The dormant Norfolk branch of a farming industry organisation is being resurrected after a 20-year hiatus.

The county branch of the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM) will be reformed with an open meeting at Easton College, outside Norwich, on October 31.

Chairman William Haire said he had the idea of starting a new branch earlier this year - only to discover that one had previously existed, but was wound up many years ago.

"I have been a member since 2009, but everything you want to do with the institute is miles away," he said. "I thought there had to be something for people in Norfolk.

"I came up with the bright idea of launching a branch in Norfolk a few months back. I spoke to the institute and then we discovered there had been a branch here in the past - we think it was about 20 years ago."

Mr Haire, who is head of estate at Easton College, will speak at the institute's first Norfolk branch meeting for two decades, sharing his insights on the "ups and downs" of managing a complex farm estate within a land-based educational institution.

There will also be an introduction to the IAgrM by vice chairman Richard Price, and a Q&A session.

"Normally you would have to be a member, but for the first meeting we want to raise the profile and attract new members, so it will be an open, free meeting," said Mr Haire.

"The institute is about raising professional standards in new managers. It is about continuing professional development, continuing to develop new knowledge, meeting people, learning new things and being proactive. 

"And we are not just thinking about managers of big estates. It is all levels of farms, professional services and young people and students too."

The 7pm meeting at Easton College's sports centre on October 31 is free to attend, but there is a £10 charge for those who want to join the "pie and mash" meal at 6pm. Either way, registration is required by contacting william.haire@ccn.ac.uk.