Former president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) Meurig Raymond has been awarded a CBE in the New Year’s Honours released at the weekend.

Current NFU President Minette Batters congratulated Mr Raymond on receiving the honour for his services to farming.

Mrs Batters said: “Meurig has been a fantastic advocate of British farming for decades and continues to be a stalwart of the industry, championing British farming in all he does.

“During his time as President of the NFU he was a tireless worker for his members and I am incredibly pleased to see his achievements recognised by receiving this honour.

“Whether it was in Westminster, Brussels or even further afield, Meurig always had what was best for British farmers and growers at the forefront of his mind and made it his mission to represent their interests to politicians, civil servants, the supply chain and the wider industry.

“He was acutely aware how important British farming was to the country in its role producing safe, traceable and affordable food to the public and he was driven by a desire to ensure British farmers were fairly rewarded for their work.

“Meurig is a passionate supporter of British farming and this always shone through in his work representing farmers and growers.

“I am proud to have worked with him as part of the NFU’s officeholder team and I want to congratulate him on receiving this honour.”