Dairy UK Gives Terry Jones Its Excellence Award

Terry Jones received the excellence award from Dairy UK at its annual dinner, where industry representatives recognised his contribution to British agriculture. Jones led the National Farmers Union as director general for more than 20 years and represented farmers while working with government and businesses across the food supply chain.

During his career, Jones supported the dairy sector through several periods of disruption. These included Britain’s departure from the European Union and the subsequent changes to trading arrangements, the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Dairy UK also cited his political judgement and measured approach during difficult periods for the sector.

Dr Judith Bryans, Dairy UK’s chief executive, said that Jones had helped bring together participants from across the supply chain. She described his handling of politically difficult issues as an asset to British agriculture and said that Dairy UK had worked with him for two decades before he received the award.

Jones said he was pleased and honoured to accept the prize. He described his time as the NFU’s director general as a privilege and referred to his representation of dairy farmers in England and Wales. He also thanked former NFU colleagues and farmers who volunteer to represent their peers to government and the wider industry.

Jones left the director-general role earlier this year. He continues to work on agriculture, food and environmental matters through positions with the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution and the Marine Management Organisation.

Impressionist and entertainer Jon Culshaw presented the award at the dinner. The event brought together farmers, processors, retailers, industry leaders and other participants from across the supply chain. Kim Kettle of Clawson Farms was also recognised, marking 50 years in the dairy-processing sector since joining the industry at the age of 16.