04/04/2026
✅NW Derry group reports a productive start to the year✅
The past few months have been exceptionally busy for the North West Derry Group, with a full schedule of meetings, activities, and competitions taking place across the membership.
In February, members gathered at the White Horse Hotel, Campsie, for the Annual General Meeting, which saw an excellent turnout. Warm thanks were extended to Mr David Devine, who concluded a highly successful two year term as Chair. He officially welcomed Mr Jonathan Blair as the incoming Chair and wished him every success in the role. Jonathan will be supported by Mr Andrew Blair, who takes on the position of Vice Chair.
The meeting also recognised the significant contribution made by NW Derry representatives who serve across various UFU commodity groups. Their commitment is highly valued by UFU Headquarters and is reflected in the number of central committee roles held by group members:
• John Oliver – Vice Chairman, Dairy Committee
• James Wray – Vice Chairman, Potato Committee
• Ian Buchanan – Chairman, Environment Committee
The group was pleased to welcome Andrew Wright as guest speaker. Andrew, a dairy farmer, farm tech developer, and social media creator from Omagh, known online as ‘Farm Theory’, shared insights into how accessible, low cost technology can support decision making and improve efficiency on farm. His presentation, drawing on examples from his own work in digital innovation, was well received by members.
The AGM also provided an opportunity to celebrate the group’s strong performance in this year’s Silage Competition, always a keenly contested event within NW Derry. The results were as follows:
Beef & Sheep
1. Purcell Farms
2. David Stewart
3. Ivan & Ian Loughery
Dairy
1. Stephen & Mark Montgomery
2. John McCollum & Sons
3. Carsehall Farms
Alternative Forage
1. John McCollum & Sons
2. Stephen & Mark Montgomery
3. Purcell Farms
Bales
1. Andrew Blair
2. James & Tom McClelland
3. Hugh McCollum
Best newcomer
1. Adam Warnock
Both Andrew Blair and Purcell Farms progressed to the Northern Ireland judging, with Purcell Farms achieving an excellent 3rd place overall.
Best Wishes to Clement Lynch.
Finally, the NW Derry Group extends its best wishes to Clement Lynch, who is standing for the position of Deputy President of the Ulster Farmers’ Union. The group offers its full support as he embarks on this important campaign.
