A RADIO and TV presenter is to be the new president of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC).

Charlotte, a freelance journalist who presents BBC Radio 4’s Farming Today programme and is also a regular presenter on BBC1’s Countryfile, has been confirmed as the Federation’s president elect.

She will be officially elected at the Federation’s annual meeting on April 23 in Torquay at the International Riviera Centre, during the NFYFC’s annual convention.

Charlotte was born and brought up in the Leicestershire village of Quorn and is keen to raise awareness of the issues surrounding rural isolation and the impact this can have on young people.

Charlotte Smith said that she has always been impressed with the NFYFC, especially in the way it combats isolation.

She said: “As president, I hope to bring a fresh pair of eyes, my experience and a bit of a sense of humour to the organisation.”

Charlotte is married with two children, aged 10 and 12 and lives in London but regularly escapes to the countryside with her work commitments.

NFYFC chairman Ed Ford said: “We are so excited that Charlotte Smith has agreed to be our next president. Many of us are avid listeners to Farming Today and so are already familiar with Charlotte’s fabulous work reporting on agriculture and rural issues.

“It’s an exciting time to be part of our Federation as we are keen to make our voices heard about rural and agricultural issues that affect young people.”

Poul Christensen will be stepping down as president of NFYFC after serving for the past four years.