Anglia Farmer

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Anglia Farmer

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Anglia Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the eastern counties. To be included on the circulation list, a farmer must have a minimum of 70 acres of land, or 50 dairy/beef stock, or 50 breeding sows/250 growing stock, or 15,000 laying hens/broiler chickens. Intensive horticulture units are required to have a minimum of two hectares. Subscription is £18 a year (including postage). No responsibility can be accepted by the publishers for the opinions expressed by contributors.

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Justifiable anger at bombshell Budget

It would be a huge understatement to say the government’s Budget took farmers by surprise. After all, Labour had repeatedly ruled out any changes to inheritance tax – and insisted they had agriculture’s interests at heart.

No wonder that disbelief soon turned to anger at the Chancellor's decision to impose 20% inheritance tax on farm assets worth more than £1m from April 2026. It was a bombshell that broke a key promise made repeatedly to farmers.

Matter of trust

More so than many businesses, much of farming operates on trust. Even today, deals are still done on handshakes – and contracts between two parties are frequently verbal rather than written.

The government’s Budget betrayed that trust. Politicians and civil servants should know better than to treat the industry with such disdain. Farmers and farming families deserve so much more than the roughshod treatment they have received from our elected representatives throughout this whole sorry saga.

At best, the Budget revealed a worrying lack of understanding at the heart of government about agriculture – our key primary industry – and the farmers who keep the country safe by delivering food security for the nation.

At worst, the Budget exposed a deep-seated ignorance of how farming works and a callous disregard among gobernment ministers for the wellbeing of farming families – with many fearing they must sell up to meet a hefty tax liability.

Arrogance

It also highlighted an institutionalised arrogance about agriculture. The Budget announcement came out of the blue – without any consultation at all. Instead, the message was implicit: the government knows what’s best for you.

Despite the outcry that followed, both the Treasury and Defra then doubled down on the decision – insisting few farmers would be affected anyway. No surprise that 10,000 farmers descended on London to show otherwise.

Farming is at its best when everyone pulls together. The protest – and the mass lobbying of MPs by the NFU – forced the government to take a second look at its inheritance tax plans.

It will be a very long time before farmers believe or trust this government again. Yet the unnecessary anguish and heartache could have been avoided had ministers worked with farmers in the first place – instead of against them.

Johann Tasker, Editor

without speaking to anyone involved in farming beggars belief,” added Mr Bradshaw. “It’s not only been bungled in delivery, it’s also nothing short of a stab in the back.”

to change,” he said.

It has also emerged that Defra secretary Steve Reed was only told about the Treasury’s inheritance tax plan on the eve of the Budget. Even so, he insisted

NFU president Tom Bradshaw slams the inheritance tax decision

“

It is nothing short of a stab in the back

Defra mothballs capital grants scheme

An unexpected surge in applications has prompted Defra to stop making offers under its capital grants scheme.

Defra confirmed the postponement after farmers raised questions about the status of the Capital Grant scheme. Farmers had been reporting significant delays with the applications – with some left waiting months for replies.

The Central Association of Agricultural Valuers said it had been made aware that the Rural Payments Agency was reviwing the scheme – in

light of an increase in applications and growing budget pressures.

“They are not issuing any offers at the moment,” said CAAV secretary and adviser Jeremy Moody..

A Defra spokesperson said: “We will simplify and rationalise our grant funding, ensuring that grants are targeted towards those who need them most and where they can deliver the most benefit for food security and nature.”

The spokesperson added: “We will confirm future grant rounds in due course.”

Unfairly high

Reforms announced at the Budget would help raise money to fix the public finances while protecting small family farms from unfairly high inheritance tax, Mr Reed told last month’s CLA annual conference.

Defending his insistence last year that labour would not reduce agricultural property relief, Mr Reed conceded that farmers deserved an explanation. “That was our position at the time,” he said.

“I gave that answer because we did not know the full extent of the country’s financial crisis. None of us could have because, as the OBR – the independent Office for Budget Responsibility – has since told us, the previous government covered it up.

Autumn Farming Conference

Experts explain Budget impact to conference

Farmers should take their time when making decisions following the government’s Budget tax-raid, delegates were told at last month’s Autumn Farming Conference.

Organised by accountants Larking Gowen in partnership with the Country Land and Business Association, the conference was held on 5 November at the All Saints Hotel, Fornham St Genevieve, Bury St Edmunds.

Larking Gowen partner Bruce Mason said farmers were justifiably angry at a swathe of Budget announce-

A huge negative impact going forward “

ments which would have a huge impact on their businesses – despite pre-election pledges by the government.

Farming assets

Many farmers will be vastly out of pocket following the Budget decision to speed up the phase-out of the Basic Payment Scheme, tax pick-ups as though they are company cars and increase employers’ national insurance contributions.

Masson, mindful that much of the Budget detail was yet to emerge, including a technical consultation due to start in January. “There's a lot of water to flow under the bridge.”

Conference speakers included Norfolk farmer Sam Steggles. He said: “The measures will have a huge negative impact going forward, knock £100,000 off our bottom line and affect succession planning.”

Direct support

Conference speakers (l-r): Sam Steggles (The Goat Shed), Gavin Lane (CLA), Abigail Maynard (Brown & Co), Cath Crowther (CLA), Michelle Masson (Consultant), Emma Griffiths (Brown & Co), Edward Vipond (Troston Farms), Sally Key (Alan Boswell Group), Bruce Masson (Larking Gowen).

All these announcements are on top of headline-grabbing changes to agricultural and business property relief which will see 20% inheritance tax imposed on farming assets worth more than £1m from April 2026.

“We need to be calm and take time over any decision-making,” said Mr

Other speakers included Edward Vipond, director of Troston Farms in Suffolk. It would be impossible to make up the Budget shortfall, he said. “My job is to forget direct support, make best use of assets and not expose us to undue risk.”

Budget tips

• Avoid undue risk

• Seek good advice

• Plan succession

Sally Key, director of financial planning at the Alan Boswell Group, suggested life insurance could help families cope with the impact of IHT. But it was important to take professional advice, she added.

Farm leaders are continuing to lobby Defra and the Treasury over the Budget fallout. The CLA, NFU and Tenant Farmers Association have warned government representatives the measures are simply unaffordable for many farms.

Profits from the conference are being shared between the You Are Not Alone (YANA) charity, which provides mental health support for rural communities; and RABI, which provides financial and emotional support to farming families.

Trust in tatters after Budget 'betrayal'

Fewer than one in four farmers are upbeat about the future following the government’s autumn Budget.

The Country Land and Business Association poll found that 18% of farmers are optimistic for the future of UK farming – a big drop compared to the 53% who said they were optimistic before the Budget.

Almost two-thirds (64%) of farmers say they are not optimistic, with 18% saying they are unsure. The survey was conducted in the week after the Budget, which was announced on Wednesday, 30 October.

The Labour Party gave repeated pre-elec-

tion promises that it would not tamper with inheritance tax or alter agricultural property relief (APR). The Budget announced huge changes to both.

Promises broken

The survey results were announced that the Autumn Farming Conference. CLA East director Cath Crowther told the conference said: “The Chancellor’s recent actions broke all their pre-election promises.”

The CLA has rejected government claims that only 27% of farms and estates will be affected by changes to APR which will see

20% inheritance tax imposed on all farming assets over £1m from April 2026.

CLA deputy president and Norfolk farmer Gavin Lane painted a different picture. “We are completely gobsmacked – we had assurances that this wouldn’t happen, so as far as we are concerned, this has come out of the blue.”

Mr Lane added: “We estimate 70,000 farms could be affected by this tax at any one time, and therefore it will have a much broader, far-reaching impact on the rural economy, which is why we are actively contesting the Chancellor’s statement.”

All the expertise and advice you need.

The team at Larking Gowen have years of experience in the agricultural sector. Our clients range from small family farms to large rural estates throughout East Anglia and beyond. Get in touch to discuss your accounting needs including investment, diversification, tax planning and succession.

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Farm shop success for Sam Steggles

PROFILE

From humble beginnings, the Goat Shed has been transformed into an award-winning farm diversification.

ANorfolk farm shop which opened during the pandemic has become a huge success – and continues to go from strength to strength.

Sam Steggles opened the Goat Shed Farm Shop and Kitchen less than five years ago, just south of Honingham village, about nine miles west of Norwich. But its roots go much further

back, he explains.

Now in his early 40s, Sam told his story at last month’s Autumn Farming Conference, hosted by accountants Larking Gowen in partnership with the Country Land and Business Association at the All Saints Hotel, near Bury St Edmunds.

After leaving school at 15, he studied for a national diploma at Writtle

College before undertaking an HND in agri-food marketing and business studies at Harper Adams University in Shropshire.

Passion

“Livestock have always been my passion,” says Sam.

“My grandfather was one of the first people to import pedigree Simmental cattle in 1973 but they all went when he sold the farm. I was young and without a farm, it meant I had to go and do it in my own right.”

After graduating from Harper, Sam took a job selling poultry equipment. He looked at various ventures – including fish farming and anaerobic digestion – but both required huge investment he didn’t have.

Then he saw a clip on BBC Countryfile about goat farming. The entry cost was much lower, there were no big infrastructure requirements and the Goat Shed was born with 10 goats purchased from Cumbria.

“We milked them and made cheese by hand,” says Sam. “Fast forward 10 years and we were still making goats cheese at the kitchen sink – supplying

Above: Sam Steggles has built his success on honesty and listening to customers

The Goast Shed

farm shops, restaurants, pub chains and airlines.”

Then the Covid pandemic struck. “The phone rang and it was one of our supermarket contracts. They didn't want our cheese. And then it was Emirates Airlines. They didn't want our cheese either.”

On a mission

Within the space of 24 hours, 90% of the cheese-making business was gone. With lock-down, 100% of Sam’s holiday cottage business went too.

Determined not to lose their entire business – which included a partially finished cheese-making facility designed to make 400 tonnes of hard cheese a year, Sam and his wife Caroline put their heads together.

“We were on a mission,” he says. “Caroline said to me: you can’t get toilet rolls, you can’t get pasta – you

The Goat Shed farm shop has grown from humble beginnings in a garden shed to include a state-of-theart purpose-built kitchen, grocery, butcher and baker.

Right:

The Goast Shed

can’t get any of these things in the supermarkets.”

Deciding they would succeed where the supermarkets couldn’t, Sam and Caroline made some videos and posted them on social media – offering bread, milk and cheese for sale from a self-service farm shop in a garden shed – and the Goat Shed was born.

It was an immediate success. “People kept coming,” says Sam. “And then they kept asking us for more and more. And we promised it would be here the next morning. And when it was, they saw we could deliver and they kept coming back.”

Spurred on by the support of a growing and loyal customer base, The Goat Shed moved into a purpose-build farm shop in February 2021. The kitchen opened shortly afterwards in May the same year.

“We've listened to our customers –and we’ve effectively done what they’ve asked us to do,” Sam explains.

“They said they wanted tea, coffee and cake. So we listened to that too and the building is about 6000 square feet with the kitchen at the side.”

Expansion

Fast-forward to 2024 and the Goat Shed has expanded again to include a butchery and a bakery. The delicatessen area has been expanded too –all in response to customers.

“We have tripled in size from where it was. There's an upstairs mezzanine area packed with Christmas goodies. We also made and opened a maize maze this year to make the Goat Shed more of a destination and encourage our customers to spend more time with us.”

Pedigree Simmental cows have returned to the farm too. “Two years, ago Caroline and the children bought me one as a birthday present,” says Sam. “Today, we have about 50 of them. Granddad would be proud.”

The number of our team has grown too – from four to around 50. They have been vital to the success of the business – which has been recently rebranded to reflect its expanding vision and ambition.

“People are what it’s all about,” says Sam. “They are hugely important to us. We are hugely positive and passionate about what we do and the Goat Shed is all about championing people. We couldn’t do it without them – that goes for our team as well as our customers and the local community.”

This passion has seen Sam host “Hoof it around Honingham” walks around the local countryside. Held on the first Monday every month, they give regular walkers and new members of the local community the chance to

get to know one another.

Accolades are coming thick and fast. Last year, the Goat Shed was named East Anglia’s Best Large Retailer in the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards, followed by scooping the Rising Star Award by the Farm Retail Association.

New products

This year, the business won the Farm Diversification Award, courtesy of the Aylsham Show Agricultural Association. It was also named as a finalist in the Retailer of the Year award by Broadland and South Norfolk District Councils.

“We don’t just sell food – we cel-

A delicatessen and maize maze are star attrractions – so too are the goats

ebrate quality and champion its origins,” says Sam. “Our passion for farming translates into everything we do, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to crafting delicious dishes on our menus.”

But it hasn’t all been plain sailing. Sam says he has learned a lot along the way – including the need to be flexible, the importance of being honest, listening to customers and learning from mistakes.

“We believe in building trust with our community. From partnering with producers who share our values and commitment to quality to the open dialogue that facilitates feedback, transparency is key to everything we do.

“Our roots may be in traditional farming, but we always look towards the future. We’re continually innovating to expand our offerings with exciting new products, facilities and events to grow alongside our community.”

EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS

Richard Hellyer Farm Manager on a 700ha heavy clay farm at Hatley St George, Bedfordshire

We purchased the Triton 6m drill in 2021 to replace heavy cultivations and reduce labour and fuel costs. The Triton has allowed us to maximise our winter wheat acreage and drop spring drilled crops from the rotation. The Triton drill has exceeded our expectations with a dramatic reduction in costs and with wheats averaging 11tha which is higher than we were getting from our previous heavy cultivation and plough system. It is true to say that the Triton will drill clay effectively in virtually any conditions and gives the confidence to drill wheat later to reduce black grass.

labour and fuel costs. The Triton has allowed us to drop spring drilled crops from the rotation. The Triton drill has exceeded our expectations with a dramatic reduction in costs and with wheats averaging 11tha which is higher than we were getting from our previous heavy cultivation and plough system. It is true to say that the Triton will drill clay effectively in virtually any conditions and gives the confidence to drill wheat later to reduce black grass.

Twin hold roll pin blade removal system and backward leaning air borne upper blade for trash lift and ease of trash flow

Seed depth tail 40mm deep holding the seed at correct depth and placing seed on either side of seed terrace

Seed depth tail 40mm deep holding the seed

Next Generation Patented

Next Generation Patented Drilling Blades

from direct drilling. Six years later we are consistently achieving higher yields from the drill on the market that gives the flexibility to grow maximum profit autumn sown crops

claiming all weather capabilities – don't be caught out, get a demo against a Triton.

Triton launched its unique deep soil engagement direct drill in 2018 to give plough based yields from direct drilling. Six years later we are consistently achieving higher yields from the Triton than from ploughed trials on our own land. The Triton is the only all weather seed drill on the market that gives the flexibility to grow maximum profit autumn sown crops whilst reducing blackgrass from late drilling. A number of other manufacturers are now claiming all weather capabilities – don't be caught out, get a demo against a Triton.

Triangular

and

Downward facing upper blade does not hook grass weed seed up from below stale seed bed and field surface

Triangular tungsten tiles for reduced draught and soil disturbance

for

Triangular tungsten tiles for reduced draught and soil disturbance

SOIL SURFACE

Drilling at 40mm depth

Downward facing upper blade holds field surface in place minimising soil eruption in the stale seed bed

14cm deep lower blade takes blade deep below ground for air drainage and rooting

and rooting

Downward facing upper blade holds field surface in place minimising soil eruption in the stale seed bed

14cm deep lower blade takes blade deep below ground for air drainage and rooting

Triton UK: 01223 891888 (East Anglia & Midlands)

Triton North & Scotland: 07712 831718 (Steve) (S.T. Gowan Agri) Southern agent: 07970 549012 (Richard Peck)

Triton UK: 01223 891888 (East Anglia & Midlands)

Triton North & Scotland: 07712 831718 (Steve) (S.T. Gowan Agri)

Abington Farm Park, Great Abington, Cambridgeshire CB21 6AX

labour and fuel costs. The Triton has allowed us to drop spring crops from Triton drill has exceeded our expectations with a reduction costs averaging 11tha which higher than we were getting from our previous and plough It to say the Triton drill clay effectively in any conditions confidence to drill later to grass. Abington Farm Park, Great Abington, Cambridgeshire CB21

Abington Farm Park, Great Abington, Cambridgeshire CB21 6AX www.tritonseeddrills.com

Innovators look to future after ‘agri-tech decade’

• 10th anniversary of agri-tech strategy

• Sector develops in leaps and bounds

• Opportunities but challenges as well

Arefreshed approach is needed unlock farming’s potential to deliver multiple hi-tech benefits alongside food production, says a study.

UK farmers have huge capacity to deliver industrial feedstocks such as biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and raw materials for textiles and construction – as well as ecosystem services, says the report by Agri-TechE.

The organisation’s Back to the Future report marks the 10th anniversary of the not-for-profit membership organisation – and the 10th anniversary of the government’s own 2013 AgriTech Strategy for the sector.

Revenue streams

Responses from over 70 contributors, including innovative farming businesses and estates, researchers and technology developers, investors, and technical and commercial service providers, shaped the report.

The document says there is much optimism for agri-tech innovation. But challenges include a changed investment landscape, difficulties scaling solutions and businesses, a lack of secure revenue streams, and regulators lagging behind innovation.

This clearly highlights the need for a renewed government focus and new agri-tech strategy to enable it to help the sector meet new priorities, says Agri-TechE director Belinda Clarke.

“The 2013 strategy engendered a lot of fresh thinking, energy, external investment and innovation in the agricultural and horticultural sectors,” she says. “But the sector is now in a very different place.”

Artificial intelligence

A decade ago, for example, artificial intelligence was largely confined to science fiction. Today, it is increasingly used in agriculture – and formed the theme of last month’s REAP conference at Newmarket.

climate-smart agriculture to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and a focus on aligning on-farm productivity with environmental sensitivity to help reverse biodiversity declines and maintain clear water and air.

“We need the government to deliver a strategy for agriculture and horticulture that recognises the industry as a key component of our bioeconomy,” says Dr Clarke. “This, in turn, will inform a refreshed agri-tech strategy [to] unlock the industry’s potential.”

Clear policies give clarity on the direction of travel and build confidence, she stresses. “Well-defined, long-term sector strategies can lever private investment and provide a roadmap for innovation success. A new strategy for the next decade is needed.”

“will unlock farming’s potential The sector is now very diﬀerent

Wealth of technology to make farming more productive

There is no shortage of new technology to help farmers in the future – including artificial intelligence and wearable technology for livestock.

Conversational artificial intelligence allows users to ask specific questions of their data – and get sensible answers. Sensors help growers make better agronomic decisions, and genetic tools are helping scientists breed crop varieties with valuable new traits.

These and other technologies will potentially deliver solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reverse biodiversity loss and maintain water quality, says Agri-TechE director Belinda Clarke.

Developments such as satellite imaging and GPS navigation, clean energy production through ground source heat pumps and anaerobic digestion, innovative lighting solutions, show how farm agri-tec has come in the past decade.

“The agri-tech community is collectively very optimistic about the next decade, but a new agri-tech strategy would give the granular clarity to inspire further transformative innovations,” sys Dr Clarke.

The full Back to the Future report by Agri-TechE is available at www.agri-tech-e.co.uk

Lagging behind

Other challenges include regulation failing to keep pace with innovation and emerging trends, such as biological products. For agri-tech developers, earlier engagement with regulators from the outset of innovation is vital, the report suggests.

Scaling solutions also remains challenging. More government support for businesses could help, potentially via contracts or subsidies to help boost nascent industries. Without secure revenue streams, markets can be tough to penetrate.

Similarly, agri-tech developers are struggling to calculate return on investments for farmers – vital for farmers looking to embrace a new technology. That is leading to some on-farm fatigue, says the report, with some innovations failing to deliver on their hype.

“We need to stop promising farmers that a technology is going to change the world tomorrow,” says Dr Clarke. “While some farmers are happy to be beta-testers, the majority want reliability and seek solutions that will work the first time.”

About AgriTechE

A non-profit organisation, Agri-TechE brings together family-run farms with innovators and entrepreneurs from across agriculture, technology and science. For more details, visit www.agri-tech-e.co.uk.

Belinda Clarke: a refreshed strategy

AI promises bold future for farming

Artificial intelligence has much to offer agriculture – including making farming more profitable for those willing to harness new technology.

That was the message from Elliot Grant, who delivered the keynote speech to farmers and industry representatives at Agri-TechE’s 2024 REAP Conference, held last month at Newmarket racecourse.

Dr Grant is the former chief executive of Mineral – an Alphabet company formed by Google to apply breakthroughs in artificial intelligence to help make food production agriculture more sustainable.

More reliable

Agriculture is in the early stages of AI, says Dr Grant. Ultimately, it will transform food production. But in the meantime, it will enable farmers to do

while using fewer resources.

This is already being seen in crop production – including through tech nologies such as spot spraying, using GPS systems; and plant disease moni toring, using hyperspectral imaging.

“The robot can do what the human does, and it can do it equally as well as the human, but it can do it cheaper and more reliably – so we've substi tuted the human task,” says Dr Grant.

Fewer inputs

At the same time, the potential of AI is developing rapidly. Not only is it en abling farmers to do their jobs faster, it is doing those same jobs better – in some cases reducing herbicide usage by up to 90%.

“It’s identifying weeds about the size of the little nail on my little fin ger – so less than half an inch – and it's doing it in less than 100 millisec

Arable

Wheat area rises but still below average

• Mixed prospects for UK cereals area

• Wheat area recovery remains way off

• Growers shun ﬂ agship green scheme

More wheat has been drilled this autumn – but the projected area for 2025 still lags behind the five-year average, suggest the latest figures.

A 5.4% increase takes the expected UK wheat area to 1.613m ha for harvest 2025. But is still below the 20192023 average of 1.705m ha. Winter and spring barley and oilseed rape areas are seen to be falling.

The annual Early Bird Survey was commissioned by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). It is the first indication of next summer’s likely cereal harvest – and was carried out following a wet start to autumn.

Other crops

The survey suggests the area of oats drilled has risen by a modest 3.5%. At 189,000ha, this puts projected area for harvest 2025 slightly above the five-year average but below 2021’s 200,000ha.

The winter barley area is estimated to have fallen by just under 1%, potentially limited by the wet conditions in England in September. Spring barley looks like it will fall by 13%, after rising sharply in 2024.

The spring barley projection at 704,000ha would still be above 2022

and 2023 – but with the winter barley area edging lower again, the fall in spring barley would mean the smallest UK area since 2014 at 1.084m ha. If this area is confirmed and without above-average yields in 2025, UK barley production could fall below 2024’s provisional 7.2 Mt crop, said AHDB cereals and oilseeds senior analyst Helen Plant.

Challenging weather

“The first insight into 2025 cropping patterns shows a mixed picture. While winter cropping has historically usually strongly rebounded the year after

“The ﬁrst insight is a mixed picture

a wet autumn, for example in 2021, that doesn’t seem to be the case for harvest 2025.

“Challenging weather in some areas, plus the fallout from the 2024 harvest on profitability seems to have limited the rebounds. This places extra focus on yield potential. Industry will need to monitor crop conditions closely.

A 17% decline in the oilseed rape planted area is forecast.

If confirmed, this is its lowest area in the UK for 42 years. The final area could be even lower depending on damage from pests, particularly cabbage stem flea beetles, and weather conditions.

The survey also points to a further rise (+51%) in uncropped arable land from 2024’s already high level. But it is unclear if this reflects decisions still to be made or land intended for agri-environmental schemes in England.

Defra data shows only an additional 20000ha were entered into Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) options that take grass and arable land out of production. Defra’s next SFI figures are due to be published in February.

Provisional results from the Early Bird Survey (EBS) of cropping intentionas

Source: Defra, the Scottish Government, The Andersons Centre for the AHDB

Top tips to get the best from late-drilled winter wheat

• Adapt management plan into winter

• Patience will be key –don’t rush in

• Consider nutrition strategy carefully

Aflexible approach to managing later-drilled winter wheat crops is needed after delayed drilling caused by the wet start to autumn, says an agronomist.

Winter wheat drilling has varied widely around the country – with some growers seeing a repeat of last autumn’s washout delays, while other regions made good progress, says Mike Thornton, head of crop production for ProCam.

“There’s a considerable area of crops to be drilled after this year’s increased maize area and after root crops. Later drilling situations demand a considered approach. Respond don’t react. This was something highlighted last season.”

To help growers, Mr Thornton suggests three areas for consideration:

1 Take a step back

Use available weather windows to drill winter wheat, but do not rush to get

crops planted if seedbed conditions are not yet suitable. Later-drilled cereals need well-prepared seedbeds with a good tilth and good drainage. Often, crops that went wrong last season were ones that were mauled in.

If you can’t prepare a good seedbed, be prepared to wait until you can. Depending on the variety and situation, winter wheat can still be drilled into January and potentially into February

Last season provided a number of lessons for better managing lateplanted wheat crops, says Mike Thornton

Later-drilled crops generally have poorer root systems and fewer tillers, says Mike Thornton, so a key aim is to stimulate lazy roots to better access nutrient reserves in the soil

And we saw last season that later-drilled wheat can yield well, with less pressure from grassweeds, barley yellow dwarf virus and Septoria. Clearly, it’s important to choose suitable varieties with later drilling, for example faster-developing types, and seed rates need increasing to account for heightened plant losses and reduced tillering. But these aren’t insurmountable.

That said, if getting on the land becomes too difficult, consider waiting and drilling a good spring crop rather than a poor winter one. We can’t predict what spring 2025 planting conditions will be like. But again, 2024 showed how well some spring crops can perform.

2 Don't rule out the plough

Although less popular nowadays for environmental reasons, ploughing to open up the soil will be a key consideration this season, at least in some fields. Ploughing can improve drainage and reduce compaction, and crops that were planted after ploughing last season often fared better.

There’s a lot of soil damage left over from last season that needs rectifying, and there’ll be a lot of soil dam-

Arable

age where maize crops have been harvested late in wet fields. Assess fields individually to judge if the benefits of ploughing outweigh the costs.

3 Tailor inputs to the crop

Other areas requiring attention to detail with later crops include nutrition, slug risks, and being prepared to adjust weed control according to weather windows.

Later-drilled crops generally have poorer root systems and fewer tillers. So a key aim is to stimulate lazy roots to become better at accessing nutrient reserves in the soil.

Use soil testing to tell you the levels of key nutrients available. Then, manage each field on its merits.

Manage each ﬁeld on its merits

Ensuring spring nitrogen is applied early is an important foundation. But nowadays there are more sophisticated options for boosting growth than simply adding more nitrogen.

Ploughing to rectify soil damage where maize crops were harvested in less-thanideal conditions will be a key consideration, says Mike Thornton

These include foliar-applied biostimulants, or soil-acting products if plants are small; phosphite treatments for rooting; and foliar-applied endophyte bacteria that fix and provide nitrogen inside the plant. It's important to seek advice on what is appropriate for your fields.

Later-drilled cereals are also more

New managing director for RAGT UK

Plant breeder RAGT UK has promoted business leader Helen Wilson (pictured right) as the company’s managing director – bringing a range of experience to the role.

Ms Wilson joined RAGT UK in 2013 as a product development specialist, managing the breeder’s grass, maize and soil health plants portfolios. She was then appointed head of forage crops in 2016, covering the UK and Nordic and Baltic regions.

For the past three years Ms Wilson has worked for RAGT Group’s as a business leader for Asia and Oceania, integrating New Zealand

and Australian subsidiaries into the group and exploring new opportunities in south-east Asia.

RAGT Northern Europe commercial director Simon Howell said: “Under Helen’s guidance, RAGT UK will continue to develop its highly successful multi-species portfolio. We are confident her appointment will secure a strong future for the business.

Ms Wilson said: “I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to lead RAGT UK. The skills and experiences I have gained from my international role within the wider group will be invaluable in my new role.”

to missed herbicide applications – slug risks will be increased.

Later drilling also shortens the weather window for herbicides before fields become too wet to travel.

So it might be appropriate to make one robust pre-emergence herbicide application rather than gambling on applying a pre-emergence spray fol-

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Biostimulants give boost to later drilled wheat crops

Autumn applications 'bring dividends'

Farmers are being encouraged to consider alternative products – including biostimulants – to boost crops and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Autumn-applied biostimulants could be a solution alongside other factors, such as vigorous varieties and changes to establishment systems, says Tom Wheelhouse, technical specialist at UPL.

More farmers are considering outside-the-box solutions. Foliar biostimulants are typically applied in the spring alongside macro and micro nutrition. But last year UPL launched Vitalroot to help encourage farmers to look into autumn applications.

Some 50 farmers were supplied with enough Vitalroot to cover 20ha. They were recommended to apply the biostimulant from two leaves until the beginning of tillering, which often combines with early post-emergence herbicide applications.

Seaweed extract

“The main ingredient in Vitalroot is GoActiv (GA142), an oligosaccharide isolated from seaweed extract,” says Mr Wheelhouse. It is filtered to pro

ways. This has a snowball effect on the plant. More extensive roots and greener leaves enhance nutrient uptake and energy conversion for further growth.”

Agrii agronomist Sam Bailey tried some Vitalroot on a wheat crop last season, having taken up UPL special offer. The crops that had Vitalroot were some of the best ones he looks after coming out of the winter, says Mr Bailey.

Better performance

After a pre-emergence herbicide, he tank-mixed the Vitalroot with the peri emergence follow-up three weeks after drilling on 1 November. It was the first time he had applied a foliar biostimulant in the autumn.

Autumn applications represented a new approach. Mr Bailey had experimented with a few other biostimulant products in the spring, when the major challenge with applying of biostimulants is the large tank mixes.

“If I’m going through a poorly performing crop with nutrition, I would put one in, but I can’t find room in the tank mix for them in routine spring applications.

Autumn, when farmers apply an early post-emergence herbicide or a

Soil health solutions key to reducing fertiliser emissions

Soil enhancing products are becoming increasingly popular with growers looking to reduce their reliance on synthetic fertilisers, support soil health, and enhance nutrient efficiency in crop production.

David Newton, soil health specialist and Timac Agro UK technical product manager, said: “By promoting soil health and enhancing nutrient cycling, these solutions can provide a practical pathway for reducing greenhouse gases. Biostimulants and soil conditioners improve soil structure and support microbial activity, which aids in nutrient mineralisation – a process that converts organic matter into nutrients plants can easily absorb.”

These products can help reduce farm emissions as well as increasing productivity, says Mr Newton. Calcium-based conditioner Humistart+, for example, helps optimise fungal and bacterial activity in all crop types, he adds.

“The base of marine calcium provides neutralising effects for acidic soils, and boosts rooting and nutrient availability for both crops and livestock,” says Mr Newton.

Nutient efficiency

“While further trials observing nitrogen mineralisation in the soil for 28 days post-application, show a 38% increase in total nitrogen available at a rate of 240kg/acre compared to a control soil conditioner.”

One Wiltshire-based dairy farm, for instance, used a soil condition achieved a 14-tonne reduction in artificial fertiliser usage between two seasons and observed improvements in silage quality.

Mr Newton adds: “The results highlight the huge potential of soil conditioners and biostimulants as a scalable solution for farms of all sizes looking to lower emissions from artificial inputs.”

Late-drilled crops could benefit from added nutrition, says UPL.

talroot having a place. It’s a timing when there’s only two or three products in the tank, so there’s room for it, and if farmers get additional biomass going into the winter, they will see the value.”

Optimising the Future of Tillage

How a nutrient plan can improve farm efficiency

Think beyond the legal requirements

Huge rewards are possible for growers who embrace the full potential of nutrient planning – rather than adopting a simple compliance mindset.

A basic plan may meet legal requirements, but higher profits, greater productivity and long-term sustainability can be achieved by a more in-depth approach, says Allison Arden of Navigate Eco Solutions.

“People think about nutrient planning from an inspection point of view –whether it’s the Environment Agency or the Rural Payments Agency – that it’s about keeping nutrients out of water, clean air and managing the soil. But that's not the full story.

"Remember that RB209 is the initial step in nutrient planning, but it serves as guidance only. You have the flexibility to create your nutrient plan according to your farm situation, but it must be evidence-based.

Better management

Investing in a more comprehensive nutrient plan will help reduce production costs, says Ms Arden. It will also increase nutrient recovery and helpmanage organic resources such as muck, digestates and slurry.

“It’s also a way of lowering the carbon footprint of production, which is a key aim of government in achieving its net zero targets but also likely to attract marketing premiums in the future as grain buyers strive to reduce their scope 3 emissions."

AHDB head of farming systems and agronomy Ollie Johnson says a key part of responsible nutrient planning is about safeguarding against the possible implementation of future legislation in the area of fertiliser use.

“We are seeing more laws coming in around protected ureas, for example, and that is all to be respected and it certainly means farmers are getting more out of their urea."

Mr Johnson says he is keen that government avoids introducing additional legislation about how growers and farmers can do this. Farmers can make the correct decisions themselves around fertiliser use – and recognise that the value of doing it is not just to the environment, but also to them, he explains.

“We are seeing the same thing in the Plant Protection Products sector where there is the Voluntary Initiative which fulfils this exact role and acts in lieu of extra legislation in that area by encouraging best practice.

Manure calculator

“Growers are keen to make more use of organic sources too, and with this in mind we have already developed a new manure calculator on the AHDB website which will allow farmers to more easily calculate the financial value of these and this should be available for use in the coming weeks."

Ms Arden says other new technologies can now be used to both simplify the process of nutrient planning and improve its value to the business.

“If you’ve never done a nutrient plan or have but not really followed one in the past, using a simple digital system to take the complexity out of the process is a real benefit to growers.

“NavigatePro, for example, digitally connects to RB209 so users can access all the experience and research that goes into that, but they also have the flexibility to adapt their plan to match their own farming situation.

Allison Arden: going the extra mile delivers bigger benefits

Bespoke approach

“While RB209 provides the default guidance, the software allows you to input specific analytical data, such as soil, manure, and fertiliser analyses so the resulting nutrient management plans are tailored specifically to meet farm or field requirements.

Lowering

the carbon foorprint of production

“We also have functionality coming online shortly that analyses your cropping, soil analysis and system and looks on the market for optimum products in the correct ratios to best match the nutrients required by the crop, so you are not at risk of over or under supplying nutrients.

Empowering

“It also ranks these on their carbon intensity so you can choose the best product analysis for the job as well as being able to select the ones with the lowest carbon footprints, says Ms Arden, who believes such knowledge is truly empowering."

Good nutrient planning can fundamentally improve your business for the better – it’s not just about a tick

Below: Better planning makes better use of nutrients

“It can have a major impact on your short-term profitability as well

‘Hidden threat’ posed by winter rape weevil

• Pest reported in eastern region crops

• Monitor rape carefully, growers told

• Mild weather can prolong problems

Oilseed rape growers are being urged to watch out for signs of rape winter stem weevil – after several reports of the pest appearing in eastern region crops.

Despite having potential to be more damaging to oilseed rape than cabbage stem flea beetle, rape weevil often goes undetected, says Neil Watson, technical manager for agronomy firm Hutchinsons.

“It’s not a pest that’s monitored by the Rothamsted aphid survey, so we must rely on observations from the field,” he says.

“This season, we’ve primarily seen the weevil appear in crops in the eastern counties, where it has established itself as the main problem over the past few years – more so than cabbage stem flea beetle.”

But Mr Watson says he can’t rule out the pest being present in other areas too. “It has become resurgent pri-

time of the year.

“Fewer larvae can cause considerably more damage to the stem than cabbage stem flea beetle.”

What to do

Controlling adults in the autumn is the main way to tackle weevils, as pyrethroids have little or no activity on eggs or larvae, says Mr Watson.

Rape winter stem weevil can cause extremely damage to crops

“Adults typically emerge in the summer and after a resting phase move into oilseed rape crops to feed and lay eggs in leaf stalks during late September and October. But adult activity and egg laying can continue throughout the winter as long as conditions remain

After hatching, larvae develop in petioles then tunnel into stems and feed throughout the winter until exiting in March and April to pupate in the soil before a new generation emerg-

Risk should be monitored closely before deciding on the need to treat, and the only practical way of detecting the presence of adults in the crop

“French research shows water traps are not a good indicator of the level of damage that is likely to occur, just the

Growers are advised to place a few traps in each crop, just in from the headlands, taking account of the direction of the prevailing wind or nearest neighbouring oilseed rape crop.

Pest identification

Adults are 2-4 mm long

Typical weevil appearance, metallic black/brown colouration with a snout

Larvae are white with brown heads and legless, often ‘C’ shaped

Monitor activity using water traps in crops

Look for eggs on the upper side of leaf petioles

Dissect stems to identify larvae

Winter weevils can go undetected “

“There is no established treatment threshold, but if it is easily found in traps, then you know you have a potential problem.”

If treatment is required, it should ideally be applied just before egg laying, which is usually 10-14 days after adult RWSW have been first found in the crop. “It might mean multiple applications being linked to multiple migration phases into the crop.”

Treatment

Effective treatment depends on several factors though, not least the presence of adults in the crop at the time of spraying, says Mr Watson.

Another issue is the level of KDR resistance to pyrethroids within the population, he adds.

“Resistance has been confirmed in France, so we can only assume it’s the same in the UK, although no data has been collated here.”

Trait-loaded genetics put rape varieties at the top

• Good mix of yield and oil content

• In-built traits include resistance

• Early drilling and winter hardiness

Newly recommended oilseed rape varieties from Limagrain once again prove the value of genetic traits, says the breeder.

Limagrain’s Field Seeds breeding programme is delivering varieties with high yields and oil content – as well as important traits such as pod shatter resistance. They include LG Adapt, with a gross output of 108%.

LG Adapt is recommended across both the east-west and northern regions. It is the latest variety to come out of the breeders seventh generation of hybrids bringing new maintainer and restorer lines into the breeding programme.

“On farm, this translates into varieties that offer a stacked portfolio of the standard TuYV and RLM7 and pod shatter resistance traits along with improved stem health attributes,” says Limagrain oilseed rape product

health comes from a combination of very good phoma, cylindrosporium and verticillium resistance, explains Mrs Petrescu.

“High levels of resistance to all three diseases means healthier green stems longer into the growing season, better rooting and therefore higher yields and oil content – explaining LG Adapt’s exceptional oil content (46.4%).”

Mrs Petrescu says across Limagrain’s extensive UK and European trials, LG Adapt has shown itself to be suited to the early drilling slot as it does not produce too much stem in the autumn, noting it is also a very winter hardy variety.

Performance

Limagrain oilseed rape manager

Florentina Petrescu

Trial crops of Limagrain oilseed rape varieties Magelan and Adapt

LG Avenger enters the Northern Recommended List with an outstanding yield of 106% and an oil content of 46%.

“The ability of LG Avenger to perform so well in the more challenging climatic conditions of the north is a reflection of the variety’s trait loaded offering of TuYV, Stem health, RLM 7, pod shatter and also Limagrain’s unique Sclerotinia tolerance, Scleroflex.

“Importantly, LG Avenger exhibits a particularly fast winter and spring growth habit which allows it to grow away from both the adult and larval damage phase of Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle, a really valuable growth characteristic and is in fact the stand out

Why pod shatter is increasingly important

There is no getting away from the fact that growing oilseed rape has increasingly become more of a gamble, but it is possible to reduce the risk.

Choosing to grow a variety with built in pod shatter resistance to protect OSR yields through to harvest and make the margins to keep oilseed rape profitable, says Limagrain arable development officer Kurtis Scarboro.

“Almost all of the costs of growing the crop have been spent by this stage so it makes sense to protect yield potential right through to the end of the growing season. All Limagrain hybrids contain this trait

“We constantly monitor the efficacy of our pod shatter resistance against other commercial varieties and have strong quantitve data to back it up so we can be confident in our claims that the variety really is pod shatter resistant.

positive of the variety.

Trait-loaded variety Magelan joins the east-west list with exceptional yields at 106%, the added security of pod shatter resistance and an excellent oil content of 46.3%.

Magelan is a robust, high yielding variety with good stem health, and the best Verticillium resistance of all the newly recommended varieties. The variety possess very good winter and spring vigour, underlined by the variety’s ratings of 8 in Limagrain’s vigour scoring assessments.

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Skyway spring barley delivers good returns

• Inexpensive to achieve good yields

• Stiff straw and good bushel weight

• Competes strongly with blackgrass

Acrop of spring barley that produces a gross margin to rival milling wheat is a desire of most growers. It rarely happens, but the rotational and workload benefits that come with it can make it worth the effort, nonetheless.

Taking a punt on Skyway in 2022 was more than worthwhile for Ian, Michael and Edward Watson of G Watson & Sons, who farm at Furneux Pelham, Essex. Grown to combat blackgrass, they treated it as a feed crop, spending just £350/ha on variable costs.

After a successful first crop that yielded 7.7t/ha, the Watsons went one better in 2023 when by sheer good fortune, the crop made malting specification at a yield of 6.9t/ha from the same agronomy policy.

“Skyway has been a good variety for us. It’s reasonably inexpensive to grow, competes strongly with the blackgrass, reliably makes 7t/ha or thereabouts and commands a decent premium,” says Michael Watson.

Grassweed burden

“It’s been the most impressive spring barley variety we’ve grown, principally because of its agronomic characteristics; it has stiff straw, good bushel weight and a vigorous growth habit.”

The Watsons are primarily milling wheat growers. Their rotation aims to maximise the area grown profitably while enabling it to be managed and harvested in a proper and timely fashion.

Tne consequence of being so heavily focused on winter wheat, however, is a sizeable grassweed burden, especially blackgrass. Grappling with this issue led to experiments with hybrid barley

and other spring barleys, but with little success.

With the launch of Skyway, the Watsons saw that even as a feed, it’s yield potential meant there was a chance of a good gross margin. Finding they could easily and reliably achieve malting specification was a welcome bonus.

“A problem with grassweeds turned out to have a big silver lining. In the years we have grown Skyway it has always met malting specification,” says Mr Watson.

Michael (left) and Edward Watson achieved 7.7t/ha in 2022 and a respectable 6.9t/ha in 2023

“This has given us the confidence to double the area to 100ha.”

With malting premiums remaining at healthy levels, the Watsons’ Skyway is now grown with proper intent. Spring barley has also paved the way for other beneficial actions, adds Mr Watson.

Crop nutrition

The nitrogen regime has been cut by 20kg/ha to ensure grain nitrogen levels don’t exceed specification and applied a little earlier with half after sowing and the remainder at the three-leaf stage in combination with 100kg/ha Polysulphate.

The farm now grows two years of a spring crop ahead of two years of milling wheat with spring beans and linseed making up the other half of the spring crop area.

‘It always meets malting speciﬁcation “

The greater area of Skyway means a lighter autumn workload and a better spread of crops at harvest while its low brackling gives reassurance when milling

“The winter wheat stubble is min-tilled in the autumn to stimulate weeds and left until the spring when sprayed-off ahead of drilling,”says Mr Watson.

“Come harvest the Skyway tends to mature about the third week of August which for us is after the Skyfall, but before the Crusoe which is why low brackling is an important characteristic.”

Market demand

Bred by Nordic Seeds and distributed in the UK by Agrii, Skyway’s full approval for brewing and pan-European acceptance has enhanced its market appeal, says Tom Eaton, trading manager at Viterra UK.

“Skyway is an out-and-out brewing variety which tends to be preferred by some brewers over so-called dual-purpose types,” he says. “It is quickly gaining acceptance among end-users who see it as the long-term successor to RGT Planet.”

Add in strong interest from European maltsters and there is clear export potential too.

“We have a significant volume on contract all of which should give growers confidence that it is a variety with a bright future,”

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Livestock

Multi-drug resistance falls to all-time low

Lowest level of livestock antibiotics

Multi-drug resistance in pigs and poultry has fallen to an all-time low after a decade of reducing antibiotic use.

The amount of antibiotics sold for livestock remains at the lowest level to date, says Defra. But an increase in antibiotic usage for some livestock sectors highlights the need for continued action, it adds.

The figures were published in the latest UK-Veterinary Antimicrobial Resistance and Sales Surveillance (VARSS) Report – unveiled last month during World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week.

Stemming the tide

“

It’s crucial we continue to work with farmers

They show that antibiotic sales in livestock remain 59% lower than in 2014. Sales of antibiotics of highest critical importance to human health remain at extremely low levels, accounting for less than 0.5% of total veterinary antibiotic sales.

UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “This year’s UK-VARSS report demonstrates how continued collaboration is helping to maintain progress in the responsible use of antibiotics thereby stemming the tide of resistance.

continue to work with our farmers

and vets as well as our counterparts internationally on tackling this One Health risk.”

This year’s report marks 10 years of collecting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) data from the pig and poultry sectors – and include reports on AMR levels in sheep, beef, and dairy cattle for the first the time.

Commitment

This initial baseline data helps provide a more complete picture of AMR, says Defra. It also begins to address a key UK commitment to tackle data gaps around antibiotic use and resistance.

Veterinary Medicines Directorate chief executive Abi Seager said: “The positive trends demonstrate the dedication of the UK’s farmers and vets to ensure responsible antibiotic use in animals.”

This has resulted in declining AMR levels – but Defra cautions against getting carried away. If increases seen in some sectors become trends, AMR could increase. This highlights the need for continued antibiotic stewardship efforts.

Antimicrobial resistance is a huge global challenge, affecting human and animal health, food security, and economic growth.

It occurs when bacteria and other microorganisms evolve to resist antimicrobial drugs like antibiotics, rendering these treatments less effective or even ineffective in animals and people.

New estimates show more than 39m deaths directly attributable to bacterial AMR will occur between now and 2050.

Experts say avoiding unnecessary antibiotic usage in humans and animals is crucial to slowing the development of antibiotic resistance.

APHA chief executive Jenny Stewart said the report highlighted the need for continued action in thisly with UK vets and farmers, as well

as international partners, to address the threat of AMR.”

Catherine McLaughlin, chair of the Responsible Use of Medicines in Agriculture Alliance (RUMA) said the results showed that collaborative, voluntary efforts over the past decade – including by UK farmers – were clearly paying off.

“The fact that AMR continues to decline with multi-drug resistance in animals at an all-time low should be applauded and should reassure everyone that the work on responsible use and stewardship is making a real and tangible difference.

Ms McLaughlin added: “These latest results will undoubtedly give everyone the ongoing confidence and continued focus to build on what is already done and be as ambitious as possible as we drive forward our efforts to tackle AMR.”

Pig industry stalwart wins David Black Award

Inspirational pig industry stalwart Howard Revell has won the 2024 David Black Award – recognising his long-standing dedication to the sector.

The accolade – recognising Mr Revell’s efforts to improve animal welfare while mentoring others within the industry for almost 40 years – was presented on 18 November at the National Pig Awards in London.

Sponsored by the Agricultural and Horticulture Development Board, the award is given annually to an individual or organisation judged to have made an outstanding impact on the pork sector through their work.

After studying agriculture at Newcastle University, Mr Revell spent three years with Bowes of Norfolk before joining BQP/ Pilgrim’s UK in 1987. Recently retired, he spent the last 25 years as the company’s pig production manager – and later director.

Outdoor breeding

Twice former chairman of the National Pig Association (NPA) Producer Group, Mr Revell spent five terms representing farmers within the organisation – and previously sat on the NPA board.

He has also been involved with the Pig Health and Welfare Council and has played a role in the development of outdoor breeding sites, with a lot more of his effort across the sector carried out behind the scenes.

Judges described Mr Revell’s mentoring of others in the sector as a standout role, playing a pivotal role in developing talent and offering support and guidance to the next gen-

eration of industry leaders.

These have included NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson and her immediate predeces sor Zoe Leach. The award was presented on the evening by last year’s David Black recip ient Hugh Crabtree.

Steadfast supporter

Mr Crabtree said: “Sometimes people con fuse outstanding with obvious or overt and, of course, for those that know them, there are individuals who perfectly fit the crite ria whose contribution is in the background, below the parapet if you like.

“Howard Revell is just such an individu al who has been steadfast in his support of the industry, the representative organisa tions within it and the people who work in it.

He added: “His knowledge, careful con sideration and insightful contributions to discussion have just kept coming.”

NPA board member and previous award recipient Marcus Bates paid tribute to Mr Revell’s unpaid work within the industry. His generous nurturing of the next genera tion and talent would ensure the success of the British pig industry for years to come.

Legacy

Mr Bates said: “His most enduring legacy of all will be all the young people he has helped to mentor throughout his career, offering support and guidance and helping to future-proof the industry.

Mr Revell said he was extremely humbled to receive the industry award.

“I’m happy to accept this award on their behalf, in recognition of our collective efforts," he said.

"I feel privileged to have worked alongside so many highly committed characters in the NPA and other bodies.

“The commitment and effort of these people, either as staff or volunteers, help make the industry stronger and deserve your ongoing support and recognition.”

Welcome rise in sales of outdoor pork

Outdoor pork was worth more than 10% of total pigmeat sales category last year, according to the latest figures from market experts Kantar.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board says the 4.9% volume increase has been valuable to overall meat, fish and poultry sales which declined by 2.4% during the year ending 9 June 2024.

Making the switch

It is also unclear whether more people are buying outdoor pork deliberately – or whether the uplift is because more retail outlets are switching all their top-tier primary pork products to outdoor bred, says the AHDB.

The definition of outdoor pork cov-

ers primary and processed pork with outdoor labelling.

This includes outdoor bred, out door reared and free range. The AHDB says promotions account for more than half the volume sold.

Some 80.4% of outdoor pork buy ers are over 45 years old compared to 69.1% for total primary pork. “The majority of growth in outdoor pork came from sausages, which tend to be a more highly promoted cut,” says the AHDB.

Research by the levy board and YouGov shows the only 24% of con sumers say that outdoor bred claims are important to them when buying premium pork products (May 2024), though this has increased by 3% since November 2023.

More shoppers are buying outdoor pork, says analysts

Howard Revell was presented with the 2024 David Black Award last month

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Prepare for worst on African swine fever, producers told

UK pig producers should develop robust contingency plans as African swine fever (ASF) continues to spread across mainland Europe, say experts.

ASF is a highly contagious viral disease of pigs. There are several different strains. Pigs infected with mild strains may not become ill or show typical clinical signs. But severe strains of the disease are generally fatal.

The disease poses a significant threat to the UK pig sector, says the Agriculture and Horticulture Devel-

Producers should understand how livestock

Be proactive

“Outside of the UK, the disease has been confirmed in wild boar, on farms and smallholdings, and even in pet pigs,” she says. “We urge pig producers to be proactive by implementing key biosecurity measures.”

Producers should assess their readiness for livestock movement restrictions which would be imposed once ASF is confirmed in the UK. Farmers should understand how these restrictions would impact their own businesses, says Ms Nevel.

Producers must be prepared and strict on biosecurity , says Mandy

tive suppliers, prepare for storage challenges and plan for limited feed access.”

Farm staﬀ

Ms Nevel says it is essential that farm staff understand their roles in enforcing these measures. Simulation exercises can help team members test and practise their roles and responsibilities under pressure, she adds.

“We have hosted webinars that featured simulation exercises, which were extremely useful for identifying potential weaknesses in plans and equipping staff with the confidence to respond to an ASF outbreak.

“The vital role of digitising visitor – and animal movement – records was also highlighted in effectively managing ASF outbreaks, as this would speed up tracings – the first step in disease control.”

How pigs finish faster on a live yeast diet

Incorporating probiotic live yeast into pig diets can reduce finishing time and improve feed conversion ratio, suggests a trial.

The year-long trial was carried out across a total of 27,000 pigs in 66 batches. Some 32 batches were supplemented with the probiotic live yeast Levucell SB, says Hannah Elliott, monogastric technical manager at Lallemand Animal Nutrition.

the raw material energy contribution cost with Levucell SB, results can be gained at no extra cost.”

Pigs to reach fattening weight three days quicker in a trial which assessed diets including Levucell SB with an energy valorisation of 1.3%. Pigs also benefited from a better feed conversion ratioand higher average daily weight gain.

Incorporating Levucell SB into pig diet resulted in better fibre digestion as the live yeast increased the amount of bacterial fibre degradation and the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA).

More efficient

Feed conversion ratio was reduced by an average of 2% in the experimental

“This resulted in more energy for the pig,” says Ms Elliott. “By replacing some of

group and daily weight gain rates increased by 2.6%. Pigs were more efficient at turning feed into body mass with the probiotic yeast, explains Ms Elliott.

Alongside these results, an improvement in carcass quality was also reported, with pigs supplemented with Levucell SB having better lean meat composition compared to the control group.

Ms Elliott says Levucell SB was selected due to its ability to survive in more acidic environments with a thicker cell wall than S. cerevisiae strains, making it more suitable for use in monogastric diets.

Better results can be obtained at no extra cost, says Hannah Elliott

The live yeast’s superior ability to scavenge oxygen within the gut stimulates beneficial bacteria, says Ms Elliott. It encourages the production of metabolites such as acetate and anti-toxin molecules – helping to reinforce digestive efficiency.

Nevel

Biosecurity vital to protect flocks against avian flu

• Winter migratory birds are carriers

• Poultry sector braced for outbreaks

• Good hygiene key to reduce risks

Poultry keepers are being urged to stay on top of their game when it comes to protecting flocks against avian influenza this winter.

It follows two high-profile outbreaks – including highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N5 confirmed in a commercial poultry flock last month near Hornsea, in the East Riding of Yorkshire. All birds were culled to contain the disease.

There are two forms of avian flu: highly pathogenic and low pathogenic avian influenza. Wild birds are natural carriers for these viruses, typically showing few or no symptoms, which can make containment efforts more challenging.

“Highly pathogenic avian flu has a significant impact on poultry,” says Dan Clow, pig and poultry specialist with hygiene experts Neogen.

“Affected birds often display lethargy, severe respiratory distress, cyanosis, edema, hemorrhage, and even neurological symptoms.

“Mortality in poultry from HPAI can be devastating, leading to significant losses for farmers. Due to avian influenza targeting the respiratory and intestinal tracts, oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs are essential for accurate diagnosis.”

Avian flu transmission

Avian influenza spreads primarily through direct contact with infected birds or exposure to their respiratory droplets and faeces. Migratory wild birds pose a key risk as they frequently travel near or over commercial poultry areas.

In addition, indirect transmission can also occur through contact with contaminated materials, including feed, water, litter, equipment, and vehicles. Even clothing and footwear can conceal the virus, with vets emphasising the importance of strict hygiene protocols on farms.

Birds are highly susceptible to in fection through inhalation or inges tion, This makes it essential for poul try farmers to implement biosecurity measures to minimise exposure risks.

Biosecurity measures

Implementing a robust biosecurity programme is essential to help pre vent avian influenza transmission and keep flocks safe (see panel below)

A well-rounded biosecurity pro gramme is incomplete without effec tive disinfection. Neogen Viroxide Su per offers an effective solution with proven efficacy against H5N1, a prev alent strain of avian influenza, says Mr Clow.

The broad-spectrum powder disin fectant stands out with an in-use dilu

Biosecurity strategy

A biosecurity strategy should involve:

infect flocks at any stage of development

Controlled facility access: Limit access to the production area by maintaining a secure perimeter, logging visitor activity, and requiring thorough sanitation protocols. Ensuring strict entry and exit procedures, like shower-in/ shower-out facilities or Danish entry systems, can help limit disease spread.

Vehicle and equipment hygiene: All vehicles and equipment entering and exiting the farm should be rigorously disinfected. Disinfecting both internal and external surfaces helps prevent pathogens from moving between locations and increasing the risk of infection.

Shed separation and cleaning: To contain potential outbreaks, treat each shed as a separate biosecurity unit. Ensure thorough disinfection of surfaces between groups of birds, proper cleaning of water lines, and water treatment to minimise contamination risks.

Wildlife and pest control: Wildlife, rodents, and insects can introduce diseases to your poultry. Limit wild birds’ access to the site, and maintain a pest control programme using rodenticides and insecticides to manage these pests effectively.

Employee education and training: Training all employees in biosecurity measures is essential. This should include training on disinfection, handling practices, and daily adherence to biosecurity protocols.

Viroxide Super was re-tested against H5N1 this September – and found to inactivate the virus in one minute at the Defra-approved dilution of 1:200, explains Mr Clow.

This rapid response time is vital for preventative controls to help limit virus spread and safeguard flock health, especially in vehicle disinfection and boot dip protocol disinfection.

Value of prevention

Beyond direct health impacts, avian flu outbreaks can devastate poultry farms financially. Diseases like HPAI and Newcastle disease may require mandatory culling leading to production losses and long-term financial strain.

The financial impact goes beyond immediate costs, influencing longterm productivity and profits, says Mr Clow. “With biosecurity as the first line of defence, producers can reduce risks and safeguard their profitability.”

Scientists use waste water to track avian flu

Researchers from Queen’s University Belfast have discovered a cutting-edge way of using waste water to track avian flu.

This new method could help to determine how well seasonal flu vaccines are working and may also help detect the next pandemic at an early stage. It also works on human flu variants.

The study shows how sewage can be an efficient and cost-effective way to track flu in the environment – and provide a better understanding of how it can spread to animal and human populations.

Crucial work

Researchers say this is crucial to monitor whether avian flu will “jump” from birds to other mammals and form a new flu virus which could cause severe disease in the human population.

Andrew Lee, from the School of Biological Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast, said the study showed that waste water was an easy and cheap way of monitoring the spread of avian flu.

“Avian flu has had a devastating im-

populations worldwide, but current methods of surveillance rely on detection of sick or dead animals.

“We urgently need better ways to monitor and understand where flu virus is spreading in the environment, its potential for spread in wild or domestic animals, and its possibility of transfer to humans.”

ways to tackle avian flu (Photo: AlanMorris / Shutterstock.com)

Led by Professor John W. McGrath and Dr Deirdre Gilpin, researchers have developed tests to measure and characterise a range of important human and animal pathogens in waste

The study was co-led by Connor Bamford, a lecturer at the School of Biological Sciences and Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s Uni-

He said: “Our research has developed ways to help us detect and characterise flu virus in waste water samples, which allowed us to discriminate between flu from animal and human

“Finding evidence of avian influenza in wastewater alongside human flu supports the use of this true ‘onehealth’ environmental monitoring tool to protect the health of livestock like poultry.”

The research was led by scientists and researchers from teams at Queen’s University Belfast, working closely with colleagues from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute.

top tips for indoor lambing 5

Good preparation is key to ensuring success when indoor lambing. Gwyn James from Nettex offers timely personal and professional reminders to keep on top of your game.

grew up on a sheep and beef farm in Wales and still help family and friends to lamb inside. We always started by trying to identify ewes that might not be in the best condition – and I still do today.

twins can be identified and dealt with quickly and easily thanks to high energy liquids that replace and rebalance the nutritional needs of ewes before lambing.

important tool at this stage is make sure the ewe is hydrated via a drenching gun.

A nutritional imbalance, calcium deficiency caused by the lack of metabolisable calcium in the final weeks of pregnancy as ewes are put under significant nutritional stress due to accelerated foetal growth.

A calcium drench, such as CalciEwe+, with added energy, magnesium and niacin can support recovery after pre-lambing exhaustion. It should be used when the first signs of calcium deficiency are seen – including coma, paralysis, rapid breathing, tremors or uncoordinated movements.

Further health concerns for ewes carrying

Also known as pregnancy toxemia, affects sheep in the late stages of pregnancy. If untreated, the ewe is unlikely to recover. It's caused by low blood glucose levels and symptoms include weight loss, blindness and ewes will be unable to stand or eat.

It can be brought on by stress from handling or transporting ewes. Ewes with too high or too low a body condition score are at greater risk. A twin lamb solution containing a high energy liquid should be administered as early as possible.

If caught late and the ewe has gone down, twin lamb solutions become less effective, an

Despite the pressure of managing other aspects of the farm, spending the time indoors to make sure lambing pens and overall shed hygiene is at its best is crucial to preventing common diseases.

Preparation of a hygienic and comfortable lambing area is a discipline all farms tend to observe. However, once lambing starts it is often tricky to maintain these high standards.

Equipment should be cleaned between uses to minimise the spread of any bacteria and disease. Joint Ill and Watery Mouth are commonly caused by poor shed hygiene and can be avoided with a disciplined cleanliness regime.

Following a successful birth, lambs will benefit from a quality colostrum product to help recover from the birth.

For lambs that struggle to stand and suckle, an energy boost in the form of colostrum is a must. Lambs that don’t feed quickly are at risk from hypothermia, and a colostrum that can elevate blood glucose levels will help lambs to recover and suckle faster.

Finally, being able to identify lambs and ewes as housing fills up is important to ensure lost lambs are reunited with their mothers to avoid them becoming weak.

It is easy to lapse on marking as lambing gets busy, but it is important to use a quality spray. I tail and number lambs and dock the ewe’s tail too. Having a long-lasting spray helps when the flock is turned out, especially in heavy rain. 1 Calcium deficiency 2 Twin lamb disease 3 Hygiene 4 Colostrum 5 Identification

Liver fluke lateral flow test is way forward

ly, blood samples to detect exposure to liver fluke would have been sent off to the lab for analysis.

This test can be done on your farm, and you will get an answer in minutes. You can only buy the kits through your farm vet, and their help in interpreting the result and advising on product choice, does not eliminate the role of your vet in testing for liver fluke. But it does speed up the testing.

After a wet and mild summer and autumn for many farms, forecasts suggest 2024/25 may be a high liver fluke challenge for some areas.

Covid has a lot to answer for, but helping on-farm testing is not one that would have been top of my list. The experience of using a lateral flow device is making a new liver fluke test more feasible for farmers.

A pen side lateral flow test for liver fluke, developed by the University of Liverpool and made commercially available by Norbrook has recently been made available here in the UK. Previous-

When facing a high risk, the temptation is to treat with a flukicide. But testing to know when the risk is present on your farm could help you treat at the optimum time, such as when your animals have been exposed.

The kits are available in packs of 10 and the advice is to use all ten on the same management group to get a representative sample of the presence of fluke. Ideally, animals grazing different areas of land or different age groups, would be tested separately.

Only use this test

differentiate between new or recent infection and historic infection.

A negative test does not give you a clean bill of health for the rest of the year – so discuss with your vet or advisor about the interval between testing again.

Other testing options are available on the SCOPS website at www.scops.org.uk.

Nerys Wright is an independent sheep consultant. For more details, call 07891 187643 or visit sheepconsultancy.co.uk.

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LAMMA 2025

LAMMA 2025 set to be ‘best event yet’

• Two-day machinery farm extravaganza

• Product launches from manufacturers

• Practical demonstration and seminars

More than 600 exhibitors will showcase the latest agricultural innovations at next month’s flagship LAMMA event.

Due to take place on 15-16 January at NEC Birmingham, organisers say LAMMA 2025 promises to be a record-breaking showcase of agricultural machinery, technology and expertise for the farming community.

With an expanded exhibition space, exclusive product launches, and a packed schedule of activities – the two-day show will include exclusive machinery launches, UK debuts, and live demonstrations.

Innovation in Action

From tractors and combines to arable and grassland machinery, LAMMA 2025 will feature the best in agricultural technology. Visitors will enjoy giving them hands-on insight into cut-

It’s an unmissable opportunity

ting-edge equipment from renowned brands like JCB, Fendt, Massey Ferguson, and New Holland.

A key highlight for 2025 is the return of Kuhn farm machinery, attending for the first time since 2020. Kuhn UK managing director Sian Pritchard said the show’s increasing popularity was a major factor in returning to the event.

Organisers say LAMMA 2025 is more than an exhibition – describing it as a hub for knowledge-sharing and professional growth. Seminar topics will include sustainability, artificial intelligence, automation, and market trends.

Event director Sarah Whittaker-Smith said: “LAMMA is the UK’s premier platform for agricultural machinery and innovation. With more exhibitors and product debuts than ever, this year’s show is an unmissable op-

portunity for learning, networking, and discovery.”

Farming Simulator

In an exciting crossover of farming technology and gaming, the internationally acclaimed Farming Simulator series will make its return to LAMMA. With over 30 million units sold worldwide, Farming Simulator 22 highlights iconic agricultural brands like Case IH, Fendt, Massey Ferguson, and more. Visitors can explore the game’s latest features and dive into the evolution of virtual farming.

The much-loved Demo Arena is also back, offering visitors the chance to see state-of-the-art machinery in action. Top manufacturers will demonstrate their newest developments, showcasing their equipment.

Prize draw

LAMMA 2025 is upping the ante with a thrilling competition: attendees will have the chance to win a Polaris Ranger Diesel, valued at over £24,000. Designed to handle the toughest conditions, this vehicle combines rugged durability with versatility.

The prize draw is open to people aged 18 and over who provide their details after completing the online survey and registration form before attending LAMMA 2025.

For full details and to register your attendance, visit ww.lammashow.com

Tens of thousands of visitors are expected at the two-day show.

briggsirrigation.co.uk

LAMMA debut for latest machines from Case IH

Innovative new models and tech nology developments from glob al machinery giant Case IH will be introduced to visitors at next month's LAMMA event.

The two-day show at the NEC Bir mingham heralds the first UK appear ance of an AF10 combine harvester –part of the new AF Series. The AF9 and AF10 launch completes the Case IH Year of the Combine that began with the Axial-Flow 160 and 260 series.

Case IH claims it now offers the industry’s largest line of single-rotor combines, staying true to a sys

mation and Row Guide Pro. Further in-cab control features include remote feeder and rotor reverse

The latest Farmall C – a stalwart of the

New sales manager for Stocks AG

Sean Stanfield has been appointed sales manager at Stocks Ag – and will be on hand to meet visitors at LAMMA.

Having worked in the agricultural machinery sector for more than 30 years, Mr Stanfield will be responsible for managing sales of the company’s aftermarket wheels and applicators in UK and export markets.

An agricultural engineering graduate, before Stocks Mr Stanfield ran his own machinery import and distribution business for many years before becoming group combine sales specialist for a UK machinery dealer.

“When the opportunity came along, I knew I had to go for it," he says. "My experience within the machinery sales and agricultural engineering sector means I have a deep understanding of

customers’ needs and I already knew the Stocks product well. Stocks being a UK manufacturer is a real bonus.

"The company’s expansion is something I am proud to be part of. I am looking forward to ex panding the range into new dealers, OEMs and further territories over the coming years.”

Stocks Ag managing director James Wool way described Mr Stanfield as a true asset to the business. “His appetite for more involvement in export sales means we can set a clear plan for the future of the Stocks Ag brand.”

Mr Stanfield’s time will be split between the Stocks office at Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, and being out on the road meeting dealers, farmers and parts suppliers. Stocks Ag will be in Hall 6 on stand 540.

mall has been a stalwart of the Case IH line-up since 1923 – bringing power and manoeuvrability in a compact design, making it ideal for both livestock and mixed farms.

As well as a refreshed design, the versatile front loader tractor now boasts significantly enhanced performance, the option of full precision farming technology and a range of new features to aid loader work.

These include a six-post cab and repositioned exhaust for superior visibility as well as increased hydraulic pump capacity for faster loader cycle times and a newly introduced active clutch system, which allows the tractor to be held on the brake pedal.

In the cab, operators can benefit from suite of headland management solutions, optional factory-fitted telematics and modernized digital instrumentation and adaptive lighting.

Finally, an increased gross vehicle weight of 7,000kg and an upgraded rear lift capacity means heavier implements can be utilised, providing greater versatility.

Interactive display highlights ease of remapping

Avon Tuning HD will showcasean interactive display enabling farmers to manually configure an ECU and use Dimsport remapping equipment to mirror the process carried out on farms.

The LAMMA 2025 display will demonstrate the professional and safe nature of remapping to prospective agents and farmers.

It will highlight how easy it is to read an ECU file from a machine and upload it to the Avon Tuning HD agent portal, says the company.

Quick return

Once the data has been uploaded, the user receives the edited file back and can apply the upgrade to the machine, typically in under two hours. Also on the stand will be the company’s freshly painted New Holland T5.110 in-house training tractor.

This is used to prepare agents on diagnostics and remapping procedures to ensure agents have the skills required to professionally and safely apply remaps to agricultural equipment.

The tractor will be connected to a static Dimsport DF2TR dynamome ter, sold through Avon Tuning HD. Showing the dyno at LAMMA gives dealerships and engineers the oppor tunity to see the technology up close before placing an order.

Gareth Jones, director at Avon Tuning HD, says LAMMA 2025 rep resents the chance to show farmers and agents how remapping can ben efit their businesses.

“Our agent network has grown con siderably during the last five years, di rectly linked to the increased demand for professional remapping. Howev er, there are still big opportunities for new agents to join.

“We want to use LAMMA to high light how straightforward the pro cess is and the support offered by the Avon Tuning HD team. The additions to our 2025 stand show our dedication to safely increasing machine efficien cy across the agricultural industry.”

Avon Tuning HD will be on stand 7.600 at LAMMA 2025

The on-farm tuning process can be carried out easily

Maize Headers & Grass Pick Up Headers

Pick up: Available from 3m, 4m, 5m and 6m versions

Maize headers folding from 6 to 8 row available. And fixed from 5 to 16 row with 50cm, 75cm available.

Available from 4m to 16m versions

Fendt launches new machinery at LAMMA

• ‘Perfect opportunity’ for showcase

• Efficient and smarter engineering

• Good in wide range of conditions

LAMMA 2025 will be the first showing of the new Fendt 600 Vario – and will mark the UK launch of the new generation of Fendt Former rakes.

The Fendt stand will include the new 920C Former, the Gen 1 600 Vario, and a selection of tractors including the Gen7 728 Vario. Another LAMMA first will be the chance to see Fendt’s Corus 5275C straw walker which features ParaLevel technology.

“LAMMA is a centrepiece of agricultural machinery in the UK and is the perfect opportunity for Fendt to show the new tractors and machinery that is available,” says Fendt’s Ed Dennett.

“Our stand demonstrates the strength in depth we have, and we welcome all visitors who want to talk

Fendt’s 728 Vario will be available for visitors to see.

“The Fendt 600 Vario is powered by a new 4-cylinder, 5-litre AGCO Power CORE50 engine. It’s a superb all-rounder

al 15hp regardless of forward speed.

“The 600 Vario spans a gap in traditional tractor ranges. It is a superb all-rounder that, despite having a compact shape, can be used for towing heavy loads, carrying front tanks or operating heavy mounted implements.”

Turning circle

The Vario can reach a top speed of 50 km/h at 1,250 rpm and offers 950 Nm from 1,200 rpm to 1,600 rpm. “It is also very manoeuvrable, providing a turning circle of just 10.2 metres,” adds Mr Dennett.

Fendt’s C-Series range of straw walkers includes two 6-cylinder engines from AGCO Power. With a cubic capacity of 7.4 l (5275 C) and 8.4 l (6335 C), they deliver a maximum

output of 306 hp (5275 C) and 360 hp (6335 C) respectively.

The 5275C model at LAMMA features ParaLevel, a unique function that stabilises the combine on undulating and hilly land. Based on a parallelogram, it can compensate for slopes of up to 20%.

This means the combine can operate at maximum output whilst the threshing unit, separating and cleaning systems remain horizontal.

The Former rake and Rotana MY25 baler are new to Fendt’s expanding grassland machinery range.

Memory function

The two-rotor Former features six models with working widths from 6.9 to 10 metres that include SteerGuard, a patented technology which improves manoeuvrability. It also has a double swing arm on the rotor suspension which have the option of being coupled to ISOBUS for greater connectivity, memory functions and section control.

The Rotana combi round balers have been updated and will soon be available with moisture analysis or a weighing function.

Profi models also include a link to Fendt’s Tractor Implement Management System (TIM) to automatically stop after the binding process and automatically eject the bale.

“The diversity of Fendt’s range reflects the diversity of farming machinery needed in the UK,” says Mr Dennett.

“From the 600 Vario, that will be appealing to a broad range of farms, to our grassland and harvesting machinery, we hope visitors to LAMMA will have plenty to discuss with our product specialists.”

Tramspread unrolls 1400m hose reeler

Slurry and digestate management spe cialist Tramspread has added a new larger-capacity random wrap hose reel er to its extensive range.

The new model, which will be shown for the first time in the UK at LAMMA 2025, is designed to handle bigger diameter spools which can comfortably accommodate 1400m of 5-inch or 1200m of 6-inch diameter drag hose.

“This introduction is primarily in re sponse to customer demand,” explains Tram spread sales manager James Peachey.

“Everything is steadily getting larger, and we had already increased from 600m to 1000m, so we see 1400m as a natural pro gression. We’ve had requests from the con tinent, and the first five off the production line have already been sold to France, but it is now available in the UK too.”

Strengthened

To accommodate the larger diameter spools the main frame has been enlarged and strengthened. The three-point linkage frame is also heavier, and the linkage brackets have been lowered to give additional lift height.

A new optional light bar can now be fitted above the reel and encompasses side lights and indicators which operate with the trac

Unveiled: Agricast’s latest low disturbance point

Parts supplier Agricast will reveal its latest low disturbance grassland point at LAMMA –the GLX 150 Ultra which joins the LDX and STX in the company’s lineup.

Similar to the GLX Ultra, the GLX 150 Ultra features tungsten chip hard facing on the shin, a large tungsten tile on the nose and a high chrome hard facing on the nose and wings.

Additional tungsten carbide has been added to the wings to offer increased protection. As the name suggests, the new point is 150mm wide as opposed to the 112mm standard GLX.

Popular

The range has been incredibly popular since Agricast’s original GLX point was introduced in December 2020.

The GLX point is the company’s fast est-selling product, and this year’s ad dition – the GLX Ultra sold out in two months.

As well as the new GLX 150 Ultra, Agricast will celebrate six years of its High Strength Wheel at LAMMA and launch the GRX – a new low distur bance point designed for Grange Ma chinery machines.

“We appear to have found the sweet spot of performance, durability and value for money with our GLX range, which has made it incredibly popular,” says Agricast managing director Wil liam Robinson.

“We always enjoy LAMMA, and we’re very much looking forward to introducing people to the latest ad ditions to our range.” Agricast will be on stand 20.320.

The GLX Ultra extends the popular range introduced in 2020 by agricultural wearing parts supplier Agricast

Latest products from Claydon make LAMMA debut

Suffolk-based farm machinery manufacturers Claydon will exhibit three new products at LAMMA 2025 next month.

The company’s stand at the NEC Birmingham will include the company’s new Evolution front hopper, a 4m version of its Evolution drill toolbar with twin-tine fertiliser placement, and a Claydon mole drainer.

Claydon will also exhibit a selection of other machines during the two-day show – including 6m T6 Hybrid trailed drill, a 3m M3F Evolution mounted drill with grain and fertiliser, and a 9m straw harrow.

UK sales manager David Furber said: “We will use LAMMA 2025 to showcase our ability to offer flexible seed and fertiliser placement, meet-

ing the requirements of the Sustain able Farming Incentive and growing companion crops.

“The fact that also we have this op tion available on our 3m M3F Evolu tion and 6m T6 trailed drills demon strates how we can offer farmers the option of generating additional in come through the SFI, with ideal seed placement.”

Drill toolbar

The Evolution drill toolbar can be used with the Evolution front hopper and is available in widths of 3m, 4m, 4.5m, 4.8m, 5m or 6m. The standard specification includes one distribution head with 38mm seed delivery hoses, but a second head is optional.

With a total capacity of 2750 litres,

split 45/55%, the Evolution front hopper is pressurised to ensure reliable high-volume material delivery to the rear distribution heads. An ISOCAN terminal controls all front hopper functions.

Twin metering units deliver either mixed or separated seed/fertiliser flows to the rear-mounted drill, a simple airline box selector diverting the flow of material to the distribution pipes or combining the total out-

Claydon's new Evolution drill toolbar (above) can be used with the front hopper (right)

put into one pipe.

ISOBUS compatible, the hopper is supplied with small, medium or large diameter interchangeable metering wheels to suit a wide range of seeds and fertilisers. Weighing 730kg, it measures 2476mm wide, 1803mm high and 1619mm long.

Two hopper sensors provide low level and empty warnings, work lights, two road vision cameras, a toolbox and foldable front footstep.

Options include 550kg of ballast, plus packer wheels with passive steer-

The single-leg Claydon mole drainer mixes the benefits of mounted and trailed designs without the drawbacks of either, enabling mole drains to be formed easily and accurately. Even on very heavy land, it can be handled by a well-ballasted 200hp tractor.

Mounted on the tractor’s rear three-point linkage, the implement features a long, narrow beam which allows the 75mm-diameter mole bullet and 100mm ceramic expander to produce a uniform, stable channel at the correct depth and angle.

The design also avoids excessive friction between the beam and soil surface, minimising draft requirement and fuel use. The oscillating headstock has a swivel joint which allows the drainer to reach further into headland ditches or over drains.

Because the narrow beam is held in the upright position there is no need for outrunner skids and the angle of the bullet can be precisely adjusted. Locked in place by a steel wedge,

the blade pivots on three pins and the bullet angle is controlled by the narrow 200mm-wide front skid, allowing mole draining through standing crops with little damage.

Chains linking the oscillating headstock to the beam allow the tractor to turn easily and progressively lift the beam, enabling the mole to ski out of the ground gently with minimal soil disturbance.

Claydon will be on stand 6.600.

Ease and accuracy with the new Claydon mole drainer

Kuhn back at show after five year absence

Kuhn Farm Machinery returns to LAMMA for the first time in five years, showcasing sev eral models making debuts.

Explaining the company’s decision to exhibit at the NEC Birmingham, Kuhn UK managing director Sian Pritchard, says the show’s wide-rang ing audience was a major factor in coming back to the event for the first time since 2020.

“We have chosen LAMMA as our premiere event in 2025 as it allows us to display all our products under one roof, along with the space for detailed discussions about increasing on-farm efficiency using Kuhn machinery.”

For livestock and grassland producers, two machines will make their UK debut – including the widest mounted tedder on the market and Kuhn’s lat-

More than 20 machines will be on the stand and advancements in crop protection and nutrition will be a key tion to field borders, helps protect the environment and reduce losses.

ing mower has a rear vertical folding design to improve stability during transport, allow better access to tight gateways, and occupies less floor space thanks to a vertical storage frame. Kuhn will be on stand 18.300.

KUHN’s 13m GF 13003 mounted tedder offers greater output in fields.

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Water Management

Sustainable water resource management

Abstraction licence renewals

Borehole, reservoirs, surface abstraction, infrastructure, IT control

Grant aid applications

Reservoir planning, construction and management

Water efficiency

Water quality issues

Contact: 01263 733395 07785 935498

andrew.alston@farmline.com www.awmcl.co.uk

FARM WASTE PLASTICS RECYCLING

(Fertiliser and seed bags, all sizes & types of spray containers & cardboard collected off farm).

Collections over East Anglia, further afield on request.

For more information please call Katherine Smith – 07590 850307 Tom Smith – 07801 416942

ANGLIA WASTE COLLECTION

Professional

Financial advice to ease Budget pain

Biggest change ‘for a generation’

Farming families should seek professional advice rather than making rash decisions following the Autumn budget, say financial experts.

It comes after the government’s decision to abolish 100% agricultural property relief (APR) and impose inheritance tax (IHT) on the value of farming assets above £1m. Anything above this cap will be taxed at 20%.

Industry leaders have described the announcement as a betrayal given government promises ahead of the election that there were no plans to change either APR or business property relief (BPR).

Significant change

Jason Beedell, rural research director at farm business consultants Strutt & Parker, said: “This is the most significant change to the inheritance tax regime for a generation. It will be seen as a major U-turn.”

The government has said the aim is to restrict the generosity of APR and BPR for “the wealthiest estates”, but the £1 million nil rate band, applied after any other general reliefs, will only enable around 40ha (100 acres) to be transferred free of IHT.

“This will really hit working farmers and their families hard,” says Dr Beedell. For an average sized farm (350 acres), the increase in IHT liability could be around £500,000. For a large farm (1,000 acres), the increase could be around £2m.

More certainty

“This comes at a time when farming businesses are facing direct support payments being phased out even faster, extreme weather events and market volatility.”

Oliver Carr, who leads the rural team at Savills in Cambridge, said: “Now that the budget announcements have been made – whatever we may think of them – we can at least move forward with a bit more certainty.

“The changes to APR and BPR mean that proactive succession planning is absolutely vital. Once more detail has been released and the options explored, we will better understand how to help farming business best protect their future.”

Tax benefit

Mr Carr added: “The varying demands on land mean we continue to see a range of purchaser types in the

The NFU says 75% of family farms now face paying inheritance tax

“This

will

hit farming families hard

market who have their own reasons for investing – notwithstanding the tax benefit.

“As such, we’re not expecting a rush of land to the market or for values to drop dramatically. Selling farmland generates cash, which has a worse inheritance tax treatment than farmland under both current and new IHT rules.

“Ultimately, it will take a material change in supply and demand dynamics to significantly impact pricing – and only time will tell if that will be the case.”

Bitesize guide outlines ways to recruit good staff

Tips and advice on recruiting and employing people in agriculture are now available in a free online publication.

The 29-page, easy-to-read booklet –‘Teams – Recruiting and retaining great people in farming and agribusiness; A Bitesize Guide’ highlights key findings from 10 Nuffield Farming Scholar reports.

It is published by Nuffield Farming Scholarships and the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE), supported by the Elizabeth Creak Charitable Trust.

The booklet has a series of Talking Points addressing topics such the cost of replacing people, mentoring and coaching, and how to secure a return on investment in training. Information is complemented by a series of In Practice case studies. Based on findings by Nuffield Scholars, they include advice on successfully interviewing potential new

staff and dealing with leavers.

Nuffield Scholar and RASE head of technical development Stephen Briggs said: “Recruiting and retaining great people in farming and agribusiness is a challenge many people will be familiar with.

“This new Bitesize Guide highlights some of the great information gathered and published by Nuffield Scholars as part of their scholarship report – it’s a practical guide which anyone employing or managing people will find useful.”

Contributing scholars have each spent more than eight weeks travelling across the world examining these topics. Th Bitesize Guide pulls together their key thoughts and recommendations.

Rupert Alers-Hankey, director of the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust said the guide was a great way to highlight Nuffield report findings and make them more accessible to a wider audience.

The Talking Points booklet tackles a range of topics faced by farmers

Budget ‘lacks measures’ to encourage growth

Labour’s first Budget in 14 years has far-reaching consequences for farmers and the economy

The government has missed a key opportunity to boost economic growth for agriculture and UK businesses, says a farming analyst.

As the dust settles from the autumn Budget, the consequences for farming and the wider economy are becoming clear, says Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser to the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers.

Changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) and reducing agricultural and business property relief (APR and BPR) will be costly to many farms, while the arguments used appear based on misunderstood and partial data, he says.

“These changes will affect many more fam-

says Mr Moody, citing the example of a key project which has been mothballed.

“The signal given in July by the Chancellor’s cancellation of the £800m exacomputer project at Edinburgh University – one 50 times faster than any computer now in the UK, with a capability for key research and industry projects – seems confirmed.

“The Office for Budget Responsibility sees no real lift in growth in this Parliament, observing that the only Parliament with less growth will have been the last one - with its pandemic and Ukraine war.

When it comes to holiday lets, a popular farm diversification, there have been some

do the IHT changes really mean? In simple terms, where land, dwellings, machinery, animals and other assets are worth £4m, there will be £600,000 in tax to find.

“That is a lot to pay. Even if spread over 10 years that is as much as many farms make in profit over 10 years, precluding important investment.”

The government argues that only a quarter of farms; the wealthiest quarter, are affected. But Mr Moody – who is a respected independent analyst and adviser in his own right – says this misunderstands the tax data.

First, it is only based on APR claims and takes no account of the farm’s machinery, livestock, working capital or other business assets, including diversified business activities supporting the farm and the economy.

Second, it is not an assessment of farms but of individual ownerships of agricultural land. The average value of £486,000 might generally be just 50 acres but nearer 20 in some areas.

Some will be small intense farms or family members’ land used by the family farm, but more will be lifestyle units and stray fields let out for grazing round a house – both likely with wealthier non-farming owners.

The data does not record farms when, on Defra data, the average cereals farm would need four owners to be out of tax on its farming activity.

“If farmland has to be sold, the increased capital gains tax rate will mean more acres must go, reducing the farm’s production capacity and its ability to meet its overheads,” warns Mr Moody.

Other measures

However, and almost immediately, English farmers face the dramatic acceleration of delinked payment cuts – with the government phasing out the Basic Payment Scheme much quicker than previously.

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Key tax considerations when exploring diversification

EXPERT VIEW

The government’s autumn Budget heralds significant tax implications for farmers which must be carefully managed, says Stephanie Dennis.

iversification can offer many farmers a valuable additional income stream. But careful legal and tax planning is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.

Farmers need to consider how diversification impacts their overall tax position, from Inheritance Tax (IHT) and Income Tax to Capital Gains Tax (CGT). Seeking professional advice at the planning stage is key to ensuring that tax reliefs are not lost.

With over 69% of UK farmers diversifying1, such ventures are becoming commonplace. But what are the specific tax issues farmers need to be aware of and how have the proposed changes announced during the autumn budget impacted this?

IHT and Agricultural Property Relief (APR)

One of the biggest tax considerations for any farm business is IHT and whether diversification could affect the availability of APR.

APR provides a valuable relief that reduces the tax burden on farm businesses when passing down assets through generations. It

is vital for many family farms to continue, especially when it comes to succession planning.

Tax changes announced by the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, in October will affect farmers who inherit assets above £1m. APR will apply to land and property inherited under £1m, but from April 2026, anything over this threshold will be subject to IHT with a 50% relief applied.

When land or property is taken out of agricultural use for diversification purposes, it’s worth noting that in some circumstances, it may no longer qualify for this relief.

Farms could instead qualify for Business Property Relief (BPR) if the new venture meets specific criteria.

However, with the new proposed changes, the two reliefs will be combined, meaning both will count towards the £1m threshold, which is crucial to consider.

Tax on diversification profits

Another key consideration is Income or Corporation Tax on the profits generated from diversification. The tax payable depends on the structure of the business.

If you're diversifying using the current

profits. This could push partners into higher tax brackets, so careful planning is essential.

On the other hand, some farmers choose to establish a limited company to manage the diversified business, which could result in a lower tax rate as it would be subject to corporation tax, instead of income tax.

But while there are potential savings, choosing the right business structure requires a thorough understanding of both the tax advantages and the practicalities of managing that structure.

CGT on land and asset sales

Diversification projects that involve selling land or assets, such as converting agricultural buildings into holiday lets or commercial properties, may also trigger CGT.

Any significant increase in the value of these assets since the diversification would likely result in CGT when they're sold or gifted. Understanding these obligations from the start helps prevent costly surprises.

Recent tax changes have increased CGT, with lower-rate payers seeing an 8% rise and higher-rate payers a 6% rise on the existing rates. Residential property thresholds remain unchanged.

Business Asset Disposal Relief (also known as Entrepreneur’s Relief), often used by farmers to offset CGT liabilities when exiting farming and passing the business to the next generation, will also see a 4% increase, reaching 14% in April 2025.

Planning for the future

One north Bedfordshire farmer, managing around 300 acres of arable land, diversified approximately 10 years ago into a static and touring caravan site, as well as light industrial and commercial letting.

This strategic move aimed to balance the farm business and enhance profitability. The industrial land, which is approximately one acre in size, is now valued in the region of £1.5 million, which cements the significance of diversification in today’s farming landscape.

To ensure legal compliance when making the move to diversify the business, the farmer took legal advice. With the main landowner in his late 80s, careful consideration of IHT liabilities is crucial in this case.

Certain gifts might not fully exit his estate for IHT purposes if he doesn’t survive the seven-year threshold, so we’re constantly reviewing the business model to maximise profitability and ensure the most effective succession planning for future generations.

Stephanie Dennis is a partner at HCR Hewitsons. For details, visit www.hcrlaw.com

Opening a farm shop requires attention to

region’s water supply

Big challenge is demand for water

East of England farmers have a crucial role in securing the region’s water supply by embracing new thinking and fostering collaboration, says a report.

An integrated water management strategy is needed to address the challenges of water quality and quality, says rural consultants Savills. The current fragmented approach to water management across different sectors is unsustainable, it warns.

Regional group Water Resources East says the East of England is projected to require over 400 million extra litres of water per day by 2050 to support its growing population, food production and environmental protection.

The Savills Spotlight report identifies several ways farmers can contribute to water resilience. They include improved water management solutions, collaborative working, sustainable practices and investment in infrastructure and reservoirs.

Under pressure

Savills eastern region associate director Tim Frost said: “Finding innovative solutions to reduce reliance on already stressed resources will be crucial to creating a sustainable and long-lasting business.”

This is important because farmers in the East of England are coming under more and more pressure to use water more effectively as abstraction licences and weather patterns become more uncertain.

To help the rural sector achieve improved water resilience, Mr Frost says

the government needs to make more resources available for effective investment – both from the public and private sector.

It should also ringfence a funding pot for the delivery of the necessary infrastructure to support an integrated approach, he adds. This includes streamlining processes from consultation through to planning and execution.

Best practice

More farmers are exploring how best to manage their water supplies. Some are adopting nature-based solutions and rainwater harvesting. Others are constructing on-farm reservoirs, upgrading irrigation systems and developing water recycling facilities.

The establishment of water resources regional groups also highlights the importance of multi-sector collaboration, says Mr Frost. Farmers and landowners can and should play a pivotal role in these groups, he believes.

A new approach to water management is vita for the region, says the report

soils, enhance biodiversity and improve the resilience of surrounding water supplies.

Since 2012, the NRT has collaborated with more than 300 farmers with the aim of creating a positive impact for their rivers and wetlands, while still ensuring food can be produced.

This also includes working across agricultural supply chains to use water more sustainably by increasing groundwater infiltration and enhancing the land’s water-holding capacity.

“Innovative solutions will be crucial

Daniel Murphy, from the food and farming team at Savills in Norfolk, says: “A specific example of how the project is being delivered is the construction of a large on-farm attenuation feature.”

Tackling flooding

In this case, a pond has been designed to temporarily hold and gradually release water to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. It captures water from the surrounding arable land, holding it to allow infiltration and recharge of the chalk aquifer beneath.

Sharing best practices and developing integrated water management plans, can include exploring sustainable solutions such as planting drought-resistant crops and enhancing soil health to improve water retention and reduce runoff.

The Savills report highlights the Norfolk Rivers Trust’s (NRT) Norfolk and CamEO (Cam and Ely Ouse) project as an example of how collective action can help businesses and the environment become more resilient.

The pond has been constructed on land with low productivity. “It will also create a new habitat for wildlife and mitigate the effect of field runoff, thus improving the resilience of the landscape against increasingly frequent extreme weather.”

NRT sustainable agriculture officer Josie Crook says: “We hope this project will connect the entire supply chain and raise awareness among stakeholders about the challenges of growing food in today’s climate.

“Ultimately, we aim to encourage growers to consider how they use natural resources. By using these resources more sustainably, we can improve landscape resilience and make food production more environmentally viable for future generations.”

Tim Frost: Huge challenges

FINAL SAY Fen Tiger

Don't bite hand that feeds you

The autumn Budget shows Labour doesn’t care for farming families – or their farms, says Fen Tiger

So now we know. Despite all its pre-election promises, this Labour government doesn't care for farming. And neither does it care for farmers.

The autumn Budget is a disaster for farming. Not just for the removal of agricultural property relief. But for the decision to tax pick-ups as if they are company cars. And the faster and harder phaseout of the basic payment scheme.

National coﬀers

Farmers will also be hit by measures affecting other businesses. Including changes to business property relief and the hike in employers’ national insurance contributions –

We have been betrayed “

which the government claims will raise £20bn for the national coffers.

I doubt very much whether Rachel Reeves calculated the impact of ending 100% agricultural property relief on farmland. She didn’t even bother telling Defra until the eve of the Budget.

Not one senior figure in this government – from Keir Starmer down – has ever run a business where a monthly wage bill must be met. Neither have they dealt with rule changes that threaten their very existence.

Imposing 20% inheritance tax on farms passed down to the next generation shows a total lack of understanding of how farming works. Certainly in this neck of the woods, I cannot think of one single farming business that will be unaffected.

‘Good life’

True, £1m sounds like a great deal of money. But sadly not in farming terms, where land prices have been inflated by big corporations, housing developers and wealthy celebrities looking to live the good life.

We all know how low the returns are from food production. They are certainly not high enough to pay this sort of tax – despite Defra secretary Steve Reed asserting that farmers must learn to do more with less.

Farming families are rightly angry. We have been betrayed. If we were French, I suspect Parliament Square would have been blocked with various agricultural machines and implements during last month’s London rally.

Given the Chancellor’s obvious disdain

for farmers, it is unlikely that the government will abandon its inheritance tax decision completely. But it seems bizarre to impose a tax and then argue that farmers won’t be affected. Why pick that fight?

Family farms

I could understand the government clamping down on wealthy individuals – including, ahem, Jeremy Clarkson – who buy swathes farmland simply to avoid inheritance tax. Instead, Rachel Reeves chose to target family farms.

So how do we deal with these new rule changes? Big business manages the land for short term profit and to satisfy shareholders. Perhaps areas of farmland will now be sold off to reflect the budget changes.

Smaller farms take the long view. We hope to see our businesses grow so our grandchildren can enjoy the fruits of our labour. Sadly, for many family farms, this may no longer be the case.

Having to find hundreds of thousands of pounds to settle inheritance tax bills will cause massive financial pressure – a burden that will result in many families deciding that the only way to settle is to sell.

Acceptable answer

For others, a life insurance policy could help pay the tax when the demand hits the post box. But given that the average age of farmers is pushing 60, premiums will be expensive and unaffordable if health complications come into play.

At the same time, investment in farm businesses may have to be reduced. In many cases, any spare money will be needed to pay accountants, solicitors and farm business advisers for an acceptable answer.

Rather than making any rash decisions, it is certainly better to sit tight and wait for the heat to go out of the situation. But I can’t see this being reversed completely, even following a change in government – which could be five years off anyway.

Handing over the farm now or selling up are two further options. Neither inspires peace and harmony within many farming families. It is a terrible dilemma – and with mental health issues coming to the fore, let us hope a sensible solution can be found.

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