Video: Campaign seeks next generation of farmers

A young farmer who has established his own milking herd despite having no background in agriculture is inspiring Wales’ next generation to follow his path.

Matthew Jackson features in a video produced by NFU Cymru as part of its campaign to encourage young entrepreneurs to consider a career in agriculture.

Launched at the Pembrokeshire County Show in Haverfordwest on Monday (18 August), the campaign draws on the advice of industry experts and farmers who have carved their own careers in agriculture.

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Mr Jackson was brought up in Manchester and left school aged just 15 with no qualifications. He now owns 427 New Zealand Friesian cross-bred cows and youngstock and is share farming in north Wales.

NFU Cymru president Stephen James said the video campaign drew on the experiences of farmers like Mr Jackson.

Mr James said Wales’ farming industry needed to create an environment that encouraged innovation, investment and new blood to secure its future.

“We are currently in between the A-level and GCSE results days. NFU Cymru wants to use this important time when young people are considering their futures to encourage them to think positively about a future career in the agricultural industry – whether they are from a farming background or not,” he said.

“There are many advantages to a career in farming – being your own boss and running your own business are just two. I would encourage anyone with an interest in science, engineering, business, a thirst for knowledge and interest in the latest innovations, as well as good IT skills, to consider a career in agriculture.”