Hertfordshire farmer Andrew Watts has been elected as the chairman of the NFU’s combinable crops board. Mr Watts succeeds Ian Backhouse who has stood down after two terms in office.

Mike Hambly from Cornwall was elected vice chairman, replacing Mark Leggott.

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Watts said: “My job is to lead the board on the important issues for our sector, such as CAP reform and access to the science and technologies, which will be needed to make the crops sector more productive.”

He added, “It’s going to be a big challenge and I am honoured to lead the board.”

Following his election, vice chairman Mr Hambly said, “I am looking forward to providing support to the new board chairman while ensuring we remain accountable to members and can deliver real benefits to their businesses.”