Farmers from Carmarthenshire discussed the most critical #FarmingMatters facing the industry, including Brexit, the future for young farmers, succession and shared farming, the amalgamation of large retail food stores and the impact upon suppliers, at their recent annual general meeting.

The event, which was held at Llanarthney Village Hall, heard from FUW head of policy Dr. Nick Fenwick, Wales YFC Vice chairman and Chairman of Rural Affairs Dafydd Jones, Agri-advisors Manon Williams,  and Cled Richards from Agri-Angels.

Newly-elected FUW Carmarthenshire county chairman Philip Jones, said: “We enjoyed a successful evening with a lively discussion on many farming matters and I would like to thank the panel for their valuable contributions.

“When it comes to Brexit, many of us still feel in the dark but it was good to hear that the FUW on behalf of its members is doing all it can to influence politicians where possible and through its lobbying work is ensuring that the voice of the Family Farms of Wales are being heard in London and Cardiff.”

Baler twine, flat cap, rigger boots and a moustache - a fairly common image of Welsh farmers over the decades, but thanks to one man from Cwmfelin Mynach, the image is now quite iconic. Cue the Welsh Whisperer.

The man who is busy making a name for himself as a performer, radio presenter and popular television personality is now teaming up with the Farmers’ Union of Wales at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show.

Performing exclusively for the FUW on Monday, July 23 at the Union’s pavilion on the showground, those joining the evening can look forward to well known belters such as Loris Mansel Davies, Bois y JCB, Bois y Loris, Classifieds y Farmers Guardian and Ni’n Belo Nawr.

The evening starts at 6.30pm with a free hotdog and there will also be a bar.

The Farmers’ Union of Wales has launched new reflective armbands as part of its commitment to promote farm safety.

The new armbands can be worn by all family members to help them to be seen better in the dark and will be available from all FUW stands during the show season.

FUW Marketing Manager Meryl Roberts said: “If we are seen we are much safer and these armbands are a practical addition to any farm outfit. Of course, it won’t fix all of the problems but it might just help a little, given that most farm clothes are dark and farming doesn’t stop just because the sun has gone down.

“The armbands are functional and can be worn in all types of weather. And above all, they support our commitment as a Union to promote farm safety in any way we can. Being seen is the first step to keeping safe after all, so get in touch with your local FUW office to get your free armband today or come see us at your local county show!”

Farmers’ Union of Wales Meirionnydd administration assistant Louisa Moore completed the Great North Swim in June, raising a total of £350 for the Union’s charities - Alzheimer’s Society Cymru and The Farming Community Network.

Swimming a mile in Lake Windermere, Louisa complete the course in just over an hour.

Speaking after the event, she said: “I was quite confident going into the swim. The weather forecast was great, with the exception of a twenty minute downpour when we were warming up.

“I think the swim went quite well, although I did experience quite a bit of cramp after 1200m, which is probably what slowed me down! I’m very happy that I’ve completed the challenge and, although I was absolutely exhausted by the end of it, I am looking forward to taking on another swimming challenge next year.”

FUW President Glyn Roberts said: “I congratulate Louisa on her fantastic effort in not just raising a great amount of money but also for completing the swim. The money raised will directly help the 45,000 people living with dementia in Wales, as well as help the FCN in supporting the farming community throughout Wales.”

Donations can still be made for Louisa’s swim at www.justgiving.com/louisa-moore3 and  www.justgiving.com/louisa-moore4.