Alan Gardner elected to Farmers’ Union of Wales Board

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has announced the election of Alan Gardner as a Farmer Director to the Union's Board. 

Alan has been a prominent member of the FUW for many years and brings a wealth of experience to the Board. He has previously served as Chair of the FUW's Flintshire County Branch, National Livestock, Wool and Marts Committee, as a Vice-President, and completed a previous term as Farmer Director between 2021 and 2024. He currently chairs the Union’s Rural Affairs Committee. 

Beyond the Union, Alan has held several influential roles across the industry sector, including positions with Hybu Cig Cymru, the Food Standards Agency, and the Welsh Food Advisory Committee. In 2024, he was appointed to the Welsh Government's Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board and is a Farming Connect Agrisgôp Leader and Mentor. 

Originally from Montgomeryshire he grew up on a hill farm in Dolfor near Newtown, Alan went on to serve as County Chair of the Young Farmers Clubs before moving to Flintshire in 1990, where he began share-farming with his young family. 

Commenting following his appointment, Alan said: "I am honoured to have been elected as Farmer Director and would like to thank members for placing their trust in me once again.  

"The FUW has always played a vital role in representing the interests of Welsh farmers, and I look forward to working diligently with the Board, Union staff and members to ensure that the FUW continues to be heard at every level. Welsh agriculture faces significant challenges, but also opportunities, and I am committed to helping the Union deliver positive outcomes for farming families and rural communities across Wales." 

Welcoming Alan back to the board, Farmers’ Union of Wales President, Ian Rickman added: "On behalf of everyone at the FUW, I would like to congratulate Alan on his election as a Farmer Director. His extensive experience across the agricultural sector, combined with his longstanding service to the Union, makes him exceptionally well placed to take on this important role. Alan's knowledge, insight, and passion for Welsh farming will be invaluable as we navigate the opportunities and challenges facing the industry and continue to deliver for our members." 

Alan took up his Farmer Director in June 2026, succeeding Breconshire farmer, Darren Williams, who has completed the maximum nine years permitted in the role. FUW President Ian Rickman paid tribute to Darren for his dedicated service to the Union and Welsh agriculture. 

"Darren's contribution as a Farmer Director has been immeasurable. His hard work, insight and good humour in the face of challenges have helped to strengthen the Union, delivering real benefit to our members and farming communities across Wales. We extend our sincerest thanks for his commitment and wish him every success for the future."