Late Lachlan MacLean takes Miskelly Award for services to the Union and Scottish farming
Mull farmer and Union stalwart Lachlan MacLean has received posthumously one of the Union’s highest accolades – the John Miskelly Memorial Award.
The Miskelly Award was established in memory of John Miskelly, an inspirational figure who served as Regional Manager with the Union and presented by John’s family following his death in 2006. Now in its tenth year, the trophy is presented in recognition of those who have shown, through outstanding dedication and achievement, their commitment to NFU Scotland and Scottish farming.
Lachlan died suddenly on 27 June at Knock Farm, on the Isle of Mull. Aged just 55, the sudden and tragic loss of Lachlan shocked many and devastated his close knit family. Lachlan’s funeral service was attended by several hundred from Mull and across Scotland – testament to the high regard and respect that those who met and knew Lachlan carried for him.
With many years of unwavering commitment to NFU Scotland, Lachlan was a very active Chairman of the Union’s Less Favoured Areas committee from 2012 to 2015 and a popular member of NFUS Board of Directors during those years. Lachlan also served as LFA Vice Chairman for several years, as well as being a pivotal figure within the Mull Branch and Argyll and the Islands Regional Board. Few have served NFU Scotland with such commitment and loyalty.
NFU Scotland’s Director of Policy Jonnie Hall – a long-time friend of Lachlan’s - collected the Miskelly Award at the Union’s AGM today (11 February), being staged at the Fairmont Hotel, St Andrews.
Speaking on behalf of the MacLean family, Mr Hall said: “Lachlan was so much more than one who simply held office. He was a true champion of hill farming in Scotland, dedicated to making a positive difference, while respecting the challenges and needs of all other sectors. Lachlan always saw the bigger picture, while he also tackled any problem bit by manageable bit.
“That pragmatic and patient approach, and his unerring positive outlook, made Lachlan stand apart. Add in his ability to engage with all he met - whether government ministers, the media, fellow farmers or primary school children - then Lachlan simply won everyone over.
“A gentleman in every respect with an infectious smile, Lachlan faced anything and everything that farming in the most challenging circumstances could throw at him – and yet he thrived on anecdote and fun. Lachlan’s many qualities simply made him one of the very best. He is desperately missed by family and friends alike.” Ends
Notes to editors
- The Miskelly Award was established in memory of John Miskelly, who served as Regional Manager with the Union and was an inspirational figure through his dedication and support to the agricultural Industry. It was kindly given by John’s family following his death in 2006.
- The trophy is inscribed with the following: “This award is presented in recognition of those who have shown, through outstanding dedication and achievement, their commitment to NFU Scotland and Scottish farming.”
- Previous winners include Michael Coutts, David Smith, Jo Durno, Bert Leitch, Henry Murdoch, Colin Manson, George Murray, Liz Murdoch and Elaine Robertson.
- A photograph of the late Lachlan MacLean is available on request. A photograph of NFU Scotland Director of Policy Jonnie Hall – a long-time friend of Lachlan’s - receiving his award on behalf of the Maclean family will be available from 2pm on Thursday 11 February by contacting media@nfus.org.uk or calling 07788 927675.
Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006