AHDB has announced the appointment of two new board members.

Sophie Churchill OBE and Mike Sheldon will help oversee the strategic direction for the whole organisation for the next three years, with Ms Churchill replacing Fiona Fell as chair of its potato sector board and Mr Sheldon chairing the pork sector board, taking over from Meryl Ward.

AHDB chairman Peter Kendall said: “I’m delighted to welcome Sophie and Mike to the AHDB Board. They join at a significant time for AHDB as we look to deliver a fresh strategy to inspire the food and farming industry to respond to the challenges of Brexit and changing domestic and international markets.”

Ms Churchill said: “I am delighted to be taking up this opportunity with the AHDB Board and its Potato Sector Board. The next few years will see some big challenges and opportunities for British agriculture and I am looking forward to playing a part in helping to lead AHDB’s strategy during this exciting period.”

Mr Sheldon said: “I am very pleased to be joining the AHDB Board at this important time and to also be leading the Pork Sector Board. I am passionate about British farming, food and drink and I believe that AHDB can deliver a difference for UK agriculture as we manage our way through Brexit and into a new trading environment.”

Mr Kendall added: “I would like to thank Fiona and Meryl for their great contribution to the work of the Board during this period of change and the passion and thoughtful energy they have both put into the role.”