John Hall’s shock resignation as chairman of the shadow levy board is a shame for a number of reasons, not least because of his long history in horticulture and obvious passion for the role.

Hall evidently felt that constant references to his past at Needham Growers were making it impossible for him to get his message across. There were indeed some murmurings of discontent, but these were more than likely from a small minority and were probably a reflection of general discontent at the levy restructuring rather than any personal crusade against him.

In Defra’s statement, ‘continuing press interest in him’ was cited as the reason for the resignation, but there had been little in the way of negative publicity surrounding Hall himself. Most of the doubts surrounded the actual restructuring.

It is a shame Hall felt that he was unable to continue in these circumstances, and the industry loses a man whose commitment and passion for serving its interests were undeniable.

But the industry needs a strong leader at this time. Whoever takes over Hall’s position will need to know that they, alongside the other members of the board representing horticulture, will be constantly in the spotlight. Their wages and everything they do will be supported by growers’ money, so it is understandable that growers will want to express their views.