Former NFU President Peter Kendall has been named as the Farming Champion for 2014 at the Farmers Weekly awards.

Mr Kendall, who stepped down from the role as president at the NFU in February after eight years at the helm, was nominated for his on-going contribution to British farming.

Speaking about the nomination for the award, NFU President Meurig Raymond said there had been no greater champion of farming than Peter Kendall.

“It’s difficult to know where to start with Peter’s achievements, there are so many,” said Mr Raymond. “I could say it was bringing together a coalition of organisations in SOS Dairy to present a united industry in support of dairy farmers; I could say that it was his successful and tireless campaign on CAP to reduce modulation from the proposed 15 per cent; I could say it was his Presidency which finally got the government to address the issue of bovine TB in wildlife. It is all of those things but his biggest achievement, I believe, was leading the way in changing the perceptions of farming and creating an image of a vibrant, successful and positive industry.

“While he was President of the NFU he worked tirelessly to represent our members - at all times of the day or night. Most people who have worked with Peter know that he will think nothing of concluding one phone call after midnight and then ring someone else at 5am.

“Our members trusted Peter to stand up for their interests, something he did tirelessly and at all levels for eight years. He is a passionate communicator, never losing enthusiasm or energy for promoting and representing farmers and farming. He has never been afraid to challenge anyone when he believes they are wrong – I think many government ministers over the years still have the bruises! But he has always been fair and recognised the importance of being a united industry, even when people have different views.

“Peter was and is incredibly proud to be a farmer. I continue to be proud to have worked with him on all of these important issues. He will be regarded in future years as one of the best Presidents the NFU has ever had and I am pleased he has been recognised with this award from Farmers Weekly.”