The RABDF is saddened to hear of the death of Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF) Chief Executive Caroline Drummond, who passed away on Monday (23 May) following a short illness.
Caroline, 58, spent 30 years at the helm of LEAF, growing it into an influential organisation by encouraging more sustainable farming practices and improving public understanding of agriculture.
She often supported the RABDF, speaking at many of their events and conferences, including recent Women in Dairy events, Business and Policy Conference and Dairy-Tech.
RABDF Managing Director commented on her passing: "Caroline has been an inspiration to many. She had great energy and was an incredible driving force promoting farming and connecting consumers with the food they eat through Open Farm Sunday. She has also championed the education of students about where their food comes from. Undoubtedly, her work will have influenced many allowing her legacy to live on. Our deepest sympathy goes out to her family at this difficult time."
Philip Wynn, Leaf chair, added: "Caroline was an inspiration, and it is her passion, determination, foresight and energy that has transformed Leaf from its small beginnings 30 years ago to the globally recognised and respected organisation it is today.
"There really are no words to express how much Caroline will be missed within Leaf and the farming industry; but most deeply by her family, to whom we extend our greatest sympathy."