South Caernarfon Creameries appoints first female board member

Welsh dairy co-operative South Caernarfon Creameries (SCC) has appointed its first female board member.

Malan Hughes, who was born and raised at the family's 500-acre farm near Pwllheli in Gwynedd, will be the first woman to join SCC's board since the formation of the organisation in 1938.

Her longstanding love of animals and the countryside inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary medicine after graduating with a postgraduate certificate in advanced veterinary practice from Liverpool University in 2016.

She replaces Gareth Jenkins of Tanllyn Farm, Pencaenewydd, who will be retiring from the board after 28 years of service.

Hughes' grandfather and father have also served as former board members.

Commenting on her appointment, she said: "The creamery has been very important to us as a family and I'm very grateful for this opportunity. I look forward to contributing towards the ongoing success and growth while ensuring the co-operative element of the creamery is recognised and strengthened.

"I'm eager to meet the producers and staff that I don't know yet and I hope that all members are happy to have me represent them."

Alan Wyn Jones, managing director of SCC, added: "I would like to welcome Malan to the board, particularly given she's the first woman to be in this position. She will be a great asset bringing with her knowledge and expertise which will be important to SCC's work.

"I would also like to thank Gareth Jenkins for his long-serving commitment and valuable contributions while on the board and wish him a healthy and happy retirement."

SCC employs 180 staff and has 160 dairy farmer members, some of whom have been supplying SCC with milk for generations.