UPPER Teesdale farmer and long-standing regional officeholder Richard Betton has been recognised for his commitment and dedication to his fellow NFU members when he was unveiled as the North East winner in this year’s NFU Meurig Raymond Awards.
The awards, named after the previous NFU president, are presented annually at the farmer’s union conference, in Birmingham, and recognise grassroots members who go “above and beyond”’ in their contribution to the NFU and local farming industry.
Reflecting on nearly 40 years of representing his fellow upland members in Teesdale and further afield, acting NFU regional director, Laurie Norris said Mr Betton thoroughly deserved recognition for his tireless work at branch, county and national level through the national Uplands Forum.
“Richard always puts his local members first,” said Ms Norris.
“I have known him for many years and the relationships he has built up over that time with local MPs and many other organisations are invaluable to the work of the NFU.
“He is always keen to invite people onto his farm to demonstrate the many public goods that hill farming provides and the need to sustain rural areas.”
Ms Norris also praised Mr Betton’s work to raise the profile of mental health issues in farming long before the issue was more widely recognised and his determination to help young people in the industry, particularly in the tenanted sector.
“We were delighted to see Richard recognised for his tremendous contribution in front of 1,400 of his peers as the North East regional winner,” added Ms Norris.
“We are so lucky as an organisation to have so many dedicated farmers involved.
“It is great to be able to say thank you and recognise that support. Many congratulations Richard.”
