A FIRST generation dairy farmer from Melbourne near York has been co-opted to the NFU’s national dairy board.

Paul Tompkins took up the challenge of milk production eight years ago when he joined his wife’s family farm business following a sudden bereavement.

Times have been extremely tough for dairy farmers for much of this time, but he has loved it from day one.

Working as part of a family partnership with his wife Rachael and brother-in-law Peter, Mr Tompkins has helped refocus the business on the challenges of a hugely volatile market.

With milk prices currently very low, the emphasis has been on reducing output, improving cow management and renewed focus cow welfare.

He said: "With our milk price currently at just 18 pence per litre, we are working hard to make our business as efficient and effective as possible.

"This has involved investing in improved facilities for our 300-strong herd including installing the latest high welfare sand cubicles for them when they are inside. But we have also had to make some very tough choices along the way, for example managing with fewer staff which means a heavier workload for everyone."

A Dairy Ambassador for AHDB Dairy he is passionate about promoting dairy products to the public.

"However, I believe we have to work harder to link in with other organisations whose policies can have a direct impact on farm businesses such as Public Health England and the government departments of Health, Innovation and Education," he said.

"In joining the national board I hope to help with this, offering a range of skills from outside agriculture and a different perspective that will complement other board members from around the country."

Mr Tompkins will join fellow Yorkshire farmer Tom Rawson on the national board. He farms near Wakefield and was recently elected as regional dairy board chairman and national dairy board vice chairman.