SIMON Britton has joined George F White rural land agents as a partner to lead their entire farm business consultancy and head up the Bedale office.

The 39-year-old has almost 20 years’ experience as a farm business consultant. His key specialisms include strategic business management, rural subsidies and grants, farm management, joint venture structures and CAP Reform.

After studying business studies at the University of London, he started his career in a small land agency practice in Harrogate in 1996.

He then became a partner at one of the UK’s leading farm business consultancy’s followed by a series of further high level appointments at national land management firms.

Mr Britton, who grew up in North Yorkshire and lives near Masham with his wife Sara, said: “CAP Reform is a complex issue that can be confusing.

As more details emerge over the next six months it is key for us at George F White to give our clients the confidence that we are fully informed and able to guide them through the process.”

Mr Britton will oversee 14 staff at Bedale, which is one of five offices in the North-East employing more than 100 staff.

He joins partners Hugh Fell, George White, Robyn Peat, Louis Fell, Richard Garland and Andrew Entwistle.

Mr Peat said: “We are thrilled to welcome Simon as a partner and to head our North Yorkshire office. His expertise and knowledge as a farm business consultant will strengthen our presence in this area allowing us to offer an even greater breadth of service to current and prospective clients.”