Applicants sought for top poultry skills course

Run by the NFU and ABN feeds, the programme aims to build on skills and knowledge, providing participants with an insight into the sector as well as creating contacts with other young professionals.

The next programme will start in September and run for approximately 18 months. It will consist of a series of events lasting one or two days.

Greg Marsh, a participant in the 2016 programme, said: “The programme is imperative in allowing young farmers the opportunity to further expand and develop their experiences in order to push the industry with new ideas and investment, learnt through meeting different people with different ideas and looking at alternative or new technologies within the sector.”

Sixteen 20-35 year olds took part in the 2015/16 programme, including Dr Steven Pace, who last autumn won the 2016 EPIC Young Poultry Person of the Year.

Danny Johnson, national sales manager for ABN, said the company was dedicated to the programme: “Both the NFU and ABN have invested in the programme for the long-term. Our vision is for the PIP to become a mark of recognition within the industry.

“With this in mind, we’re looking for people who can demonstrate a passion for the industry and have a desire to make their voice heard as well as play a part in shaping the future.”

People wishing to apply should contact NFU poultry adviser Aimee Mahony. (aimee.mahony@nfu.org.uk)

The deadline for applications is 28 April.