THE NFU's regional public relations officer, Gill Haigh, is bowing out after nearly four years in the job.

Ms Haigh, who is leaving to work for Lancaster City Council, said she had enjoyed her time working with the farmers of the North West through some of the most difficult years for the industry in living memory.

Steve Heaton, NFU North West regional director, paid tribute to Gill's time at the regional office, saying: "It has been a tremendous three-and-a-half years.

She has really invigorated NFU public relations activity in the North West.

She has built a tremendous working relationship with the media in and out of the industry.

Gill will be a very hard act to follow, everybody here will miss her - Lancaster City Council is very lucky."