This week I step down as editor of the Irish Farmers Journal after 10 years in the role. It brings to an end my 17 years as part of the editorial team, having previously spent seven years as livestock editor.

It has been a great honour to work within such a talented, innovative and committed team that always puts the interests of farmers and rural Ireland at the core of everything it does.

I would like to thank all of our loyal readers for their continued support and for the hospitality shown to me by the countless farm families that I visited over the years.

Farm families are not just the backbone of our industry but also the backbone of the Irish Farmers Journal.

I wish Jack Kennedy every success as he assumes the position of interim editor until a successor is appointed.

I want to thank Jack and all of the team in the Irish Farmers Journal for their steadfast support, guidance and friendship over the years and wish them and the business continued success.

In the weeks ahead I will continue to support the board in my role as CEO of The Agricultural Trust.