The Farming industry is a never-ending rollercoaster ride, but not just any old rollercoaster, one where the sharp dips, turns and downwards spirals occur more often than we would hope, with long upwards climbs and minimal meandering, never quite sure what direction we will be thrown next. The reason behind the turbulent ride? Global markets, political instability, climate and the ever increasing consumer pressure. So why do we do it? Farmers are not often described as thrill-seeking daredevils who thrive on the high pressure challenges of trade, uncontrollable weather and narrow margins. So why would my generation consider this a safe industry to enter? Surely a desk job with a regular salary, warm office and coffee on tap is far more appealing?

Last week I attended a networking event specifically for young people working in the rural industry. We visited a dairy farm which has diversified and is now adding value to their milk by creating vodka from a bi-product of cheese production. Now enticing a group of young farmers with vodka is bound to get a good uptake on a visit! The diversification has been done with huge thought and business planning, the room was abuzz with positive energy from everyone, we were a mixture of men and women, students and employed people, managers and workers from across the whole county – not a negative word was grumbled. We all left the evening feeling empowered and ready to take on the world, or was that the vodka talking?

So, back to the rollercoaster which, by the way is heading for the biggest, steepest, most unknown dip that our industry has ever seen (Brexit), yet the younger generation are flooding into the industry. The number of students studying agriculture at a higher education level has increased by more than five per cent in the past four years, this is fantastic news for our sector. This influx of new blood can only be positive, not only will they bring energy and enthusiasm, they will be educated and skilled, contributing as soon as they start working. The reason why young people join this industry is the same reason why the older generation continue on this unsteady ride, it’s the calibre of the people we attract. All are hard-working, dedicated, patient, innovative and responsible. We may well be entering uncertain times and the journey will not be easy, but I have confidence in the younger generation that the rollercoaster will carry on going and I for one am looking forward to the journey.