THE new chair of a farmer's union is on a mission to inspire the next generation.

Olivia Richardson, 26, has been appointed the new chair of the National Farmer's Union (NFU) Darlington Branch.

Having grown up on her family farm, as well as being actively involved whilst working full-time at Teesdale School. she wants young farms to have a strong voice in shaping the future of the industry.

“Farming has a lot to offer – particularly for young people - with new technology transforming the way the industry operates," she said.

“I am proud to be a part of a school that's working hard to showcase the opportunities farming has to offer and encourage more students to explore the options available.

“All in all, I'm keen to do all I can to encourage younger people’s involvement within agriculture and enable the next generation to explore every opportunity for themselves and their farming businesses during what I believe are very exciting times for our industry.”

Ms Richardson also organised the area’s first gathering for younger farmers across four NFU branches – Darlington, Barnard Castle, Leyburn and Sedgefield - in February.