Farm industry leaders have paid warm tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, hailing her ‘deep connection’ to the countryside and farming.
NFU President Minette Batters DL has shared her deepest condolences with the Royal Family “Words cannot describe the deep sense of sadness that I and the rest of the farming community will feel at the news of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen,” she said.
“Her Majesty has been the embodiment of duty and public service, seeing the country through seven decades where we have seen huge change in our nation and in our fields.
“The Queen’s deep connection to the countryside has been valued enormously by farmers and has left a remarkable legacy that will continue for generations.
“On behalf of farmers in England and Wales, I would like to send my deepest condolences to the King, Queen Consort and the Royal Family at this truly sad time for our country.”
NFU Scotland president Martin Kennedy said NFU Scotland joins the nation in mourning Her Majesty the Queen.
“Over many decades, she has given exceptional service and dedication to the UK and the Commonwealth, and millions will feel a deep and profound loss at her passing,” he said.
“Here in Scotland, we fondly remember her long-standing enthusiasm and support for farming, rural life, and the countryside as well as her patronage and visits to the Royal Highland Show. Her lifelong association with Royal Deeside and the estate at Balmoral, famed for its Highland cattle and Highland ponies, often saw the Queen, accompanied by the Royal family, enjoy rural Scotland at its finest.
“She was an excellent livestock breeder. In this memorable jubilee year, Her Majesty saw her Highland bull Gusgurlach of Balmoral, win top prize at the Royal Highland Show for the second year in a row. Her Highland Pony stud at Balmoral has also been hugely influential in securing the future of this iconic Scottish breed.
“Her service to farming and rural communities up and down the country will not be forgotten.”
The Country Land and Business Association described the Queen as ‘a steadfast champion of the British countryside and rural way of life’.
Mark Tufnell, President of the CLA, said: “It is with profound grief that we note the passing of Her Majesty The Queen, but it is also with sincere gratitude that we remember her tireless service to our nation and its rural community.
“In an ever-changing world, the Queen was a constant. Her devotion and sense of duty inspired us all.
“On behalf of everyone at the Country Land and Business Association, I send my very deepest condolences to all members of the Royal Family, and pray that they will find comfort in the outpouring of love being shown to them from around the world.”
Soil Association CEO Helen Browning said: “We are deeply saddened at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our thoughts and condolences are with our patron, His Royal Highness King Charles III and the entire Royal Family.
“It is with immense admiration that we reflect on Her Majesty’s extraordinary service to the UK and the Commonwealth and we share the nation’s sorrow at her loss. We will celebrate and miss her equally as a remarkable monarch, inspirational woman and a warm and trusted constant across seven decades.”