CLA's Lincolnshire branch elects new Chairman Francis Dymoke

Elected today at the Brocklesby Estate, Mr Dymoke replaces Roger Douglas of Croxby, near Market Rasen, who had held the role for the past three years.

Assisting Mr Dymoke during his three-year term will be William Price of the Harrington Estate, who was confirmed as Vice-chairman.

From a long-standing Lincolnshire landowning family, Mr Dymoke became full-time custodian of his family’s 1,250 hectare estate in 1992 and represents the 34th generation to run it.

“There are many demands on Lincolnshire farmers and landowners that have to be addressed, but I am very much looking forward to the challenge ahead,” said Mr Dymoke.

“My first role will be to help relay as much information as possible from the CLA’s national office to the county’s members regarding the EU Referendum so they can make an informed decision at the ballot box on June 23.

“It is also important that, working with the organisation’s excellent team of advisers, we support members struggling to receive their full 2015 Basic Payment Scheme payments and press the Rural Payments Agency for assurances that those who have completed their 2016 applications will not experience the same problems again.

“Other priorities include working to achieve more affordable housing, supporting economic growth by encouraging diversification, and how farmers and landowners can better utilise renewable energy.

“To further help the rural economy we will continue to lobby for better digital connectivity across the county and maintain our firm links with Lincolnshire Police to tackle rural crime.”

An economics graduate from Hull University, Mr Dymoke also qualified as a Chartered Accountant in London. He has experience of working in advertising and public relations, and spent a year at Cirencester studying Advanced Business Management.

A Deputy Lieutenant of Lincolnshire and former High Sheriff of the county, he supports local charitable causes, such as Lincoln Cathedral, Heritage Trust of Lincolnshire, and the Lincolnshire Rural Support Network.

The appointment sees Mr Dymoke following in his father’s footsteps, with John Dymoke having previously been Chairman and President of the CLA’s Lincolnshire branch.