Two leading farming organisations have signed a pact to boost joint working on issues affecting Scottish agriculture in the shared interests of their members.

The deal between NFU Scotland and the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) was signed at the Royal Highland Show in the presence of their office holders and members and ahead of a joint meeting with rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon.

Commitments from the NFUS include: free membership to SAYFC members; financial support to SAYFC; an invitation for two SAYFC members to attend NFUS Board meetings twice a year and editorial space in the Scottish Farming Leader magazine.

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John Davidson who represented the NFUS at the ceremony said: “NFU Scotland represents more than 9000 farmers and crofters across the country. We have a powerful influencing voice with key decision makers across the sector and in Holyrood and Westminster.

“While we have a very active Next Generation Committee and representation on our Board, we are keen to strengthen our voice when it comes to protecting, enhancing and securing a strong, sustainable and profitable future for Scottish agriculture from those who will be the next custodians farming rural Scotland.

“Agreeing to closer, joint working via this partnership is a huge positive in achieving this, both in the short and long term.”

SAYFC pledges include: the offer of two invitee positions on the Agri & Rural Affairs Committee to NFUS Next Generation members; consult with NFUS with regards to identifying topical issues whereby specific feedback would be beneficial and support NFUS through actively promoting the benefits of NFUS membership to SAYFC members and share NFUS communications.

The SAYFC representative Penny Montgomery added: “I am delighted to sign this agreement with NFUS on behalf of SAYFC.

“We are excited to be bringing our experience, knowledge, ideas and understanding of the sector to the partnership. Our collaboration and potential outputs will benefit members of each organisation alike and help raise the profile of Scotland’s incredible next generation farmers and crofters.”