Farmers Club SUMMER 2018 • ISSUE 274
www.thefarmersclub.com
INSIDE US farm trade policy p6 Letters to Editor p7 Beef Shorthorn p8 Farm business awards p10 Club open all summer p12 Charitable trust p14 Saint George’s p16
TB’s stark figures p18 Dinosaur event p18 Chef’s visit p19 Under 30s p21 U30s spring dinner p22 INSERTS Annual Report & Accounts Committee Nominations AGM Luncheon Summer Club Events Monet Exhibition Newmarket tour
Cricket legend entertains Superb Saint George’s Day double celebration (p16) www.thefarmersclub.com for the latest Club news
Contents
Farmers Club Serving the farming industry for 175 years 3 Whitehall Court, London SW1A 2EL Patron – Her Majesty The Queen
FRONT COVER Club Chairman Peter Jinman (left) with guest speaker, the legendary cricket commentator Henry Blofeld, after a splendid Saint George’s Day Lunch and Dinner – attended by over 180 members and guests. Pic: Minna Rossi Photography www.minnarossi.com info@minnarossi.com Disclaimer: The articles published in The Farmers Club Journal do not necessarily reflect the views of The Farmers Club. No responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in the magazine can be accepted by the publisher. Advertisements are included in good faith. All rights reserved.
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3 Chairman’s Comments
Health and harmony – at the Club, and on the farm
4 Club News
Update on a busy Spring season
6 US:UK farm trade
US Embassy Agriculture Counselor Stan Phillips gives Club members a fascinating insight into UK:US farm trade
7 Letters to the Editor
Gove’s comments stimulate significant responses
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8 Beef shorthorn
From rare breed status to premium supermarket contract – the resurgence of beef shorthorn is quite a story
10 Top business accolade
Sharp business acumen draws success in the 21st Farmers Club Pinnacle awards, backed by ADAS and the Cave Foundation
12 Open all summer
Few places can match the Farmers Club on a summer’s day – and once again its facilities are open throughout the summer...
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14 Dair y systems & farming leaders
Farmers Club Charitable Trust steps up industry role with new approach to Educator Awards and extra places on the prestigious Windsor Leadership Trust course
16 Saint George’s Day
Legendary cricketing commentator brings a buzz to Farmers Club as celebratory lunch and dinner is served to almost 200
18 Dinosaurs event
A new Club event geared to young families attracts praise
18 TB scourge in stats
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The true cost of bovine TB to UK farming
19 Chef ’s fish
Visit to Grimsby – home of the finest smoked haddock
20 Hands-free-hectare
Robotic farming insight for Under 30s members
21 Under 30s Committee
Meet the new Under 30s Committee team
22 Club Information and Contacts 02 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
Chairman’s Comments • Peter Jinman incentive or opportunity for UK farming, but does at the same time produce somewhat of a dilemma as to how to produce more, and yet improve all the methods and effects of production without reverting to the days of distortion caused by farm support. That there is a need for a healthier human society is beyond doubt. The figures for obesity clearly show that, as does casual observation when walking down the high street of any village, town or city, or reflect on the ever more apparent demands on the NHS led by related conditions. Perhaps there is an irony, that has passed by the social scientists and politicians, in seeking to ask the exponents of agriculture to produce more for a wasteful overweight human and household pet population, when the very same persons are skilled in managing the condition scores of the animals of production.
Chairman’s Comments “Perhaps there is an irony in seeking to ask the exponents of agriculture to produce more for a wasteful overweight human and household pet population, when the very same persons are skilled in managing the condition scores of the animals of production.”
HEALTH and Harmony. You may recently have read this somewhere before, but it seemed like a good headline for Club membership never mind for the future of the whole farming industry. To reassure you, rather than use this as the Secretary of State said in his foreword to the recent consultation paper of that name to foster change in agriculture, this is to point out that the Club has had change and is now settling in to the opportunities that can come from that change as the outturn of Project Crest is realised. Club usage rising Judging by the increasing numbers of members and friends using the Club, especially at weekends, and the marked increase in lunches and dinners, the work of the Secretary and his team is being much appreciated. Indeed having been the recipient of many letters of thanks after acting as the host for the dinner for the Chairman and Secretaries/Chief Executives of the Association of London Clubs, our chef is having to defend his position as other Club chefs are now under pressure from their chairmen to match the standard set that night! Of course, the added numbers using the Club is, as ever, putting pressure on room occupancy, but the arrangements with other clubs in London is always there as a back up to help. Farming incentive Reverting to the message emanating from DEFRA, regarding public money for public good, and the wish for increased production to meet the national need, whilst also increasing export opportunities – this seems to be offering a real
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That there should be the requested ‘bigger conversation’ that engages the people at the centre of production is indeed welcome, and I look forward to welcoming the Secretary of State to the Club later in the year, so that discussion can be continued. Longest winter In the meantime, after one of the longest winters, the countryside in early April never looked so lacking in ‘green’, the complete opposite of the aims of the current CAP or indeed the Secretary of State’s consultation paper. Perhaps that was nature’s response to the politicians’ self-belief that they were in control! As Spring turns to Summer over the coming months so arrives the season of county shows, when families, old friends and Young Farmer rivals will have a chance once again to catch up on the latest gossip and see the shiny new equipment ‘guaranteed’ to increase the very yields or livestock growth that are being suggested will be the desired and wanted outcome of leaving the EU. I hope to meet up with members as the Club does its bit in visiting a number of shows and ensuring members’ health and harmony can be enhanced with the aid of the convivial, collegiate atmosphere of those who toil and those that aid that toiling, perhaps aided by a small libation.
History of the Club To celebrate the 175th year of the Farmers Club a new book capturing its history is being researched. Members with anecdotes or information they feel may merit inclusion in the book should contact editor@thefarmersclub.com
The Farmers Club Page
www.thefarmersclub.com • 03
Andrei Spence • Club News
Club News Busy Spring season hits highpoint with St George celebration
In late March the Under 30s Spring Dining Evening attracted good numbers and an excellent speaker. It marked the first event hosted by new U30s Chair Emily McVeigh and Vice Chair Scott Hayles. After Easter the Club hosted the Association of London Clubs annual dinner for the first time. With the Chairmen and Chief Executives of over 30 clubs attending, it was a tremendous success, attracting lots of very high praise for the way the Club looked, the quality of the food and the service. Later in April came the London Marathon. We kept the bar open throughout, so food and beverage was available to those whose exertions were considerable, and those who expended far less energy! We even provided a parking slot for a miniature MF 565 tractor which farmer Craig Williamson bore on his shoulders around the 26 mile course! During the Easter holidays we organised our first ever families/children event, which encompassed lunch at the Club then a visit to the Dinosaur Experience at Greenwich. It seemed to go very well indeed. On 16th April our second Monday Evening Lecture was delivered by Stan Phillips, Agricultural Counsellor at the US Embassy (see p6-7). The next day we held the annual past Chairman’s lunch – so wonderful to see 25 Chairmen in the Club, representing over 40 years.
EARLY March was an important time for the Club and the Finance & General Purpose committee in particular as it met to review and scrutinise the end of year accounts (2017). I am pleased to report these reflected a good year, and the standard of reporting was commented on very favourably by our auditors, reflecting the close working between the Honorary Treasurer, the Financial Controller and myself.
shape and has made decent returns over the past twelve months despite a jittery market in the early part of the year.
The Officers and Trustees considered other matters too. As a result of Paul Heygate retiring his trusteeship, in accordance with the rules of the Club, Tim Bennett was asked to replace him as a Trustee. He was formerly appointed by the General Committee in April. A new Vice President of the Club was also considered, following The accounts were accepted by the General Norman Shaw’s retirement last year. Paul Committee in April and signed off by the Heygate was asked to consider this position Honorary Treasurer and Chairman. They can and was appointed at the same General be viewed in the Annual Report included Committee meeting. with this Journal. On 16th March, a party of 60 enjoyed an Early March also marks the first meeting of early supper at the Club before arriving the year for the Trustees of the Club who in style at the Royal Opera House, Covent review the Farmers Club Lease Company’s Garden, for a new production of Bizet’s investment portfolio and decide on the opera, Carmen. A very different take on investment strategy and risk profile for our the traditional form of this opera, it was an fund managers. The portfolio is in good excellent evening all round.
04 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
Two days later Professor Bill McKelvey and a panel judged the Farmers Club Pinnacle Awards for business excellence and innovation amongst students. This year’s winner was Reuben Wilson of Harper Adams University (see p14). We were thrilled to welcome as our presenter of awards and speaker, Ms Abi Reader, Wales Woman Farmer of the Year 2016. Also in April Club Administrator Anita took a party of members on a combined trip to the Churchill War Museum, followed by lunch and then onto The Household Cavalry Museum. This was very much enjoyed by members. So to 24th April and a double bill to celebrate St George’s Day. We held both a lunch and a dinner in the Club, each being full with 97 members and guests, where we were entertained by our Guest of Honour and speaker, cricket commentating legend, Henry Blofeld. Henry was in uproarious form and thoroughly entertaining. I think all enjoyed meeting and hearing a true iconic voice and personality within the echelons of British sport, who was also very happy to sign copies of his latest book, Over and Out.
Club News • Andrei Spence
GDPR REMINDER The GDPR consent forms I enclosed in the Spring Journal have had a good initial response with over 50% completed. I would urge that the remainder of the membership do likewise please, so we can get this finalised. If the form has been lost, the General Office can provide further copies, or it can be downloaded from the website.
Club Calendar Diary Dates Here are just some of the Club events planned for the coming months. More event details can be found on the back cover of this Journal, at www.thefarmersclub.com/events, in Club e-newsletters, or from Club Administrator Anita Kaur (020 7930 3751 extn 103) e-mail: administrator@thefarmersclub.com
Agricultural Shows 2018 Mid-May marks the start of a very busy show season for the Club, involving dinners, receptions and a breakfast at seven shows this year. Inserts and details were in the Spring Journal and my latest Newsletter. Please support the Club in these events as the Club committee seeks to extend the engagement with members throughout the country.
MAY Suffolk Show Breakfast Wednesday 30th May President’s Marquee 8am-9:30am. Speaker: Baroness Byford. Apply on-line Visit to Norway
JUNE Swan Lake - FULL
Supper at Club and Swan Lake at Royal Opera House.
Club Visit to Bergen, Norway Monday 11th - Thursday 14th June Application form included in Spring Journal Royal Highland Show
Royal Three Counties Show Reception Friday 15th June President’s Marquee 4-5:30pm. Speaker: Ross Murray (past-President CLA). Apply on-line/use Application Form in Spring Journal
Committee Nomination Form There are up to four places on the General Committee available at the end of the year. This issue of the Journal has a Committee Nomination Form for those who wish to stand for office. If there are any further questions, please contact me, and I will try to provide any guidance required.
Royal Highland Show Dinner Wednesday 20th June Monet Exhibition
Royal Norfolk Show Reception Wednesday 27th June Vice-President’s Marquee 5:30-6:30pm. Apply on-line/ Application Form in Spring Journal Club AGM
JULY Club AGM & Luncheon Thursday 5th July Hampton Court
Speaker: NFU President Minette Batters Application Form with this Journal
Hampton Court - FULL Friday 6th July
Malcolm ‘Roy’ Walker – Memorial Service As previously indicated, the family of past-chairman Roy Walker have provided details of the memorial service to be held celebrating his life. The service will take place at Dorchester Abbey, Dorchester-onThames, OX10 7HH, on Monday 9th July at 2.30pm. The family have invited all Club members who knew Roy to attend and will be serving refreshments at the Abbey following the service.
Monet Exhibition Friday 29th June Lunch in Club and National Portrait Gallery visit. See p22 + Application Form with this Journal
AGM Date The Farmers Club will hold its 176th Annual General Meeting on Thursday 5th July 2018 at 12 noon in the Farmers Suite. All Club members are invited to attend.
Dinner at The New Club, Edinburgh. Apply on-line/Application Form in Spring Journal
Under 30s Pimms & Supper Friday 13th July Summer event in the Club. Details to follow Under 30s
Royal Welsh Show Reception Monday 23rd July President’s Marquee 4-5:30pm. Apply on-line/ Application Form in Spring Journal
SEPTEMBER Club Visit to Newmarket Wed 26th - Fri 28th September Royal Welsh Show
See p24 + Application Form in this Journal
www.thefarmersclub.com • 05
Charles Abel • UK:US farm trade
UK:US farm trade Farm trade was to the fore at US Embassy Agriculture Counselor Stan Phillips briefed Farmers Club members at the latest Monday Evening Lecture. Charles Abel reports
To book a place at the next Farmers Club Lecture – from NFU President Minette Batters on Thursday 5 July (after Club AGM) – visit Events page of Club website www.thefarmersclub.com/ events
US:UK trade issues were top of the agenda as US Embassy Agriculture Counselor Stan Phillips gave Farmers Club members a detailed briefing at the latest Monday Evening Lecture in mid-April. Clearly, both President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Theresa May are keen for a deal. But deals are very time consuming, full of surprises, right up until the deal is struck, and long afterwards, as details are agreed and interpretations clarified, explained Mr Phillips, an employee of the USDA.
06 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
US farm product exports currently amount to over $140bn, generating a $21.3bn trade surplus with the rest of the world. Exports to the UK account for $3bn, second only to the Netherlands in the EU. By contrast the UK ships around $1bn of food and beverage to the US, plus a further $1bn of Scotch whisky, which falls under a separate classification. A key US import into the UK is Californian wine, over $200m of sales making the UK its second biggest export destination after Canada. The “salmon switch” sees UK Atlantic salmon fillets shipped to the USA and a similar value of Alaskan tinned salmon shipped back to the UK. Woodchip from the US for UK biofuel is mainly one-way traffic and growing rapidly. Deals take time Any future UK:US trade deal would take time to agree, he noted. “My experience from working on a trade deal with South Korea was that it took seven years to reach agreement.” Even when a deal is made, the real negotiation is only just beginning, as the meaning of every word means and how it can be interpreted is deliberated, be that around a deal with the US, Asia or anywhere. In a wide-ranging discussion, it emerged that the system of political representation differed greatly between the US and UK. Each US state has two senators, irrespective of the state’s
UK:US farm trade • Charles Abel
Gove is right!
Dear Editor, Brexit represents farming’s biggest challenge since the repeal of the Corn Laws. Given the appalling quality of debate at government level I dread to think what a hash will be made when it comes to sorting out the detailed ramifications for our food and farming industries.
Dear Editor,
Regrettably, the UK appears to lack the calibre of politicians, or those with sufficient interest or experience in agriculture and the countryside, to defend and support UK agriculture’s role, which not only under-pins a food industry worth £108bn, but is also custodian of the countryside, managing 70% of the UK land area.
Gove suggests that when we are free of EU regulations we can stop giving huge acreage subsidies to big farmers. The truth is the UK has been at liberty to make this change with EU rules for the past 25 years. Just as we have been at liberty to focus subsidies according to our nation’s environmental and production needs.
DEFRA Secretary of State, Michael Gove, says he’s confident of building a new economic partnership with the EU, which guarantees tariff-free access for agri-food goods between the UK and EU. However well-meaning those statements are, recent history tells us politics and protectionism may be about to carve out a different route.
It is also true that the CAP has instigated trade deals with over 80 nations outside the EU that not only provide essential goods but also protect EU farmers against the “dumping” of surplus goods and commodities. That protection will never be included with any “free trade” deal with the US.
In common with the period leading up to the Repeal of the Corn Laws 172 years ago, the demand for affordable food is no different today. But for UK farmers the dynamics, economics and environmental pressures of producing it are vastly different.
Gove is right – we are facing a very big change! Yours sincerely,
For those outside the industry, understanding the difference is hard enough. Reconciling the challenges will take more than short-term policies.
Martin Deighton,
Stephen Howe,
Farmers Club Member for over 40 years
BCPC Trustee & Farmers Club Member
population. So, very rural, agricultural areas have a disproportionate influence on Senate business, giving agriculture a great say in trade negotiations. Any UK:US deal would need to include agriculture, in a way that those senators would be able to back, Mr Phillips noted. Animal welfare Recent market research confirmed the UK public’s concerns about US animal welfare standards and food quality, he acknowledged. That may give an opportunity for US exporters to produce, label and market products specifically geared to the UK market. But a trade agreement that only allowed products that met UK animal welfare standards would be hard to sell to the US Senate, since the USDA had its own standards in place, he noted. What shape the final Brexit deal may take was unclear. “Negotiations can sometimes take strange turns. It has been said in other negotiations that nothing is agreed until everything is agreed. When the more difficult questions are being asked I think we’ll get a better idea.” Significantly, he felt WTO rules would allow UK farmers to benefit from a significant level of domestic support. For the USA that WTO limit amounted to $19bn/year. Crop and livestock enterprise insurance could have a crucial role to play too, protecting farmers on the world market.
Soya tariffs Analysis by Dutch bank Rabobank suggests China’s proposed 25% extra tariff on imports of US soya, in response to swingeing tariffs proposed by Donald Trump, could hit EU livestock farmers hard. China imports 90% of its soya requirements, 34% from the US, worth $14bn. Indeed, soya is the largest US farm export, worth $25.4bn. But as China sources soya from other countries limited milling capacity could mean South American soya meal prices rise, which could hit EU livestock margins. At the same time EU pork exports could benefit from replacing US exports to China, if China also raises duties on US pork, as proposed. But Rabobank notes it could take weeks before the proposed tariffs are implemented by either side, especially given the US consultation process on the proposals.
www.thefarmersclub.com • 07
Liz Snaith • Livestock
Beef Shorthorn resurgence From a place on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust list to multiple-retailer backing – the renaissance of this suckler breed has been spectacular. Liz Snaith finds out more
EARLIER this year the Beef Shorthorn Cattle Society reported yet another record uptake, with registrations increasing 64% since 2012. Furthermore, Defra reported a 1,400% increase in breeding females over the past 12 years, the highest of any native breed. Similarly, Beef Shorthorn and Beef Shorthorncross populations have, according to BCMS, increased during the same period by a total of 45%, the highest percentage increase of any beef breed, both native and Continental. Sally Horrell, Beef Shorthorn Society President.
“Fit for purpose in future regimes following a Green Brexit.”
How come? The society’s president Sally Horrell attributes those trends to the breed’s ability to meet market demand, highlighted by a burgeoning Morrisons contract. “Suckler producers are seeking an alternative to traditional dairy bred replacements, which are now heavily influenced by Holstein genetics, and Beef Shorthorn can fit the bill. “The breeders’ focus on genetic progress and overall breed improvement over the past two decades has resulted in a modern functional suckler cow, suited to low input, low cost systems, whilst retaining the Beef Shorthorn’s native characteristics – its foraging ability, milkiness and fertility, together with ease of calving and an appealing quiet temperament. Market focus “Not only is the breed delivering for today’s marketplace, but breeders are confident that it
08 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
is one that will also be fit for purpose in future regimes following a Green Brexit,” she adds. The breed was established with a combination of Teeswater and Durham genetics found originally in the north east. The first ever 1,000gns bull was recorded in 1810 followed 12 years later with the publication of Coates’s Herd Book, the world’s first pedigree herd book. The breed’s popularity continued until the 1960s when it came under increasing pressure following the arrival of Continental breeds. The number of registered cattle dwindled to the extent the Beef Shorthorn was introduced to the Rare Breeds Survival Trust list, a positioning that heralded a tipping point for the society to agree and roll out a breed improvement strategy. Such was its success, the breed was removed from the list in 2007. A focused marketing campaign was introduced to catalyse the overall turn around. Morrisons interest Morrisons interest in the breed has been the icing on the cake, explains Mrs Horrell. “2016 witnessed Morrisons rolling out the first ever supermarket Shorthorn Beef brand. It was supplied to over 100 stores UK-wide with a full range of steaks, salmon-cuts and topside joints, each proudly carrying the Beef Shorthorn Cattle Society’s logo on its packaging.
Livestock • Liz Snaith
Success in Scotland Beef Shorthorn is the backbone of the Marshall family’s beef enterprise at Kingcraigie, home to one of Scotland’s largest suckler herds with 500 cows plus heifer replacements on 2,000 acres of Aberdeenshire LFA. “Over a decade ago we were attracted to the native breed’s strong maternal traits, coupled with its docility and hardiness,” says Robert Marshall who farms with his father, Robbie and uncle, Norman. “We also considered it to introduce vital hybrid vigour to what was essentially becoming a herd of pure Continental suckler cows. “Ten years on and that infusion of Beef Shorthorn genetics has delivered just what we were seeking. Fertility issues have been addressed – both cows and heifers are calved outdoors over a 12week period and without any real issue, and they demonstrate extreme milkiness, weaning calves at 50% of their targeted 600625kg mature body weight.” The herd has a 91% rearing rate. It’s not just about performance, Robert explains. “The herd’s quiet temperament is vital from a health and safety point of view and it is proving to be sustainable enabling us to minimise both fixed and variable costs – we’ve been able to reduce the workload and the breed’s hardiness and foraging ability has helped us to substantially lower inputs – the breeding herd grazes for 10 months of the year.” Suckler cow attributes are finding favour.
“Launching Shorthorn Beef marked the culmination of six years working in partnership with Morrisons to develop the brand supply chain, and it is proving a huge success,” she says. “Suckler producers are receiving a welcome premium from beef finishers for their steers sired by a registered Beef Shorthorn bull, whilst Morrisons customers have discovered Shorthorn Beef delivers unrivalled eating quality, so much so, this year the supermarket plans to introduce the brand to all its stores.”
The use of Beef Shorthorn genetics has been stepped up; Kingcraigie now has a well-established criss-cross suckler breeding programme combining native and Continental genetics. Selected heifers are retained as replacements enabling the Marshalls to achieve another goal – to close the herd, and in turn minimise health risks. Although weaned Beef Shorthorn sired steer calves commanded premiums in the store ring, a decision has been taken to finish the entire crop to target weight on homegrown forage for Morrisons premium backed Shorthorn Beef scheme. “Last year we finished 350 head including bought in stores. The enterprise is proving to be a viable option to the business and adding to its overall sustainability.”
Morrisons scheme has grown fast.
Robert Marshall – reaping Beef Shorthorn rewards at Kingcraigie, Aberdeenshire.
www.thefarmersclub.com • 09
Charles Abel • Pinnacle Awards of ADAS and Farmers Club Journal Editor Charles Abel, was looking for innovation, tempered with realism, sound market research, accurate financial analysis, a robust business strategy, good communication skills and a willingness to ask challenging questions. “Our eight finalists really do represent the pinnacle of agricultural and rural students across the UK,” reflected Prof McKelvey. “Their awards recognise their personal achievement and development, and most of all their potential for the future. It’s extremely encouraging to see such a high level of business management skill.”
Reuben Wilson, Harper Adams University, Pinnacle Gold Award, Nickerson Cup and a cheque for £2000 – presented by Abi Reader, Wales Woman Farmer of the Year 2016
Pinnacle Awards
Farm management excellence was the focus as judges quizzed students in the 21st Pinnacle Awards. Charles Abel reports HARPER Adams University student Reuben Wilson has clinched top honours in the 2018 Pinnacle Awards for expertise in farm business management, run by the Farmers Club and ADAS, with generous sponsorship from the Cave Foundation. Hot on his heels were Silver Award winner Andrew Butt of Bridgwater College and Bronze Award winner Sarah Dean of Harper Adams University, beating off highly innovative projects from SRUC Ayr and Aberdeen and the Royal Agricultural University at Cirencester. The judging panel led by Professor Bill McKelvey, Non-Executive Director of Glenrath Farms, alongside Farmers Club Chairman Peter Jinman, Tony Turner
10 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
From a non-farming background Reuben brought fresh thinking to a project to convert redundant farm buildings into a day-care centre for the elderly. Inspired by a visit to the Netherlands, where care farming is strongly supported, Reuben weighed alternative options first, before embarking upon detailed market research, competitor analysis and careful budgeting to produce a very viable and innovative business proposal. He won a cheque for £2000 and the Nickerson Cup. Andrew Butt had fully scoped and costed a very practical move to robot milking and associated herd expansion, with clear sensitivity analysis, while Sarah Dean’s plan to develop two derelict farm properties into holiday accommodation included clear market positioning, backed by excellent financial analysis, good market research and clear exit strategies. They won £1000 and £600 respectively. Students were initially sifted on a course-work project, with the top eight invited to the Farmers Club in London for a panel interview followed by a short presentation and group question and answer session. All finalists received a year’s membership of the Farmers Club. “We had the greatest variety of projects we’ve ever seen this year, from conventional farm enterprises, through property development to some very innovative uses of farm products and by-products, which made judging quite difficult,” added Prof McKelvey. With Brexit uncertainties looming it was no surprise to see a rise in diversification projects, Mr Turner added. “We had an almost unbelievable level of innovation, which is a clear response to the changing times in farming.” To give projects the greatest credibility rigorous research was needed to tease out all the available information, Mr Jinman noted. “There’s a lot of data available and using it to make a project stand up is absolutely vital.”
A full set of photos from the awards evening can be seen on the Club website (www.thefarmersclub.com)
Pinnacle Awards • Charles Abel
Runners-up: Kerry Cartwright, SRUC Aberdeen – introducing an outdoor pig enterprise onto a sheep and arable farm in Aberdeenshire, with a view to supplying hog roasts with a strong provenance story Daniel Livingston, SRUC Ayr – a novel new use for Scottish spring barley, using a Peruvian recipe to create barley coffee, an alternative, caffeine-free hot beverage Andrew Butt, Bridgwater College, Silver Award and cheque for £1000.
Imogen Proctor-Coughlan, Royal Agricultural University – marketing refresh of Muddy Wellies craft-brewed beer and cider brands, to raise funds for student entrepreneurs through social enterprise Taylor Ellison Quinn, SRUC Ayr – a convenient squeezable blend of Ayrshire butter and Scottish oilseed rape oil, in creamy natural, lemon and garlic flavours Skye Robb, SRUC Ayr – a highly innovative use of beer manufacturing by-product to create a biodegradable replacement for plastic and cardboard packaging of canned beers
Sarah Dean, Harper Adams University, Bronze Award and cheque for £600.
Abi Reader inspires students Guest speaker Abi Reader, a third generation dairy farmer from near Cardiff, spoke passionately about having the determination to pursue an ambition, even if it wasn’t always clear what that ambition was from the outset. Returning to the family farm from the Royal Agricultural University at Cirencester she had plenty of time to think whilst cleaning down a traditional milking parlour every day. “I decided I didn’t want to do what grandfather had done, but wasn’t sure what I did want to do. But I decided to get some leadership training and see where it led.” Securing that training wasn’t easy, but persistence paid off, and led her to reflect on the importance of supporting the wider industry. “First and foremost I’m a dairy farmer, but I also have the whole industry to think about, because if it is not healthy then neither is my business.”
With that in mind she became increasingly involved in Open Farm Sunday. Although daunting initially, it proved hugely rewarding, with up to 3000 visitors attending each June. It led to the ‘cows on tour’ initiative to take farming into classrooms, especially in lessprivileged urban areas. Making the most of the resulting media interest has helped to raise awareness of farming issues, including a recent appearance on BBC Countryfile. “If you want something, you just say ‘yes’ when opportunities come and work out how you’re going to get there later,” enthused Abi, who is now an NFU Dairy Board member, AHDB Dairy Ambassador and won the 2016 Wales Woman Farmer of the Year. “If you want something, and show people you want it, you’re much more likely to achieve.”
“If you want something, you just say ‘yes’ when opportunities come, and work out how you’re going to get there later” – guest speaker Abi Reader, Wales Woman Farmer of the Year 2016.
www.thefarmersclub.com • 11
Virginia Masser • Summer at the Club
“Magical stay.” “Great stay, staff and location”
Summer at the Club Summer is a wonderful time to visit the Club. General Manager Virginia Masser explains all that is on offer
AS always The Farmers Club is fully open during the Summer months; The Restaurant & Bar, Bedrooms, Reception, Conference & Banqueting rooms and of course our stunning Terrace overlooking Embankment Gardens and The River Thames. We will also be hosting four Summer Club events during the month of August. The Restaurant will have a wonderful Summer menu showcasing some of the Club favourites, but also those beautiful light summer dishes ideal for a warm summers day. (See the pictures of last year’s delights in this article, to whet your appetite.) A table on the Terrace unfortunately cannot be guaranteed but Jelle our Restaurant & Bar Manager
12 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
and Elvis, our Assistant Restaurant & Bar Manager will do their best to accommodate you. The Bar will be open as normal and remember it is now open on a Saturday too. Sunday will, as normal, be our only day of rest. Our Terrace, the envy of other London Clubs, will of course come into its own during the Summer for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Bar Meals. Embankment Gardens will be graced with wonderful summer planting and the trees will be all shades of green. Are you able to see The Thames, not clearly....since the beautiful trees
Summer at the Club • Virginia Masser
Summer 2018 at the Club • Club open all summer • Restaurant & Bar open as usual • Wonderful Summer menu • Special event each week • Bedrooms available • Book functions now • Enjoy Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Bar Meals on Terrace
Saturday Bar Opening “Sitting in dappled shade on the Farmers Club Terrace sipping an ice cold G&T on a hot Summer’s afternoon is surely one of life’s greatest pleasures….”
The Bar on a Saturday is now open from 11.30am until 11.00pm and the Bar menu available from 11.30am – 7.45pm. Ideal if you are visiting London for the day with friends or family. The weekend dress code applies and children are most welcome.
“Wonderful tea with great service and we could watch the tennis!!”
obscure the view, but the setting is calming, tranquil and you would never know you are in the centre of the best City in the world. Our Conference & Banqueting function rooms can be booked for your meeting, lunch, dinner or special family occasion. We already have some Birthday Parties and Wedding Anniversary lunches and dinners, but there is still availability, and of course drinks on The Terrace is a wonderful way to start the celebrations. Last year we held the first ever Club event during August, which was a great success and so, based on that and on member demand we are hosting one Club event per week in
August, designed to suit all ages and families. See enclosed inserts. Bedrooms are available throughout. To avoid disappointment please be aware that availability around Wimbledon week is particularly tight, however, do have a go, there may have been a cancellation. Reception opening times remain unchanged throughout and the team are there to assist as always. Whatever your reason for visiting – whether it be for a quiet few days, business, social gathering, family outing or quite simply to see London looking its’ best in the sunshine, your Club is open and we look forward to seeing you.
www.thefarmersclub.com • 13
Charles Abel • Charitable Trust
Industry leadership The Farmers Club Charitable Trust continues to innovate – this year adopting a fresh approach to developing educators as well as stepping up its focus on leadership. Charles Abel reports FIVE excellent UK farming educators have been selected to receive special support from the Farmers Club Charitable Trust in 2018, with a special focus on dairying and apprenticeships.
Charitable Trust The FCCT, whilst strongly linked to the Farmers Club, is a stand-alone charity, founded in 1981 by Club members Trevor Muddiman, Sir David Naish, Sir John Eastwood and Robin Leigh-Pemberton. It relies upon the generous support of Club members and the wider industry. Find out more at: www. thefarmersclub.com/ the-charitable-trust
With some common themes emerging during selection interviews the panel took the unprecedented step of calling a round-table fine-tuning exercise earlier this spring, so all five applicants could combine forces to deliver an overall package to the Club, the industry, and their students. “It’s a case of one and one adding up to a lot more than two,” noted Club Vice-Chairman Nick Helme, who sat on the panel. “With apprenticeships, dairying, welfare and sustainable intensification bubbling up throughout the shortlisted candidates it was an obvious step to call them together to see if we could make this something more than the sum of the parts.” Selection panel chairman Prof Ian Crute CBE, former AHDB Chief Scientist, endorsed the approach. “The Trust bursary scheme aims to develop up-and-coming educators, by funding a study tour, often overseas. By working together we believe this year’s cohort will benefit from each other as well as the travels they do.”
14 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
The fine-tuning day held in the Forty Room at the Club in late April ensured any potential duplication was avoided, and more importantly helped to further develop the concepts being explored. “Our aim was to help applicants benefit each other, and it proved very worthwhile, with lots of fresh thinking emerging to deliver more focus to the projects being undertaken,” commented FCCT trustee and chair for the day Des Lambert OBE, principal of Plumpton College in East Sussex from 2003-2015. New FCCT trustee Meryl Ward MBE, chair of AHDB Pork until March 2017, was especially keen to see how the beneficiaries could co-ordinate activities. A WhatsApp group to share experiences and pose questions during the research phase was an immediate outcome. Full reports of the studies will be available on the Farmers Club website in due course, with summaries in future issues of the Journal. • For more details about the FCCT Educator Awards, which have funded over £650,000 of study tours over the past four decades, see: www.thefarmersclub.com/the-charitable-trust Closing date for the 2019 awards is likely to be early February 2019.
Charitable Trust • Charles Abel
Educator Award Beneficiaries
Partheeban ‘Theeb’ Navaratnam, Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester – a detailed study of the health and welfare pros, cons and lessons to be learned from intensive dairy management practices in the USA and the Middle East, especially focusing on veterinary interventions and the potential for farmers to do more initial assessments themselves.
Roger Clarke, Duchy College, Cornwall – visiting New Zealand to investigate ways technical colleges inspire and enthuse agriculture apprentices, with a special focus on distance learning, more meaningful employer engagement, dairy health and welfare best practise, and the application of new technologies.
Helen Reeve, Easton & Otley College, Norwich – visiting North America this summer to gather case studies from the International Jersey Society Conference and farm tours, to help farm apprentices who may never work in the dairy sector to ‘think out-side the box’ and develop a more cando, entrepreneurial mind-set.
Emily Edwards, Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester – travelling to Wisconsin USA, Germany and the UK to seek better ways of managing the health and welfare of dairy beef calves, with a special focus on improved protocols for the transition from dairy to rearing farms, and the scope for calf rearing on slats to reduce disease.
Emma White, Harper Adams University, Shropshire – exploring the role of behavioural studies in intensive dairy systems in the Middle East and the USA, to help improve stockmanship, cow health and welfare, with a special focus on the use of Cow Signals as a motivational lever to encourage better farm practise.
Developing Leaders in Agriculture THE Farmers Club Charitable Trust received an impressive 35 nominations for places on the 2018 Windsor Leadership Trust (WLT) programme, reports trustee James Cross. This resulted in 26 applications, narrowed down to 9 for interview, of which five were successful. A most competitive year! Conceived five years ago and financed by two generous Farmers Club members the FCCT Leadership Development Programme has already seen over 20 beneficiaries from the farming industry attend the Windsor Leadership Trust’s Emerging Strategic Leaders and Developing Leaders programmes. The selection panel, chaired by Iain Ferguson, included Rosie Carne, Ian Pigott (one of the FCCT WLT alumni), Scott Norris (Chairman of the Perry Foundation and a Nuffield Scholar through the FCCT) and Lesley King-Lewis of WLT, with admin support kindly provided by Vic Croxson. The five successful applicants were: Emerging Strategic Leader course: • Di Wastenage, Wastenage Farms, Budleigh Salterton – managing six grazing dairy farms; RABDF council member, Women in Dairy patron and conference chair; member of DEFRA TB eradication advisory group and the RUMA Strategy Task Force. (Award partly supported by the Devon County Agricultural Association).
• Dr Rebecca Heaton, Llangurig, Powys – head of sustainability and policy at Drax; board member of The Committee on Climate Change. • M att Dobbs, founding partner of Westpoint Veterinary Group, UK’s largest farm animal vet practice, part of Origin, which he founded and is MD of. Member of various dairy / farm animal organisations. (Award part funded by FCCT & Origin/Westpoint Vets). Developing Leader course: • Andrew Blenkiron, Estate Director, Euston Estate (11,000 acres); vice chairman Assured Food Standards; chairman East Anglian Rural Inspections Forum. (Award supported by the Perry Foundation). • Fiona Fell, Northumberland; Deputy Chairman, CIEL; formerly Chairman Potato Council / AHDB Potato Board; former non-exec director Moredun Research Institute + Moredun Foundation. (Award supported by Frank Parkinson Trust). More awards than originally planned were made possible by the kind support of the Perry Foundation and the Frank Parkinson Trust. Financial contributions have also been received from FCCT alumni and individual members of the Farmers Club.
Member support Members wishing to contact any of the Educator Award winners, with questions, contacts or advice regarding their study topics, can do so via the Journal Editor e-mail: editor@thefarmersclub.com www.thefarmersclub.com • 15
Andrei Spence • St George’s Luncheon
Saint George –
not out! Cricket legend Henry ‘Blowers’ Blofeld enthralled almost 200 Farmers Club members and guests at a splendid 2018 Saint George’s day celebration in the Club. Andrei Spence reports THE annual Club occasion of St George’s day marked a significant first for the Farmers Club, as well as celebrating a traditional day in the Club calendar. The significance was that owing to the huge demand for places to attend the lunch, we also put on a dinner, making this the first time we had ever put on two events of this size on the same day and within seven hours of each other.
16 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
Judging by the hugely positive reaction to both events, all 186 attendees enjoyed superb food, a superb speaker and a chance to catch up with friends, in what was a ‘buzzing’ Club atmosphere for almost the entire day. Both started off with a reception featuring English sparkling wine, utilising the Club rooms but also the beautiful setting of the Terrace, where the faint chill did not seem to deter very many! A superb meal was then served in the Farmers Suite, featuring the best of seasonal products, including asparagus and strawberries, and a superb fillet of beef which attracted especially high praise. After the meal Club Chairman Peter Jinman set the scene for the eagerly anticipated speech of the incomparable Henry Blofeld; sports journalist, broadcaster, author and raconteur extraordinaire.
St George’s Luncheon • Andrei Spence
“We have been very fortunate to showcase the Club in this way and to have heard from a giant of broadcasting – the last of his generation, whom we will not see the like of again” – Club member.
A record-breaking day – Lunch and Dinner provided for almost 200 members and guests.
A wonderful atmosphere in the Farmers Suite.
Introducing Henry, or ‘Blowers’ as he is referred to by almost everyone, including his wife, could be the basis of a speech in its own right, but members were able to quickly settle into what proved to be a masterclass of a speech, combining the anecdotal, narrative, commentary and humorous aspects of what has been a life lived to the full, and full of surprise and adventure. Henry’s speech took us through the early years of the outside broadcast Unit at the BBC and his own introduction into the Test Match Special (TMS) team, joining such luminaries at Brian Johnston (affectionately known as Johnners), Trevor Bailey (the Boil) and the legendary John Arlott. We heard many interesting and hilarious anecdotes, about Johnners and Arlott in
particular, their travels throughout the subcontinent, Australia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, as well as the test grounds around the UK. Interspersed with some hilarious stories the atmosphere in the Farmers Suite was superb, with much laughter, creating an unforgettable day. At the end of his 40-minute speech, which seemed barely 10 minutes, a rapturous signal of appreciation could be heard throughout the building.
A wonderful selection of photos from the St George’s celebration luncheon and dinner, and other events, can be viewed at www. thefarmersclub.com
Not content with that, Henry then spent over an hour signing his latest book for members, posing for photographs, and making time for a word with anyone who wanted to engage him. He left the Club at 11.10pm having been here since just after mid-day! A thoroughly enjoyable and unforgettable day in so many ways.
www.thefarmersclub.com • 17
Anita Kaur • Club Event
Farming Figures A look at... the issue of bovine TB on UK farms ...told through some harrowing statistics
£1 billion
Estimated cost of taking no action to combat bovine TB in cattle over the next decade
650,000 cattle
Livestock slaughtered due to bTB since 2001
£500m
Easter success
Overall cost to the nation of bTB testing, compensation and research over past 10 years
1975
First badger clearance trials in Bristol & Dorset. Bristol trial cut bTB to zero for 10 years
33,011 cattle
Slaughtered in England due to bTB year to end Nov 2017, up 11% on same period in 2016
10,333 cattle Slaughtered in Wales due to bTB to Nov 2017
2,400 visits TB Advisory Service visits to cattle keepers, plus 1,950 1-to-1 phone/drop-in sessions
34,000 badgers Number of animals culled since 2013
E30million/year EU contribution to fighting bTB in UK
1 in 5-6,000 False positive rate for TB-free cattle using standard tuberculin skin test
1910
Tuberculosis Order led to bTB tests in cattle Sources: www.tbhub.co.uk, Farmers Guardian, www.FGinsight.com, www.gov.uk/defra
18 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
EASTER was a busy time at the Club, with a special event for the whole family organised to visit the amazing Dinosaurs in the Wild experience at Greenwich.
They loved spending time with their Grandpa and enjoying the excellent hospitality. The experience was amazing! So realistic, exciting and fun! We have had a wonderful day, they have already asked when they can visit again.” - Sarah Kreckler.
Starting off in the Club with lunch the group travelled to and “I just wanted to say how much from Greenwich Peninsula by coach, we enjoyed yesterday. Oliver and and enjoyed a fine Buffet in the Katie absolutely loved the Dinosaur Club afterwards. experience. It was wonderful to feel so welcome in the Club with the Feedback has been excellent: children. The food was delicious and the day really well organised. I think “Every aspect of our day was these family events are a great idea. organised wonderfully and the I hope you do more of them in the children in particular were made future.” - Heather Holloway. to feel so welcome at the Club. • Details of more family-oriented events planned for the Summer can be found on the inserts enclosed with this Journal and on the Club website (www.thefarmersclub.com/events)
Head Chef & Director of Food • Paul Hogben Alfred Enderby Ltd was the first to try to raise awareness of the special qualities of Grimsby Traditional Smoked Fish. Long before receiving Protected Geographical Indication status the company set the standard to which other traditional smokers now aspire. Enderby’s continue to be regarded as the most reliable in delivering consistent quality and service.
Oh I do like to be beside the seaside!
I needed to be near the smokehouse on Monday evening as we were visiting Grimsby market for the first task of the day very early on Tuesday. Sadly, Tuesday was not another beautiful March day! It was dark, wet and windy as we headed down to the fish market at Grimsby docks, once Britain’s largest fishing port.
Chef follows the route taken by a batch of Smoked Haddock destined for our very own Restaurant
Clothed in wellies and protective gear we searched the vast stacks of containers, each of which carries 50kg of fish. These are auctioned every morning and seeking top quality produce is a key task. Patrick and his buyer selected the fish they wanted – thirty 50kg containers of haddock, which were successfully purchased and delivered to the smokehouse within minutes of us arriving back there. All the freshly purchased haddock is filleted by hand, yielding 450g for each 1kg of fillet. This is brined in a secret solution for a secret length of time and hung ready for the smoking process.
“This wasn’t a seaside trip. I was here to see how our smoked haddock comes about and boy is it good!”
ON a beautiful March day – somewhat rare this year – l set off from Kent to visit a small business that is very passionate about what it produces. I was the guest for the evening at the home of Patrick and Toni Salmon, who own and run Alfred Enderby, one of only a few independent family run traditional fish smoking firms left in England. Their traditional smokehouse, with its distinctive tall chimneys, is about 100 years old. Two generations of the Enderby family ran it before Patrick first ventured into the fish smoking business.
After smoking fish at Alfred Enderby’s for over a hundred years the walls and doors are laden with thick tar built up over decades. It’s all part of the process - this is really traditional, nothing artificial. No smoke sprays or dyes. Wood chips are piled up daily in the bottom of the smoke chambers and the haddock is hung top to bottom on metal rods, manually placed, for smoking overnight. Each day the smoked fish is unloaded and boxed according to size, for distribution to London, to be enjoyed in many of the capital’s most exclusive hotels, restaurants and The Farmers Club. Long may this tradition continue, so you at the Club can continue to savour the Alfred Enderby Smoked Haddock. Enjoy! Chef
Father’s Day
Saturday Bar Opening
Father’s Day is Sunday 17 June this year, so why not thank your Father by bringing him to the Club for Lunch or Dinner in The Restaurant during the week commencing 11 June. Alternatively, the Club has a fantastic selection of Club merchandise that will make the perfect gift. See www.thefarmersclub. com click “About the Club” then “Club Merchandise.”
The Bar on a Saturday is now open from 11.30am until 11.00pm and the Bar menu available from 11.30am – 7.45pm. Ideal if you are visiting London for the day with friends or family. The weekend dress code applies and children are most welcome.
www.thefarmersclub.com • 19
Emily McVeigh, Chairman; Scott Hayles, Vice Chairman; Anita Kaur, Secretary • Under 30s
Chairman’s Jottings
SPRING is in the air and I am writing my first jottings as Chairman of the Under 30s from sunny Southwold. Firstly, I would like to introduce myself; I am from Suffolk, born and bred, where my family has a mixed arable farm and a herd of English Longhorn cattle. I run a number of enterprises based on the farm including a wedding venue, glamping site and cookery school. I am delighted to take over as Under 30s Chairman from Charlotte Harris who has done a wonderful job over the past year. Scott Hayles steps up to Vice-Chairman and we have the support of a fantastic committee. Congratulations go to our Farmers Club Under 30s quiz team who had a combined victory with the Royal Overseas League in the annual InterClub quiz; it will be the first time the Farmers Club appears on the trophy! We look ahead to a full year of events; our Spring Farm Walk will be in Suffolk in May, where we will enjoy visits to the Elvedon estate and Adnams brewery (full details to follow). The farm walk will offer a chance to experience glamping, dining al fresco and an evening around the fire pit. We are planning to host a farm walk in June at Daylesford, which will be open to all members of the Club; you don’t have to be under 30! We are also planning a trip abroad to visit Germany for our Farm Walk in the Autumn. Other events this year will include our September dinner with guest speaker Connor McVeigh (no relation) who is Head of Supply Chain for McDonalds. I hope to see many of you at events throughout the year and look forward to meeting new members too.
Contact Emily for more information: Emily McVeigh Under 30s Chairman 2018/19 Kenton Hall Estate Kenton, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 6JU 01728 862062 www.kentonhallestate.co.uk
20 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
New Members Dinner THE annual Under 30s New Members Weekend started with a fabulous dinner in The Farmers Suite, followed by a fascinating talk from Kit Franklin, an agricultural engineering lecturer at Harper Adams University and pioneer of the ‘Hands Free Hectare’ initiative. Run in partnership with Precision Decisions, the remote farming project aims to promote the use of smaller automated machinery, rather than keep using ever larger machines, which can damage soil structure and cause compaction. Using modern technology, the initiative grows and harvests a hectare of cereal crops without a human stepping into the field. Kit highlighted the long-term sustainability and efficiencies, thanks to plant-specific input use. In a first
for Members and the Farmers Suite, we were encouraged to use our mobile phones to view the action on Youtube! It was also a great pleasure to host Club Chairman Peter Jinman (above) and we encourage all Under 30s to get involved with events across all sections of the Club. The Under 30s AGM was held the next morning. After a fantastic tenure, outgoing Chairman Charlotte Harris officially handed over to Emily McVeigh and new Committee members Alice Hind and Jeremy Hawkins were introduced. An afternoon of theatre before dinner and dancing at Pianoworks followed. Alice Whitlow Under 30s member
Meet your U30s Commitee Name
Emily McVeigh
Committee: Chairman
Scott Hayles
Alice Whitlow
Vice Chairman / Jill Willows Social Media U30s / Membership
Member since: 2012 2011 2015 Job Title: Events Director, Kenton Hall Estate
Eastern Area Manager, Corteva Agriscience (DowDuPont)
Associate, European Investment Bank
Hometown:
Cambridgeshire
Worcestershire
Southwold, Suffolk
Interests: Film, skiing, yoga, Shooting, fly fishing, Breeding/showing pedigree glamping natural history, skiing, Herefords, new foods / agriculture restaurants, big data, theatre
Under 30s • Emily McVeigh, Chairman; Scott Hayles, Vice Chairman; Anita Kaur, Secretary
Nortons’ dairy success AT their Spring Dining evening on March 23 Norfolk dairy farmer Emily Norton spoke passionately about the changing nature of farming and her role within it. Emily co-founded Nortons’ Dairy (www.nortonsdairy. co.uk) on the family farm in Frettenham, Norfolk after completing a Masters Degree in Sustainable Agriculture at Harper Adams in 2004/05, when the milk price was making farming incredibly difficult.
Her plan focused on adding value. The dairy now produces cheese, cream, butter and yoghurt for independent shops and restaurants, winning many awards. We enjoyed a selection of produce after dinner! Emily touched on the difficulties of running a growing and demanding business, whilst ensuring time for your family, and her experience of family succession planning. She also highlighted the importance of the family’s ability to communicate what they are doing. As founder of #Febudairy Emily said there was a real need for farmers to educate themselves on their own market place and focus on what the consumer wants, not just educate the consumer as to what those in agriculture are doing. Emily is now a regular speaker at high profile events including the Oxford Farming Conference and is currently completing a Nuffield Scholarship titled ‘Breaking the silos – best practice in global agricultural policy for farm business innovation’. It sounds like something Michael Gove should read. Matt Hague Under 30s member
UNDER 30S EVENTS CALENDAR Spring Farm Walk, Suffolk – Fri 18-Sun 20 May Cocktail Evening, Fri 13 Jul Inter-Club Summer Ball, RAC – Sat 14 Jul Inter-Club Gin Tasting, The Farmers Club – Fri 14 Sep Autumn Dinner, Fri 21 Sep Autumn Farm Walk, Friday 26-Sun 28 Oct
Under 30s Committee (left to right) Georgina Knock, Alice Whitlow, Hannah Moore, Emily McVeigh, Jeremy Hawkins, Scott Hayles, Eleanor Kay, Alice Hind, (Matt Hague – not present).
Hannah Lucy Moore
Jeremy Hawkins
Inter-Club Rep & Events House & Farm Walks
Georgina Knock
Alice Hind
Eleanor Kay
Matt Hague
Membership / Events / Walks
Communications / Journal / Jill Willows U30s
Finance
Events Sec
2015 2015 February 2015 2015 2014 2011
Cabinet Office Grain Merchant Devon/Cornwall
Stockbridge
Head of Operations & Marketing, Sunny Suffolk
Primary School Class Teacher
Manager, Rothamsted Research
Associate Director, Strutt & Parker
Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk
Upham Hampshire
Harpenden, Hertfordshire
Ipswich, Suffolk
Agriculture, sustainability, Socialising, fly fishing, Farm open days, city farms, Horse riding, working with Politics, cricket, cooking, policy, walking, running, skiing, hiking scuba diving schools, volunteering, drawing, history, music, reeling, yoga, skiing, singing, Scottish reeling wildlife photography sailing
Skiing, mountains shooting, squash
www.thefarmersclub.com • 21
The Farmers Club • Club Information
Club Information 020 7930 3557 • www.thefarmersclub.com @thefarmersclub The Farmers Club Page
Office Holders
Monet & Architecture
Patron – Her Majesty The Queen HONORARY VICE PRESIDENTS
Friday 29th June 2018
Peter Jackson CBE, Roddy Loder-Symonds, Sir David Naish DL, John Parker
Featuring more than seventy-five paintings by Monet, this innovative exhibition spans his long career from its beginnings in the mid-1860s to the public display of his Venice paintings in 1912. More than a quarter of the paintings in ‘The Credit Suisse Exhibition: Monet & Architecture’ come from private collections around the world; works littleknown and rarely exhibited. Our programme starts at 12.00 noon with a private lecture by Anne Haworth in the Club, followed at 1.00pm by a 2-course lunch with
THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT OF THE CLUB 2018 VICE PRESIDENTS Barclay Forrest OBE, Sir Mark Hudson, Mrs Susan Kilpatrick OBE, Paul Heygate PRESIDENT AND CHAIRMAN Peter Jinman OBE TRUSTEES Jimmy McLean, Mrs Nicki Quayle, Julian Sayers (Chairman), Tim Bennett VICE-CHAIRMAN Nick Helme
wine at the Club. At 2.00pm we depart by coach for the National Gallery, entering the Exhibition at 2:30pm. Members should make their own way home. This event is limited to 30 places only and costs £64.00 per person, including lunch at the Club, ticket for the exhibition and coach to the National Gallery. All applications should be received by 12th June. If oversubscribed places will be decided by a ballot. To register interest apply on-line at www.thefarmersclub.com or complete the enclosed booking form.
HONORARY TREASURER Richard Maunder IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN Tim Bennett CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND SECRETARY Andrei Spence CLUB CHAPLAIN The Reverend Dr Sam Wells COMMITTEE Elected 2016: Robert Alston, Andrew Brown (Membership Sub-Committee), Lindsay Hargreaves (House sub-committee), Nick Helme, Peter Jinman OBE Elected 2017: Kevin Beaty, John Lee OBE, Karen Mercer, Keith Redpath, Christopher Riddle, Allan Stevenson, Campbell Tweed OBE Elected 2018: Ian Bell, Matt Dempsey (Communications SubCommittee) and Gerald Osborne Co-opted: Emily McVeigh (Chairman Under 30s), Scott Hayles (Vice Chairman Under 30s) Jeremy Hawkins (Under 30s Committee Member) THE FARMERS CLUB CHARITABLE TRUST TRUSTEES Stephen Fletcher (Chairman), James Cross, Vic Croxson DL, Meryl Ward MBE, Des Lambert OBE, The Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Club (ex officio). Patron Mrs Stella Muddiman
NEXT ISSUE
The Harvest issue of the Farmers Club Journal, due with members in late July, will report on the Club’s visit to Norway, an insight into farming in Hungary, a detailed investigation into dairy cow longevity, a report on the Club’s own AGM and a talk from NFU President Minette Batters following that AGM.
22 • The Farmers Club Summer Journal 2018
CHANGES TO THE DRESS CODE
From 3rd January 2018 Smart casual dress is allowed from 6pm on Friday until midnight on Sunday and Mon-Sun up to 10am. Smart jeans and trainers are acceptable during this period. Gentlemen should wear formal jackets and ties in the Bar, Lounge and Restaurant during the week. Ladies should be dressed conventionally, trousers are permitted. There are Club jackets and a selection of ties at Reception, which may be borrowed in an emergency. Members must advise their guests of the dress regulations. Children should conform to the above guidelines as best they can.
Ladies Umbrella Due to popular demand we are pleased to announce the arrival of an elegant ladies folding umbrella. This high-quality auto-opening and closing umbrella is dark green with the Club logo in white and has a smart silver handle. The umbrella will be available to purchase at Reception for £17.50 from May onwards – a welcome addition to the Club’s popular golfing umbrella, which is priced £30.
Phone calls Members are advised that using mobile calling platforms such as Skype, What’sUp, Google Hangouts etc can facilitate mobile phone calls (over the Club’s wi-fi) in areas of the Club where mobile phone calls are permitted, including in the Business Suite.
Club Information • The Farmers Club Deaths It is with regret that we announce the death of the following members: Lord E Digby KCVO Dorset Mr J R Harris OBE Leicestershire Mr C Hutchinson Cambridgeshire Mr G Lloyd Glamorgan Mr T Micklem Sussex Professor J Nix Kent Mr R Scholey Yorkshire Mr R Skoyles Norfolk Mr R Smith Kent Mrs S Thompson-Coon Hampshire Mr E Wrisdale Lincolnshire New Members The following were elected: UK Members Mrs B Bell-Burrow Mr J Bennie Mr J Channon Mr W Cole Mr P Davies Mr A Downing Mr P Dunne MP Mr B Dunshea Mr W Hagen Mrs C Handford Mr C Heath Mr G Herman Dr H Houghton Mr M Howe Mr W Howell Mr D Jackson Mr B Morgan Mr J Muter Mrs H Noad Mrs B Noakes Mrs S Nutt Mrs A O’Donnell Dr J Pace Mr J Pearson Mr R Perry Mr J Robertson Mr J Robinson Mrs J Robson Mr A Tickle Mr C Trembath
Channel Islands Northamptonshire Devon Sussex Glamorgan Cambridgeshire Herefordshire London Yorkshire Dorset Shropshire Sussex Northamptonshire Pembrokeshire Warwickshire Essex Hertfordshire Lancashire Gloucestershire Shropshire Yorkshire Nottinghamshire Peebles-shire Wiltshire Devon Dumfriesshire Northamptonshire Gloucestershire Lancashire Essex
GDPR REMINDER The GDPR consent forms enclosed in the Spring Journal have had a good initial response with over 50% completed. Members who have not yet completed the form are urged to do so as soon as possible. If the form has been lost, the General Office can provide further copies, or it can be downloaded from the website.
Ms N Wilkinson Cumberland Mr W Williams-Wynne Cardiganshire Mrs A Woodhams Somerset Mr P Woolridge Kent Mr W Young Northamptonshire Admiral Sir George Zambellas GCB DSC DL Dorset Overseas Mr J Olin Under 30s Mr J Beckett Mr S Findlay Miss I Findlay Mr J Findlay Ms S Higgins Mr H Huddart Mr G Jackson Mr F Jibson Mr M Metson Mr B Regan Ms R Rowlands Mrs K Singh Mr J Snell Miss P Stacey Mr G Thompson Miss J Tomley Miss F Turner Mr H Wilder Miss A Willett Associate - Forty Club Mr T Golds
Club Contacts THE FARMERS CLUB
Serving the farming industry for 175 years 3 Whitehall Court, London SW1A 2EL
United States of America Sussex Cambridgeshire Cambridgeshire Cambridgeshire London Leicestershire Shropshire Yorkshire Essex London Shropshire Northamptonshire Herefordshire Buckinghamshire London Shropshire Devon Oxfordshire Surrey Kent
Mobile Phones, Briefcases and Business Meetings Mobile phones must not be used in the Public Rooms (except on silent in the Shaw room). Telephone conversations should only be undertaken on The Terrace. Briefcases should be left in the Cloakrooms and Business meetings must be conducted in the Shaw Room or designated and pre-booked meeting rooms. Members should speak with Liza Keoshgerian ext 109 or direct line 020 7925 7100 or functions@thefarmersclub.com Parking The Club has no private parking at Whitehall Court. However, the Club is pleased to be able to offer all its members discounted parking with Q-Park, our preferred parking partner. Discounts of 20% are available on the day and on prebookings. The nearest Q-Park is situated in Spring Gardens off Cockspur Street, approximately 5 minutes walk from the Club. Details of this can be obtained by phoning the Club Reception on 020 7930 3557 or by visiting the website at: http://www.thefarmers club.com/news/parking -5-mins-from-club Business Suite The Business Suite provides PCs, printing and WiFi for members. WiFi WiFi is available throughout the Club at no charge. Function rooms If you are looking to book a function here at the Club, please contact functions@ thefarmersclub.com or call our Conference & Banqueting Sales Manager on 020 7925 7100, who will be delighted to assist.
Chairman 2018: Peter Jinman
Chief Executive and Secretary: Andrei Spence
Club Number 020 7930 3557 Reception ext: 200/201 reception@thefarmersclub.com Bedroom Reservations ext: 204 reservations@thefarmersclub.com Restaurant Reservations Option 3 restaurant@thefarmersclub.com Conference & Banqueting Sales Manager Liza Keoshgerian ext: 109 or direct line: 020 7925 7100 functions@thefarmersclub.com Administrator & Under 30s Secretary Anita Kaur ext:103 or direct line 020 7930 3751 administrator@thefarmersclub.com General Manager Virginia Masser ext: 102 generalmanager@thefarmersclub.com Head Chef w Paul Hogben ext: 111 or direct line: 020 7925 7103 chef@thefarmersclub.com Financial Controller Zarreena Neeson ext: 106 or direct line: 020 7925 7101 financialcontroller@thefarmersclub.com Membership Mark Fairbairn ext: 107 or direct line: 020 7925 7102 membership@thefarmersclub.com PA to Secretary Claire White ext: 104 or direct line: 020 7930 3751 generaloffice@thefarmersclub.com Bedrooms ext: 3+ [two digit room number] eg. ext 301 for Room1 Whitehall Court Porters 020 7930 3160 Fax 020 7839 7864 Website: www.thefarmersclub.com @thefarmersclub The Farmers Club Page THE FARMERS CLUB JOURNAL Editor and Advertisement Manager: Charles Abel 07795 420692 E-mail: editor@thefarmersclub.com Designed and produced by: Ingenious, www.ingeniousdesign.co.uk No film or film processing chemicals were used. Printed on Lumi Silk which is ISO 14001 certified manufacturer. FSC® Mix Credit. Elemental chlorine free (ECF) fibre sourced from well managed forests
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NEWMARKET AN EQUINE EXTRAVAGANZA 26th to 28th September 2018 The Farmers Club is pleased to be able to offer a Club visit to Newmarket in September. Generally considered to be the birth place and global center of thoroughbred horse racing. Our full programme takes in the very heart of training, racing and associated attractions – all with horses at the very center. Wednesday 26th September 2018 Registration at the Bedford Lodge Hotel at 8.00am. The coach will then depart to Godolphin for a private tour of Godolphin and the Stud Farm. From there we will continue to the National Heritage Centre for Horse Racing and Sporting Art for lunch in the Tack Room, followed by a private tour of the Heritage Centre and Palace House. There will be some free time to explore Newmarket until 4.30pm, when we will depart Newmarket for the Bedford Lodge Hotel. Dinner at the Bedford Lodge Hotel at 6.45pm. Thursday 27th September 2018 The coach will depart at 9.15am and you will be taken to a racing yard in Newmarket. Here, the trainer will conduct a tour of the yard, introduce you to the horses and give you an outline of their routines. The coach will then depart to the Rowley Mile Racecourse, where you will be given an exclusive tour of the Racecourse, followed by lunch in the Champions Gallery whilst watching the Race Meeting (Cambridgeshire Meeting). On completion of racing at 6.30pm the coach will depart back to the Bedford Lodge Hotel, where there will be a Drinks Reception at 7.30pm, followed by dinner at 8.00pm. (Guest speaker for the evening). Friday 28th September 2018 The coach will depart at 7.50am with our tour guide to see the Gallops and the horses working out. We will then visit and have a tour of the National Equine Hospital. The coach will then depart to the Jockey Club for a private tour of this most prestigious Club. Following this we will make our way to the National Stud where on arrival a buffet lunch will be served. Following lunch a tour of the National Stud will take place before members make their way home. Cost is £750.00 per person (sharing double/twin room, to include accommodation at The Bedford Lodge Hotel (4* hotel) with breakfast, lunches, dinners and all visits as per itinerary. This cost is based on a group of 21. A ballot will be held if the visit is oversubscribed. To register for this Tour please complete the enclosed insert or contact Club Administrator Anita Kaur administrator@ thefarmersclub.com 020 7930 3751