Farming workshop considers legacies

Representatives from the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), a specialist agricultural solicitor and land agent will all give presentations at a workshop event in Haworth on Thursday May 26.

The workshop has been organised by the Bradford Council-supported Airedale Partnership, the Churches’ Regional Commission and the Yorkshire Rural Support Network of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

Councillor David Green, Bradford Council executive member responsible for rural policy, warned that failing to plan for the future can take its toll professionally and personally.

He said: “Succession planning is very important for farmers as it ensures that the younger generation can continue running a family business and also access the assets and, most importantly, the tenancy of the farm and land.

“Research has shown that few families plan for these changes which can often have devastating effects on the viability of the farm and family life.

“This event will give a great overview of the key issues surrounding succession planning and an opportunity to discuss any concerns with a collection of experts.”

Those attending can learn more about moving tenancies on to the next generation; planning finances and tax connected to new ownership; and how to transfer their businesses.

Speakers scheduled to take part include David Hamer, vice chairman of the West Riding NFU; Adam Winthrop, a land agent with Windle Beech Winthrop in Skipton, and Geoff Tomlinson, a specialist agricultural solicitor.

The event, which will includes supper, will start at 7pm at Haworth Parkside Social Club.

Places can be booked by calling Saiqa Ramzan at the Airedale Partnership on 01535 618095 or email [email protected].