Markethill farmer and ex-chair of the UFU dairy committee William Irvine is understood to be the only person to date who has put their name forward to be the new deputy president of the UFU.

It had been expected that at least three candidates would come forward, but over the last few weeks, others have decided against running, leaving Irvine as the sole contender. County committees have until the end of the month to put forward names ahead of the UFU AGM to take place at the end of April.

At the AGM, Ivor Ferguson will step down after two years as president, and will be replaced by current deputy president Victor Chestnutt, who has served four years in that role.

The other deputy president is David Brown. Having been elected two years ago, Brown is not expected to challenge Chestnutt. Instead he will serve for another two-year term.

In total, a member of the presidential team effectively dedicates themselves to the UFU for six years, so it is a big commitment for any working farmer.

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