The firm which provides legal advice as part of the NFU’s range of member services, has been awarded the organisation’s Tim Sell Legal Panel Excellence Award for 2024.
Last year, the firm, working alongside NFU and its LAS (Legal Assistance Scheme), helped a group of farmers in a case involving the designation of land across Penwith Moors in Cornwall as a SSSI by Natural England.
Although the designation ultimately went ahead, thanks to the support provided by the NFU and its LAS, and Foot Anstey’s perseverance, 108 hectares of land were removed from the designation (57% of which related to the NFU group of members).
Committed to providing legal support
Edward Venmore, Foot Anstey's Head of the Farms, Estates and Rural Land team and lead Partner with the NFU, said: "It’s a privilege to work alongside the NFU and its members, and we’re grateful for this recognition. Farmers face a unique set of challenges, and we’re committed to providing the legal support they need.
“We hugely enjoy and value our longstanding relationship with the NFU and its members and this award reflects the strength of our collaboration with the NFU and the dedication of our team in supporting the farming community".
“We are absolutely delighted that Foot Anstey’s work has been recognised with this prestigious national award.”
NFU South regional director Tom Rabbetts
Enthusiasm and keenness
NFU Chief Lawyer (LAS Strategy and Relations), Regina Owusu, said Foot Anstey’s outstanding performance “stood out during 2024”.
“The firm has been on the NFU panel for many years and continue to demonstrate enthusiasm and keenness in offering high quality legal advice and support to both our members and the organisation itself.
“They consistently work collaboratively with our South region and HQ colleagues on various individual and group cases, as well as supporting members by attending shows, member meetings, being pro-active and adopting a pragmatic approach in resolving disputes and issues raised by our members.
“They are always willing to help, including being called upon at weekends and outside office hours; the feedback from NFU members who have dealt with them has been excellent.”
Providing a vital service
NFU South regional director Tom Rabbetts added: “As one of three panel firms in the South who deal with complex legal cases for our members, they provide a vital service.
“The Foot Anstey team continues to represent our farmers with huge skill, professionalism and determination and we are thrilled their ongoing efforts have been recognised at a national level.”