Nominations are still open for the 2013 National Farmers’ Union (NFU) sugar board elections and beet growers are encouraged to put themselves forward.

Four positions are available this coming year, one more than the usual three elected each year under the rolling retirement of board members, as one long standing board member is stepping down at the end of this year.

Candidates must be a UK sugar beet grower, but not necessarily a NFU member, have a valid beet contract and must have five supporting signatures. Completed nomination forms must be returned to the NFU Sugar team by 12pm, Friday December 21.

NFU chief sugar adviser Ruth Digby said: “I would like to pay tribute to the work of John Hoyles who has worked tirelessly for sugar beet farmers during his time on the board - he will be sorely missed.

“However, we have many committed and hard-working members and the forthcoming election gives them the opportunity to join the board and to play a major part in shaping the future of our industry at this crucial time. I would therefore encourage any interested growers to participate in the up and coming elections.”