CUMBRIAN beef and sheep farmer Alistair Mackintosh has been appointed as the new vice chair of Red Tractor, the UK’s largest and most comprehensive food assurance scheme.

In addition to roles as Chair of the National NFU Livestock Board and Vice Chair of the European farmers’ union Copa-Cogeca, for the last five years Mr Mackintosh has held the position of Red Tractor sector chair for the beef and lamb board.He also holds the position of NFU Cumbrian Council delegate.

During his tenure he has been instrumental in addressing key issues in his sector such as driving up improved animal welfare outcomes with the establishment of annual vet visits to improve the working relationship between vets and members, introducing recommendations for medicine training and promoting the responsible use of antibiotics.

Mr Mackintosh, who farms at West Cumbria, will formally take up his new position in November, when fellow farmer Andrew Blenkiron’s second term comes to an end after almost eight

years.

Red Tractor Chair Christine Tacon said: “I am delighted that Alistair will become Red Tractor’s next vice chair. His wealth of knowledge and experience will be a considerable asset as we navigate the significant challenges our industry faces posed by climate change, international trade agreements, shifting public attitudes and the supply chain shortages.”

Alongside supporting and deputising for the chair, Alistair will be responsible for chairing the Standards Committee which oversees and recommends policies and actions on technical aspects of Red Tractor’s operations which effect all sectors.