Crop production specialist, Zantra has appointed Steve Riches as an agronomist covering the SW of England.

He joins the business from Hutchinsons, where he has held a similar role for the last eighteen months; prior to this he was with Countrywide for three years.

Based in the Chew Valley in N Somerset, Steve will focus on agrochemical advice and supply, but he will also offer seed and fertiliser to farmer customers.

Announcing the new appointment, Zantra managing director, Murray Mackay said the company was keen to develop further business in the region.

“The appointment of an agronomist of Steve’s calibre helps us to widen the company’s agchem and advisory service across the region.”

“As an established nationwide agrochemical supplier, our business strategy is to recruit and develop those who have a keen interest in agronomy,” he said.

“Steve – as with all our agronomists – will be given the flexibility needed to properly meet individual farmer requirements; providing each and every one of them with a specifically tailored package.”

Mr Riches, who is BASIS and FACTs qualified, will be supported by the company’s headquarters staff at Great Staughton, Cambridgeshire and the business’ regional depot in Hampshire.

With other depots in Kent, Yorkshire, Shropshire and Wiltshire, Zantra is the sixth largest and fastest growing agronomy business in the UK.