Cig Cymru suggesting 92.5% of our lamb export trade could disappear if we go over the Brexit cliff on 31st October highlights our concerns,” said FUW President Glyn Roberts.

Mr Roberts said he would be writing to the new Prime Minister, congratulating him on his appointment and would seek a meeting in the near future to discuss the Union’s concerns.