The man responsible for setting up the first new branch of NFU Scotland (NFUS) since the 1930s has been awarded one of the union’s highest accolades.
Well-known NFUS group secretary on the Isle of Skye and NFU Mutual local agent, Jake Sayles, is this year’s recipient of the John Miskelly Award.
The award, which is now in its eleventh year, was established in memory of regional manager John Miskelly. It is presented to someone who has shown outstanding dedication and achievement through their commitment to NFUS and Scottish farming.
Mr Sayles, who grew up in Caithness, has served as a local group secretary at the union for nearly 10 years, first working in the busy Perth office before moving to Skye in 2012.
He was instrumental in setting up the union’s first new branch in decades on the Western Isles.
NFUS Skye branch chairman, Angus Beaton, paid tribute to Mr Sayles and said he was a credit to the union.
He said: “There’s not many people that you meet like Jake. Once you meet him, you know him, and he will go out of his way to help you. I’m delighted he is receiving this award and it is so very well deserved.”
Meanwhile, the NFUS Flame Award, which recognises outstanding efforts in recruitment and retention of members, was awarded to the Borders West team of Richard Forsyth, Rory Murray, Laura Bell and Joyce Grigor based at Newton St Boswells.
The union also confirmed that two secretaries – Duncan Low in Inverurie and Murray White in Elgin – will be celebrating 35 years in post this year.
