THE chair of Scottish Agritourism has stepped down after four years of championing rural tourism.
Riddell Graham completed his tenure earlier this month and was celebrated by the board for what it described as a "significant contribution" to the sector.
During his time in the role, the organisation saw rapid growth, expanding its membership and positioning Scotland as a leader in global agritourism.
Graham, who previously served as director of VisitScotland, was instrumental in shaping the National Agritourism Strategy in 2021 and representing the sector on the strategy board.
Under his leadership, Scottish Agritourism’s membership grew from just over 100 businesses to nearly 300, and the sector’s value rose from £130 million to £292.9 million, with visitor numbers reached 2.5 million.
Both the economic value and visitor targets were achieved five years ahead of the 2030 goal.
Reflecting on his time as chair, Graham said: "I feel very privileged and honoured to have been involved in the development of Scottish Agritourism from the start and to have played a part in the creation of the first ever National Agritourism Strategy for Scotland.
"In the forty-plus years working in tourism, I have never met and enjoyed the company of so many positive and innovative people who are so open to sharing the challenges and successes of running their businesses.
"That’s what makes this sector so special and an exemplar that others should seek to learn from."
He highlighted the recent Global Agritourism Conference in Aberdeen as a career highlight.
Graham said: "This showcased to delegates from all over the world all that is excellent about Scotland’s Rural economy, its food and drink, and, above all, its people.
"I wish the organisation the very best in the future.
"I am sure it will go from strength to strength."
The board also marked the completion of Fiona Campbell MBE’s service.
Campbell had served on the board since its formation in March 2022 and was praised for her knowledge of policy and membership body management.
Caroline Millar, sector lead for Scottish Agritourism, said: "Riddell has been working alongside me to raise awareness about the potential for agritourism as a major driver in the rural economy for the past 20 years.
"Both Riddell and Fiona were involved with our sector on a daily basis during Covid as we navigated uncertain times for agritourism businesses.
"When Riddell retired from Visit Scotland in 2022, we were delighted when he agreed to join the Scottish Agritourism Board as our first chair.
"He leaves a lasting legacy, and without his commitment, drive and unique style, Scottish Agritourism would not be where it is today.
"Fiona’s knowledge of policy and running a membership body, together with her enthusiasm for our sector, have also contributed significantly.
"On behalf of all our members and the rest of the Board, we are indebted to both of them."
The final meeting with Graham and Campbell took place at The Bairnkine, near Jedburgh.
Host Lucy Tile led an oatcake-making workshop inspired by her involvement in Scotland’s Agritourism Monitor Farm Programme and a learning visit to Tuscany.
The session aimed to mirror the hands-on experiences that are core to agritourism, such as pasta-making in Italy.
Both Graham and Campbell have been credited with supporting key national conferences, policy advocacy, Scottish Agritourism Month, and development programmes.
Their work culminated in June’s inaugural Global Agritourism Conference in Aberdeen, which attracted more than 550 delegates from over 50 countries.
A new chair of the board for Scottish Agritourism will be announced in autumn.
