New NFU chairman for Devon

A new county Chairman has been appointed for Devon’s branch of the NFU.

David Verney a mixed farmer and egg producer from Bishop’s Nympton takes up family tradition by following his father and uncle into the position.

“I think of it as a challenge and I wouldn’t be able to do it without having my two boys at home and a very understanding wife.

"My wife and I were adamant that they go off and get their qualifications.

"They’ve gone off and experienced another side of life and they’ve come back to farming afterwards. 

“My daughter is also really involved and helps out with the work at home.”

Verney’s daughter Emily is group sectary for the NFU in Tiverton.

“My grandfather, F W Verney was chairman in 1935 and my uncle was chairman in 1968 and my father in 1985.

“I want to communicate with supermarkets to challenge how food is devalued in our society.

“To be honest I think that the Government also devalues our food too."

Verney takes up the role during in a time of widespread change as four of six county chairs are stepping down.

Current NFU president Peter Kendell will also be stepping down after his last official visit to the South West in Dorset (27 November). 

The NFU will holding a series of special events for its annual open meeting season featuring a range of speakers including agricultural adviser for BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, Steve Peacock at the Devon meeting (20th November).