NFU: VI manager scoops MBE in Queen’s birthday honours
Monday, 18, Jun 2007 12:00
Voluntary Initiative manager Patrick Goldsworthy has been awarded an MBE for his work with the industry-led scheme.
The VI was established in 2001 to promote best practice in the use of pesticides to protect the environment, encouraging operator training, sprayer testing and better management practices. Over 85 per cent of the UK sprayed area is now signed up to support the VI. Its successful six-year run has now been extended for a further two years – testament to what can be achieved by farmers and growers with incentives and encouragement rather than regulations imposed by Government.
Mr Goldsworthy helped draw up the plans for the VI in response to the threat of taxes on pesticides and has managed the programme from its launch. The VI has involved over 30 different projects including National Register of Sprayer Organisations, the National Sprayer Testing Scheme, Crop Protection Management Plans, the Biodiversity and Environmental Training for Advisers qualification, the Sustainable Arable Farming for an Improved Environment research project, Biobeds and many others designed to protect water and enhance biodiversity.
Voluntary Initiative steering group chairman Professor Barry DeNt said: “I am delighted that Patrick’s hard work and enthusiasm has been recognised. This award also reflects well on everyone who has worked so hard to help the VI beat its targets and promote best practice.
“The VI has made a substantial contribution to reducing the potential impacts of pesticides on the environment. These gains have been bought about through improved practice on farms, encouraged by VI training programmes, information, the NSTS and monitoring through farm assurance schemes.”
NFU President Peter Kendall said: “I would like to congratulate Patrick on his achievements with the VI. His MBE is a fitting commendation to his contribution to agriculture.”
Speaking of his award Mr Goldsworthy said: “I am deeply honoured and feel that this is really an award for everybody in the farming and crop protection industries who have worked so hard to make the VI such a success.”
Notes for editors:
• The Voluntary Initiative is sponsored by the Agricultural Engineers Association, Agricultural Industries Confederation, Crop Protection Association, the National Association of Agricultural Contractors Country Land and Business Association, the NFU, NFU Scotland and the Ulster Farmers Union.