NFU Scotland’s Lothian and Borders region has a new chairman as Iain Orr steps down from his post after two years.

Stuart McNicol, 36, who is a partner in Castleton Farm in North Berwick, takes over from Iain after the region held its annual general meeting at Carfraemill this week.

Stuart, who is past vice chairman and chairman of the East Lothian branch also took part in the Rural Leadership Programme last year.

For the Lothians, Kelvin Pate of Aikeyside, Haddington was voted in as vice chairman for the region whilst the Borders vice chairman has yet to be appointed.

Stuart commented on his new role:

“It’s a great privilege to be chairman of the region especially when we have the President Nigel Miller and one of the Vice Presidents, Rob Livesey both from Lothian and Borders. I have a great regional board whom bring different skills and knowledge to the table from the branches and ultimately our members.

“The region’s priorities for the year ahead are to engage more closely with the general public whom consumes our products.

“At farm level, we need to secure meaningful Common Agricultural Policy reform outcomes that reduce the financial concerns being spoken about by all sectors.  We need workable solutions for our livestock keepers and common sense brought into the greening proposals for arable farmers.

“We will also be trying to persuade the Scottish Government to deliver a logical outcome to the Nitrate Vulnerable Zone re-designation and reduce the impact that these rules have on the region.”

Iain Orr who farms in Blackridge, Bathgate, wished Stuart good luck in his new post. He commented:

“I would like to say a massive thank you to the board and the regional managers throughout my two years as chairman. There are many highlights from that time, however our centenary dinner in November is one in particular that stands out.

“Good luck to Stuart in his new post, as well as to the new vice chairmen; it will be a busy year for them.”

Notes to Editors

• Stuart can be contacted on 07976164167 or by emailing oxmcnicol@yahoo.co.uk.

Ends

Contact Ruth McClean on 0131 472 4108