The Marshal Papworth Fund has announced that the Rt. Hon. Arthur Edward Rory Guinness, fourth earl of Iveagh, will become its first-ever patron.
The Fund said that Lord Iveagh, who looks after the 22,500 acre Elveden Farms, will help secure future sponsorship and partners.
His farming experience includes 30 years spent moving the family estate from dairying and sugar beet into field vegetable and cereals production.
He has also led the development of ‘The Elveden’ range of branded and own-brand produce, sold through the company’s farm shop, café and pub.
Chairman of the Marshal Papworth Fund, James Parrish, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Lord Iveagh has joined the Marshal Papworth Fund as its patron.
“This is the first time that the Fund has had the privilege of a patron and we look forward to working closely with Lord Iveagh to identify and nurture potential partners, sponsors and advocates to help us secure the Fund’s future and enable many more agricultural students from developing countries to benefit from our scholarships.”
Lord Iveagh said: “I have long enjoyed an association with the East of England Agricultural Society, who manage the Marshal Papworth Fund, so when I was asked to help support the great work that the charity undertakes I was only too pleased.
“I am part of an inter-generational family business and I know the importance that the role of sustainability plays in securing social, ecological and commercial longevity.”
He said that being equipped to make efficient changes is fundamental to the future, and sharing these skills with agricultural students in developing countries will help maximise future opportunities.
The Marshal Papworth Fund, which relies on donations, educates agricultural and horticultural students from developing countries through its UK-based scholarships and programmes.
