Farming at the top of association's agenda
Farmer Simon Scott has been elected chairman of the Shropshire branch of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses throughout the county.
As well as managing the family business at Harnage Grange, near Shrewsbury, he also contract farms for Lord Bradford at Weston-under-Lizard, growing arable crops and potatoes.
Following his election, Mr Scott said: "Farming, and the concerns that I have as a working farmer, are very much at the top of the CLA's agenda.
"Items such as CAP reform, the active farmer test, bovine TB, badger culls, the Endocrine Disruptors consultation, deregulation of farm visits and inspections, Countryside Stewardship Schemes are all topical matters that have kept the CLA very busy lobbying and working with government to make sure that Shropshire's voice is heard in Westminster and Brussels."
The range of issues that the CLA fight on a daily basis affect everyone who lives or works in the countryside, and include rural broadband, HS2 and compulsory purchase, shale gas, lead shot regulations, taxation, housing and private sector rented accommodation, woodland and wild boar.
Mr Scott added: "It makes you realise just how important the CLA is for its membership.
"And even if you do not get directly involved in the organisation, being a member is vital to keeping the CLA at the forefront, representing all our interests.
"In Shropshire, our committee meets three times a year with members who represent a true cross-section of rural businesses.
"At each meeting we discuss matters that concern us, identifying issues that I can take to the relevant national committee in London for action.
"We are always looking for new and younger members to join our committee so please do get in touch if you would like to be involved.
"Being a member of the CLA has never been more important – farming and the countryside needs a strong voice to stand up to predominately urban politicians," Mr Scott said.
For further information about the Country Land and Business Association visit www.cla.org.uk or alternatively call (01785) 337010.
