Wales’ leading independent law firm John Collins and Partners LLP has been appointed as the new Legal Panel firm for NFU Cymru, covering NFU Cymru legal cases for Mid and South Wales.

The firm, which is based in Swansea, has been focussing on the agriculture sector since 2001 and is currently rated the number one firm in Wales to deal with agricultural and rural affairs in the Chambers Legal Directory.

On gaining the contract with NFU Cymru, Rory Hutchings, Head of Agricultural and Property department said: "We are pleased to be working with NFU Cymru and we are very keen to do a good job. Our main message is that we want to get out on the land with members rather than them having to come to us in an office.

"The key issue we have come across recently is an increase in farming families in Wales being forced to sell their properties to outside parties, who may not have intentions to carry on working the land because of the lack of a robust Will. As a result of the single farm payment, farmers have had to review their businesses and by making a will they will have a degree of control over the business as well as minimising tax.

"We deal with all types of legal dispute. Within the agriculture department, we advise on items such as planning and diversification, wind farms, common land, compensation for land acquisition, tenancy disputes, single farm payment issues, employment and commercial and agriculture property. Our vast experience in these issues will set us in good stead for our work with NFU Cymru."

NFU Cymru look forward to working alongside John Collins and Partners LLP. Dai Davies, NFU Cymru President said, "The knowledge and experience the company has in dealing with agricultural disputes is second to none and I have no reservations whatsoever in recommending this company to our members to deal with any legal matter they may have."

John Collins and Partners LLP have seen an increase in interest in their Mid-Wales activities, as, in addition to taking on work from NFU Cymru, they have also been selected by niche-solicitors Patterson Legal Services to take on over his clients.

Paul Newman from John Collins and Partners LLP said:

"We are delighted to have taken on the new work from NFU Cymru. Although John Collins and Partners is a growing firm, we pride ourselves on providing our clients with the individual attention you would expect from a smaller company. NFU Cymru recognised this and took it into consideration when selecting us to carry on assisting their members in Wales".