MEMBERSHIP of The Farmer Network, based in Penrith, continues to grow.

An online 12th Annual General Meeting of the Network heard that by the year end farmer membership had reached 1,174.

Company Chair Rob Hitch opened by saying that the organisation had continued its long-term quest to support farmers and their businesses throughout the last year.

Two new council members were welcomed to Cumbria, Mark Lee, from Torpenhow and Jamie Brownrigg from Hesket Newmarket. Thanks were offered to Richard Chester and Chris Pears who stood down this year.

The meeting moved to the overall AGM with Managing Director Adam Day and Senior Operations Manager Donna Gough offering a short presentation on the draft annual report and accounts.

Members heard that Network turnover remained unchanged on the year leaving a surplus of £15,595 and a nine percent increase in company reserves to £167K.

It was explained that substantial reserves are needed from time to time to cash flow larger delivery projects that previously the Farmer Network would not have been able to consider. It will also allow more on farm events in future.

Senior Project Manager Veronica Waller gave an overview of the many and varied projects which the Farmer Network is involved in.

Ms Waller reported that the last year has been the busiest for many years with increased opportunities for funded projects and more organisations wishing to partner the Farmer Network and engage with farmers.

Guest speaker Adrian Shepherd, Head of Land Management, Yorkshire Dales National Park, talked to members about his career from working on the family farm in Lancashire to the present day, and including his thoughts on how farming in the Dales might evolve in future.

This led to an open debate with members.