There is no doubt that NFU Cymru wouldn’t be the organisation it is today were it not for Sir Meuric Rees. Voted as the first Chairman of Welsh Council by its members in 1968, Meuric was most certainly a leader and statesman, recognised anywhere in Wales and beyond not only for his leadership but also as a gentleman of his era.

Meuric gave Welsh farming and the NFU an identity at a time when the industry was going through great change, and during his time as a leader both the industry and the union developed immensely.

Meuric, who came from a corner of Wales that has produced a number of NFU leaders, had the ability to take the most complicated policies and translate them into language that farmers could understand. You could always have a good discussion with him and he did everything with a twinkle in his eye.

Meuric, ‘Dyn o’i milltir sgwar’ (Man of his square mile) led the industry with style, dedication and rapport and he’ll be immensely missed by all.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Sir Meuric’s family.