A fourth-generation farmer who leases a farm building to the UK’s largest breeders of locusts and snakes has announced "farming in Essex is changing" as he takes on the role as NFU Essex County Chair.

The appointment of the fourth-generation farmer, Robert Padfield, sees him as the fourth member of the Padfield family to take up the position, following his father, James, mother, Rosemary, and grandfather.

Robert Padfield said: "Someone has to fight the corner for agriculture and I’m pleased to be playing my part.

"Member engagement will be a priority for me. 

"I want to hear from members about their issues and, in an election year, I’ll also be encouraging them to invite their MPs out on farm. 

“We need the politicians to understand about food security, unfairness in the supply chain and the other challenges that we are facing.

Padfield farms 1,500 acres in Magdelan Laver with his wife Zoe and mother.

In addition to growing arable crops, the diverse family enterprise also includes letting former farm buildings to various businesses, including the UK's leading breeders of locusts and snakes.

Padfield added: "Farming in Essex is changing. 

"Many businesses have diversified, taking advantage of the opportunities offered by a growing population. 

"We’ve been lucky to be able to diversify as not every farm can do that, which is why farmers must be able to make a profit from producing food."