21-years old Ellie Layton is a new recruit to the Guild having joined AgriConnect in January to work on Farmers Guardian and Dairy Farmer as a Livestock Specialist, covering livestock topics, shows and sales.
She is farmers daughter living on a mixed beef, sheep and arable farm in Herefordshire, and says the experiences she has had growing up on a livestock farm have helped her cement a passion for the industry.
“I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in agriculture, but with it being such a diverse industry I wasn’t sure which path I wanted to take,” says Ellie.
“I started by completing a Diploma in agriculture at Walford College in Shropshire whilst working for Carrs Billington, where I completed my studies to become a registered medicine advisor (RAMA). I then worked for the British Limousin Cattle Society, where I took an interest in communications, whilst working with farmers on a day-to-day basis and attending sales across the country.
“My grandparents lived on a Farmers Weekly farm back in the 1960s and my grandad wrote columns about the farm’s activities, which planted the seed of interest in agri-journalism.”
In her spare time, Ellie is “heavily involved” in her local Young Farmers Club on the Herefordshire-Wales border; she believes the Young Farmers movement has been vital in her career, providing her with skills as well as friends for life, and ultimately shaping the person she is today.
“Now, I’m looking forward to being a member of the Guild and the opportunities and friendships within the industry I hope it will offer me, with some of the most capable writers in the industry.”
Ellie Layton’s one minute Q&A
What or who has been the best influence on your career so far?
The Young Farmers Club movement.
What gets you through a tough day?
A strong cup of tea and my dog, Penny.
What station is your car radio tuned to?
My Country Corkers playlist.
What’s your favourite biscuit?
Malted Milk.
Where did you last go on holiday?
The Royal Welsh Show, I cannot wait for it to return this year!
All Guild members can be contacted through the Guild’s online member directory, the Farming Media Centre.
