Jimmy Doherty joins forces with NFU Mutual to support small farms

In his new role as NFU Mutual small farm ambassador, Jimmy will be sharing his experiences of turning a piece of run-down Suffolk land into a successful farm and visitor attraction with new entrants to farming and those who have worked the land for generations. He will also be promoting the fantastic work small farmers do producing high quality food, protecting the environment and playing a leading role in the rural community.

“We need small farms to look after the land, keep rare breeds going and to hold the fabric of the countryside together,” said Jimmy.

“Small farmers have a great story to tell – but are so busy working that they don’t get the chance to talk about the great work they’re doing so I hope to be able to use this role to spread the message and support farmers - from those who have just started out to families who have been working the land for generations.

He added: “Farming today isn’t just about riding on a tractor; you have to be the vet, you have to be the engineer, you even have to now be the shopkeeper with a farm shop. To protect a dynamic farm business you need an insurer with farming expertise and local people to grow the business with you – and that’s why I’m with NFU Mutual.”

Gina Fusco, NFU Mutual Strategy and Marketing Director, said: “Jimmy is a brilliant communicator whose television programmes captured the hearts of viewers by showing how his passion for farming helped him meet the challenges small farmers face.

“As the insurer of three quarters of the nation’s farms, we understand the intense pressure small farms are under and are determined to help them survive and thrive for the benefit of present and future generations.”

NFU Mutual has been protecting the nation’s farmers for over 100 years from smallholdings to the largest estates. It looks after its customers through a network of over 300 local offices with staff who work closely with famers to protect their tractors, livestock and barns.

Farmers can follow Jimmy’s work with NFU Mutual to support small farmers on Twitter @nfum and by visiting nfumutual.co.uk/farming from October 24.