He approached Richard Haddon, managing editor of the Farmer and Stockbreeder magazine and senior voluntary press adviser to the Ministry of Agriculture, who in turn sought the backing of NFU Secretary Sir Cleveland Fyfe.
Despite Dorman-Smith's backing, Haddon did not wish the Guild to become a convenience for the Minister and the early members fashioned it in the form of a 'brotherhood'; the social side was important from the start.
The earliest recorded meetings took place at the Milk Board's offices, presumably because of Wilfrid Hill's connections, but the venue soon switched to the Farmers Club in Whitehall Court, which has become the de facto London base of the Guild.
Membership is open to anyone who earns their livelihood wholly or mainly through journalism or communication in the agricultural, horticultural and related industries.
A 'Friend' category exists for those who do not meet the full membership criteria, but who nevertheless support the aims and objectives of the Guild, and who can make a contribution to its well-being and/or members.