Ed Coode takes the helm as Chairman of CLA Cornwall Branch
Ed Coode has taken over chairmanship from Darran Goldby, vowing to support rural sector
The new Chairman of the Cornwall Branch of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) Ed Coode, says the need for a strong and sustainable local economy has never been greater.
The 2004 coxless four Olympic Gold medallist replaced outgoing Chairman Darran Goldby, Estate Director at Tregothnan at the recent branch AGM, taking over one of the most important rural roles in the county.
Born and raised in Cornwall, Ed went to university at Newcastle and Keble College, Oxford before becoming a full-time athlete in the British Rowing Team. He was twice world champion - in 1999 and 2001 - as well as claiming a gold medal alongside Matthew Pinsent, James Cracknell and Steve Williams at the Athens Olympics.
After retiring from rowing, he trained as a solicitor before moving back to Cornwall with his wife Clare, where he worked at Coodes LLP until 2022. He now manages the Coode Estate, which has tenanted farms, commercial and residential properties and approximately 250 acres of woodlands in Cornwall.
As Cornwall Branch Chairman, Ed will be representing hundreds of farmers, landowners and rural businesses across the county. He will be supported by incoming Vice Chairman Jenny Olds.
Of his appointment Ed commented: “I am looking forward to taking on the role of Branch Chairman and to representing all of Cornwall’s farmers, landowners and rural businesses. In these particularly uncertain times the need for a both a strong and sustainable local economy and a local natural environment has never been greater. I look forward to helping provide Cornwall’s members with the most up to date guidance and advice on best practice whilst also feeding back their concerns, experiences and demands to the government.”
CLA South West Regional Director Ann Maidment commented: “We’d like to thank Darran Goldby for his work, ideas and enthusiasm over the course of his chairmanship. I am delighted to welcome Ed Coode into the role and look forward to working closely with him during his tenure as chairman. Our branch committees form the eyes and ears of the county and play a key role in formulating national policy, ensuring views and concerns of members are taken into account at a national level.”