NFU President Meurig Raymond congratulated Mr Kendall [pictured above] on receiving the honour for his services to the agricultural industry of England and Wales.

Mr Raymond said the honour was well-deserved as Mr Kendall continues to champion British agriculture and British farmers and growers.

“It’s difficult to know where to start with Peter’s achievements and what he has achieved for British farmers and for British farming, there are so many.

“I could say it was bringing together a coalition of organisations in SOS Dairy to present a united industry in support of dairy farmers; I could say that it was his successful and tireless campaign to ensure farmers in England and Wales had a fair deal during the reform of the Common Agriculture Policy, I could say it was his Presidency which finally got the government to address the issue of TB in wildlife.

“It’s all of those things but his biggest achievement I believe was leading the way in changing the perceptions of farming and creating an image of a vibrant, successful and positive industry. He reminded government why farming mattered, he demonstrated to politicians what farming delivered and more recently has encouraged their support to back British farming.

“While he was President of the NFU Peter worked tirelessly to represent our members - at all times of the day or night. Our members trusted Peter to stand up for their interests, something he did tirelessly at all levels for eight years at the NFU.

“He remains a passionate communicator, never losing enthusiasm or energy for promoting and representing farmers and farming. He has never been afraid to challenge anyone when he believes they are wrong but he was always fair and recognised the importance of being a united industry, even when people have different views.

“Peter is and was incredibly proud to be a farmer. I continue to be proud to have worked with him on all these important issues. He will be regarded in future years as one of the best Presidents the NFU has ever had and I congratulate him on receiving this great honour.”

On receiving the honour, Peter Kendall said: “I am incredibly proud to receive this honour and to have had the privilege of helping represent and promote British farming, farmers and food production in my time as President of the NFU. It’s an industry that is so important to the country and I see this honour in part as recognition of the vital contribution that British farming makes day-in-day-out.

“Whilst I was President of the NFU I saw first-hand the fantastic work and commitment of both members and first-class staff to support and promote our farming industry and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them. I hope that the work that I have done – and continue to do – has contributed to the positive image and public support for British farming. I continue to be massively proud to be a farmer.”