THE director general of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has made a nostalgic trip back to Darlington.

Richard Macdonald officially opened the new NFU and NFU Mutual offices in the former Paton and Baldwin’s wool factory on the town’s Lingfield Point Business Park.

He recalled that when he joined the NFU 32 years ago it was as a graduate trainee working with David Dent in Darlington.

“As I make my preparations to leave the NFU later this year, it seemed fitting to make the return trip and mark this special occasion,” he said.

The NFU had been based in its Victoria Road offices for more than 50 years.

Mr Macdonald said: “These new premises, as well as offering staff a much better working environment, also highlight the continued evolution of the partnership between the NFU and NFU Mutual.

“I hope it will be the catalyst for further success over the next 50 years.”

Mike Blanshard, NFU Darlington group secretary, said the business had outgrown its old offices.

“When the office first opened, it offered palatial amounts of space for just two people,” he said, “Fifty years on it just got too small for our current team of seven and with further expansion on the cards, the decision to move was one we had to make.”

Becky Hall, assistant group secretary, said some features would be missed, like making coffee in a giant walk-in safe, but others wouldn’t – like outdoor facilities for gentlemen The move had unearthed some fascinating finds, including a copy of British Farmer and Grower celebrating the NFU’s 50th anniversary.

She said: “All the members have been very supportive about the move, enticed no doubt by the promise of some parking outside. “Nevertherless, we are still sorry to say goodbye to a building that’s been our home for so long and that belongs to the branch. Its future is now under dis-