IAN MUIRHEAD from West Stirlingshire has been appointed as Scottish policy manager for the Agricultural Industries Confederation, the trade body for businesses involved in the supply of animal feed, crop protection products, fertiliser, grain marketing and seed.

Mr Muirhead is a fifth-generation farmer, who in partnership with his father runs a beef and sheep farm near the village of Arnprior in West Stirlingshire. He gained a degree in agriculture from SAC Auchincruive in 2006 and has been involved in a number of farming organisations including Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs.

“We are delighted to have secured Ian’s services for this part-time role,” said Stephen Kenyon, who chairs AIC Scotland. “Scottish agriculture faces a period of considerable change and Ian’s role will be to liaise between AIC Members and a range of stakeholders including the Scottish NFU and Scottish Government. He will be supported by various members of AIC’s UK team based in Peterborough.”

Mr Muirhead takes over from Kevin Mills who has held the post for many years.

“Kevin has been a great asset to establishing AIC within Scotland,” added Mr Kenyon. “I and my colleagues wish him a long and happy retirement.”