A FORMER farmer hopes to become cream of the crop after a top appointment.

Ray Wilcock, who lives in Ramsbottom, has become UK sales manager for one of the country's top agricultural and healthcare companies.

He has joined Preston-based Marabo Ltd after almost 20 years working with Unilever.

Ray, recognised as one of the North West's top veterinary and agricultural salesmen, specialises in hygiene and animal health products and equipment.

He will be based at the company's headquarters at Walton Summit but will operate on a national and international basis.

Marabo, who plan to expand sales of its dairy and sheep sector products, has a 100 year heritage in the farm and veterinary healthcare world.