The long-serving and dynamic chairman of the Exmoor Hill Farming Network has retired from his role.

Dave Knight has spent eight years chairing the network’s steering group, and since early 2020, he has been the chairman of directors when the network became an independent, farmer led, organisation with Community Interest Company status.

Under his leadership, the network has become respected as the go-to hub for farming information, training and networking on Exmoor and its surrounding areas.

It is regarded as one of the UK’s most successful and active farmer networks and has received national recognition for initiatives such as the Exmoor’s Ambition report on the future of farming after Brexit.

It is now a trusted delivery partner for national projects on Exmoor, with organisations such as Defra, the National Sheep Association, AHPA and the NFU.

Dave said: "It has been a great privilege heading up this network which has rapidly grown into a well-established go to hub for the wider farming community within the Greater Exmoor area.

"I have many highlights including meeting HRH Prince of Wales and a visitation to Highgrove particularly stands out for me in 2015 and overseeing the independent status.

"I have increased my own personal development and I will be remaining as an active director but stepping down from the day to day running of the organisation.

"I firmly believe this network has a bright future with tremendous opportunities for our farming community.

"I know my successor will carry on representing the Exmoor Hill Farming Network with the utmost drive and integrity and I would like to thank all the Directors who helped me during my time.’’

Chris Eveleigh, director, said: "Dave has become a tremendous ambassador – both locally and nationally for Exmoor and its farmers, while managing to lead a busy farming life at the same time.

"He has brought farmers of all ages together in a positive, inclusive way.

"We have all benefitted from meeting new people and sharing ideas through the visits, events and training that have been organised under his helm.

"Dave’s dedication is second to none and we would like to thank him for the part he has played in the network’s success to date."

Ian May, a local sheep and beef farmer on the southern edge of Exmoor, has succeeded Dave.

He said: "I have been an active member of EHFN since its inception and have been impressed with the organisation as its developed over time under Dave's leadership.

"I feel honoured to be asked to take a more active role in the network's future and hope that with the support of Dave, the network team and the other directors we'll be able to continue providing effective support to the Exmoor farming community."