Farmer digs up a birthday honour from the Queen

The Queen’s Birthday Honours List was announced on 12 June, highlighting people’s stellar contributions to the UK. This year, agriculture was among the artists and actors, as Northern Ireland’s James Fitchie was honoured for his services to ploughing. James, a beef farmer in Newtownards, Co. Down received the MBE for his services to ploughing, following a lifetime of good work. He has supported charities and worked with young people, preparing them for a life in agriculture. Lantra’s Partnership Manager for Northern Ireland, David Seffen said: “It’s great to know that farmers in Northern Ireland are being recognised for their massive contributions to the country. At a time when topics such as food security are at the top of the government agenda, it’s easy to see just how the people across the UK depend upon the work of farmers. “Lantra estimates that the UK will have a dwindling agriculture workforce over the coming years. We must attract 60,000 new farmers and growers over the next decade to maintain the number we have today. “James’ honour shows that he is ploughing the way for future generations of farmers to achieve greatness.” To find out more about careers in agriculture, visit Lantra.co.uk or email connect@lantra.co.uk. ENDS Issued by: Lantra Press Office – contact media@lantra.co.uk or call 02476 858 411. Notes to Editors: • Lantra works with 230,000 businesses to champion the sector and encourage people to value and take up skills and development opportunities available to them, including pointing them towards funding opportunities for training and skills. • Its 17 industries are made up of agricultural crops; agricultural livestock; animal care; animal technology; aquaculture; environmental conservation; equine; farriery; fencing; fisheries management; floristry; game and wildlife management; horticulture, landscape and sports turf; land-based engineering; production horticulture; trees and timber; and veterinary nursing.

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