Andrew, who has been a group secretary since December 2011, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease two years ago.
Keen to live life to the full while still fit and active, his condition has sadly influenced his decision to leave the NFU earlier than expected, but Andrew does so having helped grow membership from 449 members to 521.
Always in his bodywarmer out on farm, Andrew is a father to four grown-up lads and is married to Paula, his wife of 33 years.
“The camper van is hooked up on my driveway and ready to go, said Andrew.
“I’m extremely fortunate to have worked alongside such a great team and consider Steven Brettle, Natalie Edmondson and Ronnie Neale close friends as well as business partners.
“To be honest I don’t think I could have worked for the NFU in any other patch.
“Working with hill farmers suited me. Members here hadn’t seen a group secretary with a real farming background for quite some time and that credibility was invaluable.”
Born in Quernmore, near Lancaster, Andrew moved to Furness at the age of 36 to be a tenant at Low Hall farm in Kirkby-in-Furness where he ran a dairy, sheep, and tourism enterprise.
At the age of 40 Andrew completed a Nuffield Scholarship on the subject of family succession and travelled the length and breadth of the country to speak about his findings.
Starting off in the Ulverston office, Andrew became more involved in the Broughton patch when the offices merged in 2016. It’s a merger which has undoubtedly been a success.
During this time, he and his colleagues have picked up awards for being the best performing NFU office in the North West.
Senior Group Secretary at NFU South Lakes, Steven Brettle said: “Andrew has been instrumental in the growth of the business with his always optimistic approach and endless farming knowledge.
“I’m sure our members will miss his cheeky charm and ability to find solutions to problems.
“No doubt he will still be seen in his mole trapping jacket, and he assures us he will continue his relief milking duties around the area. Andrew has made it very clear that he doesn’t want any kind of retirement party but if anyone wants to pass on any gratitude, we will of course be finding him a suitable leaving gift.
“The search is now on to find someone to replace Andrew. It’s going to be hard to find someone with his farming experience and similar character, but we’ll try our best.”