A YOUNG Middlewich dairy farmer has taken the next step in his development after taking part in the Meadow Foods’ Young Farmers Programme.

Peter Oakes, from Middlewich, arrived at Meadow Foods’ Chester site where he was introduced to members of the executive team and given a tour of the factory.

The new initiative is designed to give young people involved in dairy agriculture the key business skills and industry knowledge that they will require.

The programme launched in October 2018 and will see the business invest in the participants for the next two years.

Peter, after his first day on the programme, said: “I’m delighted to have been chosen for Meadow Foods’ Young Farmers Programme.

“Even on this first day, I’ve learnt so much which I can now take back with me to Middlewich and I’m looking forward to seeing what the rest of the programme will bring.”

The programme will be split into two parts, the first is on-the-job training and secondly there is an opportunity to be sponsored for an on-farm or dairy industry related project.

Mark Chantler, chief executive of Meadow Foods, said: “With this exciting new programme we aim to support the next generation of farmers and provide them with the hands-on training and funding needed to gain a wider understanding of the industry and to further their careers in farming.

“Taking the time to invest in and support young farmers is critically important for the future of the dairy industry and food production as a whole in the UK.”