BREXIT and the worst flooding in the county since 2007 were the main problems which faced the Herefordshire's National Farmers' Union chairman.

David Watts will step down in February and Bill Quan was appointed as the next NFU county chairman at the union's annual open meeting at Alexander Park, Ledbury last month.

Mr Quan, a potatoes, cereals and livestock farmer from Pontrilas, is set to take over from Bromyard farmer David Watts when his official term comes to an end at NFU conference and annual general meeting, at Birmingham.

The new chair will be supported by his deputy Russell Price.

"Brexit has dominated my time as county chairman and the weather has also been challenging including the recent flooding, the like of which we haven't seen since 2007," Mr Watts said.

"There are many different issues the NFU team has been working on for Herefordshire farmers including irrigation licenses, reservoirs, tenant reviews, milk contracts, TB, phosphate levels, environmental permits, the Hereford bypass and flooding issues and farm audits, to name just a few.

"I would like to thank all the people who have helped me in the last two years, from branch members who have supported me to all the group secretaries, Clare Greener as county adviser and the regional team, and most of all to my wife Sue and family.

"For me it has been a great pleasure to represent the county and I have really enjoyed being chairman.

"I welcome Bill to the role and know with his knowledge and enthusiasm that I am leaving Herefordshire NFU in his very capable hands."

Mr Quan has served as NFU Herefordshire deputy chairman for the past two years.

He said: "Yours are going to be big boots to fill and I am really chuffed to bits to be following on from you as chairman.

"Thanks to you and to Sue from all within Herefordshire NFU."