TWO farming brothers from Pembrokeshire, who achieved the unique distinction in 2008 of being made associates of the Royal Agricultural Societies have now become fellows.

Michael and Rowland George, of Wolfscastle, have received fellowships for their continuing work as dairy farmers on improving and maximising the potential of the black and white dairy cow, in particular their Brynhyfryd herd of pedigree Holstein cattle, acclaimed as one of the best in Britain.

Lionel Organ, of Llandysul, Carmarthenshire, a successful breeder and judge of pedigree livestock has also received a fellowship.

Originally from Gloucestershire where he established the world famous Southam herd of pedigree pigs, he has since concentrated his skills on breeding sheep including those of the Charollais and Lleyn herds.

Another noted pedigree livestock breeder, Jimmy Wilson of Pendre, Ceredigion, has also received the honour. His Tregibby herd of Holstein cattle has claimed a succession of awards and in 2011 won the national herd competition run by Holstein UK, an organisation of which he is currently president- elect. When he takes office in September the south Wales area will host the Holstein Convention of what is Europe’s largest independent cattle breeding organisation for the first time in more than 30 years.

Other new fellows from west Wales include Brian Jones, of Castell Howell, Pensarn, Carmarthen, managing director of food wholesale business Castell Howell Foods.

Rita Jones of Cynwyl Elfed, Carmarthenshire, established and manages a farm liaison service to provide advice and guidance for farmers on legislative changes and new rules affecting agriculture.

Jonathan Davies of Llandeilo, has worked in key positions in the dairy industry including marketing manager of National Milk Records, with responsibility for 600 milk recorders across the UK and Ireland, and as a consultant for Genus Animal Health.