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Castle Hayes Farm, Staffordshire, has benefited from an investment in people. Find out more in our careers special, starting on p32.
Profitable farming businesses are key to Labour’s growth strategy
AFTER months of political kite-flying and speculation, which has done more to raise fear than confidence, farmers can now take time to digest Labour’s plans and what they mean for their businesses.
While Chancellor Rachel Reeves did not ride a coach and horses through the sector and abolish Agricultural Property Relief (APR) completely, the changes set out this week will seed more angst – particularly for tenant farmers, who make up 30% of the UK’s farmed landscape.
Far from being a Budget which the Chancellor pledged would ‘protect small family farms’, introducing a tax rate of 20% on everything above £1 million – considering land values are currently about £10,000/acre – will leave many with an extortionate tax bill.
For an industry which is known for the highrisk/low-reward environment in which it operates, the costs will be too high to bear. Tax and succession planning is now even more critical.
What has become clear in the long-running debate leading up to Wednesday’s Budget, fuelled by leaks and countless briefings, is that there is a lack of understanding around the importance of reliefs like APR and Business Property Relief to the small- and medium-sized businesses which form the backbone of Britain.
Reliefs not only allow farmers and rural business owners to continue producing healthy, nutritious food for the nation, but also maintain
landscapes and, importantly, support the rural and national economies with jobs. These businesses hold the keys to growth. Often intergenerational, they are absolutely key to the Government’s desire to be a leader in science, technology and innovation, as well as its goals to increase carbon capture, fulfil house-building targets and raise the bar when it comes to boosting nature.
Rachel Reeves said she wants to rebuild public services and, as we know, farming provides a public service, underpinning the majority of what society needs. And it can do so much more with the right tools and fiscal instruments for growth.
As our story on p11 shows, consumers’ trust in farming is at a six-year high. The public trusts farmers to deliver; the Government needs to do the same.
While farming bodies take some time to digest this week’s financial changes, Defra says the legislation still needs to be passed and it is ready to listen. We, of course, will be keeping you up to date with analysis across all our platforms.
Keep an eye on farmersguardian.com/ budget, and do not forget there is a wealth of advice and help on-hand if you are struggling to make sense of it all – just visit farmersguardian.com/ farminghelp. and help on-hand if you
With the much anticipated first Labour Budget in 14 years taking place this week, Rachael Brown and Jane Thynne take a look at the impact on farming.
CHANGES to Agricultural Property Relief (APR), Inheritance Tax (IHT) rates and National Insurance were the standout messages for farmers in this week’s Autumn Budget.
Delivering the Labour Party’s first financial statement for 14 years, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves revealed she planned to introduce £40 billion of tax rises in what she claimed was a Budget for ‘working people’.
She said while now was the time to ‘invest, invest, invest’, there could also be ‘no shortcuts to restoring economic stability’ as Labour sought to ‘turn the page’ following 14 years of Tory ‘mismanagement’.
INDUSTRY leaders have condemned Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Budget, describing it as ‘disastrous’ and a ‘hammer blow’ for family farms.
NFU president Tom Bradshaw delivered a damning verdict on the Government’s financial plans and said: “Before the election, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised to establish a new relationship with farming and the countryside. Well, he has certainly done that.
“It has been a disastrous Budget for family farmers, and especially tenant farmers. The shameless breaking of clear promises on Agricultural Property Relief will snatch away the next generation’s ability to carry on producing British food, plan for the future and shepherd the environment.
“It is clear the Government does not understand, or perhaps does not care, that family farms are not only small farms, and that just because a farm is a valuable asset it does not mean those who work it are wealthy.
“This is one of a number of measures in the Budget which make it harder for farmers to stay in business and significantly increase the cost of producing food.”
Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) chief executive George Dunn said he was ‘deeply concerned’ by the announcement and would be writing to the Chancellor Rachel Reeves to urge her to rethink.
“It is hugely frustrating that the Chancellor did not choose to extend 100% Inheritance Tax relief to all land let for periods of 10 years or more as proposed by the TFA,” he said.
Rock Review author Baroness Kate
APR overhaul for farmers
There had been much speculation regarding APR and IHT over the preceding weeks, with farming unions and MPs urging the Government to rethink any planned changes.
Announcing the Budget, Ms Reeves said: “From April 2026, the first £1 million of combined business and agricultural assets will continue to attract no IHT at all, but for assets more than £1m, IHT will apply with 50%
Rock said it was a ‘disaster for tenant farmers’.
She added: “She thought she was protecting small family farms by setting a £1 million threshold for the tax-free element of Inheritance Tax, but instead she has undermined the future of many small tenanted farms whose owners will be looking for ways to restructure their estates to avoid huge death duties.”
Raising taxes
CLA president Victoria Vyvyan said: “The Government was elected on a promise of growth, but has done nothing for the countryside but freeze the agriculture budget and raise taxes.”
On the agriculture budget, AHDB economics and analysis director David Eudall said: “The funding pot for agriculture in the UK has remained constant at £2.4 billion since the 2019-2024 Parliament.
“During this time, inflation has led to a 44% increase in farm costs, while the agriculture budget remains the same. We are at a tipping point of how effective this budget can be in meeting the desired outcome of balancing food security, supporting farm efficiency, and delivering environmental benefits.”
Martin Lines, Nature Friendly Farming chief executive, said: “This decision is better news than we hoped for ahead of the Budget.
“We are pleased that the Government has listened to us and that the Chancellor has recognised how crucial maintaining investment in nature-friendly farming is and how food production and nature’s recovery go hand in hand.”
relief, at an effective rate of 20%.” The IHT threshold freeze would be frozen for a further two years to 2030. According to the Treasury, 75% of estates would not be impacted by the changes brought forward by the Chancellor, but concerns have been raised about the subsequent impact on tenant farmers in particular.
Beyond the detail
Defra said it was important for farmers to look beyond the detail of the Chancellor’s announcement, adding it was still subject to legislation, and further discussion would take place to assess the implications, which the Treasury would listen very carefully to. Defra emphasised the changes were not designed to undermine the
n “At today’s prices, £1 million would be 26 hectares (65 acres) around here. What does a farm need to be sustainable? This will force family farms to sell land which is going to only put more into hands of big businesses and outside of agriculture.”
CHARLES GOADBY, DAIRY FARMER, WARWICKSHIRE
n “Funding for nature-friendly farming is not a subsidy. Supporting farmers to deliver a resilient supply of nutritious food, clean water and nature recovery, offers a fantastic return on investment. The National Food Strategy put the environmental, health and nature costs of UK food at £70 billion a year. The farming budget is less than 3.5% of that.”
ANDY CATO, CO-FOUNDER OF WILDFARMED
n “The fact they have lifted the minimum pay level, by the amount they have done affects farming as much as a lot of industries. On top of that you have an increase in National Insurance contributions. It is a double whammy.”
PAUL TEMPLE, MIXED TENANT FARMER, YORKSHIRE
Farmer reaction
Industry reaction
tenancy system, but to protect it and the overwhelming majority of people in the farming sector.
While workers will not see greater deductions in their pay packets, National Insurance for employers will increase by 1.2% to 15% from April 2025, which Ms Reeves said will raise £25bn a year for the Government.
She also announced a rise in National Living Wage rates, which are set to go up to £12.21 an hour.
AGRICULTURE BUDGET SET AT £2.4 BILLION
THE Government has announced that the agriculture budget for next year will be £2.4 billion, which according to Defra is the ‘largest ever budget’ dedicated to providing sustainable food production and environmental benefits, with £1.8bn invested into Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes.
While the figure falls short of the £4bn demanded by the NFU, the news could be seen as one positive in this week’s raft of announcements for the industry.
Concerns had been raised about
future funding after it was found the previous Government had accumulated an underspend of £358 million, but the Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner said the figure reflected the importance of agriculture to the Government.
He said: “Farming and food security are the foundations of a healthy and resilient economy and environment.
“Our commitment to farmers and the vital role they play to feed our nation remains steadfast.
“That is why this Government will commit to the largest ever budget
Although it had been widely reported that fuel duty could be raised by as much as 7p, the Chancellor said she would continue to freeze prices for 2025.
Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said the Government had ‘fiddled the figures’ in order to raise tax to ‘record levels’. He added the Chancellor and Prime Minister were trying to say they had no choice but to take these measures, but their claims were nothing more than a ‘cynical political device’.
directed at sustainable food production and nature’s recovery in our country’s history, enabling us to keep momentum on the path to a more resilient and sustainable farming sector.”
Mr Zeichner announced that ELM would remain at the centre of its offer for farmers, with the Sustainable Farming Incentive, Countryside Stewardship Higher-Tier and Landscape Recovery all continuing.
He also said the Government planned to support farmers impacted by last year’s flooding, paying out £60m for
those affected by ‘unprecedented rainfall and flooding’ through the Farming Recovery Fund.
However, Devonshire-based organic dairy farmer Adam Westaway said: “The farming budget has been stuck in a ‘muddy’ rut for an age, in real terms our support has been cut and comes with delivery costs attached.
“Defra has failed to deliver this in the past and is now expected to deliver this on a 2% cut in its own budget. Schemes need simplicity for ease of delivery and adoption.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves.
News Budget 2024
l Bus fare hike to hit communities
By Alex Black
AFFORDABLE housing in rural areas could receive a boost from the Budget measures, but hikes in bus fares will hit those who rely on ‘crumbling’ rural public transport.
CPRE chief executive Roger Mortlock said he was ‘delighted’ to hear the Chancellor had set a budget of £3.1 billion to deliver affordable housing. He said: “So-called ‘affordable’
Boost for rural housing
housing is often far beyond the means of most people, however. Affordability should be defined in line with average local incomes, rather than as 80% of market value, as is currently the case.
“When the average price of a house in rural England is more than 16 times the average rural salary, so-called ‘affordable’ homes are often anything but.”
He added support for small housebuilders was ‘excellent news for an industry that is dominated by a few profit-hungry giants’, with small and medium-sized housebuilders able to bring more ‘genuinely affordable homes onto the market’.
He said: “At current rates of construction, it would take almost a century to clear social housing waiting
MB-TRAC COMMANDS £94,000 AT VINTAGE AUCTION
AN ‘immaculate’ MB-Trac 1600 made the top price of £94,336 at Cheffins’ final vintage auction of 2024. Tom Godsmark, associate at Cheffins, said the superb condition of items such as this, and the attraction of owning a piece of history, shows why 2024 has been another strong year for classic machinery.
Other top prices included £71,824 for a 1927 Sentinel ‘Super Steam Waggon’, a 1987 Massey Ferguson 2645 Electronic which made £49,312, a Roadless Ploughmaster 6/4 at £33,232, a sought-after John Deere 4255 at £32,160 and a 1988 Marshall 754XL which settled at £21,440.
No clarity on tree planting targets
THE Welsh Government is coming under increasing pressure to confirm its approach to the 10% tree planting target proposed in the initial design of the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS).
In a debate in the Senedd last week, led by the chair of the Economy Trade and Rural Affairs Committee, Paul Davies, communication on the ongoing direction of SFS was repeatedly raised by its committee members.
Mr Davies said it was still ‘unclear’ how SFS would strike the ‘balance’
between protecting the future of farming and food production and tackling the climate and nature emergency.
Unclear
He added it was unclear how the Welsh Government would ensure the scheme was accessible to all farmers, warning it could be ‘taking one step forward and two steps back’ if it continued to push ahead without significant changes.
He said members also flagged concerns over the lack of information
around SFS payment methodology, with ‘insufficient’ incentive for farmers to enter the scheme.
The chair of the Climate Change, Environment and Infrastructure committee, Llyr Gruffydd, called on the Minister to ‘share the decision’ on the 10% tree target before the final scheme was published.
Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies confirmed the carbon sequestration evidence panel would be reporting its findings to the ministerial round table ‘anytime soon’.
lists in rural parts of the country. Investing money from Right to Buy in more social housing is a welcome step in the right direction.”
Capital Gains Tax
Property industry bodies also welcomed the move not to apply Capital Gains Tax increases to landlords and second homeowners.
The bus fare price cap will increase from £2 to £3, which Mr Mortlock said meant rural bus users would be ‘paying higher fares for dwindling services’. He said: “Outside towns and cities, people who cannot afford a car face social isolation, as well as reduced access to education and work. Money raised by the fare cap increase should be invested in our crumbling rural public transport networks.”
Liberal Democrat Environment spokesperson Tim Farron described it as a ‘bus tax’, saying the burden of ‘fixing the Conservatives’ mess’ cannot be on people and small businesses.
Mr Farron said: “The fundamental issue is that neither Labour nor the Conservatives before them seemed to understand that for rural communities, it does not matter if the cap is £2 or £3 if they do not have a bus service in the first place.”
Government appoints Special Representative for Nature
THE UK Government has appointed Ruth Davis as its first ever Special Representative for Nature.
Ruth Davis is described as ‘one of the country’s leading environmental policy experts’, with more than 25 years’ experience working on issues of nature recovery and climate change.
Ms Davis previously advised the Government when it hosted COP26, including helping secure an international pledge to end deforestation, which was signed by 145 countries. She said she was ‘delighted’ to be working with Government and global partners to take on this ‘urgent challenge’.
She said: “In particular, ensuring the rules and incentives which govern the global economy work to protect and restore nature; and that we invest in the commitment, knowledge and passion of local people, who are critical to safeguarding the places where they live.”
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Asda latest to join Buy British campaign
ASDA has become the eighth major food retailer to display a ‘Buy British’ tab on its online grocery page following a cross-party campaign to offer more support for UK farmers.
The supermarket follows Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Co-op, Aldi, Ocado and Morrisons in adopting the button after the Conservative MP for Hinckley and Bosworth, Dr Luke Evans, wrote to retailers asking them to install the tab to help signpost home-grown produce.
Measures
More than 126 MPs from across the House of Commons backed the measures which had been first suggested by the NFU in 2016.
David Exwood, deputy president of the union, said it was ‘excellent’ news the retailers had now signed up to the campaign.
“We know from our independent research that the public want to buy more British food from retailers,” Mr Exwood said.
“These changes will make it easier for shoppers to do just that when shopping online.
“Choosing to buy British is an endorsement of the great produce reared and grown by our farmers and growers and helps contribute towards the UK economy.”
22 tonnes of Cheddar stolen from dairy
A FARMHOUSE cheesemaker has had about £300,000 worth of cheese stolen in a suspected incident of fraud.
Neal’s Yard Dairy, an artisan cheese retailer based in London which supports various farm businesses across the UK, said it was a victim of fraud on Friday, October 25, which resulted in 22 tonnes of clothbound cheese being stolen.
The business said it received the order from a buyer posing as a ‘legitimate wholesale distributor’ for a major French retailer.
It is estimated that the theft of the cheese amounted to a total of £300,000.
It said it had honoured its commitment to suppliers and paid in full and was working with the police.
It called on anyone in the sector who was offered cheese which may have been associated with the theft to contact them.
Livestock attack Bill back in Parliament
● Farmer shoots dog worrying his sheep
By Rachael Brown
A CHESHIRE MP has presented her first Bill in Parliament on the issue of livestock worrying, while a farmer in her county suffered two livestock attacks by the same dogs within the space of four days, resulting in one dog being shot.
Aphra Brandreth, MP for Chester South and Eddisbury, and daughter of former MP and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth, has put forward The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill.
It aims to give police the powers to respond more efficiently to incidents,
Take the Lead signs
FREE signs warning dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead near livestock are available through Farmers Guardian’s Take the Lead campaign, in association with the National Sheep Association.
To request yours, send a stamped self-addressed A4 envelope to: FG Take the Lead, Farmers Guardian, Unit 4 Fulwood Business Park, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9NZ
Bill strengthening powers to respond to livestock worrying is to be put before MPs.
ensure evidence is collected effectively and, in the most serious cases, seize and detain dogs to reduce the risk of further attacks.
Former Defra Secretary Therese Coffey proposed the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill in the last Parliament, which could have provided police with greater powers to respond to livestock worrying incidents by seizing and detaining dogs.
Injured
Cheshire Police’s Rural Crime Team said a farmer in Congleton had 15 sheep killed by two dogs, with ‘many more’ left either injured or stressed, sometime between Thursday night (October 24) and Friday morning (October 25).
PC Rob Stordy, from Cheshire Police’s Rural Crime Team, said most of the sheep on the field suffered ‘sig-
nificant’ bite marks to their throats, with two having drowned in a nearby canal.
On October 28, the same two dogs returned to the farm and killed four further sheep.
In order to stop the dogs from attacking the sheep, the farmer shot and killed one of the dogs, while the other escaped.
Officers said the actions of the farmer were ‘proportionate, necessary and legal’.
Police have confirmed the owner of the dogs has since come forward.
PC Stordy said: “No farmer wants to have to shoot a dog, but sadly they have been left with absolutely no choice on this occasion.
“This is clearly a sensitive matter and we would ask that people now allow us time to conduct our investigation without undue speculation.”
‘Systemic changes’ needed to tackle obesity
SYSTEMIC changes needed to be made to the UK food system to tackle obesity, according to a report published by the Food, Diet and Obesity Committee.
The Recipe for Health: A Plan to Fix Our Broken Food System report highlighted that England had one of the ‘highest rates of obesity among high-income nations’, with two thirds of adults overweight or obese.
It also found more than 20% of children start primary school overweight or obese.
The report criticised successive Governments for proposing hundreds of obesity policies with ‘minimal effect’, adding at the heart of
this failure was a ‘misplaced focus on individual responsibility’ and it called for a ‘comprehensive and integrated food strategy’.
Lining pockets
Sue Pritchard, chief executive of the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission, said the report highlighted a food system which ‘does not work for citizens, farmers or the environment’, but ‘instead lines the pockets of the biggest, most powerful players’.
Dorset organic dairy farmer Sophie Gregory said she wished the report had focused more on the ‘link between farming and food’
and the need for food and farming on the national curriculum.
“We need to put our farmers front and centre in the push for change. As things evolve, reconnecting with our food sources will be key to improving health outcomes,” said Ms Gregory.
Jack Bobo, director of the University of Nottingham Food Systems Institute, said the report acknowledged food insecurity was linked to poverty ‘with barriers like access, time, and knowledge hindering healthy eating for low-income families’.
He said: “It focuses more on limiting access to unhealthy foods than on addressing these root causes.”
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NSA chief executive is new Dartmoor independent chair
NATIONAL Sheep Association chief executive Phil Stocker has been appointed as the independent chair of the Dartmoor Land Use Management Group.
Farming Minister Daniel Zeich-
● ‘Outsourcing of regulation’ criticised
By Rachael Brown
RED Tractor chief executive Jim Moseley has called out ‘several false claims and misrepresentations’ after a recent report published by the Social Market Foundation (SMF) criticised what it called ‘self-regulation’ of farming.
Mr Moseley told researchers at the SMF they ‘should leave their desks’ and join him at an assured farm ‘to see how the scheme really works’ and the hard work the UK’s farming community puts in.
He said the report, End Self-Regulation of Farming to Reduce Animal
ner said: “Dartmoor is a breathtaking landscape with unique challenges.
“The area has one of the largest semi-natural moorland habitats in the country and, over recent years, the relationship between farming, nature and other impacts, such as climate change, have lacked balance.
“With more than 40 years’ experience working in farming and the environment, I am delighted that Phil Stocker has been appointed.
Needs
“He is uniquely placed to consider the needs of our land – restoring nature, boosting food production and preserving its beauty for generations to come.”
Mr Stocker said it was an ‘honour’ to be appointed. The Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) national vicechair and Dartmoor farmer, Helen
Radmore, said: “Phil is an inspired choice as chair for this new group.
“He brings with him a wealth of experience and is trusted by farm-
ers and environmentalists alike.”
She added that the TFA was looking forward to working with Mr Stocker.
Red Tractor calls out assurance critics
Suffering, critiqued Red Tractor’s animal welfare assessment ‘without any consultation’ or a ‘right to reply’.
Mr Moseley accused the SMF, a cross-party think tank which aims to ebnable markets and Government to work together to benefit society, of making five false claims in its report.
These included the suggestion Red Tractor was a facade for animal
abuse, that Red Tractor was owned by farmers, a lack of transparency on inspection data and the suggestion private schemes such as Red Tractor had biased assessments due to its revenue being dependent upon signing up farms.
He said this was ‘absurd’, adding the majority of Red Tractor’s revenue comes from the consumer end
FARMERS SAY FUNDAMENTAL CHANGE IS NEEDED FROM RED TRACTOR
FARMERS want to see a ‘fundamental change’ in Red Tractor and will be ‘suspicious’ of the assurance body’s attempt of ‘papering over the cracks’ with increased communication efforts. That was the message from National Sheep Association chief executive Phil Stocker, as he welcomed the proposed development by Red Tractor of an assurance hub.
The hub was described in its latest members’ newsletter as a ‘digital tool to help members access and filter standards and compliance information relevant to them’ and explain why certain
standards exist. But he said it was the first time he had heard about it and questioned whether it was enough.
Red Tractor said the hub was being tested ‘with a group of farmer volunteers’, and would be launched ‘later this Autumn’.
Streamline
Mr Stocker acknowledged it could help to ‘streamline’ the auditing process, but it was ‘not the full answer’ and would not attract new members or encourage those who have left to return.
The assurance body’s newsletter also shared information of its
farmer survey, in which it encouraged its members to make their ‘feelings known’. But after two reviews, one into Red Tractor and one into farm assurance, Mr Stocker asked why they were again being asked for views.
Wiltshire mixed farmer Roger Wilson said it was about time the ‘saga of reviews and surveys was brought to a conclusion’.
“I think we all know how it will end. More irrelevant rules and greater costs for farmers,” he said.
The farm assurance review is expected to be published in December.
of the market, where demand for high standards was ‘paramount’. On lack of transparency, he said the Red Tractor website provided data on farmer suspensions and revocations due to non-compliance, ‘demonstrating accountability against the standards’ in which it sets.
An SMF spokesperson said it stood by the findings and recommendations of the report and believed many of the issues raised by Red Tractor ‘might be based on misreading or misunderstanding’ what it had said.
Legal
“Our report simply highlights evidence that shows that the current system of enforcement is unable to ensure enough farms operate to legal minimum animal welfare standards,” the spokesman said.
“The report does not accuse Red Tractor of misconduct. Our argument is that the Government should not rely on private assurance schemes as a substitute for state inspection. We contend that this outsourcing of regulation has not served the interests of farmers, consumers or farmed animals.”
Phil Stocker
A chair has now been appointed to lead the Dartmoor Land Use Management Group.
Consumer confidence in farming hits six-year high
● Positivity towards agriculture in survey
By Jane Thynne
CONSUMER confidence in farming has risen to its highest level for six years, according to new figures from AHDB.
The levy board said the findings highlighted in its latest Consumer Trust Survey reflected the ‘strong positivity that consumers currently feel’ towards British agriculture which can be seen right across the supply chain.
In total, 78% of those aged 65 and over had the most confidence, while respondents who described themselves as being in a ‘comfortable’ financial situation, equalled 74%.
Nearly three-quarters of the 2,000 consumers questioned said they felt well-informed about farming (73%).
AHDB lead consumer insight manager Steve Evans said: “This study highlights that there is an opportunity to build on the strong trust consumers clearly hold for farmers in producing food brought into their homes.
“Consumers are less concerned about the cost of living and have
more favourable attitudes toward food purchases and increased positivity towards farming.”
The study, run in partnership with independent environmental research agency Blue Marble, also showed that the various agricultural sectors had risen in consumer positivity since 2019 with horticulture (fruit and vegetables) and cereals receiving the highest scores of 77% and 71%, respectively.
Higher
The positivity towards dairy (68%), sheep (67%) and beef (64%) sectors all showed strong increases compared to 2019, and while pig (59%) and poultry (58%) positivity scores were lower than other sectors, they were still significantly higher than they were in 2019.
A total of 44% of consumers stated they have an interest or knowledge in farming and this positive increase in interest has coincided with an upsurge in consumers who feel they are informed about food origin and production.
“As consumers start to feel more interested and informed about farming, there remains an opportunity to further enhance the role of farmers in telling the story behind the products consumers see on shelves,” Mr Evans added.
Scottish shoppers call for clearer labelling of food
ONLY 41% of consumers in Scotland feel they have a fair or good understanding of how their food is grown and produced, a new NFU Scotland study has revealed.
In response to the findings, the union has now demanded action from the Scottish Government to implement fairer, clearer labelling on retail products which NFUS said would help to end ‘confusion and poor transparency’ regarding the origin of produce.
A significant 82% of consumers in Scotland believe it is useful to have the Saltire clearly displayed on a food product’s label, which compares with 77% who think likewise in respect of the UK flag.
NFUS chief executive John Davidson said consumers were entitled to know the origin of the food they were buying to help them make informed choices.
“Our findings support a radical overhaul – led by Governments, but also embraced by retailers – of the regulatory framework governing the rules around food labelling and we call on all Governments to act,” he said.
According to the study, which was carried out by market research specialists Diffley Partnership, only 57% of consumers in Scotland think it is usually clear which country the food they buy comes from and only 49% think the information about the country of origin on display is adequate.
AHDB says the survey results show the public views agriculture in a positive light.
Conditions must improve
ARLA’S recent farm survey has revealed that dairy producers are finding it harder to recruit and retain staff. However, it does not have to be this way.
We acknowledge the significant challenges currently facing dairy farms, particularly in staffing, but it is important to recognise that there are practical steps farmers can take to make their operations more appealing to recruits.
Improving working conditions through more flexible hours, better safety measures, or more attractive working environments will make a real difference in competing with other sectors for talent.
Tight margins in the dairy sector of course affect the affordability of attractive wages.
Supermarkets hold considerable power regarding pricing, which, through milk processors, certainly impacts farm profitability and the ability to offer competitive wages. However, even in this challenging environment, much can still be done at farm level.
Focusing on working culture and conditions will go a long way toward attracting and keeping staff.
Ultimately, the single biggest reason people stay or leave a farm is leadership. People leave people, not businesses.
The farmer or farm manager must take responsibility for creating a positive, supportive environment. This is something that no Government policy or supermarket can change; it is up to the farmers themselves.
Paul Harris, REAL Success chief executive.
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Social media reactions
ON social media, readers had their say after Dorset Council confirmed that it was no longer seeking to take over a dairy farm for ‘rewilding’ (October 24):
■ “What, a council that is buying? Most of them can’t wait to sell them
off, making it impossible for first time farmers to even get a chance. The problem remains. Let us do the farming, you try to run your council.”
KAREN PRITCHARD
■ “Can’t eat twigs.”
SYLVIA CROCKER
■ “Hopefully now Dorset Council will concentrate on putting right the farms that they already own.”
MICHAEL HARRIS
■ “Let farmers farm. Absolute nonsense rewilding on prime land.”
STEVEN KIRKPATRICK
The photograph, taken at lambing time, shows Emily Roskell feeding a lamb with her 14-month-old twin girls Susie and Julie and son Paul, right. The photograph was taken at Pasture House Farm, Pilling, Lancashire, and sent in by Paul’s son Lee Roskell. 1961
If you have a classic picture you would like to share, please email it to marcello.garbagnoli@agriconnect.com
of your personal data that you disclose to us by entering into our competition to win £200 for the Stockjudging Competition or £20 Love2Shop vouchers for the weekly Crossword Competition, referred to throughout this statement as the “Competitions”. How we collect your information: We collect the personal data you have provided to us by filling in the form on our website www.fginsight.com OR printed form when entering the Competitions. If you have entered the Competitions via our site we may also collect some technical information about how you use our site, for example, the type of device you are using, your operating system, IP address, uniform resource locator (URL), clickstream and length of visit. How we use the information you provide: We will use your personal information: • to administer the Competitions, on the basis that the use of your personal data for this purpose will be necessary to enter you into the competitions and, if you are successful, contact you to notify you of your prize; and, • if you are new to Farmers Guardian and where you have agreed to this, to provide you with news and updates from time to time about our services; and, if at any point in the future you do not wish to receive any news and updates from us or from, you can unsubscribe from our marketing list at any time by following the steps below. To unsubscribe from any communications using the link on the email we send you or by emailing us at dataprotection@farmersguardian.com. We will not use your information for any purposes except those listed in this policy without letting you know and getting your permission, if necessary, first. Who do we share your information with? We will not disclose your information to any third parties without your consent, except where: • it is necessary to enable any of our staff, employees, agents, contractors, suppliers or commercial partners to provide a service to us or to perform a function on our behalf; • we have a legal obligation to disclose your information (for example, if a court orders us to); or • there is a sale or purchase of any business assets, or where Farmers Guardian or any of its group companies are being acquired by a third party. Where we use third parties as described above to process your personal information, we will ensure that they have adequate security measures in place to safeguard your personal information. For how long do we keep your personal information? We keep your personal information for 36 months for the purposes for which it was collected or for any period for which we are required to keep personal information to comply with our legal and regulatory requirements, or until you ask us to delete your personal information. Your rights: You have a number of rights in relation to your personal information. These include the right to: • find out how we process your personal information; • request that your personal information is corrected if you believe it is incorrect or inaccurate; • obtain restriction on our, or object to, processing of your personal information; • ask us not to process your
Communities need support
RISING fuel costs are pushing Scotland’s farmers, crofters and fishermen to the brink, threatening livelihoods and the sustainability of our rural communities.
These sectors rely heavily on fuel for machinery, transportation and heating, while fishermen face increasing costs just to get to sea.
Without urgent intervention, the impact will ripple across the economy, driving up food prices and threatening rural jobs.
If these industries struggle, so do the communities they support and we risk losing a vital part of our national heritage.
Governments on both sides of the border must take immediate action.
Targeted support – whether through fuel subsidies, tax relief, or dedicated funding – could protect these sectors and ensure their future viability.
I urge policymakers to step up before these rising costs lead to irreversible damage, placing farmers, crofters, fishermen and the wider economy at risk.
Councillor Alastair Redman, Kintyre and the Islands Ward, Argyll and Bute Council.
Toby Whatley Head of Machinery and Farm Technology – toby.whatley@agriconnect.com
Green investments could create new opportunities Leader
AS Chancellor Rachel Reeves delved into her red box of numbers, lack of change to fuel duty and the continued freeze on taxation came as a surprise to many and as a relief for those operating businesses with high road fuel expenses.
Any further changes or modifications to rebated diesel have yet to be seen, however her admission that an increase in fuel duty would be negative for economic growth will hopefully be reflected with no shake-up of rebated fuels.
Bolstering the need to develop new homegrown energy sources, the announcement of 11 new green hydrogen generation projects – including sites in South Wales and Cumbria – puts weight behind this fuel source as a direct diesel replacement.
UK research by JCB and Toyota presents this as a genuine alternative to diesel, which can provide the power and torque requirements that agricultural and industrial machinery needs as well as generating employment within the UK economy.
With the greatest change in agricultural
Young Farmer Focus
‘I
certainly do not take things for granted’
Dairy: I farm alongside my uncle in Northern Ireland where we milk 90 cows in an intensive, grass-based system.
Farming has offered me the opportunity to work in a job I love. Health: But it has also provided me with a purpose – that of raising awareness around farm safety.
It should be at the very top of farmers’ everyday lives and I want to tell you why by sharing my story.
I was involved in a farming incident where I lost sight in my right eye back in 2021.
At the time, I was working for an agricultural contractor in Shropshire. It was just a normal day.
I took the tractor to the field and started sub-soiling.
In the afternoon, I noticed there was a bit of worn metal and I thought a shoe needed changing.
I took the roll pin out and was going to change it, but the shoe was a bit stiff, so I gave it a hit with a hammer.
The next thing I knew, a bit of metal had fragmented off the shoe and had flown straight into my eye.
The metal punctured the first couple of layers of my eye and bounced off my retina, scarring it.
If it had gone further through my retina, I would have had to have had my eye taken out.
Grateful: One of the things I was very grateful for was that, even after this happened, my job was never in any doubt and I can still keep farming.
The brain is really amazing and as weird as it sounds, I honestly forget that I am blind in that eye sometimes.
I am used to my own tractor and machines, so I have not really had to make adjustments in the cab but, if I
taxation for a generation, there will be many starting to unpack what impact the changes to Agricultural Property Relief will have.
However, with change comes opportunity, and land prices without a jacket of wealth insulation might present an opening for new entrants and tenant farmers to actually buy the land they are responsible for, and work to sustain and improve it.
had to get into a new tractor and did not know it, I would have to actually turn to look for the controls, as I cannot see around the right-hand side. My right eye is now also a lot more
sensitive to light and, I would also say in general, light affects me a lot more than it used to.
Wearing sunglasses has become part of my life on-farm now.
I feel like I do not have another chance now and probably see life a bit differently.
I certainly do not take things for granted.
Guidance: If I was to provide advice to any farmer, it would be this: always tell people where you are, tell them what you are doing and always keep a phone with you at all times.
It is the little things that can make a difference to your health.
MORE INFORMATION
If you would like to be featured, email chris.brayford@agriconnect.com
Ryan Taggart
Kilrea, Co Londonderry
Ryan Taggart, 22, is a dairy farmer from Kilrea, Co Londonderry.
Ryan Taggart
● UK wheat prices fall as weather improves
By Jane Thynne
GRAIN prices remain in flux as challenging weather conditions, poor harvests and a lack of supply take their toll on global markets.
As of October 29, UK feed wheat futures (Nov-24) closed at £178.95/ tonne, down £1.70/t from October 26. In the US, fears had been raised over the winter wheat crop as it was reported that 58% was in drought condition (as at Oct 22), which is the third consecutive weekly rise.
Grain prices are ‘in flux’
Added to this were the latest figures from the US Department for Agriculture (USDA) which said only 38% of US winter wheat was rated as good or excellent. This was considerably below last year’s initial rating of 47% and the five-year average of 43.4%.
Mike Verdin, senior markets consultant at CRM AgriCommodities, said while he believed there had been a poor start, it was too early to worry about future supply.
He said: “There has been a lot of dryness in the plains – and it will be interesting to see the contrast between the hard and soft winter wheat. It is early days, but what it
may mean is that there will not be any blockbuster yields for 2025, especially if there is a bad winter, which will add to losses.”
According to the US Grains Council, uncertainty around the upcoming presidential election is already having an impact on trading, with the prospect of a Donald Trump administration potentially harming relations with markets such as China.
Markets closer to home also remain tight owing to the dry conditions in Russia and Ukraine.
“It does mean that the coming weeks will be more important this year as crops in some major produ-
HCC seeks new head after bullying row
HYBU Cig Cymru (HCC) has announced it is searching for a new chief executive following the resignation of former head Gwyn Howells in July.
The Welsh meat promotion body said it was seeking someone to lead it ‘on a new chapter’ after what has been a turbulent few months for the organisation.
Questions were first raised about HCC’s work culture in February after it was revealed six employees had levelled multiple allegations of bullying against another staff member. Plaid Cymru MS Llyr Gruffydd demanded the then Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths, ‘intervene’ as a matter of ‘public interest’.
However, Ms Griffiths’ replacement, Huw Irranca-Davies, said
while there were ‘internal governance issues indeed within HCC’, it was not the Welsh Government’s place to intervene.
Inquiry
In June, two board directors, Prys Morgan and Rhys Davies, both stepped down before an inquiry into the situation concluded that Mr Howells, who had been on a period of extended leave before stepping down, would have been dismissed for gross misconduct had he not resigned.
HCC said after a ‘period of change’, the red meat levy body was now looking to recruit someone for the ‘pivotal role’ which requires an ‘influential leader who excels in relationship-building’ across all sec-
tors from Welsh Government and farmers, to processors and industry leaders.
Chair Catherine Smith said: “To maximise the impact and effectiveness of this role, our chief executive must embody the kinds of behaviours that foster a strong, compassionate and results-driven culture.
“By leading with empathy, influence, creativity and determination, they will inspire excellence, drive organisational growth and promote a culture built on collaboration and shared ambition.”
The new chief executive will also be expected to take ownership of delivering the final stages of HCC’s Vision 25 strategy programme before crafting a new vision for the red meat promoter.
There has been a lot of dryness in the plains – it will be interesting to see the contrast between hard and soft winter wheat
MIKE VERDIN
cing states are not good going into it. It will make countries vulnerable to more losses.”
The ‘challenging’ 2023/24 growing season had taken its toll on UK production. According to Mr Verdin, in the first marketing third of this year, EU exports to the UK reached 522,000t, up from 172,000t in the same period last year.
“Millers moved quickly to buy grain from Germany while the supply was still there and the UK was struggling,” Mr Verdin said, adding German supplies were now no longer there.
However, Mr Verdin said the UK was now in a ‘much better place’ than forecasted, thanks to drier weather.
“It is now looking like 2023 will not be repeated and the forecast is better into November, so fears have calmed to some extent,” he added.
GB-Irish price gap widens
● Increased demand supports UK trade
By Alex Black
INCREASES in deadweight cattle prices have widened the gap between GB and Irish prices with seasonal demand outpacing supplies in the UK.
The increase in GB prices means the trade has seen the widest recorded price differential between the two.
For the week ending October 12, the price differential between GB and Irish prime beef was 97.1p/kg on R3 steers, according to AHDB. Irish numbers up Becky Smith, AHDB livestock analyst, said prices in Ireland had seen relative stability with some minor increases.
Throughput numbers have increased in Ireland, driven by a higher number of cows.
“Heifer kill numbers are up 4% for the year to date, while steers are back 1%, compared to the same period of last year,” Ms Smith said.
“This available supply will put some downwards pressure on prices, although market commentary suggests an expectation for numbers to tighten over the coming weeks, particularly in prime.”
Average carcase weights have also fallen for both steers and heifers, with reports suggesting this could be impacted by later turnout
and challenging grass growing conditions, which could weigh on prices.
Bord Bia was predicting a tightening in Irish prime cattle availability in the final quarter of 2024 and into next year.
Ms Smith added: “With the price differential as it is, there is a risk of increased imports from Ireland into the UK, which may put downwards pressure on the GB price.
“On the flipside, with a tightening Irish cattle supply, any increase in Irish prices is likely to support GB prices, as we traditionally see them moving in a similar direction due to the strength of the relationship between the two markets.
“We may also see buyers looking to secure greater cattle supplies in GB to bolster their pipeline.”
Gap ‘not acceptable’
Irish Farmers Association chair Declan Hanrahan said the gap in beef prices with its ‘key markets’, such as the UK, was not acceptable and must be closed.
“Demand for beef is strong and will only increase further as supplies in the UK and EU are tight, contributing to the higher prices in these destinations,” he said.
He added prices paid by factory agents in marts were ‘frequently’ above factory quotes, adding the market justified further increases in prices.
CHANGING Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) rules to remove the policy of localised offsetting could make the law twice as effective.
In a new study published in One Earth, researchers from the University of Exeter’s Land, Environment, Economics and Policy Institute criticised the implementation of the policy, which states new building or infrastructure developments must achieve a 10% net gain in biodiversity or habitat.
Researchers said forcing the majority of offsetting to occur within or near development sites ‘treats the natural environment as homogenous’ and analysis showed incorporating
ecological and economic information into the targeting of offsets can greatly improve benefits.
The research found when offsets were in locations where it most benefits biodiversity the conservation gains are double the current policy of localised offsetting while the current implementation of BNG performed poorly across all criteria.
Targeting areas which were poor for biodiversity would ‘do little’ to help endangered species, researchers said, adding tying offsets near new executive homes would not help provide disadvantaged areas with access to nature.
Seasonal demand in the UK is driving prices higher.
Business SIAL Paris
Producers from across the UK came together at one of the world’s largest trade fairs to champion British food and farming. Jane Thynne reports.
l SIAL Paris marks its 60th anniversary
MORE than 7,500 exhibitors took part in SIAL Paris this year as food producers, manufacturers and trade bodies from more than 130 countries came together to mark the event’s 60th anniversary.
The theme of this year’s show, which took place at Paris Nord Villepinte, was ‘Own the Change’, encouraging those across the entire food industry to embrace the ‘transitions’ which are happening throughout the supply chain.
UK meat and dairy take centre stage
As such, its four main themes were: Corporate Social Responsibility; Deep Tech and Artificial Intelligence; the Supply Chain; and Africa, which were discussed in a series of round tables and keynote sessions hosted by industry leaders to explore the impact of these themes and to introduce solutions to meet future challenges.
SIAL managing director Nicolas Trentesaux said the 11-hall event was an opportunity to share an ‘optimistic outlook’ on food, despite ongoing world events which had led to ‘economic, political and societal crises’.
He said: “We must work together to maintain a medium-term course that will make it possible to meet the major food challenges of the next 30 years.”
From a UK perspective, the event offers producers the chance to explore new export opportunities, while also maintaining vital relationships with partners across the globe.
The show is one of the biggest for AHDB Red Meat and Dairy sector boards which had a significant presence in the halls, alongside Hybu Cig Cmryu and Quality Meat Scotland.
Produce
“Events such as this enable us to demonstrate just what fantastic food British farmers’ produce,” said AHDB chief executive Graham Wilkinson.
“We have a fantastic story to tell and shows like SIAL play a really important part.”
In 2023, £1.7 billion of red meat was exported from the UK and Mr Wilkinson said the sector was currently on track to exceed that total, as exports rose 2% from January to June this year.
During the period, more than 260,000 tonnes of red meat was
Export rewards are worth wait for UK farmers
UK EXPORTERS must be ready to play a long game if they are to reap the rewards in the future, a leading cheese producer has said.
Richard Clothier, co-owner of Wyke Farms in Somerset, said he believed countries such as India, Africa and South America will be the ‘jewels’ of the UK’s future export market, although results may not be seen for another 20 years.
He said: “Exporting is a long-term game, but then again, so is farming. Everything we do in farming is generational and it is the same in export – you have to be here for the long-term.”
The company, the largest independent cheese producer in the UK, exports around 6,000 tonnes of Cheddar every year to more than
■ The UK exported 1.23 million tonnes of dairy products in 2023, a 2.2% increase from 2022
■ In Q2 of 2024, more than 200,000t of milk and cream were exported
■ Total dairy export volume for Q2 2024 was down 2.6% on Q2 2023, at 330,800t
160 countries, including Japan, Australia, South Africa and the USA.
It has benefited from £1.3 million of Government funding via the Rural Development for England Programme, as well as support from the UK Export Finance scheme and Barclays. But Mr Clothier said there was always more the Government could do to support UK companies.
Integration
He said: “One of the things we need to ask for is an integrated food and environmental policy.
“Having an export strategy is all part of food security. People ask me how you can talk about food security when you are trying to sell elsewhere, but basically it adds value for farmers.
“It brings in more demand for produce
■ Total UK dairy import volume for 2023 was down 2.1% on 2022 to 1149.8t
■ Powdered and condensed milk exports were the standout products, recording an overall increase of 26.4% to 140.3t
which makes farming more secure and that is a really important thing.”
According to HMRC, UK dairy exports totalled £1.2 billion in 2022, with the EU remaining the largest market at 90% (statistic from UK Dairy).
He said: “There have been issues following Brexit. But I am very positive about UK PLC – everywhere we go in the world we are recognised for our standards. Other countries know our dairy has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world.
“So yes, our farmers have a lot they should be positive about and the UK has a lot to be proud of.”
exported, equating to a value of £880 million.
Mr Wilkinson said the UK ‘farmer story’ was ‘massively key’ as overseas companies showed more interest in sustainability and provenance.
He said: “We take exporters on to farm as we believe farmers’ voices are really important. They can then talk to
GOVERNMENT MUST ADDRESS
RED tape, soaring costs and increased risk caused by Brexit are stifling UK export opportunities, according to livestock and dairy producers.
Thomas McKnight, a processor from Ludlow, Shropshire who exports beef and lamb, including high quality cuts as well as fifth quarter products, said the company was operating in a ‘completely different landscape’ filled with obstacles and mounting costs.
Delayed
He said: “We are tied up in a raft of paperwork, there is hugely increased risk and everything is just harder. For example, yesterday we had an official veterinarian [OV] booked, but the goods were delayed in transport. We missed the OV slot, but we still had to pay the £200 charge as she had come out. That is understandable.
“But more admin has to be done and the produce will get to
‘Strong trade begins at home’
A STRONG export market can only exist if there is confidence at home, according to Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC).
Jason Craig, market development lead at the trade body, said production volumes had been hampered by a lack of ‘understanding’ and ‘clarity’ around the introduction of the country’s Sustainable Farming Scheme.
He said: “People need confidence in the market, and if they do not see that they hold back. But coming to events such as SIAL, you can see what a demand there is.”
Mr Craig said Welsh trading centred on ‘three pillars’ with the domestic retail market at the heart.
Graham Wilkinson
UK dairy exports
Richard Clothier
our fantastic British farmers and see and hear their stories first hand. What we have to offer is a quality of supply.”
Mr Wilkinson said AHDB’s staff on the ground were doing some fantastic
TRADE BARRIER
the customer at least seven days later than it should have done. That then puts pressure on an already difficult situation we are facing with livestock pricing and demand.”
Mr McKnight urged the Government to act to allow UK producers to be treated the ‘same way’ as importers.
He said: “Why do we not have electronic certificates? We are still attaching a paper copy with a rubber ink stamp which we were doing 50 years ago. I do not understand how we can import meat into the UK with a different requirement when we have to have a full Export Health Certificate. Absolutely no-one can tell me why that is.”
The same frustrations were expressed by Karen Naylor, head of export at Long Clawson Dairy. The company exports to both the US and Europe, which accounts for 45% and 40%, respectively, of its overseas sales.
She said: “We have a really big ambition to grow our exports by about
“We operate on three pillars – our main home market, our export plan with our closest trading partners and the third looks at further away, such as Japan, the Middle East and the US. But what is also important is that we get Welsh lamb in the stores at home and branded as Welsh lamb.”
Sheepmeat
According to figures from HMRC, the total volume of sheepmeat exported from Wales climbed 12% last year, to almost 30,500 tonnes. Total value hit £190.9 million, up 10% on 2022. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland and the Netherlands are its
work in territories including Europe, the Americas, as well as further afield, which he said should be relayed to farmers in the UK.
“I want to encourage more and
1,000 tonnes in the next eight years, which is roughly 50% of what we are currently trading.”
However, Ms Naylor said the postBrexit arrangements have ‘massively affected’ the producer’s relationship with customers over the Channel.
She said: “It has turned what was a simple, three-day transit into an almost two-week event, involving a vet visit on the Friday, then possible shipping the following Tuesday, which will then not be with the client until the next Monday.”
She added they were competing with producers who can turn orders around in 24-48 hours. Ms Naylor said it was vital something was done to build a more ‘reciprocal’ arrangement.
She said: “We do not have a problem with paperwork, but we would like a level playing field.
“It is the element of fairness that a lot of exporters trading with Europe is not right.”
major markets, with sales to Italy growing 40% last year.
Mr Craig said although farmgate prices had risen significantly, the buoyant export market was a testament to the quality of Welsh meat.
He said: “Although it is a competitive market, people still recognise quality and they are still willing to pay for it.
“We are down year on year. In terms of volume we are probably down around 9%, but in terms of value we are up about 4%.”
But he added the team at HCC had done ‘a lot of business’ at the event with useful discussions across the board.
more levy payers to find out more. We are on a changed agenda at AHDB and I want the levy payers to be part of what is an exciting opportunity.
“They are making an investment and I want them to see a return on that investment like you would expect from any other transaction.
“The business done on the back of the UK companies, which are also levy payers, is massively important and it is for us and our team to demonstrate and communicate that.”
Ember Energy UK WIDE
The theme of this year’s SIAL was ‘Own the Change’.
Global Ag View
● Productive beef and sheep land sold
By Alex Black
BEEF and Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has called for action to address the amount of productive sheep and beef farmland being lost to forestry, particularly for carbon farming.
A report by Orme and Associates, commissioned by B+LNZ, found that since its last report in August 2023 – which covered the period 2017 to the end of 2022 –sales for 51,291 hectares of sheep and beef farms going into forestry had been finalised.
It also revised figures from the 2022 year to 63,956ha, meaning the total amount of sheep and beef land purchased for conversion to forestry between 2017 and June 30, 2024, was 261,733ha.
B+LNZ chair Kate Acland said the land-use change resulting from these sales would continue to have detrimental effects on the sheep and beef sector, as there had already been a decline in stock numbers.
“There are a couple of years between when a farm is sold and trees go in the ground, so based on the high 2022 farm sales numbers we know there is still a lot more planting coming, and that will further impact stock numbers,” she said.
“We estimate for every 100,000ha planted, close to one million stock units are lost.
“While on one hand the decline in stock numbers means our sector has already dramatically reduced its overall greenhouse gas emissions and warming impact, the way it is happening is simply not sustainable.”
She acknowledged that the Government had indicated it would
NZ red meat sector raises alarm on forestry sales
Sheep and beef land purchased for conversion to forestry in New Zealand between 2017 and June 30, 2024, amounted to 261,733 hectares, according
address the issue to protect food production, and welcomed its intention to announce measures before Christmas.
Limits
Ms Acland said B+LNZ was not anti-forestry and there was a place to meet climate goals.
“We are not saying there should be zero offsets available, we just want some limits around the conversion of whole farms into forestry for carbon credits,” she said.
She added it was ‘hugely supportive’
US McDonald’s relaunches Quarter Pounders after e.coli
MCDONALD’S has resumed sales of its Quarter Pounder burgers in all of its US restaurants after ruling out its beef patties as the source of an e.coli outbreak.
At least one person has died and dozens of other people are ill, with sales of Quarter Pounders suspended in about one-fifth of restaurants last week.
The fast food giant said samples of its beef patties which were taken by the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDC) tested negative for e.coli.
Cesar Pina, McDonald’s North America chief supply chain officer, said the issue appeared to be contained to a ‘particular ingredient
outbreak
and geography’ and McDonald’s was confident it had been removed from its supply chain.
Slivered onions could be another potential source of the outbreak.
McDonald’s said it had stopped working with the supplier of the onions and had removed them from its supply chain.
It said: “The 900 restaurants that historically received slivered onions from Taylor Farms’ Colorado Springs facility will resume sales of Quarter Pounders without slivered onions.”
McDonald’s shares have lost more than 7.5% of their value since the CDC reported the outbreak last week.
of the integration of trees within farms.
The Orme and Associates report found there had been a slowdown in whole farm sales in 2023 and 2024, likely linked to ongoing policy uncertainty.
Changes
There have also been changes in the parts of the country where land is being sold, with a significant slowdown in the Gisborne region.
The North Island remains the main area where farm sales into forestry are happening, with an increase in Taranaki and Waikato.
We estimate for every 100,000 hectares [of trees] planted, close to one million stock units are lost KATE ACLAND
Irish grain prices announced
PRICES paid by Irish grain co-operatives are ‘as good as could be expected’ given global grain markets but might not cover costs of production for many farmers.
Tirlan and Centenary will pay between €205-€210/tonne (£170.72£174.89/t) for green feed barley and €217-€220/t (£180.72-£183.21/t) for green feed wheat.
Irish Farmers Association grain chair Kieran McEvoy said: “Despite the relatively dry weather for harvest and satisfactory yields for spring cereal crops, 2024 will be remembered as a very challenging year for the tillage sector.
“The unfortunate reality is that
these prices may still not cover the costs of production on rented land.
“Teagasc has forecast that average tillage farm incomes in 2024 are likely to remain very similar to 2023, which was a complete and utter disaster for the sector.”
He added price premiums for food crops would help to mitigate the situation for some.
Irish cereal and protein crops have produced good-quality grain this harvest, despite earlier concerns about very delayed planting dates.
Mr McEvoy called for livestock farmers and other end users to give preferential treatment to Irish native grain.
to Orme and Associates.
is just days away! At Farm Business Innovation you will:
6-7 November 2024, NEC Birmingham
• Gain valuable insights from our seminars, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, designed to provide you with practical advice and solutions.
• Discover suppliers providing products and services such as shipping containers, glamping pods, biodiversity net gain, renewable energy, and much more!
• Access our co-located event, the Land, Leisure and Tourism Show, providing you with even more invaluable advice, information, and ideas on how to enhance rural businesses.
• Be in with the chance to win a Fiberglass, Wooden Two Seater Hot Tub valued at £2,650 and a £500 Sykes Holiday voucher
Farm Profile
Edited by Angela Calvert – 07768 796 492 – angela.calvert@agriconnect.com
For more features, go to farmersguardian.com/farm-life
Many
farmers – especially those with an
maximum efficiency
–
feel
interest
in
running their enterprises to
the need to be on-farm at all times, but Fife farmer David Bell takes a different approach. Ewan Pate finds out more.
Valuing time spent off-farm
Although he has won multiple awards for his farming skills, David Bell has a policy of devoting a considerable proportion of his time to industry bodies, most notably AHDB but also Scottish Quality Crops and SRUC, where he has board positions.
David, who farms 405 hectares (1,000 acres) from his base at Upper Magus, three miles inland from St Andrews, says: “I think it is really important to have an interest which takes me off-farm.
“I played rugby for many years for Madras
FP and that was my interest, but then AHDB became my way of meeting interesting people with different views. I first got involved about 10 years ago through the Fife Monitor Farm project at Demperston.”
His AHDB involvement grew from there and he is now vice-chair of the Cereals and Oilseeds Sector Council and also chairs the ongoing national multi-sector review into RB 209, the nutrient management guide.
“My commitment to AHDB is about three days per month, but the RB209 review is an 18-month project. The calendar of meetings tends to suit arable timings in England, so I can sometimes find myself off-farm in the middle of harvest,” he says.
“But it is good discipline and makes me work to deadlines before I go away. I have three full-time men here and they are well able to keep the work up to date. I do have to resist
the temptation to answer my phone during meetings though.”
As an organisation, David thinks AHDB is in good heart under its new chief executive Graham Wilkinson and has recovered well from its ‘neardeath experience’ when levy payers voted to end the potato and horticulture sectors.
He says: “My personal opinion is that potato growers did not appreciate what they were going to lose in terms of a coherent approach to the challenges facing the industry.
“I realise people did not like paying sometimes thousands of pounds in levies, like myself, but AHDB Potatoes was able to drive change from
The suckler herd is 95% pure Aberdeen-Angus and is operated on a closed basis.
within. It is a lot easier to steer the ship from the cabin than it is by pushing it from swimming alongside. I thought the AHDB Strategic Potato Farm was excellent and I credit it with making me a better potato farmer.”
Potatoes
The potato enterprise is based on 45ha (111 acres) of salad and pre-pack varieties marketed through either Branston or the Scottish Potato Co-op. Harvesting is carried out using a tworow trailed Grimme GT 170 and was completed this year by October 17.
A new 1,000-tonne cold store built in 2020 was a major investment but is proving its worth thanks to a novel Welvent ventilation system. Onetonne boxes are stacked eight high.
Rather than introducing cold air through a letterbox system, it is blown along the top of the stack. Once it reaches the far end of the store, the cold air naturally sinks and is then drawn back through the potatoes towards the plenum chamber ready for chilling and recirculation.
Along the side of the new store, an outdoor sprayer filling area has been constructed. A water storage tank, a chemical store and a liquid fertiliser tank
It is really important to have an interest which takes me off-farm [...] AHDB became my way of meeting interesting people with different views
DAVID BELL
are all placed on a concrete pad sloping into a central sump.
As a former chair of the Voluntary Initiative and current chair of the National Register of Spray Operators, David is well aware of the
need to have a satisfactory storage and filling area.
The business, which trades as J.C. Bell and is a partnership including David’s parents, John and Liz, has changed radically over the last 12 years.
He says: “Our acreage was 90% rented and 10% owned, and amounted to 1,400ha with 400 suckler cows.
“Now it is the other way round, with 90% owned
and only 10% rented. Last year, we were able to continue the changeover by buying a neighbouring 91ha farm.”
Change
The change was forced rather than voluntary, and it was brought about by a change of policy by the largest of their landlords.
It led to a stressful period for David and his parents. He credits his participation in the Scottish Enterprise
Farm facts
David Bell
Farm Profile Fife
Rural Leadership programme for helping him to understand how to manage change successfully.
“The experience has led me to engage more with organisations such as RSABI, NFU Scotland and Farmstrong. They are all able to show people that there is light at the end of the tunnel,” he says.
Suckler cows
The restructured business, although smaller and based on owned land, has the same mix of enterprises and once again includes suckler cows.
The herd currently numbers 75 cows and is heading towards a target of 100 with all progeny, apart from replacement heifers, finished and sold deadweight. The herd, which is now 95% pure Aberdeen-Angus, is operated on a closed basis – only bulls are bought, mainly at the Stirling bull sales.
David says: “Dad loves his cows and so do I. It is such a privilege to be able to go out and check them every day. That was particularly the case during lockdown, when so many people in towns were unable to leave their homes.”
With suckler cows integrated into a
The potato enterprise is based on 45 hectares (111 acres) of salad and pre-pack varieties marketed through either Branston or the Scottish Potato Co-op.
mostly arable farm, it might seem like a good example of regenerative farming, but David looks askance at the suggestion.
He says: “You would need to define regenerative farming and that is not easy. I regard all mixed farms as being regenerative. There is no doubt I focus on soil health and that includes spreading lime, using oversized tyres, sowing cover crops where suitable and growing green manure crops under the Agricultural Environment and Climate Scheme [AECS].
“The green manure crops are left in place over the summer and followed by wheat. It would not stack up, however, without the support payment.”
The dung left by the cows as they graze is seen as being highly important, as is the farmyard manure carted out from their winter accommodation. The recently purchased farm has livestock buildings and covered straw storage, which will help with the herd expansion plans.
Direct drilling is now part of the mix using a four-metre Sky Easydrill, but at the same time, David is ‘very happy’ to plough if a reset is required. He finds the Sky drill works equally well on ploughed ground as long as it is
consolidated beforehand by a pass of his Vaderstad Topdown cultivator.
The drill has large hoppers for seed and fertiliser and a smaller one for cover crops, slug pellets or micronutrients.
Winter wheat, spring barley and winter barley are all grown with specific markets in mind. There is no oilseed rape in the rotation, but land rented out for vining peas provides a break along with the potatoes and temporary grass. The pea acreage, mostly about 30ha (74 acres) leaves nitrogen for the following crop and provides a guaranteed and promptly paid income.
Awards
David has won several ADAS Yield Enhancement Network awards in recent years for his spring and winter barley crops. He is also a dual winner of National Arable and Grassland Awards, having collected the Farm Manager of the Year title in 2022 and the Cereal Grower of the Year title in 2024.
The spring barley acreage, split between Diablo and Laureate, is destined for malting, with all of the 2024 crop meeting specification.
The tonnage is split between
Simpsons Malt, Diageo and Grainco. The winter wheat, all Spotlight or Skyscraper, is grown to specification for the biscuit market.
David says: “When I travel I like to take boxes of Walker’s Shortbread as gifts. It is nice to think that it might be made with some of my wheat.”
The rotational grass, which is used for grazing and baled silage, now includes mixed species herbal leys. There are more improvements to come across a whole range of activities.
One of the priorities is to encourage everyone on-farm to wear high-vis clothing.
“There is a slight stigma about this, but we have to get over it. There is a responsibility to get everyone home safe at night. I also have plans to use AECS funding to improve our hedges and to improve herd health,” says David.
With the 2024 arable work all tidied up, he is about to embark on an overseas tour. The first stop is Bucharest, where he will speak at the Romanian Agriculture Leadership forum, and then on to Dubai and the AgriNext conference, where he will collect an award for supply chain excellence.
All progeny, apart from replacement heifers, are finished and sold deadweight.
High-vis clothing is encouraged on farm for health and safety.
Bulls are mainly bought at the Stirling bull sales.
Christmas Gift Guide
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Prices start from £1,785 plus VAT, including the new wheeled tough box and one-litre fuel can.
All orders quoting ‘Farmers Guardian Christmas Gift Guide’ will receive a free service kit (worth £50), free shipping (usually £60) and an EPPD goody bag (worth £50).
Call: 0114 269 9119 Website: petrolpostdriver.com
WESTERMANN FARM CLEANING MACHINES
THIS festive season, make farm chores easier with Westermann’s Farm Scraping and Silage Pushing machines. Designed to simplify your workload, make slurry scraping quicker and more efficient, and manage silage forking with ease, these machines will give you more time and energy to enjoy the holiday season.
When it comes to outdoor cleaning, the Westermann Honda Moss Brush is your go-to solution. Although Christmas magic will not clear the moss from your drive, this innovative machine certainly will. Offering a chemical-free and water-free alternative to pressure washing, the Honda-powered Moss Brush saves you time, energy and money, while effectively cleaning all hard surfaces.
Engineered in Germany, these versatile machines also come with poly-brush options, perfect for sweeping animal feed in cubicles and other farm areas.
Whether it is scraping, pushing or cleaning, Westermann machines are designed to help you keep your farm in top shape with minimal effort. Treat yourself to time-saving efficiency this Christmas with Westermann.
Available from £1,570 plus VAT. All orders quoting ‘Farmers Guardian Christmas Gift Guide’ will receive a free brush or scraper blades (worth £150), free shipping (usually £55) and a Westermann goody bag (worth £50).
Call: 0114 269 9119
Website: westermannuk.com
SPREAD
THE FESTIVE SPIRIT WITHIN THE FG COMMUNITY
GIFT a Farmers Guardian membership this Christmas and receive a free £20 Amazon gift voucher to treat yourself or share with a loved one.
Choose from our Digital and Print Membership at £189 or Digital Membership at £109. Call Jake on 01772 799 529, and quote the code XMASA for digital and print, or XMASB for digital. While stocks last, give the gift of trusted news and insights today.
Arable
Edited by Alice Dyer – 07966 445 458 – alice.dyer@agriconnect.com
For more arable content, go to farmersguardian.com/arable-news-hub
● Herbicide resistance continues to increase
By Alice Dyer
DIVERSITY may be a key part of conservation agriculture, but with it comes new challenges for controlling weeds.
This, coupled with product withdrawals and increasing herbicide resistance, means existing chemistry is set to be further challenged, according to John Cussans, weed science principle consultant at ADAS.
He says: “We are beginning to see the vanguard of diversity driven by conservation agriculture trends in the UK, and growers need to be aware of that and how it might challenge existing herbicides and weed management practices.
“As you diversify cropping systems, you diversify the weed species that become problems.
“These changes in agricultural systems are driving more diversity in weed species that perhaps we did not have in a winter cereal-dominated rotation before.”
This includes a reduction in soil disturbance resulting in an increase in invasive perennial species such as hemlock, field bindweed and cooch, plus weeds with shorter lifecycles including groundsel or annual meadowgrass, which can complete their lifecycle within the lifespan of a cover crop, says Mr Cussans.
“Alongside that, herbicide resistance continues to increase both in frequency and in how many herbicide actives are affected,” he says.
The most recent instance in the UK was the emergence of flufenacet
As you diversify cropping systems, you diversify the weed species that become problems, says John Cussans, weed science principle consultant at ADAS (see inset).
Conservation ag driving weed diversity
resistance in Italian ryegrass. In a 2021 survey, 10% of seed samples sent in showed resistance.
“The fact resistance is now crossing over into pre-emergence chemistry is really important; [it is] not [just]
NEW PRE-EM WILL BE A VALUABLE TOOL IN THE BOX
AS arable farmers lose certain chemistry, having herbicide actives with a different footprint and mode of action, particularly at pre-emergence, will be a valuable tool in the box, says John Cussans of ADAS.
This makes FMC’s new mode of action, Isoflex, a timely introduction to the herbicides market.
Isoflex
Containing the active ingredient bixlozone, Isoflex provides both systemic and contact activity with residual control in key grass-weed and broad-leaved species, including ACCase- and ALS-resistant black-grass and ryegrass, according to FMC.
It is also said to provide effective control of a range of broad-leaf species. In winter wheat, it can be
applied at pre-em and early post-em, and at pre-em in winter barley.
Geoffrey Bastard, marketing lead at FMC, says: “The UK is currently sitting on around six different herbicide modes of action for the winter wheat autumn herbicides market, and even fewer in winter barley.
“That is low if you are looking to effectively alternate year on year, so new modes of action are crucial.
“Isoflex will be a new herbicide resistance management tool which will have inherent benefits to managing resistance and integrated pest management.”
It is hoped Isoflex will be available to growers by next autumn as a co-formulation with beflubutamid.
Both actives are new to the UK market.
restrictive to the kind of resistance we have had in the past,” says Mr Cussans. He says the answer to these challenges is to ‘combat diversity with diversity’.
Modes of action
“This includes diversity within herbicides, using more modes of action, using different actives and trying to bring in different crops that can have different actives, as well as having flexibility and diversity around timings and patterns of use,” he says.
“Beyond that, we need to address how cultural control needs to be diversified.
“We have tended to use one or two strategies around cultural control exclusively and perhaps forgotten other cultural options that are on the table.
“Lastly, we are really beginning to see the maturation of [options for] non-chemical control in crops, whether that is weed seed control, focused light tools, targeted energy tools or electric weeding.”
Threat to flufenacet
FARMERS in the EU could lose access to flufenacet as soon as next season, after it was identified as an endocrine disruptor, which is no longer permitted under EU law.
This is according to John Cussans, of ADAS, who says: “In time, within the EU space, flufenacet will be withdrawn. The timescale is going to vary by member state, but some will jump the gun because of public pressure and it will be withdrawn quickly. [As soon] as next season is where we are heading.”
Within the UK, if there is an adverse finding in any pesticide, the Chemicals Regulation Directorate will automatically review its status, but when that will be is unknown, adds Mr Cussans. However, the news of this in Europe has caused ‘product dumping’ to occur in the UK market, with flufenacet selling very cheaply.
“This is really unhealthy when we are talking about [herbicide] diversity and new modes of action such as bixlozone,” says Mr Cussans.
PICTURE: GARY NAYLOR
Many growers have been forced to drill cereals much later than they would have liked this season after persistent rainfall has put fieldwork on the backfoot. Alice Dyer gets tips for success from two experts.
SEEDBED PREPARATION
IN West Sussex, Mike Thornton, ProCam, head of crop production, says only around half of winter cereals have been drilled so far, after persistent wet weather left ground sodden.
This means flexibility will be key this season and growers should take each field on its individual merits, he says.
“When it comes to seedbed preparation, do not be too slavish about which cultivation method to use. I am hearing a lot of growers are ploughing now, which they would not necessarily be used to doing, but if you do not put a crop in as well as you can, it is never right afterwards and then you are committed to [product] spend.”
Agrii seed technical manager John Miles adds that the quality of the seedbed, not the drilling date, ultimately determines crop success.
“Some late-drilled crops last season yielded very well, proving that timing is not everything.”
SEED RATES
MR Miles is cautious about setting seed rates until he has assessed the seedbed quality, but says: “In good conditions, 400 seeds/sq.m may be enough, but this could rise to 550 seeds/sq.m in more challenging situations.”
He advises growers to focus on achieving the right density without overpopulating, as too many plants can lead to spring problems including lodging and increased disease pressure.
Increased slug activity in wet soils means Mr Thornton is also advising higher seed rates, particularly with the chances of rolling crops slim given the wet conditions and time pressures.
“One of my growers was originally aiming for 300 seeds/sq.m and is now going for 375/sq.m. However, on heavy land that might be 400/ sq.m. It is better to have a more competitive crop that is too thick because we can deal with that in the spring by hanging off nitrogen applications or using growth regulators.”
Maximising success with late drilling
DELAYED drilling is well known to help control weeds, but it will still be important to get a timely pre-em on.
Late drilling can have benefits including reduced pressure from septoria and improved weed
control.
VARIETY SELECTION
WHEN it comes to selecting varieties for late drilling, popular choices, such as Dawsum, Insitor, Champion and Beowulf, perform well, even when planted later, Mr Miles says.
He says: “Variety choice should be driven by the agronomic characteristics you need.
“Agrii’s own variety trials have identified Bamford and Blackstone as excellent performers with good vigour, ensuring they establish quickly.”
Skyfall is often a popular late drilling choice, for its low vernalisation requirement, but that is more for crops going in much later into February and March, says Mr Thornton.
“At the moment, it is more about speed of development. Unless you have a really slow developing variety like LG Typhoon, I think most varieties would still be okay at this particular point.
“It is a case of getting it established as well as you can.”
Mr Thornton says: “If you have been able to drill, you can probably spray so it is worthwhile doing.
“If a crop is a bit slower because conditions are not as good, the last thing you want is pernicious weeds competing with it.”
In more mild parts of the country, he also advises growers be mindful of aphids spreading barley yellow dwarf virus.
“Last year was not so bad, but the year before was quite serious. Some varieties with erect growth habits, such as Extase and Redwald, tended to be affected quite badly.
“That would not be reason not to put it in the ground, but have that in mind if you have limited spray days.”
LAST season, where crops were late drilled and faced compromised root systems, those with a Latitude (silthiofam) seed dressing appeared to perform better, says Mr Thornton.
“Anything that will promote rooting, such as phosphate, will also help the crop get away, so it does not have a lazy root system.
“When the crop has a poor root system followed by a dry spring it often cannot cope.”
ONE benefit of later drilling is that growers can expect reduced septoria pressure in spring. Mr Miles says that late drilling can improve a variety’s septoria score, with an increase of 0.3 points for each week the drilling is delayed.
This will ease workload in spring, so growers can prioritise earlier drilled crops, adds Mr Thornton.
“Septoria is likely to be pretty lively in crops drilled in September, so getting fungicides on at the right time is important.”
Mike Thornton
British Sugar moves to calm worries over seed shortages
● Better weather for lifting than last year
By Jane Thynne
BRITISH Sugar and the NFU have moved to ease concerns regarding seed availability, reassuring growers further product will be available.
Growers had been becoming increasingly worried that some varieties were displaying as ‘currently sold out’ following the initial seed release.
Issuing a joint statement, the NFU and British Sugar said the UK Seed Account had not yet sold and it fully expected further seed stocks to be released for sale.
The message was echoed by sugar beet seed provider Sesvanderhave, which said the company had stocks reserved for the UK and could supply direct, or via Anglia Farmers.
Sesvanderhave general manager Ian Munnery moved to buoy growers, saying: “With excellent yields being reported for our new beet cyst nematode (BCN) variety Hoopoe, we still have some stock.”
A statement from British Sugar and the NFU also sought to reassure those who may not have been able to access supplies.
“We will receive updates from breeders in the coming weeks as their final production volumes are confirmed,” it said.
“Provided the production numbers we receive remain above the volume sold so far, we will release additional stocks.
“By January we will have clarity on final production volumes and process-
Growers have been told that further sugar beet seed stocks should be available.
ing out-turn. We will therefore offer all remaining supplies of each variety up to these exact production numbers.
“As such, unless the yield or quality of the seed harvest falls far short of initial estimates from breeders, we expect to have further volumes to sell, including those displaying as ‘currently sold out’.”
Growers were told not to ‘panic’ and advised that if seed had not yet been purchased for 2025, further stocks of seed will become available through the UK Seed Account.
Daniel Brown, an arable and poultry farmer on the Suffolk and Cam-
bridgeshire border, said the shortage was becoming ‘an annual problem’.
“My dad buys the seed and last year tried as soon as they were released to get BCN varieties. They were already sold out, so he had to settle for what was left,” Mr Brown said.
“However, of the fields we have lifted this season, there is not much difference between the three fields which were drilled with two different varieties.
“According to the statistics, there was supposed to be a 2% yield difference, but that can be hidden by poor establishment or soil type.
“We have a range of soil types and I do not think you ever know whether it was seed type or soil and drilling conditions which brought about the yield.”
“We did our first lift in late September and now I am worried we went too early, but we had wheat to get in and, on two or three of our fields, if you do not get it in in good time, you can struggle.”
Optimistic
Stowmarket farmer and contractor Will Hitchcock said lifting began in mid-September and, owing to a spell of fair weather, he was optimistic about the coming season.
Mr Hitchcock said 40ha of sugar beet had been lifted, with tonnage reaching ‘the high 80s’ per ha.
“We would prefer 100t/ha, but when you lift middle to end of September, you have to accept a bit of a hit on yields,” he said.
We are currently looking at an average of 15.9% sugar which is a bit lower than our 16% target
DANIEL BROWN
Mr Brown said he had lifted around 40% of this year’s beet crop, with 30 hectares to go. And although the weather has been wetter than normal, conditions this year have not been as bad as those in 2023.
“We are behind, but we have a few dry days ahead of us, which did not happen last year,” he said.
“We are currently looking at an average of 15.9% sugar, which is a bit lower than our 16% target. I have been a little disappointed as I thought the sugar looked better.
“Sugars were 16.75%, so on the adjusted tonnage, we were only just treading water.
“If we sent 29t to the factory, it was coming back at 29t, so we have not gained anything on the tonnage.”
He said there had been a tough patch early in October, but unlike last year, they were able to keep moving by concentrating on lighter pieces of land.
“We have a sunny 10-day forecast, so conditions are very good. Hopefully the sugars will improve and the beet will put on some weight,” he added.
A FEW DAYS LEFT TO
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Edited by Angela Calvert – 07768 796 492
High of £1,800 at Bellingham
l Charolais cross steers sell to £1,540
MORE than 900 spring-born suckler calves were on offer at the Bellingham sale at Hexham. The pre-sale show was judged by Jim Wilkinson, Leyburn, who awarded the championship to a Limousin cross heifer from Steven Richardson, Corbridge.
It went on to sell for the top price of £1,800 to Bev Younger, Capheaton New Houses, for the Young Farmers overwintering competition.
In reserve was a Limousin cross steer from Eric and Mark Armstrong, Whitfield, which sold for £1,700 to Messrs Wilson, Ripon.
A run of calves from Willie, Faye and Ryan Walton, Penpeugh, topped at £1,690 and £1,640 for British Blue and Limousin crosses respectively.
Steers
Charolais cross steers sold to £1,540 for the Johnsons, West Wharmley, and to £1,510 for Messrs Walton, Flotterton.
Heifers sold to £1,600 for Robin Williamson, Littleburn, and Messrs
Penderyn records smashed
THERE were 413 rams sold at Penderyn, where a new record of 18,000gns was set for a yearling South Wales Mountain ram.
This was the second prize winner from K. Stephens, Rhydyfelin, which sold to C.D. Johns and Partners, Cwmtaff.
Next, at 15,000gns, was the first prize winner from D.M.G. Millichap and Partner, Duffryn, which was knocked down to Messrs Stephens.
This was followed by 10,000gns for a ram from D.T. Richards and Son, Llangynwyd.
Aged rams sold to 2,800gns for a three-year-old ram from H.E. Parks, Church Stretton.
White-faced rams topped at 2,160gns for a yearling from B. and
A. Walker, Pontsticill, selling to H. Davies, Talybont. This was followed by a yearling from D.B. and D.R. Williams, Penderyn, making 1,000gns to G. James, Pontbren.
Lowland rams
Lowland rams sold to 740gns for a Suffolk yearling from L.M. Howells and Son, Cymmer, followed by a Bluefaced Leicester yearling ram at 650gns from A.J. and E.W. Price, Gwynfe.
AVERAGES
South Wales Mountain – 189 yearling rams, £1,11.95 (+£142.18 on 2023); 30 aged rams, £456.54 (+£141.25). White-faced – 128 rams, £414.17 (+£122.65); lowland rams, £348.66 (+£55.91).
Auctioneers: Penderyn
Skipton dairies reach £3,000
A SMALL entry of dairy cattle at Skipton peaked at £3,000 for the third prize winning heifer in milk, Ravensgate Argonaut Blossom 253, giving 32kg, from Pete Baul, Bishop Thornton.
The same vendor had the presale show champion, a calved heifer by Peak Danger from the Ravensgate Sparkle family. It sold for £2,850 to Mark Goodall, Tong. Norman and Chris Bell, Cowling, sold the reserve champion, an early October-calved Sound System
daughter giving 30kg, which went to Brian Mellin, Blackpool, at £2,550.
In-calf heifers
In-calf heifers by Flowride and Boxcar, due November and December to named Angus sires, from the Ryders, Harrogate, peaked twice at £1,900, with the four averaging £1,750.
AVERAGES
Heifers in-milk, £2,525. Auctioneers: CCM.
Pre-sale show champion, a Limousin cross heifer from Steven Richardson, Corbridge, which sold for £1,800 to Bev Younger, Capheaton New Houses. Lee, Morley Hill. The Waltons sold British Blue heifers to £1,500 and Charolais heifers to £1,380.
Aberdeen-Angus cross steers sold to £1,360 for a pen of six from Dave and Stuart Hall, Elsdon, who aver-
aged £1,000/head for 26 females, all selling to J. Howard Johnson, Crook.
AVERAGES
Steers, £1,125; heifers, £970.
Auctioneers: Hexham and Northern Marts.
The High Peak Livestock Society celebrates 50 years
THERE was a celebration day at Bakewell to mark 50 years of the High Peak Livestock Society.
The society was formed by 12 founder members, who met at the Cat and Fiddle pub in 1974, with the aim of promoting High Peak livestock through sales at Bakewell and other sites.
For the first time, a show for the suckled calves was held before the sale, which was judged by regular buyer Roger Egglestone of Nixons Farm Shop, Heald Green.
Winning calf
The winning calf was a 10-monthold British Blue steer from Dan and Sam Byard, Ashover, which went on to sell for the top price of £1,650.
Following this, at £1,520, were
two 15-month-old Limousin steers from D.N. and J.E. Renwick, Middleton.
Heifers topped at £1,500 for a 15-month-old Limousin consigned by A. and J. Henshaw, Fairfield, followed at £1,400 by two 11-month-old Limousins from Messrs Renwick.
Young bulls
Young bulls sold to £1,500 for a British Blue, also from Messrs Henshaw, with two six- to seven-monthold Charolais from B. and M. Frost, Youlgreave, at £1,380.
AVERAGES
168 young feeding bulls, £1,071 (+£124 on 2023); 222 steers, £1,027 (+£53); 338 heifers, £988 (+£109).
Auctioneers: Bagshaws.
Suckled calves at Broughton
AT the show and sale of 97 suckled calves at Broughton, the judge, Fiona Jowett, Bradford, awarded the championship to a British Blue steer from N.A. and J. Temple, Seathwaite, Broughton-in-Furness, which she later went on to buy for £1,750 – the top price of the day.
The reserve championship went to a British Blue heifer from S.G.
Benson, Pennington, Ulverston, which sold for £,1500, also to the judge.
Cattle over 30 months old sold to £1,543.70 for a South Devon cow from J. Roberts and Sons, Holmrook, and 193.5p/kg for a 42-month-old Longhorn from M. Noble, Kirkby-in-Furness.
Auctioneers: Barnard Castle and Teesdale Farmers Auction Mart Co.
● Second day’s trade peaks at £37,000
THE two-day sale of rams on behalf of the Swaledale Sheep Breeders Association B District at Hawes topped at £62,000 for the first day’s reserve champion.
This was High Birkwith General 1, a shearling by home-bred Young General out of a £55,000 Oakbank Endeavour daughter, from Paul and Sue Hallam and family, High Birkwith. It sold to Robert Wear, Howe Green; Messrs Lawson, Howith; and Tom and Phillip Hutton, Setmabanning, with the Hallams retaining a half share.
Next on day one, at £22,000, was Penyghent King Pin by a Valley ram from John and Jean Bradley, Penny Grange, which went to John Richardson, Ghyll House, and Ian Bell, Spenrigg.
Robert Wear and his sons Adam and Thomas sold Howe Green Tully 2 by £18,000 John Tully for £20,000
Brock dairies to £3,000
THE monthly sale of dairy cattle at Brockholes Arms topped at £3,000 for A.B. and J. Parkinson, Out Rawcliffe, with their heifer, Liscabank Hanley Jen Molley 4, giving 30 litres, which sold to Evan Ellis, Shropshire.
Denhamhill Montoya Peggy from E.H. and R. Eccles, Chorley, sold for £2,980 to a Scottish buyer who also paid £2,950 for a Stardale heifer from J. Burrow and Son, Broughton.
Cows topped at £2,900 for a second calver, which had given more than 10,000kg in its first lactation and was giving 44kg again, from D. Fryars and Sons, Poulton-le-Fylde, which also went to Messrs Ellis.
First day’s reserve champion, High Birkwith General 1, a shearling from Paul and Sue Hallam and family, High Birkwith, which sold for £62,000.
Swaledale rams reach top price of £62,000
to Neil Richardson, Big Fernyford.
The pen leader from Richard and Gail Harker, Grayrigg Hall, was a son of a home-bred ram and was knocked down for £18,000 to Tom Robinson, Catlow. Their second shearling, by a £20,000 Bull and Cave, made £13,000 to Dan Bower, Woodlands, and David Harker, Overthwaite.
The first day’s champion from Steven and Alison Bland and family, Cotegill Cottage, was by £18,000 Kingshaugh Deano and made £14,000 to Messrs Lightfoot, Gillside, and David Allinson, West Briscoe.
The second day’s trade peaked at £37,000 for David Harker and his
daughter Annie, with Quarry JB10 by a £10,000 Jonathan Burton and out of a ewe by a £21,000 Howith. It sold jointly to Martin Wilson, Arnigill House, and Richard Harker.
The second day’s champion, from John Richardson and his sons Ben and Josh, was a son of a David Harker out of a ewe by Ghyll House Keeper, which sold for £28,000 to the Porter family, Oxnop. They then sold Ghyll House 007 by Ghyll House Mint for £16,000 to Martin Allan, Knock Hall.
Making £26,000 for Craig Ridley, Haltcliffe, was a shearling by a Robert Tennant, which sold in a two-way split to Steven Bland and John Bradley.
Steven and Carol Porter and their son Will sold Summer Lodge Scarr 4 by £20,000 Graham Scarr for £20,000 to Richard Hargreaves, Meadow Bank; Richard Harker; and Messrs Lightfoot. Aged rams topped at £2,000 for B.R. Fawcett, Leyburn, with a fourshear Raby ram and ram lambs sold to £700 for the champion from Helen Scott, Forcegarth, which sold to Messrs Ridley.
THE Newcastleton sale of 622 Blue Grey in-calf heifers, bulling heifers and heifer calves along with 322 suckler calves and native breed store cattle at Lockerbie topped at £2,600 for in-calf Blue Grey heifers from Messrs Flintoft, Sourhope.
Bulling heifers sold to £1,550 six times. Firstly, for Messrs Telford, Holme Head, who sold four to Messrs Cockburn, Midlothian. Secondly, for
two from Messrs Bell, The Bloch, selling to Rhindhu Farm, Chapeltown.
Top price heifer calves, at £1,300/ head, were from Messrs Hogg and Son, Milnholm, for two pens of four 12-month-old calves which went to Dalmahoy Farms, West Lothian.
The winning pen for four or more bulling heifers from Messrs Kyle, Sproutbank, sold for £1,400/head to Messrs Stobart, Croglin High Hall.
The first-prize pen of four eight-monthold heifer calves went to Messrs Moore, Softley Farm, and were bought by Messrs Thomson, Kelso.
AVERAGES
Overall, £1,326.18 (+£291.88 on 2023); in-calf heifers, £1,863.22 (+£57.84); bulling heifers, £1,262.34; heifer calves under 12 months old, £886.54.
Auctioneers: Harrison and Hetherington.
Tilstone Holstein Friesian dispersal tops at
THE dispersal of the Tilstone herd of Holstein Friesians on behalf of Tom and Sarah Mansell on-farm near Tarporley topped at 3,500gns for a third calver.
The daughter of Errolston Grenade calved in February and was back in-calf to Angus, giving 52kg after producing 11,976kg in its second lactation. Next, at 3,400gns, was a second cal-
ver by Luis Ooh Odel, which had given 10,256kg as a heifer. Calved heifers sold to 3,380gns for a Denovo Hill daughter.
In-calf heifers
In-calf heifers peaked at 2,500gns for a November-calving daughter of Denovo Elway, which was carrying a Bomaz Getaway heifer calf out of a 11,862kgs Rosylane LLC Spock dam.
Yearling heifers sold to 1,250gns and heifer calves to 650gns.
Auctioneers: Gwilym Richards with Market Drayton Market.
Quarry JB10, from David Harker and daughter Annie, which sold for £37,000 to Martin Wilson, Arnigill House, and Richard Harker, Grayrigg Hall.
Suckled calves peak at £3,200
l Limousin cross heifer named champion
THE show and sale of 455 suckled calves at Kirkby Stephen topped at £3,200 for the pre-sale show champion, a 10-month-old Limousin cross heifer from Messrs Brown, Great Asby, which was bought by Messrs Hargreaves, Preston. Their consignment of 60 calves averaged £1,416.86, up £125.86 on the year.
The same vendors sold sevenmonth-old Limousin heifers at £2,600 to the judge, Amy Vance, Newton Stewart, with a six-month-old British Blue heifer making £2,300 and a sixmonth-old Limousin heifer making £2,200, both to Messrs Slack, Penrith. A seven-month-old Limousin heifer
also made £2,200 to Messrs Walton, Hexham, and a 10-month-old Limousin heifer sold for £2,100 to Messrs Mongomerie.
Messrs Hayton, Asby, sold 10-monthold British Blue cross heifers to £2,600 to Messrs Barnett, Shap, and averaged £1,426.92 for 40 calves.
Messrs Sedgley, Carnforth, sold the reserve champion, a nine-month-old British blue steer, for £1,850 to Messrs Harrison, Driffield.
Messrs Brown also sold a 10-monthold Limousin steer to £1,845 to Messrs Amos, Leicester.
AVERAGES
Steers, £1,237.58 (+£10.33 on the year); heifers, £1,221.8 (+£47.94); overall, £1,230.60 (+£26.15).
Auctioneers: Harrison and Hetherington
Limousin heifers claim top titles
AT the show and sale of forward store cattle at Darlington, the pre-sale show championship and reserve both went to 18-month-old Limousin heifers from the late George Dent, Cockfield. Both sold to J.C. White and Son, Barnsley, at £1,680 and £1,670 respectively.
A trio of 20-month-old Aberdeen-Angus steers from B. and B. Kitching and Son, Stockton, sold for £1,910, with their six steers averaging £1,858.
Heifers topped at £1,830 for a 19-month-old Limousin from T.W.
West, Egremont, whose run of five averaged £1,712.
Young bulls sold to £1,360 for a Charolais from C.S. Thompson, Hawsker, while the only cow and calf in the mart, a four-year-old Limousin with a bull calf at foot, from J.R. and A.R. Wall, Lartington, sold for £2,200.
AVERAGES
Steers, £1,256 (+£82 on 2023); heifers, £1,142 (+£137).
Auctioneers: Darlington Farmers Auction Mart.
John Carr (left), with his champion Dalesbred aged ram, and Frank Jackson (right), with his reserve champion shearling ram. Back row,
to
co-judges Amy Brown and Ellie Forster.
Champion tops Dalesbred sale
THE Dalesbred Sheep Breeders Association show and sale at Skipton topped at 450gns for the pre-sale show champion, a four-shear ram from M.J. and A. Carr, Horton in Ribblesdale. The buyer was A. and M.A. Wright, Wray. Reserve champion went to the winning shearling ram from R. Jackson and Son, Horton in Ribblesdale, which made 380gns to E. Snowden, Keighley.
Shearling gimmers topped at £160/head for pens from both David
Charnley, Litton, and Messrs Coates, Stainforth.
Ellie Forster, Bentham, sold oneand two-crop ewes to £150, with threecrop ewes to £145. Gimmer lambs topped at £140 for Hayton and Stocks, Bolton Abbey.
AT the Tow Law show and sale of store cattle, the judge, James Crichton, Loughrigg, awarded the store cattle championship to a red Limousin heifer from P. Guiry and Son, Glanton Town Farm, which went on to sell for £1,700. The champion suckled calf was a nine-month-old steer from Messrs Charlton, Whiteside, which sold for £1,620.
In reserve was the first prize Limousin cross heifer from T.C.E. Armstrong, Harlow Bower, which made £1,650.
Stronger cattle peaked at £2,200 for an Aberdeen-Angus cross bullock
Luke Fair sale sees £800 twice
THE Luke Fair sale of 3,000 breeding sheep at Kirkby Stephen topped at £800 twice. Firstly, this was for four-shear Swaledale ewes from the dispersal sale for K. Sowerby, Brough, which were bought by Messrs Brogden, Brough. Three-shear ewes from the same home sold to £280, and three- and four-crop ewes sold to £250, with the consignment averaging £238.89. Also making £800/head was a pen of two- and three-crop Swaledale ewes, which were faulty in the udder, from Messrs Hutchinson, Valley Farm, Bowes. They sold to Shaun Procter, Kirkby Stephen. Another pen of two- and three-crop Swaledale ewes from Messrs Hutchinson sold for £340/head to Messrs Nattrass,
Garrigill, with the consignment of 30 Swaledale ewes averaging £282.60.
Messrs Rukin, Weststonesdale, sold a pen of three-crop Swaledale ewes at £460/head to Messrs Nicholson, Barras. Messrs Sowerby, Slaggyford, sold Dutch Texel shearlings to £265/ head to Messrs Coulthard, Baldersdale. Texel cross shearlings sold to £230 twice and £225 from Messrs Wilson, Carlisle. Beltex shearlings sold to £225/head for Messrs Brown, Barnard Castle, and Texel cross ewes sold to £222 and £215 from Messrs Coulthard. Mule ewes sold to £198 from Messrs Fawcett, Stainmore.
Gimmer lambs topped at £235 for Bluefaced Leicesters from Messrs Twentyman, Great Strickland, selling to Messrs Hayton, Asby.
Messrs Twentyman also topped the Mule gimmer lambs at £170/head for a pen of five.
Swaledale gimmer lambs sold to £130 for Messrs Gibson, Barnard Castle.
Breeding rams topped at £900 twice: firstly, for a five-shear Bluefaced Leicester from Messrs Dawson, Kendal, bought by Messrs Bousfield, Bampton; secondly, for a Bluefaced Leicester shearling from Messrs Morland, Starrah, which sold to Messrs Hodgson and Peart, Westgate.
AVERAGES
1,005 Swaledale ewes, £142.23; rams, £552.30.
Auctioneers: Harrison and Hetherington.
from L.R. Carmicheal and Son, Berwick Hill.
Limousin and British Blue cross steers from J.A. Gilson, Heugh Farm, topped at £2,180 for a Blue and another to £2,060.
A run of forward Limousin, Blue and Charolais cross steers from I. and A. Hamilton, Claywalls, sold to £2,120 for a Blue cross and £2,020 for Limousins. Charolais cross heifers from J. and D. Longlands, Tone Hall, topped at £1,680.
Auctioneers: Hexham and Northern Marts.
Store cattle at Norwich
STORE cattle sold to £1,670 at Norwich for an 18-month-old Limousin cross steer from A. White, Norton. Next, at £1,170, was a 22-month-old British Blue steer from N. Baxter, Bungay.
Messrs White also had the top price heifer, an 18-month-old Limousin cross which made £1,570, with another from the same home at £1,550. A 12-month-old Limousin bull from F. Calver, Norwich, sold for £940. In the breeding cattle section, Beef Shorthorn cows with strong calves from W.E. Chantry, Saxmundham, sold to £2,180. D.R. Coe, Needham, sold Limousin calves on their mothers to £1,620. Beef Shorthorn heifers from Messrs Chantry topped at £1,330. The top price calf, at £400, was a British Blue consigned by C.W. Potter, Tharston.
Auctioneers: Norwich Livestock Market.
left
right:
Hear from industry experts and farmers who have started their diversification journey
Join us 6-7 November 2024 at the NEC Birmingham for FREE access to insightful talks, panel discussions, and workshops, to help you discover income-generating opportunities.
Topics include:
• How to best diversify your land, including Solar, Wind, Biodiversity Net Gain, Battery Storage, Grants, Camping/Glamping, Agri-Tourism, Housing, Carbon Credits and Forestation
• Advice and lessons learned from farmers who have started their diversification journey
Meet some of our speakers
John Gilliland OBE
DSc FRSA FRAgS, Advisor - Agriculture Horticulture Development Board (AHDB)
Alex Phillimore Head of Communications and Development - The Farming Community Network
• Real-life case-studies from landowners who have made a profit from diversifying
• Recent tax changes and how they will impact your business
Sarah Wynn Managing Director for Climate Change and Sustainability –ADAS
Roger Morgan Head of Farming and Rural - Farm & General Insurance Consultants
Plus, you’ll get free access to the talks and workshops taking place at our co-located exhibition, the Land, Leisure and Tourism Show!
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Careers Special
In this careers
LISTEN TO THE FG PODCAST
Why not listen to the Farmers Guardian podcast with FG’s machinery team, live from the combine cab, talking all things machinery, technology and careers?
Into the future
Agriculture is constantly changing and evolving and, with it, new technologies are developed and implemented, creating all sorts of career opportunities.
The machinery world is, perhaps, a sector that many overlook when choosing a career, but if you take a closer look there is a diverse range of jobs, from
precision engineering, agronomy, technology development and even marketing.
LAMMA 2025, one of the most anticipated machinery shows, will soon be here and, for the second year, Farmers Guardian’s career zone offers a glimpse into a world of possibilities, giving visitors a chance to meet companies and educational institutions, such as The Institute for Agriculture
and Horticulture, Bishop Burton college, AGCO and G’s Fresh. Attendees can take part in conversations about the future of the sector, with a wide range of workshops and talks on offer addressing pressing issues, such as the push towards carbon-neutral farming and the impact that robotics and artificial intelligence is likely to have on traditional farming practices.
When applying for a farm tenancy, preparation and research are vital, says the TFA.
Applying for a farm tenancy is a major decision for both landlord and potential tenant and, with farm tenancies being highly competitive, perseverance is key to success.
George Dunn, chief executive of the Tenant Farmers Association (TFA), said: “To be successful, would-be tenants must be prepared to show their skills, practical farming ability and business experience, as well as financial sustainability and sound judgement.
“Applying for a tenancy is exciting, but be careful not to be too eager by allowing your heart to rule your head.
“Make sure you think about all the costs and work out what you are actually paying for.”
Farm tenancy applications are competitive, but the TFA has advice to improve your chances. Farmers Guardian reports.
Top tips for applying for a farm tenancy
The TFA offered five tips to help prepare would-be tenants prepare for the application process:
■ Be prepared to move
The TFA said when looking for farms, you must keep an open mind and not to be limited to one area.
Being prepared to move is important if the opportunity arises.
■ Understand the nature of the landlord providing the opportunity and the reasons they are offering it
There will be competition, and there will be many landlords, the organisation said, who will simply look for the highest rent from the least risky option for a short number of years.
But there are other landlords who are looking for a long-term relationship and are willing to assist new entrants.
Understanding what drives the landlord will be key and will help
you avoid wasting your time and energy.
■ Make the most of viewing day on the farm
When looking at the property and land, really assess the land and buildings – make sure you get a good feel for the place.
“Remember, first impressions count too – dress tidily in clean clothes, be polite and ask questions to develop a relationship with the letting agent. You want a second viewing.” said Mr Dunn.
■ Give yourself time to prepare
Do not rush. When ready to apply, give yourself time to prepare the business plan and tender documentation. A well-thought-out tender can take weeks and it may need to be revisited and altered many times before it is finally submitted.
■ Decide on a level of rent that is sustainable
Try to not over estimate the rental value – yes, it might get you the farm, but it could also leave you with a huge financial burden and a failing business.
It is key to look at the pattern of rents in the area and seek professional advice if you are unsure about what to tender, the TFA said.
“If you do not succeed on your first attempt, ask for feedback and keep trying. Perseverance should be your watchword,” added Mr Dunn.
“Do not underestimate the hard work and long hours that is involved in running your own business and remember routine improvements such as repairs to fences and clearing ditches will cost you time and money and, until it is done, it may hold you back.”
MORE INFORMATION
For more information and tips on the application process visit the TFA’s YouTube channel.
George Dunn
First vet degree students welcomed on SRUC course
Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) announced earlier in the year it would be opening its first new vet school in more than 150 years and has already welcomed more than half of its first intake of students from rural or remote Scottish locations.
The college’s School of Veterinary Medicine, in Aberdeen, has seen 45 students begin their studies, with the institution providing the new cohort with a chance to progress from Higher National Diploma (HND) courses on to the veterinary degree programme.
The course is being overseen by Prof Caroline Argo.
She said: “It is now recognised that the UK veterinary profession
is failing to achieve self-sufficiency in generating and retaining homegrown talent.
“This has serious ramifications for key sectors of the profession that are central to Scotland’s ambitions, economy and the sustainability of our rural communities.
Needs
“By aligning the attitudes and abilities of our veterinary students more directly with the needs of the Scottish profession, we hope to train the general practitioners that are so essential for our food sector and mixed practices. We are delighted to have welcomed the first cohort of students to SRUC and very much look forward to helping them achieve their ambitions.”
SRUC is helping students progress from an HND course to a veterinary degree course.
One Staffordshire dairy farming business is thriving after investing heavily in staff training and communication. Farmers Guardian reports.
Dairy farm invests in staff training
Taking action and time to invest in staff has been the driver of success for Rupert Major, at Castle Hayes Farm, near Tutbury, Staffordshire.
After farm manager Will Sanders attended a talk with Paul Harris, careers specialist and chief executive of REAL Success, the team at the farm decided to focus on the people in the business and bring Paul in to help.
The idea was to work on areas such as developing the people management approach, including staff training, to improve team dynamics, communication skills and recruitment techniques on the 404-hectare spring-calving dairy unit.
Rupert said: “It was a ‘yes’ straight away from me. I think the management of any team of people is a hard thing to do, but it is also the most rewarding – personally and for the business.”
Paul regularly visits the farm to work with the team and, during that time, he has delivered a four-module training course with the core team.
The training has also been beneficial in understanding human behaviour, highlighting the fact that every team member is different – and that may require various approaches.
Team
“Everyone has different strengths, different ways in which they are best managed and bring different things to the team,” said Rupert.
“And for people managing those below them, Paul has a fantastic phrase, which is ‘dial up or dial down’ your own style, which is a great reminder for changing how you communicate to your team.”
It has been good to see the development too, said Rupert. Farming can be one of those learn-as-you-go
We were aiming for a settled, happy, productive team that worked well to achieve excellent results
RUPERT MAJOR
industries, but with the right support and direction, people can really have a dynamic career.
Rupert spoke of farm manager Will Sanders, who has been working at Castle Hayes for five years.
“He has developed fantastically
in the five years he has been working for me and a chunk of that is being able to manage himself and others,” said Rupert.
“Having support and structured training in this area is very valuable. For me, it is the key that unlocks the door.
“I think we can find the technical industry learnings easily through things like AHDB, whereas managing people and self-management is quite personal to each member of the team.
“It has enabled us all to grow –me as much as anyone; we have all learned a lot and enjoyed it.
“We were aiming for a settled, happy, productive team that worked well to achieve excellent results – I think we are a lot closer to that than ever before.
“It is only the team that will allow the expression of the capacity for profit and production that the farm and the cows can have.”
The team at Castle Hayes Farm, Staffordshire, has benefited from an investment in people.
With a desire to recruit enthusiastic people and provide them with the skills needed for a successful career in the agri-feed industry, ForFarmers has launched a new development scheme to attract fresh talent. Farmers Guardian reports.
ForFarmers launches new development programme
ForFarmers, a manufacturer and feed supplier across Europe, has launched a two-year agri-sales programme, which is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of its commercial operations, from sourcing to selling. At the end of the programme, ForFarmers aims to find participants a full-time role within the business, with greater responsibility and continued training.
Greg Edwards, ForFarmers commercial director, says: “We are a total feed business and find pride in the expert advice we share on farm.
“By offering the best feed solutions for each individual business, we ensure a higher return for our customers, healthier livestock and improved efficiency – and we can only do this with the right people.
“The Commercial Development Programme gives insight and experience into many of our business areas and product ranges.”
The programme features six- to nine-month work placements, available in ruminant field sales, pig and poultry, trading, technical, youngstock, marketing, forage, procurement and robotic milking. Candidates can choose their own
placements, gaining world-class training and mentoring, all while working in highly motivated teams.
Technical and commercial training modules also provide a valuable opportunity for participants to learn and develop, while also receiving mentoring to help them identify and grow their skills.
Applications
Now open for applications, the Commercial Development Programme starts in September 2025.
“Motivation and attitude are key,” says Greg.
“This is not a programme that is limited to graduates, and we welcome applications from those with or without degrees. It is not limited to those at the early stages of their career.
“If you have a passion for agriculture, a can-do attitude and the desire to success, then we want to hear from you. Come and join our team and let us feed your career.”
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about the programme and details on placement opportunities, the renumeration package and the application process, go to workingatforfarmers.co.uk/cdp
If you have a passion for agriculture, we want to hear from you GREG EDWARDS
The two-year programme is designed to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of commercial operations, from sourcing to selling.
Careers Supporting fresh talent
The Oxford Farming Conference’s (OFC) Breaking Barriers Programme has a new cohort of scholars for 2025.
The scholarship supports individuals under the age of 30 who identify as Black or a person of colour, all with expertise spanning animal nutrition, veterinary science, sustainability and food system resilience, giving them access to advice and networking opportunities.
OFC director and programme facilitator Jude McCann says: “It is a movement towards transforming the face of agriculture.”
Meet some of the scholars below.
CHIMBUSONMA IKEYI
CHIMBUSONMA Ikeyi is a final-year student at the University of Nottingham, pursuing a degree in agriculture and crop science. She has completed a placement year at PepsiCo, working in the agricultural science research and development team, where she contributed to projects aimed at enhancing crop sustainability, production and quality to meet evolving consumer demands and environmental standards.
She says: “The agriculture industry in the UK remains relatively inaccessible to Black people and minority ethnic groups due to various structural, cultural and financial
UMAR MUHAMMAD
UMAR Muhammad is an earlycareer researcher and youth leader specialising in agriculture, climate change adaptation and agrifood supply chain management.
Currently pursuing a PhD at the Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Umar’s research focuses on the impact of climate change-induced shocks on agrifood value chains, aiming to build resilience in these systems.
Umar says: “I think agriculture is often seen as a traditional sector, which can create barriers for those from nonfarming or diverse backgrounds.
“However, innovation, sustainability and technology such as precision agriculture and
barriers. However, there is a growing recognition of the need for greater diversity and inclusion in the sector.
“I find great fulfilment working in the agriculture sector, driven by my passion for advancing global food security. Recently, I have become interested in how my skills can be applied to benefit other industries that intersect with agriculture, such as finance technology, sustainability and supply chain management.”
drones are slowly transforming this perception and opening doors for individuals with technical skills.
“And while the industry can be competitive, I have found many people within it to be very supportive and open to new ideas, especially when it comes to solving challenges related to food production and sustainability.
“Financial barriers, such as the capital needed for land and equipment, can be challenging, especially for young people or those without family ties in farming.
“But programmes like Breaking Barriers are crucial in helping individuals like me gain insights and connections in the industry, allowing me to build networks and grow my confidence as an agricultural professional.”
NAVJOT GILL
IN 2022, Navjot Gill simultaneously entered the agriculture industry and joined Promar International. Prior to this, she completed a bachelor of science degree in environmental sciences at the University of Reading.
Over the past two years, she has gained an extensive understanding of the agriculture sector, focusing on practical, sustainable solutions for the agrifood supply chain.
She says: “Before joining Promar I had only set foot on-farm on school trips and had no real understanding of agriculture or the food supply
NACIA BONNICK
NACIA Bonnick gained her bachelor of science (honours) degree in agricultural and livestock science from the University of Nottingham. Post-graduation, Nacia joined the University of Nottingham’s Dairy Centre, enriching her practical skills in the dairy sector.
Her career later led her to Trouw Nutrition, where she worked as a formulator, focusing on milk replacers due to her keen interest in young animal nutrition. Currently, Nacia serves as a technical adviser, handling various enquiries within the ruminant team.
She says: “When it comes to
chain. Growing up in the more urban environment of London, these sorts of opportunities were rare.
“After nearly three years in the industry, I would not say I have faced significant barriers or struggled to access agricultural spaces. However, representation has been limited, and I often find it difficult to relate to those who grew up in farming – whether through family farms or first-hand experience working on one.
“This made it challenging to adjust or feel involved at first, but I appreciate and value great opportunities like the [scholarship].”
accessibility in agriculture, I think that my own journey highlights the challenges many others face when entering the field. Growing up in urban Nottingham in a non-farming family, agriculture was not even on my radar. It was not until my time studying animal science at the University of Nottingham, where I shared lectures with agricultural science students, that I discovered this sector and developed a passion for global food security.
“Finding my first role after graduation was a struggle, but I was fortunate that the university farm manager took a chance on someone with no experience.”
Front row, left to right: Sheena Horner, Jessica Dickson, Mariyah Salahuddin, Mary Ogunmodede and Umar Muhammad. Back row, left to right: Navaratnam Partheeban, Nacia Bonnick, Chimbusonma Ikeyi, Navjot Gill, Yetunde Ikudabo and Jude McCann.
AgDiversity, a bespoke course for those involved in agricultural, rural and land-based industries, has been created by a group of Nuffield Farming Scholars, steered by former scholar and vet Navaratnam Partheeban.
On October 23, the course was launched at an event hosted by the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust and sponsored by McDonald’s and The School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harper Adams University.
Guest speakers came together at Romshed Organic Farm in Kent to talk about raising awareness of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and impacts on the agricultural sector; how the industry can help others feel more welcomed and included; and feeling more confident to understand and talk about DEI issues.
Romshed regularly hosts schoolchildren from South London.
Fidelity Weston, owner of Romshed, says: “The children come from a large range of ethnic backgrounds.
“Often it is those with an Asian or African heritage who know more about farming than those with a British heritage, as their parents or grandparents were directly involved in agriculture.”
The course is about self-awareness too, and participants are urged to slow down their thinking to avoid making automatic judgements about people or jumping to conclusions that might be hurtful or damaging, realising the potential positive impacts
A new course is set to help farm businesses and individuals in the industry become more inclusive. Farmers Guardian reports.
Encouraging a diverse future for farming
Increasing diversity [...] is the right thing to do
NAVARATNAM PARTHEEBAN
this could have on their businesses.
Navaratnam says: “There are business and legal cases for increasing diversity in farming and being more sensitive to the needs of others, but – more importantly – it is the right thing to do.”
The course costs £30 and is available to anyone wanting to learn more about diversity and inclusion. Users will receive a certificate once completed.
MORE INFORMATION
If you are interested in finding out more, visit farmersguardian.com/diversity
Apprenticeship success
THE general farm worker apprenticeship qualification, a business-education partnership between Craven Cattle Marts, Craven College and local farms, has helped young farmers advance in their career.
It involves placements at Skipton Auction Mart plus farm-based experi-
ence at local farms, covering various sectors and farm-related activities for people aged 16-18, with the hope of filling a shortage of young farm workers.
MORE INFORMATION For the full story, go to farmersguardian.com/farmworker
Left to right: Alex Hardie, Harper Adams University; Micky Wright, AgRespect; Polly Davies, Slade Farm Organics; Kendra Hall, Paralympian and Nuffield Farming Scholar; Mike Duxbury, Inclusive Farm; and vet Navaratnam Partheeban.
Come and work for Agriconnect.
We have the following opening Sales
Media Business Development Manager/ Executive
Agriconnect is the largest multi-platform agricultural information business in the UK. Our brands reach deeply into all the major agricultural sectors - arable, dairy, livestock, agricultural machinery, finance, and equipment.
We offer an excellent package including:
• 25 days holiday increasing to 27 after two years
• Hybrid Working (minimum 2 days in the office each week)
• Flexible working hours available
• An extra day off on your birthday
• Matched pension contribution up to 6%
• Employee assistance programme
• Long service awards and employee of the month
• Employee discount scheme
• Employee referral scheme
• Exceptional career progression. We are ever-evolving, if you work hard and do well - with our help and support there are no limits to your speed of progress
For more details on any of our vacanies, or to apply, please scan the QR code or call on 01772 799500.
Our Brands
VI Chair
The Voluntary Initiative (VI) seeks a new independent Chair to promote the responsible use of plant protection products (PPPs) through an Integrated Pest Management (IPM)-based approach.
The Chair will champion the responsible use of PPPs and act as a brand ambassador for the VI. They will be expected to lead and develop VI strategy in conjunction with the VI Strategy Group and engage with Government Ministers, regulators and other stakeholders to promote the aims of the VI.
The successful applicant will have an excellent understanding of agriculture in the UK and a desire to contribute to continued sustainable food and feed production. They will also be aware of the issues surrounding PPPs and the potential impacts of their use on the wider environment.
Able to think strategically, the Chair will need to be an excellent networker and experienced communicator.
Ideally the successful candidate will have experience of managing corporate/ strategic change.
Experience of business and people management would also be advantageous. The role, which is Government supported, requires approx. 3 days per month with some flexibility needed, and will be paid at an agreed rate.
Further details and job description can be found via the QR code below: Please apply with a CV and covering letter to info@voluntaryinitiative.org.uk by 18.00 Friday 22nd November 2024. Interviews will be held in early December 2024.
CURRENT VACANCIES
We currently have a wide range of positions available nationwide to include:-
LKL provides the perfect solution for finding the very best herd carers and managers. Visit our website for a full list of our current vacancies.
Employer East of Scotland Farmers
Location Coupar Angus, Blairgowrie | Salary A competitive salary
Closing date 15 Nov 2024
General Manager
If you are looking for a challenging role that can make a significant difference to Scottish farmers, then this unique opportunity could be for you.
For only the second time in almost 40 years, the Board of Directors of East of Scotland Farmers Ltd is looking for a new General Manager.
East of Scotland Farmers Ltd was established in 1959 and has grown to represent a membership of more than 300 farmers. The co-operative’s primary function is to provide drying, storage, market security and competitive prices for malting barley and other grains from its members; whilst also providing a comprehensive range of inputs and services to arable farmers, livestock farmers, small-holders and non-farming customers.
Leading a team of 24, and operating within a wide network of industry relationships, the General Manager is the principal ambassador of East of Scotland Farmers.
As the next General Manager, you would provide leadership and operational expertise to ensure that EOSF continues to meet its strategic goals of growth and performance. The business is not prepared to stand still and is always looking ahead to maximise the benefits achievable for its membership.
Alongside the business leadership role, the General Manager is also responsible for marketing the members’ grain and so knowledge of farming and the grain industry is key. Another important component of this busy and dynamic role is the ability to build relationships with the directors and members of the co-op, colleagues, customers, suppliers and a range of other stakeholders to ensure that EOSF is performing to its fullest capability.
For more information or to apply, head to JobsInAgriculture.com
Site Manager - HorseWorld
Established in 1952, HorseWorld Trust is a registered charity based in Whitchurch, near Bristol, committed to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing horses, ponies and donkeys in need.
Job overview: HorseWorld’s home at Keynes Farm is approximately 150 acres of outstanding land. Home to 100+ horses and a learning centre that helps thousands of children through Equine Assisted Learning. Critical to the health & happiness of the herd & the young people who visit us is the land and facilities here. As site manager you will work with our Welfare & Discovery Teams to ensure that the site and land are kept at their best at all times so we can all be proud to host guests and work here. And, as we look to the future, the Site Manager will also be critical in helping to identify opportunities for expansion or development.
Employer: HorseWorld Trust
Location: Whitchurch, Bristol
Closing date: 24 Nov 2024
Sector: Equestrian, Farm Work, Forestry & Woodland, General, Livestock, Management, Property, Land & Estates Management
Contract Type: Permanent
Role: Manager
or
Technical Examiner - 0173 Land and Wildlife - Marking Examiner
Technical Moderator - Level 2 & 3 Land Based Engineering
Sale of the Entire Milking Herd of 200 Fresh NZ Friesians on behalf of D R K Agriculture (Kennerley family), Smiths Green Farm, Lower Withington, Macclesfield, Cheshire. Store Cattle Sales
500 STORE CATTLE
SATURDAY 9TH NOVEMBER 2024 – Entries Invited Store Sheep Sales
7533 STORE LAMBS & BREEDING SHEEP THIS SATURDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 2024
Fat/Barrens: Graham Watkins 07976 370894 Dairies: Meg Elliott 07967 007049 Stores: Mark Elliott 07973 673092 Sheep: Robert Watkins 07929 946652 Visit us at www.leekauctions.co.uk
Autumn sheep sales were a highlight View from the Rostrum
Ian Atkinson on this year’s strong sales
The autumn sales seem to have flown by once again and it has been a pleasure to have been involved as auctioneer at Hawes Auction Mart.
For me, the autumn breeding sheep sales are a personal highlight, and I look forward to them every year.
The trade in general has been buoyant.
The autumn sales commenced with the Mule and Continental breeding ewes and gimmer shearlings.
These saw fewer numbers on offer in markets throughout the country following the strong prime hogg trade in the spring, which many took advantage of by selling what they could.
The numbers being tight certainly helped with trade, with quality gimmer shearlings regularly trading in the region of the mid-two hundreds and better types in excess of that.
The prime lamb and cast sheep trade held firm throughout the summer months and, with store lambs setting off a good trade, all helped towards building the confidence for the renowned Mule gimmer lamb sales hosted by Hawes Auction Mart.
Quality
The two-day sale is always a highlight and the quality on offer was a credit to all the vendors.
The sale attracts interest from throughout England, Scotland and Wales, all looking to purchase some of the best that the breed has to offer.
This year saw a wonderful trade averaging £167.75 – an increase of £40 on the year. The gimmer lamb sales always bring the best out of the market, with the place packed to the rafters and the atmosphere fantastic.
The community comes together, and it is great to see everyone helping each other, highlighting the importance of livestock markets in the rural community. It is great to see people from across the country meeting up
annually and the friendships that have developed over the years, with the same farming families trading stock for generations between each other.
Breeding ram sales this autumn have been a joy to be involved with, in all breeds. Hawes is noted for its annual Bluefaced Leicester Ram sale which goes on late into the evening and is a spectacle that would I highly recommend to anyone interested in attending. This year’s was certainly a
great sale, with breeders keen to improve their flocks as prices peaked at £45,000.
The annual Swaledale breeding ram sale at Hawes highlights the best the breed has to offer and the sale this year topped at £62,000.
A special thank you has to go to all market staff, at all auctions, who work long hours in the autumn to ensure that the sales run efficiently from the yard to the office, as well as to the hauliers who do a wonderful job.
On behalf of all involved with Hawes Auction Mart, I would like to congratulate Raymond Lund on being awarded the Service to the Industry Award at the British Farming Awards.
It was a wonderful event enjoyed by all and we offer a big thank you to the organisers for putting on such a fabulous evening.
Ian Atkinson is an auctioneer at Hawes Auction Mart. Call 07957 256 337, or email office@hawesmart.co.uk
A New Route to Market
Ian Atkinson
ONLINE SALES
BORDERWAY MART, CARLISLE
Tel: 01228 406200
IT’S ON A THURSDAY
356 DAIRY CATTLE SELLING AT BORDERWAY MONTHLY DAIRY DAY
Thursday 7th November - 10.30am
PLEASE FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK TO VIEW ANIMALS PRIOR TO THE SALE.
Breeds represented include Holstein Friesian, Irish Friesian, Viking Red, British Friesian, Ayrshire & Jersey
FRESHLY CALVED ANIMALS The sale includes an outstanding consignment of freshly calved cows and heifers all producing large volumes of milk from many of the top dairy farms in the North. MILLDIKE DISPERSAL This is the first sale to disperse the MILLDIKE herd on behalf of the Salkeld family from South View Farm comprising of 20 of he most recently calved cows & heifers. 90 IN CALF HEIFERS a special group of 48 Holstein Friesian In Calf heifers sell from SANDYKNOWE farm - 20 Pro Cross In Calf heifers sell from STANNOCK farm & 25 Fleckvieh cross In Calf heifers sell from WOODEND farm plus a well bred group from BERRYHOLME STEVENSONS YOUNGSTOCK DISPERSAL – On behalf of Messrs M, W & A Stevenson, Kirminnoch Farm. This is the final group of heifers to sell from this special Red & White herd. Comprising 15 in calf heifers due in 2025 and 10 yearling heifers YOUNGSTOCK 45 bulling heifers sell including a well bred group from CARNEL Farm PLEASE ORDER YOUR CATALOGUE TODAY or connect with someone from the sale staff.
Show and sale of 19 PEDIGREE WHITEBRED SHORTHORN CATTLE
Friday 8th November
Show 9.00am Sale 10.00am
Comprising 13 females and 6 bulls
Show and sale of 82 PEDIGREE GALLOWAY CATTLE
Friday 8th November
Show 9.00am Sale 10.30am
Comprising 1 non pedigree heifer in milk, 16 pedigree heifers incalf/with calves 19 senior bulling heifers, 15 intermediate bulling heifers, 10 junior bulling heifers, 12 non pedigree bulling heifers, 1 Blue Grey heifer
Sale includes due to loss of land, reduction sale of WHITEHILL pedigree Galloways
One of the oldest herds in the country comprising 20 cows mostly with calves at foot, 2 stock bulls and 16 bulling heifer
Show and sale of 94 SUFFOLK INLAMB FEMALES & EMPTY EWE LAMBS
Friday 8th November
Show 11.00am Sale 12.00noon
On behalf of Carlisle & Northern Counties Club
Comprising 1 ewe, 64 gimmers and 29 ewe lambs
Second sale of spring born and hill bred SUCKLED CALVES
Wednesday 13th November
Entries close Wednesday 6th November
Premier show and sale of 121 ZWARTBLES INLAMB FEMALES
Friday 15th November
Show 9.00am Sale 11.00am
9 ewes, 43 shearling gimmers, 69 ewe lambs
JACOB INLAMB FEMALES
Friday 15th November
Show 10.00am Sale 11.00am
Show and sale of PEDIGREE HOLSTEIN CATTLE
Thursday 21st November
(please note change of day)
Entries close Wednesday 6th November
PEDIGREE INLAMB SHEEP SALES
Badgerface Texel, Blue Texel & Dutch Spotted
Friday 6th December
Entries close Friday 8th November
PEDIGREE INLAMB BELTEX SHEEP
Friday 13th December
Entries close Friday 8th November
PEDIGREE INLAMB KERRY HILL SHEEP
Friday 13th December
Entries close direct with Society
“Red Ladies” Show and Sale of PEDIGREE LIMOUSIN FEMALES
Friday 13th December
Entries close Friday 8th November
PEDIGREE LIMOUSIN BULL & HEIFER CALVES
Friday 13th December
Entries close Friday 8th November
SALE OF MACHINERY, IMPLEMENTS & HEAVY PLANT items
Sale bidding starts 10.00am Wednesday 6th November until 10.00am Thursday 7th November
Entries close Wednesday 30th October or contact David Holliday 07710 189804, or Iain Dick 07713 599791
To include dispersal sale of Machinery & Equipment on behalf of Messrs Retson & Wright, Oakland, Gretna.
GENETIC SELECTION SALE OF CATTLE & SHEEP SEMEN & EMBRYOS
Bidding starts Wednesday 11th December
finishing from Thursday 12th December
Entries close Wednesday 20th November
KIRKBY STEPHEN
Tel: 01768 371385
Great Annual sale of 300 BEEF BREEDING CATTLE
Thursday 7th November –Show 9.00am Sale 10.00am
200 cows and calves 100 incalf cows/heifers
MIDDLETON MART
Tel: 01833 640281
Prize show and sale of 427 SUCKLED CALVES
Tuesday 5th November
Show 8.30am Sale 10.00am
ON FARM SALE
ON FARM SALE
CANNON HALL
CHRISTMAS CRACKERS
Saturday 9th November – 3.00pm
Production sale of Pedigree Dutch Spotted and Valais Blacknose sheep
On behalf of Canon Hall Farms Ltd., Cawthorne, Barnsley S75 4AT
MONDAY 4 NOVEMBER – 11:30AM EXETER LIVESTOCK CENTRE, EXETER, DEVON. EX2 8FD
DISPERSAL SALE OF THE CLARKES HERD OF 177 PEDIGREE CHAROLAIS CATTLE
On behalf of Mr BG Clarke, Premier Barton, Exeter
The Sale comprises: 74 Cows with Calves at foot, 4 Cows, 18 In Calf Heifers, 4 Maiden Heifers & 3 Bulls. ❖ Polled Genetics, Closed Herd & BVD Free
A fantastic opportunity to purchase quality Charolais genetics!
FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER
EXETER LIVESTOCK CENTRE, EXETER, DEVON. EX2 8FD
Sale of 250 Dairy Cattle
The Hilltown Ayrshire Consignment comprises of 18 Freshly Calved Cows & Heifers, 23 In Calf Heifers, 32 Maiden Heifers & 2 Bulls. PLUS 30 In Calf/Bulling Pedigree Ayrshire Heifers from the ‘Lyner’ herd on behalf of AC & DC Walters & Son, Launceston . PLUS 16 Pedigree Ayrshire Bulling Heifers On Behalf of MS & RJ Windel, Swindon. PLUS Herd Dispersal of 80 Friesian type Autumn Calving Cows & Heifers from NJ & SN Willis, Kennford. PLUS Herd Dispersal of Approximately 30 Holstein Friesian all year round calving, 7800Kgs Herd Average, cows & Heifers on behalf of Johns & Partners, Ivybridge. PLUS 27 Holstein, Jersey & Guernsey In Calf Heifers & 17 Holstein Friesian Bulling Heifers PLUS 10 Pedigree Jerseys from the ‘Ravenhill’ herd. PLUS a consignment of 15 Organic In Calf Heifers and 15 Organic Heifer Calves on behalf of ML Persey, Bradninch
WEDNESDAY 13 NOVEMBER – 11AM
HOLSWORTHY MARKET, DEVON. EX22 7FA
Sale of Dairy Cattle to include Herd Dispersal of 60 Holstein Friesian Dairy Cattle on behalf of Messrs R Gorst & Son, Launceston. Further details to follow.
FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER
EXETER LIVESTOCK CENTRE, EXETER, DEVON. EX2 8FD
Herd Dispersal of 240 Holstein Friesian & Crossbred Dairy Cattle. To include 190 In Milk Cows and Heifers & 54 In Calf Heifers. Herd Average 7600Kgs 4.64%BF 3.60%PTN, All year-round calving, Cubicle trained, HB parlour milked & Fed TMR cake in the parlour. Vaccinated for BVD, Lepto & IBR. Johnes screened
ONLINE BIDDING AVAILABLE FOR ALL SALES VIA Full details & Catalogues www.kivells.com For further information, please contact: Mark Bromell 07966 430001 Mark Davis 07773 371774 Robert Speck 07909 538520
10am FINAL SALE OF BREEDING SHEEP 10:30am Fortnightly Sale of 6000 STORE LAMBS
Thursday 14th November 10am 150 REARING CALVES & WEANLINGS 10:30am 100 CAST/OTM CATTLE 11:15am 300 STIRKS & STORE CATTLE
NORTH WEST SUFFOLK BREEDERS CLUB SHOW & SALE OF PEDIGREE INDIVIDUAL IN-LAMB SHEEP & EMPTY GIMMER LAMBS
Also, Individual Multi Breed In-Lamb Sheep
SALE LIVE ONLINE- www.nwa.auctionmarts.com
Viewing: Saturday 2nd & Monday 4th November Sale to Conclude: Tuesday 5th November Collection: Wednesday 6th & Friday 8th Nov (9am-4pm)
...Yorkshire’s Friendly Mart
WEDNESDAY 6TH NOVEMBER
Dedicated Slaughter Market
350 Prime Cattle 520 Prime Sheep 175 Prime Pigs Pigs 9am Sheep 9.45am Cattle 10.30am
SATURDAY 9TH NOVEMBER
Breeding & Store Cattle of all classes inc 10 Cont X Forward Stores, 18mth, H Garside & son 2 Lim bulls,10mo,L & L Thompson Ped Saler Stock Bull, 3.5yrs, C Ellwood & Son
*ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CURRENT BLUE TONGUE RESTRICTIONS*
TUESDAY 26TH NOVEMBER
CHRISTMAS PRIME CATTLE SHOW & FAIR
Contact Office for Details
New Sale fixture - End of season sale of all classes of Breeding Sheep, Gimmer Shearlings & Gimmer Lambs. Show & Sale of Swaledale Breeding Rams. Judging 9am followed by sale of all classes of Breeding Rams inc Terminal Sires & BFL’s
Sponsored by W Redfearn & Son (Fencing Supplies) & Agri Lloyd
Tuesday 5th November 10am 2000 Prime Lambs
400 Cast Ewes & Rams
20 Calves at 10.30am
Friday 8th November
Catalogued sale of 2500 Store Lambs
Catalogue closes Thursday 31st October 12noon
Saturday 16th November
Christmas Show & Sale of Store Cattle. Beef
Breeding Cattle & Cull Cows. Catalogue closes Tuesday 5th November
Saturday 2nd November
Show & Sale of 103 PEDIGREE SUFFOLK FEMALES
Sale 11.00am
Online Bidding via auctionmarts.com
224 STIRKS, WEANED CALVES, STORE & BREEDING GOATS & STORE SHEEP Sale 10.00am
Monday 4th November
SALE OF CALVES
Sale 10.30am
Entries & Enquiries to Kyle PRIME, CAST & FEEDING CATTLE Sale 11.30am (TB exempt section available) MONTHLY SHOW & SALE OF PRIME LAMBSSale 12.30pm followed by CAST EWES, RAMS & GOATS
Wednesday 6th November
40 FEEDING BULLS Sale 10.00am followed by 10 PRIME CATTLE, 30 BEEF FEEDING COWS, 300 STORE BULLOCKS & HEIFERS & 20 BREEDING CATTLE
MART OFFICE: 01757 703347
RICHARD HAIGH: 07768 594535
Show of Prime Cattle, Pork Pie, Sausage & Cake Competitions
Machinery & Trade Stands, Live Music, Bar, Food, Visit from Santa and much more
12 BREEDING BULLS Viz 6 Ped. Lim & 6 Ped. AA 12 BREEDING CATTLE IN CALF & WITH CALVES
MAIDEN BREEDING HEIFERS inc
Annual Consignment from the Renowned Gallaber Herd of 16 Ped. Lim Maiden Hfrs inc.
Show Heifer Gallaber Unita & Stock Bull Procters Pierre Wednesday 6th November
10.30am Fortnightly Sale of Dairy Cattle 11am 100-150 Rearing Calves
2.30pm 2500 Cast Ewes and 3000 Prime Lambs
Tuesday 12th November
CLOSING SALE OF BREEDING SHEEP & RAMS GIMMER LAMBS Fortnightly Sale of STORE LAMBS
Wednesday 13th November at 7.30pm In the Top Ring- TWO AUCTION MART SHARES
Tuesday 19th November
2nd Special Sale of Suckled Calves
Monthly Sale of Stirks, Young Stores & Feeding Bulls
Entries for catalogue close Friday 8th November
Ian Atkinson 07957 256337 Kenton Foster 07711 469280. Richard Turner & Son
Society Autumn Show & Sale of 89 PEDIGREE BEEF SHORTHORN BULLS & FEMALES Including Bulls, Cows with Calves at Foot, In Calf Heifers & Maiden Heifers Judging 8.00am Sale 10.30am followed by at approx. 12.30pm Sale of 12 ABERDEEN ANGUS FEMALES
Annual Production Sale of 16 BRITISH BLUE FEMALES from the GREYSTONE HERD & PENDLE HERD
Wednesday 13th November
Sale of STORE LAMBS & FEEDING EWES & LINGFIELDS FAIR of all Classes of GIMMER LAMBS, BREEDING SHEEP & RAMS (Entries close Monday 4th November) Working Sheep Dogs
Wednesday 27th November ONLINE TIMED AUCTION OF SHEEPDOGS (Entries Close Friday 8th November) Dairy Cattle
Monday 11th November
SHOW & SALE OF DAIRY CATTLE Monday 25th November
XMAS SHOW & SALE OF DAIRY CATTLE Classes for Pedigree & Commercial In-Calf, In-Milk & Maiden Heifers Entries & Enquiries to Sarah 07710 795585
Sunday 1st December
CRAVEN CHRISTMAS SHOW Primestock, Carcass, Cookery &
OF
FARMERS’
AUTUMN
COLLECTIVE SALE
AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY
&
EQUIPMENT
AT LOUTH LIVESTOCK MARKET, LONDON ROAD, LOUTH, LINCOLNSHIRE, LN11 9HF
Saturday 2nd November 2024 at 11am
Viewing Fri 1st Nov 2024 10am - 3pm & 8am on Sale day
Tractors and Machines: 2005 JCB 528 Materials Handler, 2004 New Holland TN95F Tractor (6,933 hrs), 2003 John Deere 6820 4WD Tractor (14,300 hrs), 1982 John Deere 4040 2WD Tractor, Kubota L3408 4WD Compact Tractor (349.9 hrs) Equipment: 2006 Househam 3000 Air Ride Sprayer with 24m boom, (6934 hrs), 2008 Knight EUA 4000 30m Boom Trailed Sprayer (37471ha) Lorry: 2002 DAF 7.5t Lorry c/w cattle/horse partitions (88,943 km), Vehicles: 2014 Vauxhall Corsa Van, 1.2 CDT diesel, (140,000 miles), 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Westminster TDV8 A Diesel (approx. 130,000 miles) Arable Equipment: 2008 Vaderstad TD300 3m Topdown Trailed Primary Cultivator, Dowdeswell 2.4m Furrow Press, 2011 Dalbo 8m Cultimax, Lemkin 3 Furrow Reversible Plough, 2004 Kuhn Venta 4m HR4003D Combi Drill c/w Suffolk Coulters & Power Harrow, Set of Harrows, Vicon Twin Disc 12m Fertiliser Spreader, Wyberg 5m Spring Tine Harrow, 1997 Claas 180 Variant Baler, Kvernland 4 Furrow Plough, 2004 Kuhn Venta 4m HR4003D Combi Drill. Trailers: Wheatley 3t Tipping Trailer, NC 28ft 16t Low Loader, Various Ifor Williams, Graham Edwards & other livestock trailers. Quantity of other grassland and livestock equipment, wheels & misc etc. For more information contact Russell on 07966 104101 or Ed on 07395 570303 or auctions@masonsandpartners.co.uk
Online bidding via
SUCKLERS & SUCKLED CALVES
Tuesday 5th November -12:30pm Start
Shrewsbury Auction Centre, Battlefield, SY4 3DR
Sale to inc: Dispersal sale of the RIDGWARDINE Herd of Pedigree Aberdeen Angus and 250 Suckled calves from Shropshire and Border Farms inc. a number of Stabiliser, British Blue, Aberdeen Angus, Charolais and Limousin.
Full catalogue available at www.hallsgb.com/auctions
View catalogue online louthmarket.co.uk
ON SITE AUCTION
On Instructions from W T Clarke & Son
At Soars Lodge Farm, Foston Lane, Foston, Leicestershire LE8 5WP
On Thursday 14th November 2024 at 10:30am
Viewing from 10am until 4pm on Wednesday 13th November 2024
Catalogue available online from Monday 4th Nov, 5pm
Thursday 7th November
10:30am REARING CALVES
10:30am PRIME CATTLE followed by CULL CATTLE 11:00am MASSEY FEEDS with LELY SHOW & SALE OF DAIRY CATTLE -Entries to Eleanor by Mon 12pm
Saturday 9th November
9.30am WEEKLY CAST SHEEP & PRIME LAMBS
10:30am BREEDING SHEEP all classes welcomed, 12:30pm STORE LAMBS - Entries in by Tues 5th 12noon
Thursday 14th November
10:30am REARING CALVES
10:30am PRIME CATTLE followed by CULL CATTLE
11:00am WEEKLY DAIRY
12:30am STIRKS – Entries to the office by Tues 12th, 12noon
Saturday 16th November
9:30am WEEKLY CAST SHEEP& PRIME LAMBS
10:30am BREEDING & STORE CATTLE
Entries to the office by Tues 12th Nov, 12noon
CHRISTMAS SALES CALENDAR ONLINE NOW! Last chance 24-25 Young Handlers buying is 30th Nov!
BARNARD CASTLE AUCTION MART
TUESDAY 12th NOVEMBER
Sale of OTM Cattle & Feeding Bulls CHRISTMAS PRIZE SHOW & SALE OF 400 STORE CATTLE Sale at 10am
PATELEY BRIDGE AUCTION MART
SATURDAY 9th NOVEMBER
Sale of 150 Cattle & 150 Store Lambs/Feeding Ewes Sale at 11am ST JOHNS
SATURDAY 2nd NOVEMBER
Sale of 1400 Store Lambs/Feeding Ewes ****PLEASE NOT SALE AT 10AM****
AUCTION MART
TUESDAY 5th NOVEMBER
Sale of 500 Store lambs Sale at 11am
TUESDAY
Friday 8th November ‘2nd Old Fair Sale’ of Breeding Ewes, Feeding Ewes, Shearlings, Gimmer Lambs, Store Lambs and Rams 9.30am Tuesday 5th November 12.30pm - Prime Lambs & Cull Ewes Saturday 16th November Catalogued Sale of Pure Bred Poultry & Waterfowl- Entries close Wednesday 6th November Saturday 2nd November 10am - Sale of 900 Lots of tack & 60 horses. (12noon)
Tuesday 12th November
Monthly machinery sale entries requested. Entries to date include Hitatchi EX30. Other usual entries expected. Last sale 960 lots.
Wednesday 6th November
Potted Christmas Trees & Christmas Wreathes
Starting 16th November
Specimin and other Christmas trees. Sold every Wednesday 10am until mid December. Wednesday 18th December Christmas prize poultry sale
Every MondayProduce at Goostrey 12 lots last week. Horticulture
Usual Wednesday and Thursday Sales Furniture
Wednesday and Thursdays alternate weeks
For any enquiries contact
Dafydd Davies - 07506 083590 | dafydd@farmersmarts.co.uk
- Online Catalogue available on 4/11/2024 at farmersmarts.auctionmarts.com
- Bidding to open onMonday 11th of November 2024
- Bidding closes 13th of November 2024
Comprising of -
49 Fully Trained Sheepdogs
78 Partly Trained Sheepdogs
28 Sheepdog Pups
Monday 4th November
Cows,
Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence
Stephen Lee Riley trading as Riley Mixed Concrete Ltd of Dunnockshaw Farm, Burnley Rd, Dunnockshaw, Burnley, BB11 5PP is applying for a licence to use Dunnockshaw Farm, Burnley Rd, Dunnockshaw, Burnley, BB11 5PP as an operating centre for 5 goods vehicles and 2 trailers.
Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice.
Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.
Trees & Shrubs
FRIENDS1ST DATING
Friends1st is the UK’s largest, offline, longest running introduction agency for Christians established 1999. We prioritise a choice of matches for you; and commitment of members; we’re exclusively for Christians; we keep our members accountable; and we provide helpful resources. Isn’t it time you used our service and finally found your soul mate? Call 0121 405 0941 today. www.friends1st.co.uk/ christian-farmers-dating. Successful, reliable, different, recommended!
George Bradley of
Derby Hill Farm, Weeton
Passed away peacefully on the 26th October 2024 at the age of 97 at home in Weeton, surrounded by his family.
MARSHALL
Robert Graham
The dearly loved husband of Teresa; loving father to Susan, Carol, John, Lynda, David and Margaret, their spouses and partners; Poppa to his 11 grandchildren; brother to Rosamund, the late Margaret and Elsie his twin; uncle, cousin and dear friend to many.
of Scarisbrick & Lydiate, son of Robert Ronald Marshall & Margaret Anne (née Lavelle), husband of Christine Patricia Zoe (née Wright), father of Charles Robert Eric Marshall & Lorna Alicia Marshall, grandfather of Frederic Robert Wright-Marshall, brother of Rosemary Anne Marshall & Elizabeth Mary Eaton, uncle, farmer, & friend to all. Died peacefully & in good humour at his home, Moss Hall Farm, in the presence of his loving family, after an illness bravely & resolutely borne: his spirit undaunted, valiant and himself to the end. Celebration of Life to be held at Moss Hall Farm, Bescar Lane, Scarisbrick, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 9QN at 13:00 on Saturday 2nd November 2024. Donations to The Christie NHS Foundation Trust. Donations and Enquiries to David at Massam & Marshall Independent Funeral Directors, 137-139 Manchester Road, Southport, PR9 9BD Tel: 01704 549222
George farmed the land at Derby Hill for almost a century, first with horses, then later embracing the many advances in farming over the years. His love of the land and his animals were always at the heart of his life. He was an inspiration to his two sons, who now farm at Derby Hill and to all those who worked alongside him. The family would like to thank the many care staff and medical professionals who cared for George over the years.
Funeral service to be held at St Michaels Church Weeton. Date to be announced. For all funeral arrangements please contact N Gillett & Son ‘Church View’ Mowbreck Lane Wesham PR4 3HA Tel: 01772 686597
NEW & REFURBISHED BULK MILK TANKS FOR SALE
New Roka Silos and Tanks available from 500 Ltrs to 50,000 Ltrs!
20,000 Ltr Roka Silo
16,000 Ltr Delaval
16,000 Ltr Fabdec (holds 17,000)
14,000 Ltr Fabdec
12,000 Ltr Roka DX
12,000 Ltr Fullwood Packo Instant Cooling
10,000 Ltr Fabdec
9,000 Ltr Japy / GEA
8,000 Ltr Roka Silo
8,000 Ltr Roka
7,500 Ltr Surge
7,100 Ltr Delaval
6,750 Ltr Delaval (holds 7,000 Ltrs)
6,000 Ltr Mueller
6,000 Ltr Fabdec
5,000 Ltr Packo
5,000 Ltr Mueller Model “O”,
5,000 Ltr Roka
4,250 Ltr Japy / GEA
2 x Refurbished 1T Ice Builder suitable for 10/12,000 Ltrs every other day Refurbished 1.2T Ice Builder suitable for 14/15,000 Ltrs every other day
CUSTOM BUILT HEAT RECOVERY SYSTEMS, TAILORED TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS
Smaller bulk tanks available, emergency open & enclosed, loan tanks available to rent, main dealer for new Ro-ka milk cooling systems.
DAIRY FILLING LINE
For filling bottles 500 ml, one litre and two Litres. Nine valves, three heads, cap elevator, inkjet printer, label applicator.
Includes conveyers and dolly table. Open to Offers
Tel:07977 270311 Somerset (P)
For further details please call S.W Refrigeration specialising in “On Farm cooling Equipment” 01392 210344 or Paul on 07974 140949
Complete with Honda engine and Electric motor. This unit is ready
Calf Hutches. Complete with fencing. A large selection of all animal and calf feeding equipment and all other associated products also available. Massive saving on list price Livestock Supplies Ltd. Ashley: 07831 887531 Office: 01829 260328 www.livestocksupplies.co.uk
ROBINSON MITCHELL LTD
Daily collections of all types of fallen stock throughout the North of England. Tel: 01524 261144 or 01524 263022 or 01274 833196
We know farming. Farmers Guardian brands are embedded in the agricultural community and have a position of authority and trust Farmers Guardian the best environment for your brand message
FGBuyandSell.com MARTLANDS
LLEYN SHEARLINGS
LLEYN & DUTCH SPOTTED SHEARLINGS
DAIRY CATTLE FOR SALE
A weekly selection of freshly calved & in-calf dairy cattle sourced from the UK. All guaranteed and delivered anywhere in the UK Finance can be arranged.
(Pedigree Blue Faced Leicester ram crossed with a Pedigree Suffolk ewe) Resulting in Outstanding Hybrid Vigour, Growth & Performance Suffolk Ram Lambs & Shearlings - MVD Accredited - Heptivac P Vaccinated - Red Tractor Assured - Insured for 4 months
Seafield Pedigrees – 07715 764 351
BELTEX x CHAROLLAIS & CHARMOISE x BELTEX shearling rams. Carefully bred for over 20 years, grass produced, no corn. The rams need to be seen. Heptavac P. No silly price. Can Deliver. Grab a bargain £450.00
Excellent conformation, tight skins, ready for work. Heptavac P. Naturally Reared, no corn
Contact Mr Brocklehurst on 07764 196462 or 01260 223338
Saturday November 9th at 3.00pm, on the farm
We’re excited to showcase a prime selection of quality stock, including exceptional bloodlines:
• 37 Valais Blacknose Ewes
• 39 Dutch Spotted Ewes
• 9 Swiss Valais Rams
• 9 Dutch Spotted Rams
• 2 Spitti Rams
Sale to be filmed for the Channel 5 TV programme “Winter on the farm”
* All sheep are MV accredited and will be confirmed if inlamb on the day of sale.
Our featured Dutch Spotted sheep come from premium bloodlines, including descendants of the 16,000 gns Dutch Spotted sheep sold at Carlisle in 2023 and the 10,000 gns Dutch Spotted sheep sold at Welshpool. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring top-tier genetics to your flock!
This special sale is proudly conducted by Harrison & Hetherington from Carlisle and is also available for online bidding via MartEye.
Exclusive Entry Offer!
Register with the auctioneer to obtain your bidding number, and you’ll also receive FREE entry to Cannon Hall Farm on the day. Come and experience a premier sheep sale event at one of Yorkshire’s finest farms!
Two rams will be auctioned off with the proceeds being split between;
Event starts at 3:00pm, November 9th
Sheep can be viewed on Friday 8th November by appointment only. Register early and be ready to bid on some of the best stock around.
Have a great selection of 2023 born 12-16 month old pedigree bulls for sale.
SAC Hi-Health Member
Tested free of Johnes, BVD, IBR, Lepto, TB 4 Semen Tested, Performance recorded
Nationwide Delivery Available Kurt – 07715 448366 Richard - 07816 173689 Lancs (P)
Ampertaine & Fenomen bloodlines
Easy calving strain, good confirmation, nice temperaments.
Tel: 07968 505014 Derbyshire (P)
SEAFIELD PEDIGREE ABERDEEN ANGUS BULLS
Ready
Adrefelyn Aberdeen Angus
Has a selection of working bulls and bulling heifers for sale From a closed herd. Easy Calving.
Telephone: 01978 780368 or 07986 113221 Wrexham (P)
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Property Landscape Reflections on our fantastic industry
Tony Rimmer on the positives of farming
All too often in this busy world, we do not take the opportunity to reflect. While wondering what to write in this editorial, I started to think about the fantastic evening I had at the British Farming Awards (BFAs) 2024.
It really was a wonderful event and, whether it was Vernon Kay enjoying his Hawkstone, or local Cheshire Farmer Tom Halton dancing across the stage shouting ‘cows, cows, cows’, it really was a night of memories.
Many of us soon forget what a pleasure it can be to get up in the morning and enjoy what you do.
To see parts of the day that many in this fast-paced world do not see, or have the opportunity to enjoy such moments as autumnal misty mornings, bringing the cows up for milking, the sunsets, tilling the fields and sowing next year’s crop.
The trouble is, all too often, because we are too close to it, we do not take the opportunity to take a step back, take a deep breath and look at what is before us.
Diverse
Our industry really is diverse, from robotic milking to grazing dairy systems, to contractors using the latest technology to reduce diesel costs or fertiliser costs, to precision farming and the automated robotic systems in the fresh produce sectors.
Agriculture is at an exciting time and we should be proud of the next generation and encourage them to take an active role in the industry.
How great it was to see an 18-yearold auctioneer, Ben Wilson, recognised as New Auctioneer of the Year, particularly as many years ago, I used to be in the market selling calves and livestock.
To see the passion and raw emotion from his proud mother and father and, equally, the unbridled joy when he had the opportunity to sell a raffle prize with Vernon Kay and Kaleb Cooper. He did the Livestock Auctioneers Association proud.
All too often, we can get en-
trenched in the depressing side of farming – the flooding, the difficulty in harvesting crops, the awkward neighbours who complain that tractors are running through the village in the early hours of the morning or late at night.
But that is where we as an industry should shout about what we do, and all play our part in educating the general public.
One interesting fact of the night was that one of the main social media earners in this country is a hoof trimmer. His videos of hoof trimming are watched all over the world.
While some of us might view social media influencers and the Tik Tok sensations from the agricultural community with scepticism, if it is done in the right way, it can open up what we do to a much wider audience. This can only benefit all of us in the industry.
So in summary, at some time in the next 48 hours, take a pause in your life and reflect on how good it is to be involved in the farming industry where we all support each other and work hard and play hard.
Finally, it would be remiss of me not to congratulate those Cheshire BFA finalists and the trio of winners: Tom and Karen Halton (Halton Farm), Andrew Goodwin (D. and P. Hollinshead) and Nigel Harper (N.D. Harper).
Thanks to Farmers Guardian for organising the BFAs and Hillsgreen for inviting me.
Tony Rimmer is a director at Rostons. Call 01829 773 000, or email tonyrimmer@rostons.co.uk
Tel: 07855 855 054
GRAZING WANTED
Preferably fenced for sheep, unfenced considered with water until the end of March. Any area considered Tel 07779 398957 or 01433 620494 (P)
Tony Rimmer
We
Our
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Machinery
Edited by Toby Whatley – 07583 054 831 – toby.whatley@agriconnect.com
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Is the latest Side Throw variant from Spread-a-Bale a practical and functional option to operate in places the original variant may have struggled to cover? James Huyton takes the Midi XL Side Throw on test to find out.
The Spread-a-Bale is certainly no stranger to the agricultural market, with various iterations spanning more than 25 years of production.
But what it does claim to be is a tried-and-tested product that holds favour with a long string of operators internationally, with one of the manufacturer’s largest footholds held in Germany.
Spread-a-Bale claims one of the biggest successes to the product is its simplicity and functionality, with models capable of fitting to most loader and handling equipment on the market.
However, even with its market success, the original forward-throwing Spread-a-Bale did
OVERVIEW
SPREAD-A-BALE operates the same universal design throughout the range, with 21 different handler brackets available to suit the machine and manufacturer, and nine different loader options. With eight U-bolts holding headstock brackets in place, users can quickly and simply swap brackets to suit a machine, or a machine upgrade if needed. For the purposes of the test, we operated with a Matbro cone and pin unit. Two hydraulic pipes offer flow and return to the sequence valve, which controls the machine’s main functionality. A diverter valve provides directional control of
On Test: Side Throw by Spread-a-Bale
not suit every building and farm.
Launched earlier this year, Spread-a-Bale’s latest variant looks to set the record straight by offering a side throw option for their Micro, Mini, Midi and Maxi ranges.
Farmers Guardian took the Midi XL ST (Side Throw) on test to see how it performed.
the working head – traditionally, Spread-a-Bale rotors would operate in a single direction. For the purposes of the side throw variant, the manufacturer has opted for multi-directional functionality. Allowing the side throw unit to discharge bedding both left and right, or forwards once selected.
The XL in the test machine’s name indicates the machine’s length, with the larger XL capable of handling square bales up to 2.8 metres in length compared to 2.5m on the standard variant. Both machines will handle square bales from 1m in length and round bales up to 1.6m in diameter.
The feed belt drive motor was felt to be exposed, protruding from the machine’s outer extremity.
OPERATING AND HANDLING
ATTACHMENT of the machine is quick and simple. Once locked in place, it is only a matter of coupling the two hydraulic pipes to the machine. Bales are better positioned on clean, hard standing, with something to push against ready for loading. When loading, the unit operates the retracting sequence lifting the working head out of the way, and operating the feed belt to draw the bale into the machine.
A blade-like edge aids getting under the bale, but without a wall to push against you can be left chasing the bale around the yard. The preferred choice is to have the
knots at the top of the bale to make it easier to draw the string out of the bale. The main difference on the Side Throw variant is the directional guide on the front of the machine, with four spring-loaded locking pins used to lock and position the guide in both left and right positions.
Once the guide is slid along its rail and locked into one of the two operational positions, the machine is set to work.
From an operational point of view, the Side Throw variant offered far greater operator visibility when bedding up to the side compared to the forward throwing functionality. The side
shoot was found to create an obstruction for the machine’s forward throwing ability, limiting the spread pattern. If the plate could be removed quickly and
easily this would benefit spread pattern, but the machine’s ability to throw forwards is only a small benefit to a machine designed to throw bedding sideways into pens.
The Side Throw machine’s guide was easy to slide and lock into position with four spring-loaded pins.
Preparation was required for loading bales, with a wall or girder to push up against so the feeder belt could draw the bale in.
Spread-a-Bale’s latest variant offers sidethrow capabilities both left and right, up to eight metres, offering greater operator visibility over forward discharge.
Machinery On Test
The test machine could also operate by throwing bedding forwards into pens, but the test team found the discharge guide compromised the spread pattern.
A BUSINESS aspiring to gain the greatest operational efficiencies out of their equipment may favour the Spread-a-Bale system. Farm operations looking to run a lean business could find the system a sensible option making better use of handling equipment, and reducing the need for a second tractor on a straw chopper. The test machine had a 55-litre/minute oil flow requirement making it suitable for most farm handlers.
The Spread-a-Bale was simple and easy to use, and flow rate could be adjusted on the machine’s sequence valve to adjust the spread. The test team did think a hydrostatic handler with independent hand throttle control could offer the most customisable and precise operation of the Spread-a-Bale. Saying that, the test farm’s JCB TM320S handled the machine with ease.
One of the main comments that came from operating such an implement, was the overall operational length. With the Midi XL ST standing at 4,101mm in length, plus operating vehicle, weighing in at 1150kg unladen, some questions were raised over the levering capability of the unit on the headstock if put beyond its parameters. That said, the TM handled the loaded machine well.
One of the main benefits of the side throw system is its ability to throw bedding to the left, right and forwards. This means you can work both sides of a feed passage without the need to turn and return in the opposite direction. With a 1,780mm working width, the machine could easily access most buildings with the operating vehicle size the only compromise to the machine’s access. Notably, having side-throw functionality meant the Spread-a-Bale could operate in tight corners and confined spaces, something machines only operating forward-throwing functionality may struggle with.
Varying consistency and type of bedding material will effect the machine’s throwing ability, with Spread-a-Bale claiming the machine will throw material between four to eight metres. The wheat straw used on the test farm consistently covered a distance of six metres (20ft), which was well suited to the pen size of the operation.
A notable feature of the system is the way the machine teases bedding and throws it without chopping it. This both retained the straw length and had a noted difference in dust suppression compared to a straw chopper. It is also claimed the retention of
length helps the bedding last longer, reducing bedding up cycles. The test machine did show an improvement in straw length compared to the test farm’s straw chopper. But only a long-term comparative study would indicate any reductions in straw usage.
Overall, the Spread-a-Bale Side Throw was functional and practical, providing everything that was required from it on test. Offered in a number of formats, the Side Throw could offer appeal in markets that may not have previously considered the machine due to lack of functionality in confined spaces.
straw
FG verdict
The Side Throw’s reversible head forked fingers (left) and the anvil head variant on the standard machine (right).
Kuhn expands cultivator range
● Additional working widths o ered
By Toby Whatley
F RENCH manufacturer Kuhn has increased the working width options of its entry-level Performer Select primary trailed cultivators with
the introduction of two new models.
The new machines include the three-metre-wide 3000 and the 5m-wide 5000, which join the existing 4m-wide machine.
The Select designation of the Performer range reduces the complexity and specification of the overall machine.
The levelling discs and working depth are adjusted mechanically, a tension spring is used instead of hydraulic breakaway leg protection, and a 600mm HD or Double-U roller is fitted in place of
the 700mm version on the Performer 1000 range.
•
For cover crop establishment, the firm’s SH 600 seeding unit is offered as an option, and mounts to the rear of the machine, with the possibility to change the seed point on the machine, depending on specific crop requirements or field conditions.
Commenting on the introduction of further entry-level models to the Performer Select range, Kuhn arable product specialist Edd Fanshawe said: “Adding two
models opens the series to an increased number of small and medium-sized farmers.
“The one-pass cultivator allows a versatile approach to cultivations, with discs, legs and a packer roller capable of operating in a wide range of conditions.
“The additional Select models retain the same working features as the 1000 range and will appeal to users requiring manual controls and simple operation.”
Kuhn’s extended Performer Select range now includes three-metre and 5m widths.
Machinery On Test
Is the Subaru Solterra the silent and sophisticated off-road vehicle it claims to be on paper? James Huyton takes the vehicle on test to see how it performs.
Subaru is a brand known for world rally championship prowess and is hailed for its four-wheel drive system and off-road performance.
But can the brand’s first all-electric SUV live up to the capabilities of old? This four-wheel drive vehicle will certainly not be taking the place of the farm’s favoured pickup any time soon, but as a secondary farm vehicle or a car for an allied industry professional, how does it stack up?
The Subaru Solterra Touring has an on-test vehicle price of £52,995.
Subaru Solterra put through its paces
EXTERIOR
WITH a 210mm ground clearance and 20-inch alloy wheels, the Solterra is not your average electric SUV.
It might not have the most rugged exterior and, with a towing capacity of 750kg, it lacks the pulling power required for most farm towing duties.
However, with plastic wheel surrounds and being designed to incorporate a 17.7-degree approach angle and a 25.4-degree departure angle, do not let this sharply-styled SUV fool you.
The sweeping rear window design and pointed rear boot lid left plenty of room inside, but the lack of a rear windscreen wiper did pose some
questions, on how you would clear dirt build-up.
The vehicle charging port is located to the front left hand side, providing power to the lithium-ion battery through 7kW type 2 AC connection and 150kW CCS (Combined Charging System) DC fast charging capability.
The DC fast charging system is claimed to charge up to 80% of its total battery capacity in approximately 30 minutes.
For the purposes of the test, we charged from a three-pin 13-amp socket extending the charge time considerably to eight hours.
The Solterra has 235/50R20 tyres front and rear and (above right) the charging dock is at the front left hand side of the vehicle.
INTERIOR
THE fighter pilot-style front view might not be to everyone’s liking when sitting in the driver’s seat, but the Solterra offered a spacious and refined driving experience.
Equipped with a 12.3-inch touch-screen display, the 360-degree camera view was helpful when negotiating off-road obstacles.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto-aided driver experience link the driver’s phone to the car’s infotainment system.
The centrally located phone pocket with wireless charging dock was also a welcome addition.
Although the Solterra is not an overly tall SUV, it is quite a lengthy vehicle, giving plenty of space and leg room front and rear.
In the rear there is 441 litres of boot space – generally more than enough room to fit in spares from the local agricultural dealership or for a veterinary tool kit, especially when the rear seats are folded flat.
On Test Machinery
The 12.3-inch touch-screen offers a useful 360-degree camera.
The fold flat rear seats extend the already spacious 441-litre boot space. The rear cabin offers plenty of legroom for passengers (inset).
Fit and finish of the interior was well put together and the central panel offered plenty of storage and a wireless charging pocket.
Fully retracted, the tailgate left plenty of space for loading and also gave access to the car’s charging cable storage bay.
Machinery On Test
POWERTRAIN
THE Subaru Solterra is equipped with a 71.4kWh battery claimed to offer a maximum range of 257 miles.
The Solterra’s battery technology is derived from fellow Japanese car manufacturer Toyota, with the overall vehicle a joint venture between the two companies.
Toyota was one of the first to incorporate battery technology into its hybrid vehicles and buyers should feel some assurance in the battery capabilities and eight-year warranty on the battery.
The vehicle’s two electric motors deliver a total output of 215 horsepower with a 0-62mph time of 6.9 seconds.
The Solterra proved itself to be a capable off-road vehicle.
PERFORMANCE
IT is safe to say the Solterra sticks to the road and field like glue, equipped with the manufacturer’s symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Battery charge is partially regenerated on breaking, but undoubtedly that will do little to stem the loss in battery power when the driver puts their foot down, or tackles tricky terrain on-farm.
The AWD system also includes the Dual-Function X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes.
FG verdict
THE Solterra offers a lot of tech and spec for its price point.
Its refined driving experience and design features with good load space surprise again and again.
Its looks might not suit all, but it is certainly a vehicle which grows
The 71.4kWh battery is claimed to offer maximum range of 257 miles.
Additionally, the system features Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control for increased performance in lowfriction and off-road conditions.
As mentioned, combine the 210mm of ground clearance with 215hp and 168.5Nm of torque from each of the dual electric motors and the Solterra has poke.
So when it comes to easing the throttle and traversing difficult terrain, the Solterra can match, and possibly out perform, its combustion engine counterparts.
on you with use. Practically, it performs well both on and off-road, but questions remain over the vehicle’s range capabilities and charge times on electric vehicles are questionable, even with a fast charge, when compared to the fill-up time at the fuel pump.
The Solterra performs well, but range and practicalities may be a stretch for some farm businesses.
However, a farm set-up generating its own renewable energy may see the Solterra as a welcome addition to the fleet. Although you would not expect this size of SUV to have a towing capacity to match that of a 3,500kg pickup, the Solterra’s relatively
modest 750kg capacity remained disappointing.
Set on power conservation, the Solterra also disappointed with heat from both the climate control and heated seats, something that was felt could be a real issue in the cold and damp winter months.
Edited by Katie Jones
– 07786 856 439 – katie.jones@agriconnect.com For more livestock content, go to farmersguardian.com/livestock-news-hub
Bale grazing can halve winter housing costs for beef herds Livestock
● Well-being and biodiversity benefits not buying and bedding down with straw, and reduced fuel and labour costs as farmers shift from using tractors to muck out to UTVs to go and move electric fences.
BALE grazing suckler beef cattle in winter can produce a net financial benefit of £1.58 per head per day, as well as providing several non-financial benefits, including personal well-being and biodiversity improvements.
These were the conclusions of a new AHDB-funded project, which looked in detail at seven beef farms across the UK that are currently bale grazing.
The report, Economics of Bale Grazing, is part of a wider Pasture for Life and Innovative Farmers project, which is seeking to quantify the impacts of bale grazing on forage quality, quantity and soil health post-bale grazing.
Report author Emily Grant, of beef and sheep consultancy Forrit, says: “We asked the farmers taking part for details of their bale grazing system, any key cost savings and wider nonfinancial benefits compared with housing.
“In general, the cost savings come from making hay rather than silage,
“Setting out bales as soon as they are made also significantly reduces handling and storage costs.
“Our cost-benefit analysis on one of the farms showed a net financial benefit when bale grazing of £1.58 per head per day, which is approximately half the housing cost.
Phosphate
“Of course, there are also a few potential downsides to consider, including the fact that pasture is not available for grazing once shut up with bales, the loss of phosphate and potash input from imported straw, and that the fixed costs of machinery and buildings are difficult to drop.”
Trial co-ordinator and Aberdeenshire farmer Nikki Yoxall, who keeps a herd of native cattle, said: “The benefits of bale grazing have barely been explored in the UK, so we are delighted that, not only is it working well for our animals, it is also provid-
A study has found financial benefits of £1.58 per head a day can be gained using bale grazing.
ing a business case for this practice to be adopted by the wider farming sector.
“Outwintering is the best option for our cattle, but it can create all kinds of problems for the environment and
Farmers warned to be wary of worm burden risk this autumn
EXPERTS have warned farmers not to take their eye off the ball when it comes to sheep worm control this season, as worm burdens are expected to peak during the autumn.
Vet Ben Strugnell says the intestinal worm haemonchus has posed a greater challenge than ever across the UK this year, despite it being a problem traditionally associated with southern areas.
“Haemonchus continues to pose a clear and present danger to all sheep, not just lambs, as adult sheep do not build immunity to this challenging worm,” he says.
But haemonchus is not the only worm threatening sheep farms this autumn. Mr Strugnell explains that activity of other species is also ramping up and warns that wormers which worked earlier in the year may not be as effective now.
“The prevalence of different worm
species changes throughout the year, so those active in the spring will likely be different to those we are now experiencing in the autumn and require treatment with a different wormer group,” he says.
Small intestinal worms can catch up very quickly with weaned lambs, so Mr Strugnell advises vigilance is key at this time of year, as worm burdens can cause major setbacks in growth.
Monitoring
“It is important to continue regular monitoring of faecal egg counts (FEC) and ideally growth rates into the winter to inform if and when you need to worm,” he says.
Following this he highlights the need to work with a vet or adviser to carry out a drench check to highlight whether your wormer has been effective.
This involves re-sampling with an-
other FEC test seven to 14 days after worming.
He also stresses the importance of making a plan for these ‘tail-end’ lambs now.
“Do anything you can to get them off their current pasture – house them, sell them, or move them to roots or a herbal ley.
“Lambs at this time of year will be shedding worm eggs onto pasture. Moving them elsewhere will minimise the number contaminating your grazing for next spring.”
And he says this is the perfect time to administer an annual break dose of Group 4 wormer.
Mr Strugnell explains this will help maintain optimum growth rates by removing worms, including those left behind by treatments earlier in the season, with the added benefit of slowing down the development of resistance to older wormer groups.
that can put a big strain on farmers. “But so far, bale grazing is having a wide range of positive effects across several farm and soil types, as well as saving us money and time.”
Highland cattle fold competition
WINNER of the large fold category in the Highland Cattle Society’s national fold competition was the Pollok Fold owned by Glasgow City Council.
The winning small fold was David and Nancy Booth’s Scholes Fold, Rotherham, which also won the class for best group of calves by the same sire.
The competition was judged by Andrew Kirkpatrick of the Glengarnock Fold, Ayrshire, who visited the 10 finalists before making his decision.
He said: “I was looking for a fold with strong breed characteristics, especially cows that were making a good job of their calves yet still looking well and fit themselves.”
He added the Pollok Fold showed uniformity throughout.
The next national fold competition will be held in 2026.
At a recent farm walk at Lower House, Radnorshire, which is part of the Farming Connect Our Farms initiative, the use of peas and beans in the ration for pregnant ewes was discussed. Ellie Layton reports.
Peas and beans a protein source for in-lamb ewes
● Self-su iciency aims with pulse break crop
LOWER House Farm, Llandrindod Wells, Radnorshire, is a mixed upland unit run by Robert and Jessica Lyon, who are focused on cutting reliance on outsourced inputs to reduce their costs and carbon footprint.
The farm is home to 600 Mule ewes, 300 Welsh Cheviot ewes, and 150 British Blue cross dairy heifers which are sold as stores. They also have a 32,000 laying hen unit, with the poultry litter used on the farm’s grassland.
To help them implement changes to the in-lamb ewe diets, Mr and Mrs Lyons have been conducting some trial work in conjunction with Farming Connect as part of the farm’s involvement in the Our Farms initiative.
When discussing the trial work, Mr Lyon said he was keen to ensure that any changes made on-farm which had an impact on carbon footprint were not a detriment to feed efficiency and affordability.
Barley is grown at Lower House Farm and provides enough starch energy to feed 500-600 ewes prior to lambing, plus grow and finish the
150 heifers on-site. However, a protein concentrate blend is mixed with the rolled barley to make up the protein shortfall in the ration.
Lower House Farm incorporated bought-in peas and beans in the pregnant ewe ration for winter 2023-2024.
To work towards self-sufficiency in protein, Lower House Farm incorporated bought-in peas and beans in the pregnant ewe ration for winter 2023-2024. However, this coming winter, they will use home-grown peas and beans, which were harvested and crimped in September.
Ruminant diet
Peas and beans can be used in ruminant diets as a useful source of energy and rumen-degradable protein. Peas contain about 26% protein in the dry matter (DM) and beans about 29%. They are both high in energy, containing 13.6 to 14 MJ/kg DM, with over 40% starch. Lower House Farm grows 3.6 hectares (nine acres) of barley annually, so the introduction of a pulse break crop fits well into the rotation.
With it being a nitrogen-fixing crop, Mr Lyon said no N fertiliser would be required for the following crop, and the different tap roottype structure might provide benefits to soil structure.
Robert Lyon and his wife Jessica conduct on-farm trials as part of Farming Connect’s Our Farms initiative.
INTEGRATING POULTRY MANURE INTO GRASSLAND FARMING
THE use of poultry manure was also discussed at the farm event, and Duncan Rose, a soil scientist with Wardell-Armstrong, said poultry manure was a valuable resource containing between two to four times the nitrogen, phosphate, potash and sulphur levels of cattle manure, and that it was a far cheaper alternative to synthetic fertilisers.
This, he said, was particularly important as poultry units were spread throughout grassland farming areas, with many in the uplands as well as lower land and on the Welsh borders.
Mr Rose said: “The use of poultry manure as an organic fertiliser therefore has great potential to displace bought-in fertiliser products.
“But to achieve the best results, it is important that it is applied when plants are actively growing, at an appropriate application rate and where nutrients are needed.”
He also warned against the excessive use of poultry manure as a fertiliser as it could cause a
loss of nutrients to the environment through erosion, run-off and leaching.
And he said further complications could occur when integrating poultry manure into a grassland that was a growing crop to be grazed or preserved, such as silage.
“It is recommended that poultry manure should be allowed to break down fully for about four to six weeks before grazing or cutting to prevent transmission of pathogens,” said Mr Rose.
“This timescale is not always available on an intensive rotational grazing platform or a multi-cut silage system, but may be more appropriate where a field is cultivated for an arable crop.”
Application rates
Application rates can often be the trickiest part of using poultry manure, so Mr Rose encouraged farmers to know exactly what they were using.
He stressed that soils should always be sampled for nutrient status before applying poultry manure, as indexes could already
It is important that [poultry manure] is applied when plants are actively growing, at an appropriate application rate and where nutrients are needed
DUNCAN ROSE
be high. If the soil pH is low, he said the N and phosphate supplied by poultry manure would not be used efficiently and plant uptake would be reduced.
This, he said, could lead to soils jumping in index, which could take
many years to reverse. He added that if soils had a low index, values would quickly increase when poultry manure was applied, so sampling should be carried out regularly.
Over-applying
Over-applying poultry manure to fields could have serious consequences for soil, water and air quality in the form of harmful methane, carbon dioxide and ammonia emissions.
The phosphate content of typical poultry manure is four times higher than the levels in cattle manure, and N levels are three times higher.
Mr Rose said: “Recommended application rates stand at no more than one tonne per acre on grazing land and 2-3t per acre on silage ground, which is noticeably lower than the usual 5t per acre application rate for cattle manure.”
Aside from the pollution risk, Mr Rose also warned that applying at higher rates could cause grass to scorch.
Speaking at an on-farm event, Mr Lyon said: “The crop grown this year has been extremely low input, and due to the weather there has not been a window to spray the crop, even with a pre-emergent, which we intend to do for the next crop.”
The cost of buying peas and beans was £275 per tonne, but Mr
Lyon said that by growing the crop on-farm, costs would drop to £117/t.
Trial
For the trial, 100 twin-bearing ewes were split into two groups in one shed and fed a total mixed ration of grass silage, at 10.6 ME, and maize, with either a protein pellet
The event was well supported, and during September the Our Farms initiative reached over 1,000 farmers across 15 farm hosts.
or peas and beans. No effect was seen on body condition score and no difference in lambing ease was observed, however, when looking at lambing records afterwards, the data suggested a marginally harder lambing on a handful of ewes. However, Mr Lyon said this was not noticeable at the time.
The two groups also performed
equally when it came to milk quality and availability.
Mr Lyon said: “We believe that the crop will help us to reduce our feed costs and be more self-sufficient. We look forward to seeing the progress of the trial, especially being on a more challenging ground to many other growers of the crop.”
Livestock AgriScot Preview
As preparations for this year’s AgriScot event on November 13 enter the final stages, Farmers Guardian takes a look at some of what visitors can expect.
Packed day planned for AgriScot
Ahead-to-head debate with the Cabinet Secretary, together with competitions, demonstrations and a wide range of products, services and advice, mean there is sure to be something for everyone at AgriScot 2024.
New to the event this year will be two live demonstrations of the Te Pari sheep handling system, with other highlights set to return.
The popular panel debate and Q&A session with the NFUS president, Martin Kennedy, and the Cabinet Secretary, Mairi Gougeon, will take place at the earlier time of 10am this year.
In addition to this, business seminars will be running throughout
BUSINESS
the day offering technical insights and updates for different sectors.
Elsewhere, the dairy classes are sure to draw a crowd, with some of the top breeders from across the UK set to go head to head, while this year’s beef demonstration will focus on the practicalities of calving at two years.
Award winners
Various award winners will be revealed at the event, including this year’s Farm of the Year and Business Skills winners.
Find out more about beef category finalists Jim and Dougie Frame on pages 91-92 and previous Business Skills winner Jack Young below.
Visitors will also be able to per-
use various trade stands across four indoor exhibition halls.
AgriScot chair Robert Neil says: “We are looking forward to a really good mix this year of innovation and practical information from our seminars, trade stands and demos, and some healthy competi-
tion in and out of the showring for all the different awards.
“AgriScot has its roots in dairy, but we are very proud that we have evolved to create a broad showcase and are now widely regarded as one of the leading farm business events across farming sectors.”
SKILLS AWARD WINNER REFLECTS ON THE MANY BENEFITS OF TAKING PART IN THE COMPETITION
THE award, sponsored by NFU Mutual and supported by SRUC, aims to encourage entrants to develop some of the working skills required in the rural sector, while also connecting them with mentors and networks to help further their personal and professional development.
The 2024 winner be announced at the event and will take home a £1,000 cash prize, with two runners-up awarded £250.
The competition aims to assess general business skills and awareness of agribusiness issues and is made up of three stages: an initial entry by email, regional semi-final heats held on farms in Scotland and the final held at AgriScot.
After winning the award in 2022, Jack Young took a place on this year’s judging panel.
As part of this, he recently hosted one of the on-farm semifinal heats on his family’s beef and arable farm in the Clyde
2022 winner Jack Young enjoyed acting as a judge for the 2024 competition.
Valley, just outside Lanarkshire, where they also run a farm shop and butchery on-site.
The semi-final involved a tour around the farm for competitors, with stops to discuss aspects of the farm enterprises which made up part of the judging process.
difference in people’s opinions on the judging day, but good to hear that everybody had a fairly positive outlook on farming in general.
“I would say for the young calibre of entrants that there was, competition was at a high standard and questions were answered very well.”
Reflecting on his own experience of the competition, Jack says he enjoyed taking part and found that the process was a good way to develop and improve communication and other skills. He says: “I decided I had nothing to lose by putting a submission in and it went from there.
“Direct supply to the public is a big part of the business and we are putting a lot of what we produce through the farm shop, with a selling point for the shop being that much of what is sold is grown on-farm.
“It was interesting to see the
“I am probably better at answering questions off the cuff than writing things down, so the semi-final format suited me and, when I got through to the final, I put a bit of effort into looking a few things up beforehand which obviously paid off on the day.”
The dairy section at AgriScot will, of course, be a major highlight, but the event offers visitors a host of other events and exhibitions.
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Livestock AgriScot Preview
Lanarkshire-based father and son team, Jim and Dougie Frame, have been selected as beef category finalists in this year’s Farm of the Year awards.
The Frame family runs a 150cow commercial suckler herd at Birks Farm, near Carluke. Aberdeen-Angus is the predominant breed, with a Hereford bull used to produce first cross replacement heifers, explains Dougie Frame.
They make the most of summer grazing to maximise liveweight gains for finishing cattle from their spring-calving suckler herd.
“We bought a Hereford bull four years ago and tried him out on 25 females,” says Mr Frame. “The breed has continued to be used on replacements ever since, as it helps to maintain our policy of keeping a suckler cow which is easy to manage, with a low input requirement.
“Using the Angus thereafter gives us a premium price for the finished cattle as part of the buyers’ breed marketing scheme.”
Finished animals are marketed at 22-24 months, with steers achieving a deadweight average of 380kg and heifers 315kg. Sold to ABP and Dunbia, the latest feedback report shows that 80% achieve an R grade, with 12% Uand 8% O+.
“Cattle breeding is always a compromise,” Mr Frame says.
“If the cows become too shapey then milk yields and calving ease will suffer, with a knock-on effect on calf growth rates and fertility.
Breeding aims
“Our main aim is to breed animals that will look after themselves as much as possible and produce calves that will make the most of the good grass that we can grow in this region. The calving intervention rate, which includes assisting calves to suckle, is below 10%, for example.
“Having cattle which fall into the top grading category is relatively low on our list of priorities. The top 30 heifers each year are chosen as replacements, which brings down the classification averages. Some of the surplus heifers are sold with their calves at foot.”
One notable Angus bull is Kin-
This year’s Scotch Beef Farm of the Year award will be among the prizes presented at AgriScot 2024. Wendy Short speaks to one of the beef category finalists ahead of the event.
Grass focus paying off for beef finalists
cardine Castle Progress, purchased in 2012.
“Progress had some excellent qualities,” says Mr Frame.
“He was a tall bull, very well fleshed, highly fertile and with plenty of length and width. He did his job for about eight seasons and never went lame or suffered any other ailment. He still has some daughters in the herd.”
In February, the cows are vaccinated for BVD protection and given a mineral bolus, with their ears trimmed to improve tag visibility and their tails trimmed for cleanliness. The calving period runs from about April 22 until the end of May and the heifers are calved at 24 months. The calving interval is on track at 365 days, with a recent ‘calves weaned from cows put to the bull’ percentage of 95. The figure has been as high as 98% in the past.
“No fertility aids are used and we
are achieving our target of calving 65% of the females within three weeks; 90% will calve in a six-week period,” he says.
“Heifers are only given seven weeks to run with the bull and failure to get in calf will result in the individual being moved into the finishing group. This helps to ensure that only highly fertile animals are brought into the herd.
“Cull cows are selected when the calves are tagged in the spring. Individuals will easily produce 10 calves without any issues but they will usually reach a peak, after which their calves will not reach optimum performance. At that point, we feel that it is better to give an opportunity to a heifer.”
Groups of about 35 cows and their calves go on to a grazing system which uses four paddocks measuring about three hectares (eight acres), rotated every few days to give the grass a recovery period.
mise stress and avoid anything that will lead to a growth check. The buildings sit at about 152 metres (500 feet) above sea-level, so there is plenty of airflow through the sheds.”
Pairs
The pairs are left together for a couple of weeks pre-weaning for the calves to get used to their new environment.
“Once separated, they are put into mixed sex groups of 20-30 across multiple sheds with straw bedding and fed good-quality grass silage, plus a 28% protein molasses mix,” says Mr Frame.
“They also receive a small quantity of 16% protein cake and spring barley, which is home-grown on about 15ha (37 acres). The winter
Farm facts
■ Third-generation family farm
■ 220 hectares (544 acres) near Carluke, Lanarkshire
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No creep feed is offered and as the housing date approaches, the calves are given a pour-on wormer and a live IBR vaccine.
■ 150-cow commercial suckler herd
■ Predominantly Aberdeen-Angus; Hereford bull used to produce first cross replacement heifers
“The vaccine has been used for the past couple of years, after a season when one or two calves had to be treated for pneumonia,” says Mr Frame.
“It is not a recurring problem and they are well grown and fit at housing in November, but we try to mini-
■ Finished animals are marketed at 22-24 months; steers achieving a deadweight average of 380kg and heifers 315kg
■ Selling to ABP and Dunbia
The herd is mostly Aberdeen-Angus, with a Hereford bull used to produce the first cross replacement heifers.
ration is effectively a maintenance diet and we take advantage of compensatory growth when they go on to high-quality grazing.”
The whole-year group achieves an average weight of 355kg at 11 months and is treated with an injectable worming product and a mineral bolus before turnout in April.
“They will put on 1.2kg a day in their second summer at grass, when the grazing system is repeated from their first year. The final year of housing sees the young cattle offered the same winter ration minus the protein molasses mix, with maize meal added to the ration in the December. It helps to put on flesh in the last stages of finishing.”
High-frequency EID tags have been used for cattle management since 2019.
“This type of tag is useful because it can be read from about five to six metres, which is a greater distance compared with some other options. It is combined with weigh scales, a hand-held reader and a software programme to give us a system which keeps progress on track, although it is probably not used it to its full capability. The next step is to invest in a panel
reader for the crush, which will be more convenient than the handheld version.”
Mr Frame and his wife, Rachel, have two young children, Lewis and Eilidh. He is the third generation on the 220ha (544-acre) farm, which is owned by the family and has a long history of finished cattle production.
The herd size was increased
from 100 head about a decade ago, with the breeding sheep flock replaced with winter store lambs to maximise grass availability for the herd. The pair have won an Aberdeen-Angus beef finishing award at Scotbeef on two previous occasions and are looking forward to attending AgriScot.
“One of my greatest pleasures in running the business is working
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alongside my father. It made us very proud to hear that we had been nominated for the beef award and it is just one of many enjoyable memories that I will be able to look back on.
“Hopefully there will be more memories to be made, when the time comes for my son and/or my daughter to join me, if they wish,” says Mr Frame.
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Jim (left) and Dougie Frame run a 150-cow commercial suckler herd at Birks Farm, near Carluke, Lanarkshire.
● Water sources should be regularly checked
PROVIDING high-quality drinking water in sufficient volumes is key to ensuring the health and productivity of pig and poultry units.
Richard Remmer, of Trouw Nutrition GB, says water is sometimes called the ‘forgotten nutrient’ but is essential for life.
He adds: “Producers appreciate the need to provide enough water but often are less aware of the importance of water quality.”
Mr Remmer says that insufficient drinker numbers or poor flow rate can lead to serious consequences, particularly in hot weather.
He advises attention should be paid to meeting the different requirements at different stages of production. For example, a chick or piglet at weaning has a vastly different requirement to a lactating sow or hens at peak lay.
He says: “Whatever the stage of the production cycle, contaminated water can lead to serious health issues. Careful management of the drinking lines can help to prevent problems.”
He advises paying close attention to the sources of water. Mains water must meet agreed standards and should contain no pathogenic bacteria, while water from bore holes should be regularly checked for mineral and microbiological quality.
Mr Remmer says it is a requirement of farm assurance schemes that routine testing is undertaken and recorded.
“Irrespective of the water source, ensuring water delivery systems are hygienic is also essential to optimise water quality and reduce pathogenic risk. Adopting thorough water line cleaning protocols is essential for maximising water quality and promoting overall farm hygiene,” says Mr Remmer.
Over time, biofilm – a slime produced by bacteria – can build up in
Pig and poultry producers are urged to pay close attention to the quality of drinking water. Farmers Guardian reports.
Using a well-tested acid product in the drinking lines maintains better water hygiene and also promotes responsible farming hygiene practices
Biofilm, a slime produced by bacteria, can build up in water lines over time, providing an environment for pathogens to proliferate.
Do not compromise on water quality
water lines, providing an environment for bacteria and other pathogens to proliferate. Regular cleaning will help remove this biofilm, ensuring cleaner water availability.
Regular cleaning
Regular cleaning also helps to prevent blockages caused by mineral deposits or organic matter, says Mr Remmer, helping to ensure a consistent water supply to all drinkers. Clean water lines will improve the effectiveness of water treatments such as acidifiers.
Mr Remmer says: “Clean water lines are a major contributor to overall better water quality, reducing the risk of disease and promoting the health and productivity of pigs and poultry.”
He advises drinking water acidification as a proven and effective treatment.
He adds: “Using a well-tested acid product in the drinking lines maintains better water hygiene and promotes responsible farming hygiene practices.”
Water acidification involves lowering the pH of drinking water to create an acidic environment, reducing problems caused by harmful
bacteria such as e.coli and salmonella, which thrive in neutral or alkaline conditions.
“By lowering the pH, the growth of these pathogens is significantly inhibited. This is particularly beneficial in young pigs at weaning, helping to speed up the development of the stomach and the production of stomach acid,” he says.
“With the withdrawal of therapeutic zinc oxide and the push for lower antibiotic use, water acidification has been shown to play a key role in helping pigs at this critical time.”
By reducing the pH of drinking water, an inhospitable environment is created for harmful bacteria, which reduces the risk of waterborne diseases, ensuring healthier livestock.
Water acidification
Mr Remmer says: “Incorporating water acidification into daily routines encourages farmers to regularly monitor and maintain water quality. Furthermore, drinking water acidification supports better digestion and nutrient absorption, enhancing feed efficiency and performance in both pigs and poultry.
“Acid inclusion can improve the palatability of water, which can
encourage higher consumption rates, helping prevent dehydration and the loss of performance that follows.”
Mr Remmer assures producers that introducing water acids into water management systems can be straightforward, with products often fed directly into the drinking lines via a dosing system.
Monitoring
Regular monitoring of water pH levels is advised to ensure optimal results are achieved, and by using pH testing kits, the desired acidity level required for effective pathogen control can be maintained.
He says: “Along with using water acids, implementing a comprehensive routine water line cleaning protocol after every batch will protect the system against biofilm and other contaminants.
“Water acidification is a practical and effective approach to enhancing drinking water quality for pigs and poultry. Through promoting an environment that inhibits bacterial growth, routine acidification and regular drinking system cleaning, you can support better animal health and improve performance.”
PICTURE: GETTY
Working Dogs
Sion Morgan and Tess, winners of the North Westmorland sheepdog trial.
Trials diary
WALES
For winning results
Welsh results
NANT-Y-MOEL HILL TRIAL, Day one qualifying (Judge, D. McMullan) 1, S. McCullough, Sam, 17; 2, T. Thewissen, Kate, 18; 3, K. Haker, Case, 20; 4, K. Broad, Kinloch Ciaran, 20; 5, R. Ellis, Tod, 21; 6, A. Driscoll Kinloch Taz 21. Day two qualifying (M. Ellis) 1, K. Evans, Brynmoel Jet, 15, 2, K. Evans, Kemi Jack, 15; 3, E. Morgan, Blackie, 16; 4, D. Tilotson, 17; 5, B. Charles, Lester Jill, 18; 6, E. Morgan, Fly, 19. Final. 1, K. Evans, Brynmoel Jet, 24; 2, E. Morgan, Blackie, 26 OLF, 3, K. Evans, Kemi Jack, 26; 4, S. McCulloch, Sam, 58; 5. K. Haker, Case, 58; 6, T. Thewissen, Kate, 69. NANTMEL, Morning (R. Ellis) Open 1, S. Harden, Foxridge Bet, 16; 2, M. Jones, Nan, 23; 3, T. Thewissen, Fynbos Turk, 24; 4, M. Dubenova, Oak Bill, 26; 5, S. Harden, Newton Moss, 27; 6, E. Rogers, Glen, 28. Novice, 1, S. Harden, Foxridge Bet, 16; 2, T. Thewissen, Fynbos Turk, 24; 3, M. Dubenova, Oak Bill, 26; S. Harden, Newton Moss, 27. Afternoon (R. Price) Open 1, R. Ellis, Sue, 9; 2, T. Thewissen, Oak Ben, 12; 3, L. Hansson, Molly, 14; 4, R. Ellis, Tod, 15 OLF; 5, D. Bevan, Dylan, 15; 6, E. Jarman, Ken, 18. Novice, 1, R. Ellis, Sue, 9; 2, T. Thewissen, Oak Ben, 12; 3, S. Lewis, Chance, 23; 4, A. Anderson, App, 24. CEREDIGION, Nursery, 1 (S. Jones) National style 1, D Jenkins, Aran Meg, 6; 2, A. Llyr, Clodddiau Spotau, 16; 3, D. Jenkins, Aran Fly, 17; 4, D. Rees, Garn Gron Floss, 20; 5, D. Jenkins, Tyddyn Du Cass, 21; 6, D. Rees, Garn Gron Tess, 23. South Wales style 1, I. Evans, Mwnt Max, 7; 2, D. Jenkins, Aran Meg, 8; 3, D. Jenkins, Aran Fly, 23; 4, D. Rees, Garn Gron Floss, 24; D. Rees, Garn Gron Tess, 29; S. Davies, Fly, 43. Young handler 1, S. Davies, Moss, 10; 2, Y. Siencyn, Finn, 21; S. Davies, Fly, 43. New handler; I. Glant, Jan, 43. PENCLYN, Brecon Nursery 1 (L. Jenkins) 1, K. Evans, Kemi Cap, 12; 2, K. Evans, Valley View Dan, 17; 3, C. Slater, Belway Frank, 17; 4, D. Evans, Tilly, 21; 5, D. Evans, Mist, 21; 6, C. Slater, Mist, 28. Novice, G. Davies, Nell, 40; 2, W. Jones, Ruby, 47. Beginners, A. Turner. GLOUCESTERSHIRE AND GWENT, Nursery/Novice 4. Nursery (B. Tango) 1, M. Jones, Mack, 5; 2, J. Garland, Rhyswg Fay, 8; 3, B. Lester, Tysswg Lass, 10; 4, S. Currie, Tom, 12; 5, N. Matthews, Hilltop Zac, 13; 6, N. Matthews, Hilltop Lexi, 19. Novice (S. Currie) 1, J. Price. Roy. 10 OLF; 2, B. Lester, Tysswg Lass, 10; 3, M. Jones, Mack, 21; 4, M. Jones, Clint, 27; 5, R. Foote, Bill, 28; 6, A. Blackmore, Rosewood Peg, 31. PEMBROKESHIRE, Nursery 4. (C. Ridge) 1, S. Harden, Kennox Pip, 16; 2, L. Harries, Mo, 17; 3, L. Harries, Preseli Cap, 19 OLF; 4, C. Browning, Misty, 19; 5, L. Harries, Preseli Boss, 21; 6, A. Morgan, Ben, 23; Puppy, 1, S. Harden, Kennox Pip, 16; 2, L. Harries, Mo, 17; 3, L. Harries, Preseli Cap, 19 OLF; 4, L. Harries, Preseli Boss, 21; 5, A. Morgan , Ben, 23; 6, C. Browning, Cloud, 32. Sweepstake (J. Bowen) 1, L. Harries, Teifi Taff, 7. RADNOR, Nursery 2 (L. Hansson and A. Carin Andersson) Nursery 1, J. Jones, Brondrefawr Skye, 12; 2, I. Rees, Roo, 14; 3, P. Tomkins, Joe, 15 OLF; 4, J. Jones, Brondrefawr Ben, 15; 5, I. Rees, Pentre
November 16. COEDPERTHIS, Coedperthis, Beulah, Ceredigion, 9am start, contact A. Evans, tel: 01239 851 014.
November 23. RADNOR, Elan Valley, LD1 6NY, beginners, novice and nursery classes, 10am start.
November 23. GILFACHYFRAN, Gilfachyfran, Abermeurig, Ceredigion, 9am start contact C. Hope, tel: 01570 470 458.
November 24. RHOS YR HAFOD, Llanarthne, SA32 8LG.
ENGLAND
November 2. HOLME NURSERY, Mitchell House Reservoir, Haslingden, BB5 2DL, 9.30am start, catering on field, contact S. Duckworth, tel: 07890 545 437. FYLDE, Hall Croft Barn, Over Kellet, LA6 1AB, 9.30am start, usual Pennine interclub rules apply, contact Mr Longton, tel: 07736 278 398.
Messi, 15; 6, B. Pugh, Lass, 19. Novice, 1, B. Lewis, Brondrefawr Fly, 16; 2, S.J. Davies, Tess, 20; 3, D. Bayliss, Rock, 21. Beginner, L. Bowen, Gwen. CARMARTHEN, Nursery 4 (F. Farthing) Nursery 1, L. Williams, Wyvern Winnie; 2, A. Driscoll, Abi; 3, M. Jones, Mainstay Maddie; 4, H. Thomas, Nantymoel Trim; 5, T. Mallon, Hill Runner Hallie; 6, A. Driscoll, Kinloch Keeper. Novice, 1, A. Green, Jan; 2, M. Owen, Helen; 3, A. Sharpe, Chiltern Bolt; 4, A. Sharpe, Coalfield Gryff; 5, A. Green, Midge; 6, H. Lewis, Betsi.
English results
NORTH WESTMORLAND (H. Suobodova) Open 1, S. Morgan, Tess, 89; 2, G. Miller, Barney, 88; 3, V. Meadly, Gem, 81; 4, W. Vandongen, Dezta, 80; 5, B. Helliwell, Aileen, 79 OLF; 6, G. Miller, Pik, 79. NORTHERN (A. Wilkinson) Open (28 ran) 1, A. Hunter (Redmire) Tilly, 66 of 100; 2, C. Cassie (Armathwaite) Belle, 65; 3, E. Hill (Holmrook) Pentre Roxy, 60; 4, M. Watson (Tadcaster) Stamp, 56 OLF; 5, M. Watson, Joe, 56; 6, A. Temple (Holmrook) Hill Top Rita, 51. Sunday (P. Simpson, Dacre, 27 ran) Nursery 1, A. Temple, Jet, 78 of 90; 2, A. Dick (Northallerton) Spot, 74; 3, A. Hunter, Tilly, 66; 4, J. Scrivin (Elslack) Pinhaw Dewi, 63; 5, J. Scrivin, Pinhaw Frank, 62; 6, W. Young (Crosscliffe) Daisy, 56. Novice 1, E. Hill, Pentre Roxy, 73 of 100; 2, E. Hill, Jess, 65; 3, A. Temple, Hill Top Rita, 58. RYEDALE, Roos nursery (P. Exelby) 1, D. Bristow, Greenhow Tess, 66; 2, G. Blyth, Cloddlau Bet, 62; 3, I Murdoch, Dunelle Mouse ‘Moss’, 61; 4, S. Walton, Brackenholme Dolly, 60; 5, R. Cole, Pip, 58; 6, J. Atkinson, Scalpsie Riot, 57. Novice, 1, T. Bennet, Strike, 57; 2, J. Atkinson, Sandy, 49. New handler, S. Beaton, Jim.
OBLEY (B. Howson) Novice 1, M. Hooper, Gyp, 14; 2, V. Morris, Mirk, 20; 3, L. Owen, Bonnie, 27; 4, P. Thoms, Newbold Zak, 32; 5, C. Bonar, Wilstone Meg, 35; 6, C. Manfield, Gyp, 48 OLF. Nursery, 1, V. Morris, Cefneithin Roxy, 14; M. Hooper, Ty’r Banc Jet, 32. PENNARE, Open driving (D. Kennard) 1, R. Hawke, Flame, 91; 2, V. Pitts, Jago, 84; 3, K. Cropper, Gin, 79; 4, B. Watson, Taff, 78; S. Greenaway, Bonnie, 76; T. Carter, Brew, 77. Maltese cross (T. Hopper) 1, N. Dalgarno Lad, 66; 2, R. Hawke, Maice, 80; 3, S. Short, Fever, 65. VERYAN, Double fetch (K. Cropper) 1, S. Greenaway, Moss, 137/160; 2, B. Watson, Taff, 136; 3, S. Mills, Betty, 126; 4, B. Watson, Will, 119; R. Hawke, Flame, 118; D. Survilla, Jock, 115. YORKSHIRE SDS ADDINGHAM, (M. Shields) Nursery 1, C. Mellin, Mac, 74/90; 2, J. Ashworth, Zac, 70; 3, R. Fielden, Sam, 69 OLF; 4, V. Ibbotson, Sugarhill Moss, 69; 6, R. Atkins, Tan, 64.
Scottish results
BARR (J. Shennan) 1, C. Toner, Mace, 93; 2, I. Lockhart, Roy, 91; 3, N. Gillon, Lhuke, 90; 4, E. Gray, Banjo, 86 OLF; 5, I. Brownlie, Tod, 86; 6, H. Mitchell, Brae, 85. BARR HILL (I. Wilkie) 1, N. McVicar, Pete, 91 OLF; 2, N. McVicar, Mark, 91; 3, M. Young, Jess, 90; 4, I. Brownlie, Tod, 88; 5, L. Ronaldon, Bob, 85; 6, J. Paterson, Roy, 83. Best nursery dog, I. Brownlie, Tod, 88.
November 3. RYEDALE, Carlton Sandhoe Farm, Carlton, Goole, DN14 9RS, what3words: started. wildfires.outsize, contact Stuart Walton, tel: 07789 740 122. NSDA, Hardraw, Hawes, DL8 3LZ, all trials are subject to change depending upon weather conditions. Membership £5/person is due on the first nursery date, Northern sheepdog association rules apply, 9.30am start, last booking in 1pm, only one dog after 12pm. SHROPSHIRE HEREFORDSHIRE NURSERY, The Willows, Long Lane, Craven Arms, SY7 8DU, 10am start, £2.50 per run, nursery, novice and beginners, contact Jo, tel: 07814 330 861. NORTH WESTMORLAND, Ullock Farm, Portinscale, CA12 5SP, what3words: firework.retire.dozen. 9am start, nursery, novice (confined to Cumbria) new handler trial, all dogs to be booked in by 1pm, contact Joe Relph, tel: 07494 443 901. November 9. PENNINE NURSERY, A. Throup, Sycamore Farm, Silsden, BD20 0ND, 9.30am start, Pennine rules apply, contact Carol, tel: 07891 871 298. HOLME NURSERY, C. Kempson’s, Mitchell House Reservoir, Haslingden, BB5 2DL, 9.30am start, catering on field, Pennine rules apply, contact Shirley, tel: 07890 545 437. November 10. RYEDALE, Bob Harland and Jackie Goulder, The Barn Kirbymisperton, what3words: employer.powering.synthetic,
contact J. Goulder 07796 158 467. NSDA, Half Penny House, DL8 5JN, 9.30am start, last booking in 1pm, only one dog after 12pm, Northern sheepdog association rules apply, contact Rod Green, tel: 07432 782 269. November 16. RYEDALE, The Menagerie, Skipwith Road, Escrick, York, YO19 6EH, what3words: crispier.childcare.dabbling, contact J. Atkinson, tel: 07850 710 837. FYLDE NURSERY, Rooten Brook Farm, Quernmore, LA2 9EJ, 9.30am start usual Pennine interclub rules apply. November 17. RYEDALE, The Menagerie, Skipwith Road, Escrick, York, YO19 6EH, what3words: crispier.childcare.dabbling, contact J. Atkinson, tel: 07850 710 837. NSDA, Downholme, Richmond, Leyburn, DL8 5HF, 9.30am start, last booking in 1pm, only one dog after 12pm, contact Rod Green, tel: 07432 782 269. SHROPSHIRE/HEREFORDSHIRE NURSERY, Tilsop Farm Nash, Ludlow, SY8 3AX, 9.30am start, £2.50 per run nursery/novice and beginners, tel: 07394 467 958. MID SHIRES, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. GL20 6EU, 8.30 am start, open trial, contact Gill, email: gillburbidge2014@gmail. com, tel: 07950 738 732. November 23. HOLME NURSERY, S.Duckworth, Cloughead, Grane Road, Haslingden, BB4 4AT. 9.30am start, cafe and toilets on-site, Pennine rules apply, contact Shirley, tel: 07890 545 437. November 24. NSDA, Valley Farm, Bowes, DL12 9RH, Northern sheepdog association rules apply, 9.30am start, last booking in 1pm, only one dog after 12, contact Rob Hutch, tel: 07849 238 567. MID SHIRES, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 1LB, 8.30 am start, open trial, contact Gill, email: gillburbidge2014@gmail.com, tel: 07950 738 732.
November 30. NSDA, Quebec, Durham, DH7 9RS, Northern sheepdog association rules apply, 9.30am start, last booking in 1pm, only one dog after 12pm, contact Frank Whitfield, tel: 07714 590 249. FYLDE NURSERY, Hollins Head Farm, Quernmore, LA2 9NA, 9.30am start, usual Pennine interclub rules apply, contact Mr Longton, tel: 07736 278 398. PENNINE NURSERY, P. Simpson, Woodmanwray Farm, Dacre, HG3 4AR, Pennine rules apply, any competitor running more than one dog must have one booked in before 12pm and take next available run, contact Carol Mellin, tel: 07891 871 298.
SCOTLAND
November 2. KIPPEN, Strewiebank Farm, Kippen, FK8 3EL, open sheepdog trial, first confirmed 40 dogs, top five places go through to double lift final, £100 for overall winner, £50 prize for two dog aggregate, no refreshments, contact Kenny Dickson, tel: 07584 955 158.
Carol Mellin and Mac, winners at the Yorkshire Sheepdog Society Pennine Nursery Trial at Addingham.
Market Prices Primestock
ENGLAND
Source: LAA/MartEye
Market Prices Store Cattle
ENGLAND
Norwich
SCOTLAND
Source: LAA/MartEye
Source: IAAS/ScotEID
Source: LAA/MartEye
LIVESTOCK AVERAGES MARKET COMMENT
Primestock throughput, price and price change (p/kg). Week ending October 29, 2024.
YOUNG bulls bucked the trend in cattle rings at auction markets in England and Wales this week, dropping 6.5p/kg to 274.3p/kg.
Steer prices were marginally up by 0.2% at 280.2p/kg, and heifers increased 6.5p/kg to 294.3p/kg, while cull cow prices fell for both beef and dairy sired.
Lamb prices were also down, dropping 4p/kg to 274.6p/kg.
For pigs, baconers saw a 16.3p/kg fall to 185.8p/kg, while porkers increased 1.6p/kg to 173.3p/kg.
As Farmers Guardian went to press on Wednesday (October 30) UK LIFFE wheat prices were trading at £180/tonne, a decrease of £3/t on the week.
Source: LAA/MartEye
Market Prices
DEADWEIGHT CATTLE
STORE SHEEP ENGLAND
DEADWEIGHT SHEEP
DEADWEIGHT PIGS
PIGS
WALES
SCOTLAND
*Pigpricesarew/eOctober19,2024. Source: AHDB
HAY AND STRAW PRICES
GOOSTREY: Mon, hay, square bale to £124/tonne; haylage, square bale to £80/t; wheat straw, square bale to £122/t.
After 50 years working as a livestock buyer, Steve Dennis reflects on his career and the changing nature of the job. Ruth Wills finds out more.
SFarming: The Backbone of B
A 50-year career with livestock at the heart
teve Dennis has long been a familiar face around sheep auction rings in the south west of England, and now, at 65 years old, after working as a livestock buyer for most of his life, he has decided to retire from ‘the day job’ and focus on farming.
Steve grew up on Carpuan Farm, a mixed dairy, beef and sheep farm, just outside Liskeard, Cornwall.
He says: “There was not enough room for me on the home farm.
“I enjoyed stockjudging as part of Young Farmers, and I decided being involved in the meat trade was the next best thing to farming.
“At the time, there was a small abattoir in Liskeard, so I started there when I was 17, just check-weighing, grading and sorting the carcases, but I knew it was due to close.”
A friend introduced Steve to Keith Jasper, of Jaspers (recently taken over by Dunbia) at a Young Farmers debating competition, inviting him to have a look around the abattoir with a view to doing the same job.
Steve then joined Jaspers in 1977 and, after four years, he progressed to buying.
He says: “Back then, we would kill between 700 and 800 lambs a day; within a year, 1,000 was the new record.
“I wanted to get out and see the livestock more; I was always interested in selecting different carcases for customers.
“I remember one of my first jobs was buying heifers from Launceston
I was very in tune with what customers wanted – I knew the value of the end product
STEVE DENNIS
market, which was not my strong point. The role developed over the next five years, and I was going to markets nearly every day of the week.”
One thing Steve has seen first-hand over the years is the closure of small markets.
“There were days when I would go to Cutcombe and Newton Abbott or Truro on the same day,” says Steve.
“One day, I went to Holsworthy and Cutcombe and bought 1,500 sheep – that was a bit of a buzz.
“If bought right, it is easy to buy lamb, but it is buying them at the right price.”
Another change is that sheepskins used to fetch a good price, with Steve recalling the time he made £9 for one skin.
Farmers also used to get a subsidy if their lambs did not make up to the
target price, which varied on the time of year. There was a guaranteed price and a true value, and the difference between them was paid by the Government.
Processing capacity
Export markets have changed – and grown – since Steve started, and with it so has the abattoir’s processing capacity.
1980s and 1990s, we had to start removing the spinal cords from ewes; before, we could sell whole carcases. Now, anything over 12 months old has to be split and sold in two halves,” says Steve.
In 2001, the abattoir was shut for a while during the foot-and-mouth outbreak, and with Steve lambing at home too, he was not allowed to work.
Steve says: “Latterly, Jaspers was processing 8,000-10,000 animals a week, with a capacity to do 12,000.”
Brexit had an impact on some of the export markets, but overall export trade has strengthened – once they ‘got their heads around the legislation’, says Steve.
But over the years, there have been issues which have rocked the entire livestock industry, such as footand-mouth, the horsemeat scandal, and BSE.
“During the BSE outbreaks in the
“There were no markets, so when the abattoirs reopened, everything went direct. That hit the markets hard – it took them a while to recover,” he says.
Sales
As well as buying, Steve was also involved in sales. And in the early days, most of the lamb went up to London’s Smithfield Market. However, new markets emerged over the years, such as supermarket customers and wholesalers, as well as a big Asian market in London for both ewes and lambs.
Steve Dennis with his wife Anne.
Steve says: “Because I was at both ends of the chain, I could buy stock that I knew different customers would want and see it through to the end.
“There was a responsibility to buy the right types of sheep; I was very in tune with what customers wanted – I knew the value of the end product.”
Steve was buying and selling 700 ewes and 2,500 lambs a week.
The numbers going through Smithfield started to dwindle as it became more difficult to deliver to central London. There was also a restriction on driving hours, and Steve went from delivering 500 carcases a night to dropping off 50-100 carcases. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, they have not been back.
“With the export trade and supermarkets being prominent, those markets were looking for lambs in specification at around 16-22kg.
What farmers are producing to meet the demands of the trade has changed over the years too.
“We have had to be more particular in what we buy to meet the needs of our customers,” says Steve.
“Ever since Covid-19, some of the bigger, heavier lambs have been making good prices – whereas 15 years ago, no-one wanted them.”
Dedication
Unfortunately, in 2002, Steve was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, but he remained stoic and dedicated to his work and did not have much time off. He recovered, but became poorly again in 2019.
heart bypasses. When I woke up, he had done five.”
Two months later, Steve was back on the road and buying again, always with the support of Jaspers.
“When I was diagnosed, I went back to work and I just had every other Thursday off for chemotherapy,” he says.
“I [then] had a bit of indigestion every time I did something physical, like picking up a bag of corn.
“Before I knew it, I had a surgeon telling me he would do two or three
Steve’s wife Anne and their son Robert have kept the farm going at Carpuan alongside him after his father gave up the dairy cows.
“He sold the cows in 1990, and then kept going with suckler cows and a few sheep,” says Steve.
As Steve’s father got older, Anne took on more livestock responsibilities.
“Fortunately, 24 hectares of adjoining land came up for sale, so we are up to 64ha now,” he says.
to Jaspers and the cattle go to Kepak.”
Retirement does not mean giving up for Steve, though, who plans to increase stock numbers on-farm when he can. He says he wants to go back to farming while he is ‘still fit enough to do it’, and adds: “I turned 65 recently, so I thought it was time to give up the day job.”
“We purchased some South Devon breeding cattle in 2009. They are a native breed, and they seem to do well; we have tried a few different breeds, but they seem to do the best.
“We have 35 suckler cows, 220 ewes, and buy around 1,500 store lambs too. We finish everything – the sheep go
He hopes that auction markets can still thrive in the future – they have shown a stronger trade in recent years.
“There have been good numbers, and probably more buyers there too,” says Steve.
“But going forward, I hope someone keeps lambing the sheep – we cannot all buy store lambs. I have made a lot of really good friends through the auction markets, from auctioneers to farmers, from Land’s End to London – that is the great thing about the job.”
In Your Field
Every week we follow the ups and downs of farmers around the UK
JAMES AND ISOBEL WRIGHT
Devon
James and Isobel, with their two young children, recently bought their first farm, and plan to run beef and sheep over 13.8 hectares (34 acres), renting a further 44.5ha (110 acres). James works for tech firm Breedr as UK country manager. You can follow them on Twitter @jpbwfarm.
Scanning is complete, and 80% of our herd are heifers, so it is great that almost all are in-calf. We took a gamble in the spring, buying a group of heifers which had good breeding but went through an isolation unit to get bovine TB clear – it looks to have paid off, with the majority looking in fair condition and weight for their age.
The final test will be in February, and I might well regret calving a bunch of 24 month olds.
This year’s calves, born from February to March, are averaging 405kg. We’ll be weaning them in a few weeks. While I have felt throughout the year that we haven’t had enough grass, it appears that for Stabiliser cows, we’ve had plenty. They are looking to be in great condition.
The rams are going in on Saturday. We sheared the ewe lambs when they arrived in early September, and the weather at the beginning of October meant we lost two very suddenly.
I could spend a long time kicking myself over the decision, but the rest have all grown like weeds and look like lovely young ewes. I may well think twice about that next year though.
‘People living in rural Britain can define what a
In May, we submitted a planning application to create a new bedroom and replace the 30-year-old kitchen.
What we thought at the time would be a paper exercise has turned into a nightmare of paperwork, surveys and bills.
I cannot believe how complex a simple extension has become – and we don’t even have our permission yet.
It’s no wonder we don’t build anything as a country anymore. An American-style system of zoning and
Farmers Weather by Dr Simon Keeling
‘working person’ is’
enforcement could unlock productivity across the country, making it easier and quicker to build rural properties where they are needed while protecting the character and environment of an area.
Budget
I am writing this the day before the Budget. The first Budget of a new Government is often a time of excitement. It’s generally the first moment that a party with a new
A very average and mild October
SOME have welcomed drier weather this week, although unfortunately things are not drying quickly.
The origin of the airmass over the Atlantic has ensured that there is a lot of moisture associated with the area of high pressure, but it is also that warm source – combined with the air warming as it descends through the atmosphere – that has helped keep temperatures in the mild to very mild category.
It looks likely that the overall temperature in October will be around 1degC above the long-term average across the country.
The lack of rainfall in recent weeks will somewhat balance out
the wet start to the month, although some areas will have received a further third of the average in October.
Notably wet have been North East England, parts of the western Midlands and southern England.
Warm temperatures are not that unusual at the end of October and early November. The warmest October in the Central England Temperature series (CET) was the October of 2001, with a temperature of 13.3degC. This year’s CET will be about 12.9degC.
The temperature series goes back to 1659, and four of the top 10 warmest Octobers have all occurred since 2000. However, the October of 1831 ranked
as eighth in the list, so not all the warmest have been in recent years.
By contrast, the coldest October in the series occurred in 1740, with a mean temperature of just 5.3degC.
As for rainfall, the precipitation records back to 1766 show that the wettest October was in 1903, and current rainfall totals are well below those of that year.
For the coming week, high pressure is expected to dominate the weather pattern again. Temperatures are likely to stay mild, and it is probably going to be dry for many areas as well. However, overnight mist and fog could be a problem.
mandate must set out their vision for the country. This one isn’t looking bright though – polling from More in Common shows that those in rural communities are overwhelmingly worried about the Budget, with only 6% optimistic and 66% pessimistic.
This is compared to those living in cities, where 25% are optimistic for the Budget. Maybe that’s because those in rural Britain can define what a ‘working person’ is.
For location specific forecasts visit farmersweather.co.uk and for video updates go to weatherweb.net or call the number below. Call Farmers WeatherLIVE
NEXT WEEK
‘I feel a renewed sense of confidence in the future’
DAN JONES
North Wales
Dan Jones farms 650 ewes at the National Trust-owned Parc Farm, which sits on the Great Orme, a limestone headland which rises up 208 metres (682 feet) on the North Wales coast near Llandudno. His Farm Business Tenancy covers the 58 hectares (143 acres) at Parc Farm, plus 364ha (900 acres) of grazing rights on the hill.
Having returned from Rome, the final stop on my Global Focus Programme (GFP) tour, I am filled with gratitude from my six-week journey exploring agriculture and food systems across the globe. The GFP, organised by the Nuffield Farming Scholarships, provided a unique opportunity to gain
insights into the challenges faced by farmers and food producers worldwide, and the innovative solutions being developed to tackle them.
My travels took me to Borneo, Taiwan, Japan, Poland and Italy. I was alongside 11 other scholars from a range of backgrounds, including a hemp grower from Brisbane, Australia; a director of urban farming from Philadelphia, USA; and a potato grower from the Netherlands. This diverse group provided a rich exchange of ideas throughout our journey.
While each country presented its own unique challenges, from deforestation in Borneo to the pressures of industrial agriculture in Poland, one common thread emerged: the resilience and adaptability of farmers across the globe. From climate change to the ageing agricultural workforce, farmers everywhere face similar issues. My travels have reinforced to me the overarching importance of promoting sustainable food systems.
While the agricultural insights
Crossword 1269
gained during my journey were invaluable, it was the unique cultural experiences that truly enriched my adventure – from enjoying fine Italian cuisine, to spending time in a traditional longhouse in Borneo.
As I moved from country to country, it became apparent that agriculture is deeply intertwined with culture across the globe. Farming serves as the backbone of traditional values, languages and systems, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the agricultural landscape and the social environment.
This connection is not only vital for the communities who rely on these ecosystems for their livelihoods, but also plays a critical role in conservation. The traditional knowledge and sustainable practices are essential for preserving the balance of these ecosystems.
As I reflect on this incredible experience, I am struck by the determination and passion of farmers worldwide. It has been a privilege to learn and share with farmers and communities from across the countries, as well as from my fellow scholars. Through our collective commitment to innovation and collaboration, I feel a renewed sense of confidence that we can build a brighter and more sustainable future for agriculture. My most cherished memory was while walking towards the Iban tribal settlement, deep in the Borneo jungle, where we saw an orangutan high up in a tree, tucking into a coconut. These extraordinary moments have left an indelible mark on my heart. The level of camaraderie and kinship we shared is something few will ever experience, and for that, I am immensely grateful.
Send in your correct entries to be in with a chance of winning £20 worth of Love2shop vouchers every month. Send to: Crossword No. 1269, Farmers Guardian, Unit 4, Fulwood Business Park, Caxton Road, Fulwood, Preston, PR2 9NZ.
ACROSS
1 One with not very large farm or maybe just a tiny animal pen? (11)
9 Pain when my north African country loses old queen (7)
10 Feed prepared in hours (7)
11 Peculiarly plusher to provide furniture with padding etc. (9)
12 Signifies financial resources (5)
13 Type of apple or one consuming it (5)
14 Parent loses head, sensible under different conditions (9)
16 Somewhat precipitous; a lot to ask maybe (1,3,5)
18 Caught type of crow - criminal! (5)
20 Section of directory’s right-hand page (5)
22 This old Scottish fellow had a farm, we hear (9)
24 Stupid alien in dense group of bushes (7)
25 Second class course we’re told, the most direct route (7)
26 Working as rep - no less, this trader (11)
DOWN
1 Italian favourite type of interchange (9)
2 Lean and bony Gaul ran off (7)
3 Lowest degree in the French academy way (5)
4 To have old royal yacht, for example, in possession (9)
5 26 across, perhaps, one who plays a percussion instrument (7)
6 Eastern fare, shelled grain and peeled oats served up (5)
7 Attribute of independent set in Middle East (6)
8 Restrained constant speed (6)
14 What to keep on hand when things are hot to handle (4,5)
15 Happens to be old Roman holding out principally in solitude (9)
16 Excite regularly tame class (6)
17 One larks about dropping a breathing tube (7)
18 Shuts up including first of these storage places (7)
Forthright opinions from throughout the world of agriculture
‘A national park is not a panacea, but it is a golden opportunity’
Ihave been farming 134 hectares (330 acres) on the Solway coast for more 40 years and now work in partnership with my wife – it’s not just a job, it’s a love, a passion and a way of life.
But like so many others, I worry for the future – will I be able to pass on the land and a viable business to my children or a new generation?
I’ve watched as more and more colleagues have had to sell up, have lost dairy contracts or waved farewell as their children have left for the city because the career prospects in Galloway are so poor.
And I’ve seen how many have felt let down by successive Governments and by the organisations which claim to fight for their interests.
It’s partly because of this I became convinced of the benefits of Galloway being designated as Scotland’s third national park. I even joined the board of the Galloway National Park Association (GNPA).
The GNPA was founded by Galloway residents in 2016 and built on work commissioned by Dumfries and Galloway Council – the idea of a Galloway National Park was created in the region and for the region.
The beauty of the proposal is that it is born in Galloway and the public consultation that’s about to take place means it can be shaped by our community to suit the needs of the region.
If the Scottish Government then gives it the go-ahead, it could bring around £8 million to £10m a year of direct investment – our taxes spent on our region.
And, just like in every other part of the UK and around the world, that offers a way forward for farmers.
These are what I believe to be some of the benefits: new opportunities to diversify and add value to existing primary production of food and timber; agritourism; support for ‘greening’ farms; access to additional funding, help and advice in creating sustainable, nature-friendly businesses; and greater access to the market using a globally recognised brand.
What’s more, the Scottish Government’s rural payments system and land management regime are the same both inside and outside national parks.
Two of the issues which have worried farmers and landowners are to do with planning changes and wild camping. The most notable difference in
NEIL PICKEN
Farmer and Galloway National Park Association campaign trustee
planning is that anything over 500sq.m might need planning permission. Actually, the consultation process could recommend against that happening.
A national park would also bring lots of quality jobs, for example a substantial ranger service, and infrastructural investment to ensure responsible tourism.
Galloway has Scotland’s oldest population – our young would love to stay but can’t. Our schools are closing and we are constantly bumping along the bottom in terms of income and opportunities.
Better
Galloway is wonderful and deserves better. We cannot cling to the same ideas and models that have brought so much of farming to its current state.
A national park is not a panacea, but it is a golden opportunity.
Rejecting the Government investment means it is gone for good, not spent on something else in the region. It simply goes back into Government coffers.
It would also mean losing the massive amount of private money.
Our two existing national parks regularly bring £700m to the economy, 30 times the amount put in by the Scottish Government – a fabulous
return. Losing this would be to let down Galloway and to fail our children and grandchildren.
National parks were a Scottish idea – our own John Muir gave them to the world, and they have been an immense success. England has 10, Wales has three. But we lag behind with just two. That needs to change and, with your help, it can. I would call on everyone across the area to positively engage with the NatureScot consultation and to help shape a proposal that can take us a very real step forward to a more sustainable farming industry.
Neil Picken believes that, far from being a threat to farming, creating a national park could help keep people on the land.
HEAR FROM NORTHERN IRELAND FARMER JOHN GILLARD
Farm Business Innovation is thrilled to host farmer and Professor John Gillard OBE DSc as its Keynote speaker on Thursday 7 November John is a willow and livestock farmer from Northern Ireland, whose farm has been independently verified as “Beyond” New Zero. Not o is he a respected farmer, John is a policy expert and researcher across the agricultural industry. His Keynote address will discuss carbon capture and why it is such a valuable asset for farmers.
Alongside our Keynote speakers, you will be able to hear from experts on topics including rural planning, business diversification, succession planning, nature tourism and effective social media promotion.
Join us at the NEC Birmingham, 6-7 November to hear John clearly break down the subject of carbon and how we can all work together on a journey towards net zero. only JUSTA FEW DAYS TO GO. REGISTER NOW. DON’TOUT!MISS
6-7 November 2024 NEC, Birmingham
For your free ticket, scan the QR CODE or visit agrc.im/register
