Fram Farmers appoints new board members

Farming cooperative Fram Farmers has announced two new appointments to its board – arable grower Rob Raven (left) and dairy producer Tom Halton  (right).

Based on the Norfolk-Suffolk border, Mr Raven started introducing more sustainable, regenerative methods to his farm in the early 2000s. He now incorporates livestock, cover crops and reduced inputs into his business model.

Alongside his own business, he provides regenerative contract farming services to several nearby farms and estates, helping them adjust their farming programme to include additional environmental strategies, including stewardship schemes and carbon payments.

New era

“Farming is entering a new era, and I am looking forward to getting a real understanding of how Fram Framers works from the inside, helping farmers to remain profitable in a post BPS era,” says Mr Raven.

Tenant dairy farmer Mr Halton and his wife Karen produce milk from their 530-cow herd plus followers in Cheshire.

In 2016, they set up ‘The Milkshack’ – selling raw milk from a vending machine on their dairy farm.

A Fram Farmers member for 15 years, Mr Halton purchases various livestock inputs through the cooperative. He said he was keen to help demonstrate and build on the value offered to members through the co-operative’s strong network of supplier relationships.