Monday 17 January 2022

East Riding councillors have backed a call to help boost pig farm worker numbers after thousands of livestock were culled due to shortages. They backed a motion by Liberal Democrat Cllr Phil Davison calling on the authority to write to the Government raising concerns for farmers and to explore ways to help. 

The East Riding is one of the largest pig farming areas in the UK, accounting for around 37 per cent of its total livestock, and an estimated 10,000 pigs were culled in the run up to Christmas. Cllr Davison said Brexit had seen workers leaving the industry, meaning there were not enough to slaughter the animals. But Cllr John Holtby, of the ruling Conservatives, said blaming Brexit alone was too simplistic, adding coronavirus had also been a factor.

Tributes have been paid to Beverley businessman Paul Acklam, head of Acklam Coaches, who has died after a short illness. The award-winning family business was founded by Paul’s father Bernard 70 years ago and has built steadily on success; now operating a fleet of 50 vehicles.

And finally, Humberside Police Chief Constable Lee Freeman has confirmed the appointment of David Marshall as his new Assistant Chief Constable. Mr Marshall, currently Chief Superintendent at Norfolk Police, has been a police officer for over 26 years, serving in West Yorkshire before moving to Norfolk in 2008. He succeeds Chris Noble, who moved on to become Chief Constable of Staffordshire Police in late December.