Martin Evans, of the Martin Evans Group, addressed the conference on Thursday 16 January gave members an overview of his development within the agricultural industry from tenant to landowner. In 1993, he secured a tenancy under the 1986 Agricultural Holdings Act, where he milked 96 cows. His business has now expanded and his acres and milking numbers have grown considerably.

Martin also owns a contracting business, builds sheds as well as running a broiler enterprise. He has also diversified and runs holiday lets, pubs and renewable energy outlets.

Succession planning

Martin is already planning ahead when it comes to succession for his family, two of his sons are involved in the farming business, one son has responsibility for the dairy enterprise, while the other looks after the contracting business. Martin’s youngest son, Will, plays football for Mansfield Town.

When it comes to employment, Martin’s focus is on employing local staff and also providing training to those within the business.

NFU Cymru Deputy President Abi Reader also addressed the conference, providing members with an update on the union’s lobbying work across a number of areas including Welsh Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme and the recent UK Government’s family farm tax.

Speaking after the meeting, NFU Cymru Carmarthenshire Vice County Chairman Haydn Evans said: “We are thankful to Martin Evans for making the journey west to speak with us and enlighten us on his farming journey. It was great to hear about all the offshoots to his business as well as his passion for employing local people. It was also good to welcome NFU Cymru Deputy President Abi Reader to give an update on the volume and variety of work being undertaken by the NFU Cymru team on behalf of members.”