Nominate your top young farmer

11:40am Wednesday 26th March 2008

Nominations are invited for the Farmers' Union of Wales Pembrokeshire branch's 2008 countryside award, which recognises the achievements of younger farmers in the county.

The award is particularly important this year as rural affairs minister Elin Jones has just set up a new group to inform the Assembly's policy of supporting new entrants to farming.

The group includes young farmers, who have overcome barriers themselves, and representatives from education, training and finance.

Announcing the membership of the group, Ms Jones said: "Not for a generation has there been such an opportunity for farmers to adapt and grow their businesses. Young people are well placed to take advantage of those opportunities. They have energy, drive and ambition, and are innovative and flexible."

To be eligible for the FUW Pembrokeshire countryside award the nominee must be 40 years old or under; actively involved in agricultural production or land management; and normally resident within Pembrokeshire.

FUW Pembrokeshire county chairman Dafydd Williams said: "As an industry with an average age of 59, it is essential that we encourage and nurture those young people who enter the industry if it is to have a future.

"In presenting this award we hope that the hard work and determination of the younger generation of farmers in the county will be highlighted and applauded," he added.

A cash prize, perpetual trophy and a year's free FUW membership will be awarded. For further details and nomination forms ring the Pembrokeshire FUW office on 01437 762913. All nominations must be submitted by Friday, May 16th.