RHASS chief executive Alan Laidlaw

Looking ahead to the New Year I’m preparing for another Oxford Farming Conference, the theme; Growing a Healthy Society – What does that mean? My wish, it means a healthy return for producers and growers, a healthy debate about what food we eat and the system it comes from alongside a new enthusiasm for supporting local produce. If we get that, then it might be healthier and safer being a farmer.

I hope that our politicians understand, take time to value, and protect our rural economy in times of change, not selling out for a quick deal. I wish for great success in the 6 Nations. I anticipate everyone takes a chance to look at our own priorities, time thinking smarter about what we do, making space for ourselves, our families and our passions – what are your wishes?

We have missed the Tokyo 2020 chance, but do we have a Paris 2024 Gold* medal in our midst? (*I’m thinking Trap Shooting is the best chance)

Resetting the calendar gives us a chance to do something new, that thing that lights that fire inside us, making us all more successful, happier, healthier and drawing people to us. I’m also hoping for a good spell of weather around the third week in June!