The Farmers’ Union of Wales has appointed a Welsh-speaking London-Welshman as its new managing director.

Alan Davies, whose family hails from Ceredigion, had an early career in the Army and for more than 20 years has lived and worked in and around Cardiff establishing and growing some high impact businesses in south Wales.

More recently he has managed complex project relationships between large companies in Wales and the Welsh Government.

“I’m truly excited about the challenge this position offers. The FUW is unique: it is the only body authorised by the UK Government to speak exclusively on behalf of the Farmers of Wales, our members are from within Wales, our funding all emanates from within Wales and of course we are not influenced by external or corporate decision makers.

“Our focus is all about making Wales a better place with strong, sustainable rural economies and with over 35 percent of the country’s population in the rural economy this is a challenge that needs serious attention.

“Of course we face some challenging and exciting times: there are global issues that affect farming, the EU referendum represents a dangerous moment that could take us into worrying territory and of course the imminent Welsh Assembly elections represent more possibility for change. We will however work with any and all parties to strengthen the future of Wales,” said Mr Davies.