National Farmers Union (NFU) director general Richard Macdonald is standing down later this year.

He made the announcement to the NFU council on Tuesday. Macdonald said: “It is a huge privilege to hold this job and I have greatly enjoyed all of my 13 years in post. However, I have decided the time has come to give a bit more time to my family and other interests and I hope also to find some fresh work challenges. My decision has been difficult to reach but is entirely positive and I remain extremely committed to the NFU and farming - they are a large part of my life.”

Macdonald had held various posts within the NFU stretching back 30 years. Union president Peter Kendall said: “His enthusiasm, drive and commitment to the industry will be sorely missed and we wish him all the best as he pursues other interests.”

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