Lord Donald Curry of Kirkharle CBE

His extensive experience and passion for farming make him an invaluable patron for The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH).

Lord Curry began his journey in agriculture at a young age, leaving school to work on his family farm. This early exposure to farming laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to our industry.

Throughout his career, Lord Curry has held numerous influential positions in the agricultural sector. This includes as chair of the Meat and Livestock Commission throughout the 1990s where he had to deal with the impact of the BSE crisis.

A career dedicated to agriculture and horticulture 

In recognition of his contributions to agriculture, Donald Curry was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 1997 New Year Honours and was knighted in the 2001 Birthday Honours. On October 13, 2011, he was appointed a Crossbench life peer, taking the title Baron Curry of Kirkharle. 

He chaired the Policy Commission on the Future of Farming and Food in 2001-2002, which produced a significant report for the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. He also served as the chair of NFU Mutual from 2003 to 2011 and as the non-executive chair of the Better Regulation Executive.

Lord Curry's dedication to farming and education is evident in his various roles. He has been a trustee of the Lawes Trust at Rothamsted Research, chair of the Leckford Estate (Waitrose Farm), and chair of the Royal Veterinary College. His involvement in these institutions demonstrates his commitment to advancing agricultural research and education.

Lord Curry's passion a perfect fit for TIAH's mission

As TIAH's founding patron and chair of its industry consultation group, Lord Curry brings his wealth of experience and industry connections to support the institute's mission. His passion for supporting the next generation of farmers and growers aligns perfectly with TIAH's focus on professional development and skills enhancement in agriculture and horticulture. 

Lord Curry's involvement with TIAH reflects his lifelong dedication to inspiring young people to take on leadership roles in agriculture. As he stated upon receiving the British Farming Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture in 2016: “I do hope I might be able to continue to inspire other young people to help make a real difference and take on leadership roles.”

Through his patronage, Lord Curry continues to champion the importance of skills development, innovation and sustainable practices in farming, supporting TIAH's efforts to shape the future of British agriculture and horticulture.