RORY PRAISES FARMING ORGANISATION

Rory met with The Farmer Network management team for an update on local projects run by the organisation.

The Farmer Network, founded in 2006, is a unique and independent organisation that is run by farmers for farmers, and currently has around 1,100 members. It offers expert advice to its members, from people used to dealing with the problems and challenges that today’s farm businesses often experience. The Farmer Network operates a sustainable business model and is well placed to continue providing a range of services and support for farmers, their families and their businesses.

Mr Stewart met with the management team, including Adam Day, Managing Director who joined the organisation in 2015. Mr Day explained the Farmer Network’s ethos to Mr Stewart, expressing his belief that farmers work best when they work together. He said that, by raising awareness of the Farmer Network and increasing membership, they have been able improve income streams and project funding. Rory was impressed to learn about the number of projects the Network is currently undertaking, especially business support for young people. He was particularly interested in the farming education project, which educates the public and tourists on how farms operate, in addition to their historic role in shaping the landscape of the Lake District. Rory then followed up by giving a short talk on his thoughts on Cumbria farming and the need for the community to prepare for change, which can often take an unexpected form.

Mr Stewart said “It is vital that organisations such as the Farmer Network continue to thrive, and support our farmers. In maintaining and developing a sustainable farming community though training and research, we can provide more jobs and opportunities for our young people, preserving our historic and important farms for generations to come. It was fantastic to hear about all the amazing work the Farmer Network is engaged with and I look forward to many such further meetings.”