CHAIRMAN OF the National Beef Association Christopher Thomas-Everard has been voted out of office at an NBA meeting in Hexham.

Taking over the reins is Oisin Murnion who has, for the last two years, been the NBA’s chairman in Northern Ireland.

Mr Thomas-Everard was removed by a majority vote in a move described in some quarters as a ‘coup’ and a further chapter in the recent turbulent history of the NBA.

Mr Thomas-Everard replaced Duff Burrell in July, 2008, after Mr Burrell resigned over a row about whether the NBA should engage Defra’s proposed TB partnership group.

Explaining the move, NBA board director, Mike Powley, said: “The NBA has worked since its inception 12 years ago to consolidate its financial position and raise the level of its political influence and the board feels it is now very close to being able to map out the route that will take the association to a new and much higher level.

“Oisin Murnion will chair the NBA through the period in which these plans are finalised and then we will take these to the membership for approval.

“The association is grateful to Christopher for his steady leadership which contributed hugely to its recent, most welcome, lift in membership and the development of closer relationships with important industry and government bodies.

“The NBA wishes Christopher well, and hopes he enjoys his well earned rest.”