Contracts should bring stability and confidence to both sides
IF you were waiting to hear from the political big hitters at Labour’s Party Conference on the role farming can play across health, education and more, you will have been left disappointed.
In fact, there was more mention of agriculture in the clothes donation furore running up to conference, with Defra Secretary Steve Reed unwittingly wading into the scandal in his gifted pair of £270 wellies.
He would have needed them should he have ventured out to assess the horrendous damage floods have wrought across the UK this week.
Speakers at the farming fringe events dotted around the Liverpool conference venue had a clear message: Labour must present its vision for food and farming and that means showing its hand when it comes to the future of agricultural funding.
In addition, it must also rid itself of the ‘narrow-minded’ attitudes which cloud the value farming brings to wider society.
Department of Health, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Home Office.
As the Farming Minister pointed to this week, the Secretary of State sees Defra as a department for economic growth, but the farming industry shared concerns it could fall flat if it does not get the shot in the arm in needs.
Farmers are ready to act and more than ever are engaging with new policies and schemes, such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive, but are being let down once again with dithering and delay, further denting confidence.
While much of this will hinge on the Chancellor’s Budget next month, there is some groundwork which can be put in place now.
Farmers should not have to justify their worth, but a baseline to measure food, health and environmental benefits would surely help to fight for agriculture’s rightful share of the public purse.
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By adopting a fairer deal for farmers Labour would also realise its five key objectives, which include producing more energy domestically, getting people back into work and improving our NHS.
To do that it must join the dots between Defra, the Treasury, Department for Work and Pensions, Department for Education,
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On this week’s cover:
The Government says it has a social contract with farmers. Well, contracts require agreements from both parties and, after almost 100 days in office, it is high time Sir Keir revealed just what is on the table.
The Government says it has a social contract with farmers. Well, contracts require agreements from both parties and,
October 30 in focus and farmers waiting to see if the agricultural budget will be cut, Defra was told it needs a mindset change to deliver. Rachael Brown reports.
Defra must be up for the challenge
l Worrying delays to SFI agreements
THE Minister can have all the ambition in the world, but there needs to be a mindset change to ensure the team delivering farming policy is up for the challenge too.
That was the message from NFU president Tom Bradshaw at this week’s NFU fringe event at the Labour Party Conference.
Speaking to a packed room of farmers, alongside Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner, managing partner of Ceres Rural Charlie Ireland of Clarkson’s Farm fame and Labour MP Sarah Russell, Mr Bradshaw warned the Minister that in light of the £358 million underspend over the last three years, Defra was a department ‘very close to failure’ if it was not careful.
The Minister pointed out this was the outcome of the previous administration, but added it did not have to be like this anymore.
He said: “What I see is a pretty sophisticated machine that has been
set up, but it was not being driven very well in my view. So let us see what we can do to make it better.”
Mr Ireland said it was ‘worrying’ to hear delays to Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) agreements being processed and urged the Minister to investigate or a further underspend could be likely.
The need for SFI baselines around biodiversity and carbon to demonstrate ‘value for money to taxpayers’ was also stressed.
Difficult
Mr Bradshaw said it was ‘incredibly difficult’ to have conversations around needing more budget to deliver net zero ambitions, without the baselines to ‘justify investment’.
Mr Zeichner said he ‘totally agreed’, adding his officials were looking into it urgently.
Lisa Edwards, a tenant farmer from Merseyside, probed the Minister on his vision for a ‘resilient tenanted sector’, highlighting situations in which tenanted land was being taken back in hand.
Mr Zeichner said he was ‘absolutely committed’ to following through with the Rock Review recommendations, acknowledging some were more difficult to implement than others.
Mr Ireland said ‘draconian’ clauses in tenancy agreements for agricultural use only needed changing to ‘unlock’ the entrepreneurial potential of tenants.
But he said the biggest worry was changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR).
He said the industry was already seeing a lot of estates taking land back in hand from tenants.
Let us see what we can do to make it better
DANIEL ZEICHNER
n THElong-awaitedlanduse frameworkwassettogooutfor consultationthisNovember,according toBaronessBarbaraYoung.
Nick von Westenholz, NFU director of strategy, added a land use strategy would be key to resolving issues and making decisions when it comes to energy versus nature and food production versus nature, but said time was running out.
LABOUR WILL ‘BACK’ FARMERS n DEFRA Secretary Steve Reed said the party will ‘back’ farmers in the work they do to feed the nation and will ‘work with them to restore nature and stop animal waste, fertiliser and pesticide pollution running into our waterways’.
DEFRA SECRETARY GIFTED WELLIES FROM LABOUR PEER n PRIMEMinisterSirKeirStarmer hasfacedintensecriticismafterit emergedhehadreceiveddonations fromLabourpeerLordWaheed Alli,includingworkclothingand spectacles.SirKeirinsistedhe followeddonationrules. IthasbeenconfirmedDefra SecretarySteveReedreceived wellingtonbootsfromLordAlli asa‘congratulationsgift’onhis appointmentasShadowSecretary ofStateforDefra.TheLeChameau welliesweresaidtohavecost£270 anddidthereforenotmeetthe£300 thresholdfordeclaration.
MrReeddeclinedtocomment.
Farming key to deliver on health, energy and climate
THE Government cannot deliver its health, energy and climate missions without the food and farming sector.
Sue Pritchard, chief executive of the Food and Farming Countryside Commission (FFC), said ‘if we fix food, we can fix the planet, health equality and opportunity’ in this country.
At an FFC fringe event, a panel of farmers were asked what their top asks for Government would be.
With the Farming Minister in the room, Cumbrian beef and sheep farmer James Rebanks said the British countryside was at a ‘tipping point’, adding the new ‘social contract’ which
farmers were asked to sign up to is ‘falling short’ due to the farming budget and money not coming from Defra quickly enough.
Political failure
Mr Rebanks was quick to emphasise this was a ‘political failure’ over the last five years, but said if the budget was not sorted it would ‘quickly’ become the Minister’s fault.
He said there were many farmers like him across the country stepping up on-farm for the environment, but society needed to meet farmers ‘halfway’. He warned the sector must
do all it could to ‘hold on’ to the money.
His worry was farming was perceived 10th on the list in terms of Government priorities, despite it delivering for ‘so many agendas’, including rivers, land, climate change and health.
Organic dairy farmer Sophie Gregory, Dorset, said she wanted more long-term funding for educational school visits on-farm, outlining the benefits of building a future workforce.
She was also keen to remind the Minister that farms must be profitable.
She said: “We are businesses with families behind us. We are not charities.”
Ms Gregory called for ‘simple schemes’, adding she was frustrated not to have received her payments from the Rural Payments Agency on time.
Nature and food
Musician turned regenerative farmer Andy Cato urged the Minister to include options in the Sustainable Farming Incentive which support ‘both nature and food happening at the same time’.
NFU fringe event panel (left to right): Charlie Ireland, managing partner of Ceres Rural; NFU president Tom Bradshaw; Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner; and Hannah Barnes, associate editor of The New Statesman.
With the Welsh Government’s strategy for tackling bovine TB in focus, giving farmers more access to risk rating data could offer back control to farmers and their vets. Rachael Brown reports from the bTB conference at Aberystwyth University.
Welsh project could offer different solution for bTB
l Risk rating data ‘must be the future’
A PEMBROKESHIRE project could offer a different solution for managing bovine TB, with calls for the Welsh Government to enable more farmers across the country to access risk rating data.
Risk rating data involves giving farmers a ‘risk list’ for every animal in their herd, similar to how they would manage Johne’s. It uses historic bTB test data to develop management protocols, from breeding to culling, to identify risk animals above those identified as carriers at statutory testing.
Dairy farmer Michael Williams, who is part of the project, said: “If I can save the Government £10,000 without having to gamma test my herd, I would rather them put it towards risk rating every herd across the country.”
He added it would benefit more farmers and ‘must be the future’.
Speaking at this year’s annual bTB conference at Aberystwyth University, Mr Williams and his vet Rhiannon Lewis shared how they and a small group of farmers and vets were utilising historical test data on-farm to identify ‘residual disease risk’ in clear-testing cattle.
It helped Mr Williams ‘take back control’ of his herd and treat bTB in a similar way to Johne’s disease, looking at various risk factors such as whether the animal had been
bought-in, identified hereditary risk or if they had several skin measurements in recent tests.
Farm-specific plan
Mr Williams has had recurring bTB breakdowns since 2011, recently going down again in August after two clear tests, highlighting the need to tackle residual infection.
Mr Williams and Ms Lewis developed a farm-specific plan for the
BOVINE TB POLICY MUST WORK WITH FARMERS
THE focus should be on developing bovine TB policy with the people it affects, rather than for them. That was the overriding message from last week’s bTB conference at Aberystwyth University, which focused on looking at the social dimensions.
Prof Gareth Enticott, of Cardiff University, who focuses on the management of animal disease in agriculture, said that if you wanted to change people’s behaviour then they needed to trust you, adding many farmers ‘do not
trust the Government’ and view bTB as a ‘matter of luck and fatalism’.
Prof Enticott said farmers needed to be involved to address ‘fatalism’, utilising farming leaders in going out to speak to other farmers about how they were controlling bTB on-farm, sharing their practices and adopting more ‘bottom-up approaches’ to managing the disease.
He said: “Often what we do is conditioned by who we are and who we speak to in our daily lives. Our own social cultural groups; our own social norms.”
culling of those animals on the risk rating list, which was dependent on individual ratings. An animal which went clear on a normal test but was red on the risk rating and not in-calf would get milked out past peak production and leave the farm.
Biosecurity was also looked at. Using the Herd Safe app, the first priority was to become a closed herd.
Other measures included badger proofing grazing paddocks for the
He referred to the ibTB platform, where farmers could find information on bTB breakdowns in England and Wales.
“I love ibTB, but it is a classic example of a top-down approach. We say ‘here is the information’ then expect people to change their behaviour,” he said.
Prof Enticott added farming was more ‘complicated’ than this and often changes in behaviour came down to ‘opportunity’ and individual circumstances on-farm.
milking herd, putting in disinfection points and moving the deadstock pick-up area to the entrance of the farm.
One of the growing patterns of concern was between risk rated animals and youngstock, with focused efforts on ensuring high hygiene in indoor calving areas.
Balance
When asked whether he could take a stricter approach to culling animals on the risk rating list, Mr Williams said ‘it was a balance’ as he still needed to put milk in the tank to pay bills.
He added he had no funding on the farm to do this; it was being done off his own back based on what he believed was right.
“I am not in farming to cull cows. I want to rear them, breed them and get them to five or six lactations,” he said, adding ‘difficult decisions’ have to be made.
A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “The project will be evaluated as it progresses to see how positive learnings can be applied in other parts of Wales.”
The project helped dairy farmers like Michael Williams ‘take back control’ of his herd.
PICTURE: GETTY
Flash flooding swamps farm businesses
● Some areas received 100mm of rainfall
By Chris Brayford
DEFRA was under pressure to ensure farm businesses were resilient to the extremes of the weather after flash flooding saw more than 100mm of rainfall impacting businesses last weekend.
Areas including Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Oxfordshire and Herefordshire experienced heavy rainfall from September 20 to September 23, with more than 100 flood alerts and an amber weather alert warning issued.
The Government announced a new
Rural Flood Resilience Taskforce had been established on Monday (September 23), which includes the NFU and CLA, designed to support rural flood resilience while helping farmers and communities to adapt to climate change.
However, former Defra Secretary Steve Barclay said he was disappointed that the Government was ‘dragging its heels’ on paying out to farmers affected by flooding under the Farming Recovery Fund.
NFU combinable crops board chair Jamie Burrows said the latest heavy rain had added to a ‘very challenging growing season with huge variations in yield and quality’.
“My thoughts are with those arable
Ember Energy
farmers particularly in the North and in Wales who are yet to complete their harvest,” he said.
“Once again, many fields are becoming waterlogged following on from unprecedented weather patterns earlier in the year when relentless rain left thousands of acres of farmland under water,” he said, adding they urgently needed details of how the Farming Recovery Fund can help businesses.
Wetter
Dave Throup, a former Environment Agency area manager, said the UK was getting wetter, with more intense rainfall rather than more wet days, which was an example of ‘climate change in action’.
Ben Adams, who runs a 940-acre arable farm near Bicester in Oxfordshire, said 130mm of rainfall over the weekend was like a repeat of last year’s floods, which was ‘soul destroying’.
Herefordshire farmer James Lewis at Boycefield Farm, Dilwyn, which
produces pedigree Hereford cattle, sheep and cereal crops, urged the Government to provide reassurance to businesses.
He said: “Our feed shed has flooded, the grass seeds planted last week are, for the most part, ruined, and countless other things have washed away.
“The Government needs to wake up and smell the coffee, the incentive is not there for producing food at the moment.
“Unfortunately, the weather is playing havoc with anything we try to do.”
Eveey Hunter, an arable farmer in Radlett, Hertfordshire, said she feared her luck might have run out after experiencing a ‘torrential downpour’ over the weekend which had made attempts at spring drilling a ‘nightmare’.
Defra Secretary Steve Reed said the Government was acting with speed to build up the UK’s flood defences and bolster its emergency response while restoring confidence and stability through schemes that will better protect farmland.
France considers building border wall to keep ASF out
FRANCE is considering building a wall along its border with Germany in response to the number of African swine fever (ASF) outbreaks recorded among the country’s pig and wild boar populations.
According to the latest Defra figures, ASF was detected in wild boar in western Germany for the first time in June.
Since then there have been further cases, including 39 in wild boar in the state of Hesse, which borders North Rhine-Westphalia – the biggest pig-producing state in Germany.
There have also been further detections of ASF in wild boar in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, to the west of Hesse, as well as four outbreaks in domestic pigs across the same area.
France’s Ministry of Agriculture, Agrifood and Forestry said it was considering building a wall or fence to pre-
vent the disease from crossing into French territories and to safeguard its pork industry.
The Ministry said the proposal was part of its pro-active operation to contain the spread that had also seen the country step up surveillance measures and cull wild boar populations near the border in order to minimise risk.
The approach mirrors earlier efforts near Belgium, where similar measures helped contain outbreaks.
A statement from the Agriculture Ministry said: “In view of the recent progression of ASF in wild boar in Germany, the Ministry has raised ASF surveillance […] in the departments of Bas-Rhin and Moselle.”
Livestock farmers have stepped up calls for the authorities to establish wild boar-free zones near Germany such as those established along the Belgian border several years ago.
Farmers are again facing flooding issues after torrential rain last weekend.
Rural policy overhaul could generate £19 billion in revenue
● Study claims benefit of economic growth
By Jane Thynne
AN OVERHAUL of Government policy could see the rural economy contribute up to £19 billion in tax revenues while providing more jobs and opportunities, a new report has claimed.
The study, ‘Unlocking the untapped potential of rural England: A new era for economic growth’, commissioned by campaign group the Rural Coalition, makes the case for the countryside and urges the Labour Government to end years of underinvestment in non-urban areas and to embark on a comprehensive policy overhaul.
Recommendations include targeted investments in rural infrastructure, ensuring fair funding for rural councils and other public services, and empowering local governance.
According to the study, subsequent growth would not only support rural communities, but would also have far-reaching benefits for the national economy, helping to fund essential public services.
The Treasury also stands to gain substantially thanks to the generation of taxes totalling up to £19bn.
Margaret Clark, chair of the Rural Coalition, said: “This report shows, once and for all, that rural areas are part of the solution to the growth of the nation. It makes economic sense to invest in improving rural infrastructure and tackling existing inequalities.
“But there is no silver bullet. It requires concerted action across Government and a policy framework that recognises that ‘thinking rural’ and tailoring policies and programmes to meet rural circumstances will reap positive benefits for us all.”
The report coincides with the first meeting of the new Rural Services AllParty Parliamentary Group (APPG).
Fair
The group set out its agenda for 2024, which included: fair funding across public services; an increase in affordable housing; better transport and connectivity links; improved health services and a focus on rural economic growth and skills development, with a focus on skills and job creation.
The body is chaired by Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP, and includes two Labour MPs, Sam Rushworth and Joe Morris, alongside Conservative MP Dr Kieran Mullan.
Ms Dyke said: “During my time as a serving councillor on Somerset Council, I saw first-hand how hard it is
Minister ‘not hiding’ over SFS
WELSH Government is ‘not hiding away’ when it comes to giving farmers updates on the discussions in the Ministerial round-table on the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS).
That was the message from Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Climate Change Huw Irranca-Davies, who added that farmers must ‘bear with us and be patient’.
“What we are doing is bringing forward a scheme that is right and accessible to all farmers. In order to do that we need to lock the doors, bury ourselves away and crunch through some serious matters,” he said.
Speaking after the bovine TB conference at Aberystwyth, he added there were still ‘gaps in the evidence’ which needed working through.
He said: “There are two ways of doing this; you do it simply in the public domain and you respond to every loud voice that is shouting that you are right, or you are wrong. The other way
is to do a serious piece of work where you have all the stakeholders round the table, which is what we have.”
A written statement with an update on the SFS released last week by the Minister failed to give any update on final decisions or physical changes made to the scheme, but outlined topics being discussed, including reviewing all the universal actions and key scheme rules, and some procedural updates.
Once all rules and universal actions were defined, further modelling work and a ‘revised integrated impact assessment’ would be conducted, before Ministers make final decisions.
Collaborative actions and payment methodology was also being looked into. Mr Irranca-Davies said his department was trying to develop a scheme which ensured food production and certainty for farmers, while tackling climate change resilience and nature restoration.
Investing in rural areas could boost the UK economy, a new report says.
for local authorities in rural communities to deliver essential services. I am honoured to have been elected as the chair of the APPG for Rural Services. I
look forward to working with colleagues from across the political spectrum to deliver stronger outcomes for all of our rural communities.”
More of Peterborough City Council’s farms are being sold off.
● Newborough estate now on the market
By Rachael Brown
PETERBOROUGH City Council has decided to sell off more of its council farms with a new listing of five lots in total covering a combined 492.96 hectares across highly productive Grade 2 arable land.
The Newborough estate, near Peterborough, has been put on the market by Savills, which has advertised it as a ‘rare opportunity to acquire a large parcel of land in a productive farming area’.
Tenant Farmers Association chief executive George Dunn said it
The Crown Estate buys Dissington
THE Crown Estate has announced the acquisition of the Dissington Estate in Northumberland. The estate, located eight miles northwest of Newcastle upon Tyne, consists of five principal holdings and five residential properties, set across 1,032 hectares of largely arable land, pasture and woodland.
It marks The Crown Estate’s first acquisition of a rural estate since 2014. It is part of its new rural strategy to create ‘long-term value for the industry and the wider nation, while delivering on its aims around nature recovery, sustainable food production, net zero and the economy’.
Rural portfolio
The organisation’s rural portfolio extends to around 80,937ha spread across 28 estates throughout England and Wales, including the Windsor Estate.
Under its new rural strategy, The Crown Estate said it aims to develop ‘closer relationships with its farmers to work together to navigate the challenges facing the industry’.
Peterborough Council puts farms up for sale
was a ‘huge frustration’ that after years of ‘financial mismanagement’ by Peterborough City Council it has decided to get rid of a ‘significant area’ of its farms estate, resulting in lost opportunity for new entrants and progressive farmers.
Mr Dunn said: “Under better management, the council taxpayers of Peterborough should have expected to have been able to harvest ongoing financial benefit year-onyear. However, in 2021, Peterborough was identified as one of a number of councils that were under central Government special measures due
to lack of adequate financial control and, as a result, was told to dispose of available assets including farms.
Protected
“While those with security under the Agricultural Holdings Act 1986 and on long-term Farm Business Tenancies will be protected, I am worried that those on shorter term agreements are unlikely to be given renewals. This is a sad day for Peterborough and for county council smallholdings generally.”
A spokesperson for Peterborough
City Council said: “The council has been in the process of negotiating sales of its rural estate for the past two years, following a review of its finances carried out by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
“As part of this process, areas of the rural estate were offered to tenants on a first refusal basis and we remain in negotiations with tenants who have made offers. However, it is likely that parts of the estate will also be offered for sale on the open market and we will announce updates in due course.”
Tenanted sector needs pace and ambition
THE Farming Minister’s commitment to continue with the Farm Tenancy Forum and not undo previous work was welcome, but there was still ‘no detail’ beyond that regarding farm
It [Tenant Farming Commissioner] is one person with administrative support. But when things are tight you just do not know JULIAN SAYERS
policy or a decision around a Tenant Farming Commissioner.
That was the message from NFU deputy president David Exwood, speaking after the forum met. He said delivery was critical for the tenanted sector, after election uncertainty and with Government departments now holding back from announcing new spending commitments pending the Autumn Budget.
He added: “We need to have pace in the work of forum, that must continue and we must see pace and ambition from the Minister.”
The Farming Minister attended the forum for the first time since being elected, with Mr Exwood highlighting confidence was low with the uncertainty impacting tenants and this was why a commissioner was needed.
The Farm Tenancy Forum chair Julian Sayers said a commissioner and their administrative staff would be a
cost, but when asked if funding was made available, if the Minister would be in favour of taking it forward, he said ‘he thought so’.
Overall spend
“In terms of overall spend within the Defra budget, it is not going to be that significant, it is one person with administrative support. But when things are tight you just do not know.”
Former Tenant Farming Association chair Mark Coulman, who sits on the forum, said the new Code of Practice introduced earlier this year made people recognise there were issues with some tenant-landlord relations and, while they were in a better place, than a year ago, the sector would be ‘in a better place still’ with a commissioner. There were also ‘concerns’ around potential changes to Agricultural Property Relief as the Autumn Budget approaches.
By Chris Brayford
EXPANDING countryside access has been labelled a ‘disastrous’ measure by farmers on the ‘front lines’ of struggles with behaviour and crime.
Improved responsible access to nature was a commitment in the Labour Party manifesto.
However, Peak District sheep and beef farmer Nicola Naylor, of Blackshaw Farm, Glossop, said living near land the public had a ‘right to roam’ on had been a ‘living nightmare’ for her family and widening countryside access could be the ‘final nail in the coffin’ for farm businesses.
● Farmer faces verbal abuse from public Public access ‘living nightmare’ for farm
“We are living a nightmare every single day from having to deal with the rudeness and appalling behaviour from members of the public who trespass on land,” she said.
“The verbal abuse I receive when challenging people why they are coming on to our land and causing a danger to their safety is appalling and beyond words. Members of the public feel they can do as they please when
Increasing the public’s right to roam could increase problems farmers already face.
starting fires which could light up the moors, leaving waste at will, attacking our livestock and wasting vital time of emergency services.”
She added farms were ‘not theme parks’ and people were putting themselves in ‘dangerous predicaments’.
Former CLA president and Cotswolds farmer Mark Tufnell said wid-
ening countryside access could be ‘disastrous’ for farming, wildlife and the environment.
Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Nature, Mary Creagh, said the Government has plans to increase access to nature for families to ‘enjoy’, while ‘boosting’ people’s mental and physical health and leaving a legacy for generations to come.
She said: “Our countryside and
green spaces are a source of great national pride, but too many across the country are left without access to the great outdoors, That is why we will create nine new National River Walks, plant three new National Forests and empower communities to create new parks and green spaces.”
RIGHT TO ROAM IN FOCUS
Read our leader column on p13.
Calls for import restrictions Minister urges farmers to follow protocols over bluetongue
FARMERS have called on the Government to impose restrictions on livestock entering the UK from European countries which have experienced high numbers of bluetongue cases.
Since August 26, there have been more than 95 cases of the virus detected on farms in areas such as Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, Somerset, Devon and Kent.
The Government has placed large parts of Eastern England under a restriction zone which limits the movement of livestock without a licence. Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands have recorded more than 4,000
cases of bluetongue since May, with new incidents confirmed in Austria and Luxembourg more recently.
Sheep farmer James Edwards said his business, J.J. Livestock Solutions, was shut down on September 15 after being notified by APHA that sheep had tested positive for bluetongue at a farm in Essex on September 12.
Mr Edwards, whose business offers contracting and consulting services, said the ‘uncertainty and anxiety’ was difficult to cope with.
He said: “It is only going to get worse if we do not halt imports coming in to the UK.”
FARMING Minister Daniel Zeichner urged farmers to carry on following bluetongue protocols despite the virus causing ‘real impacts’ to businesses.
In a blog for Farmers Guardian, Mr Zeichner said the virus has been a ‘tremendous blow’ for the livestock sector in England. With cases continuing to be detected on farms and large parts of eastern England under a restricted zone, he added current regulations were in place to offer livestock the best possible form of protection.
Down on the Farm
Mr Zeichner has requested farmers to remain vigilant and report any concerns regarding bluetongue to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.
The Government said restrictions will be kept under constant review.
Defra Secretary Steve Reed visited farmers in Essex this week to discuss the challenges they face with the virus.
MORE ON THIS STORY Read the blog at farmersguardian. com/opinion-blogs
with Philip Cosgrave Agronomist, Yara UK Ltd.
Protecting the long-term productivity of autumn sown leys
The cut off point for establishing an autumn ley was generally early September but many are now pushing this date later into September successfully. It’s important that these autumn sown leys are managed adequately to ensure they perform the next year.
The autumn weather can make the timing of the first grazing difficult, but in general the first grazing is left too late. New leys should be grazed as soon as the new roots are strong enough to withstand grazing. We can check for this by using our fingers to see if the root stays anchored in the ground when the plant is pulled.
Early grazing allows light into the base of the ley which will encourage tillering. A light grazing by calves, young stock or sheep is preferable.
Bigger animals have more of a tendency to cause sod pull and poaching at this time of year. A first grazing can usually take place when the sward is at 6 – 8 cm’s in height.
Don’t be tempted to allow grass to build up on these new leys for a late cut of silage. This will inhibit tillering, resulting in more open swards which will be more susceptible to weed germination in the spring. Low winter covers will also benefit clover performance come spring.
If soil fertility is not known, then a soil test should be taken. Correcting soil pH and supplying any necessary P & K is a must for the success of a new ley, especially those which include clover.
Right to Roam is disrespectful
JUST a few words about the letter (Right to Roam works both ways) in Farmers Guardian on September 13 by Dr Amy-Jane Beer.
Well, the article went out on Friday 13, which would maybe mean it would be unlucky to farmers and landowners.
Everyone would claim to be your friend, people waving at you from cars.
The next time you see them, or 30 minutes later, they are in your fields with two dogs running around.
I would say though it was very considerate of them to very kindly call off the mass trespass event on
Social media reactions
READERS had their say after Farmers Guardian reported England’s cattle and sheep numbers reached historic lows (FG, September 20):
■ “I do not think it is in spite of high prices, I think many are viewing it as an opportunity to exit while stock is worth good money.”
ROB HALLIDAY
■ “It has been a long time coming. For 10 years or more the suckler numbers
Dartmoor. Not because they felt guilty of a crime, but because of ecological reasons.
I would think that these people are selfish and this would outweigh any respect for anyone’s property.
When you have a nation of
have been falling. Demand for beef is growing, but the numbers are not there. SFI works well for livestock farms so that has nothing to do with it.”
ROBERT SCALING
■ “Bovine TB, Red Tractor, costs, wild flowers, trees and solar have gotten the better of folk. They cannot carry on.”
PHIL COOKES
■ “Cattle and sheep numbers falling, yet climate change increasing. I thought
hard-working farmers, willing to feed you, why on Earth would you want to upset any of them?
I would say that the best way to respect them is to look on admiringly from the road.
Also, as far as responsibilities are concerned, do you not think
it was the cattle and sheep that were causing climate change – something does not add up there.”
STEPHANIE POPE
■ “Well if you put solar panels and trees on farmland, they have nowhere to feed and grow.”
PETER WAKEFIELD
■ “Not just Britain, Australia is going the same way.”
DEBBIE WILLIAMS
that farmers have enough of them already?
You could call these mass trespassers activists and maybe liken them to the rioters of last month.
Maybe they could be rounded up and put through the courts for upsetting the peace.
Via email.
line in France during World War I. The engine driver is Sgt Bob Pumfrey. Sent in by Michael Pumfrey.
Cobbles choice on firm footing
REGARDING the letter (Floored) on cobbled floors in FG on September 6.
I grew up on an ancient 16th Century farm in the 1940s.
Stables, cow stalls, house scullery and surrounding paths were all paved with cobble stones.
Large 1cu.ft cobble stones on stable floors laid with a mushroom surface, jointed with sand between, aid drainage and provide grooves for gripping.
Horses rise front legs first, shod with steel shoes.
The grooved cobbles aid grip for the hind legs when heaving its tonneplus rear end upwards.
The above same factors apply to cow tie up stalls, but with smaller cobbles. Cattle rise hind legs first.
If you have a classic picture you would like to share, please email it to marcello.garbagnoli@agriconnect.com ■ IF
email fgeditorial@agriconnect.com
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Should their legs struggle and splay backwards, severe damage will be done to the stifle joints of both horses and cows.
Incidentally, concrete was not in use during those earlier centuries, but stone was often on site or fetched by horse and cart from a local quarry.
I have written a book on the development of early farmsteads and machinery which includes a family biography.
For more information, email William.Emmett123@gmail.com.
William Emmett, Devon.
Food security paramount
I REFER to the letter sent in by M. Drake (We Need Answers) on September 13 – everything they say is true.
As we lose land from agricultural production, we are on a slippery slope.
The Government seems to have no interest in animals for food, they just seem to want something to look pretty. It is just a matter of time until food and water become a commodity that people will be fighting over, so as M. Drake says, wake up.
Norman Sunter, North Yorkshire.
Chris Brayford News and Business Reporter – chris.brayford@agriconnect.com
Right to Roam in focus Leader
MEETING the Naylor family last week at their upland farm in the Peak District was an alarming insight into the shocking behaviour which still persists when the public trespass on farmers’ land and the risks they place to their health and safety.
After going on a tour of the business alongside one of the farmers, there was evidence of wild fires which could have lit up the entire moors alongside vast amounts of waste from what can be described as ‘past gatherings’ with recreational drugs, vapes, knives and camping tents still present.
The main frustration lies with witnessing the many health and safety violations which could see a farmer facing huge ramifications and fines at the expense of someone who fancied a day out in the countryside.
During the tour, one dog walker had been challenged on their permission to be on the land and the verbal assault the farmer faced was simply appalling.
Not everyone is like this, which is really important to note, because people do want to experience and appreciate the majesty of the countryside in a respectful manner.
Young Farmer Focus
‘The agricultural budget is so important’
Outlook: Change is ever present. From climate change to political change, the fast-paced nature of modern society sees no industry stand still for long. Harvest: We have just harvested another disappointing oilseed rape field. I really struggle to see a future for the high-risk crop without far more guaranteed options available through the Sustainable Farming Incentive.
While I would miss the vibrant yellow colours dotted around the countryside in spring and firmly disagree with the systemic move away from UK food production, finances will dictate the crop’s future.
Commitment: I watch with interest to see our new Government’s commitment to UK food production, something which seemed an obvious omission from a General Election manifesto by a main
political party. I certainly hope that Labour can provide clarity to farmers, more so than the 87 words their manifesto offered.
This could be considered a token gesture if it is not followed up with tangible and meaningful action.
It is vital that the Government does not go down a mandatory tree-planting and habitat creation route as seen with the Labour Party in Wales.
As social media takes over as the dominant front of news outlets, increased scrutiny has followed across all areas of life and farming cannot hide away.
YouTube, Instagram and the like have given farmers great tools to share an insight into food production.
I take my hat off to anyone who gets involved in this wider education as it is doing the industry many favours.
It is too easy sometimes to steer
But those who do not offer that level of respect set an awful precedent in undermining confidence in the farming sector, when for some, widening countryside access could be a good thing for businesses.
And it raises questions about how the Government is going to provide assurance to farmers that they will not be on the frontlines of never-ending battles regarding Right to Roam.
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
clear of the realities of farming out of fear of upturning the apple cart.
This is one of many reasons why Clarkson’s Farm should be celebrated and has been such a success.
The TV show’s open, wartsand-all nature has been perfectly complemented by the presenter’s freedom to voice any concerns or opinions about the farming industry.
Jeremy Clarkson has been a
Presteigne, Powys Ben Chilman, 24, is from Presteigne, Powys. As well as farming, he is an NFU Student and Young Farmer Ambassador. Ben Chilman
refreshing presence in many respects for farmers.
Future: Iamyoungandnaivetothis farminggame,but it does seem that greater risk and reward is levelled into farming through the challenges we face each year. The outlay of finances and risks is a barrier to young entrants and a persistent worry to family farms.
But again, Mr Clarkson and Kaleb Cooper have showed the wider audience that even farming on the scale they do can still return very little. That is why a commitment from the Government to the future of the agricultural budget is so important.
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Ben Chilman
Business
Labour shortages making farmers consider futures
● More di icult than ever to recruit
By Alex Black
DIFFICULTIES recruiting staff on dairy farms means more farmers are considering leaving dairy, with others looking at cutting production or herd size.
According to a survey from Arla, more than half of Britain’s dairy farmers are finding it more difficult than ever to recruit.
Paul Dover, UK agricultural director at Arla, said 16% were consid-
ering leaving dairy, up from 12% last year.
“Those are good farmers,” he said, adding for those who were staying, one-in-12 have responded by cutting production, while others have reduced herd sizes.
‘Unskilled labour’
Of those with vacancies, 86% said they had very few or no applicants with the right skills. Mr Dover added there was often a lot of discussion about ‘unskilled labour’ but the dairy sector was a modern, forward-thinking industry which needed staff with the right skills and qualifications.
On average, farmers are paying staff 27% more than they were at the end of 2019.
Mr Dover highlighted this meant a significant ‘chunk’ of the milk cheque was being spent on staff, which was already one of farmers’ biggest expenses. He called for a joined-up approach across industry and Government, with Arla writing to the Defra Secretary and the Prime Minister.
Mr Dover said from meetings with its farmers, one of the biggest issues brought up was the administrative burden and called on Government to simplify its own paperwork.
He said he had spoken with Farm-
Tesco and Lidl recognised for home-grown apples
SUPERMARKETS Tesco and Lidl are celebrating after been honoured by the British apple industry.
Tesco was named British Apple Supermarket of the Year at a recent British Apples and Pears (BAPL) event after notching up sales of 26,705 tonnes of domestically produced fruit, equating to almost 22,000 apples per hour, or six every second.
Meanwhile, discounter Lidl was recognised for achieving best year-onyear performance, which saw 18,096t of British apples bought from BAPL members. The retailer has also outperformed its market share as sales in the past 12 months accounted for 14% of all British apple sales, compared to its grocery market share of 8%.
Ali Capper, executive chair of BAPL, congratulated Tesco on its win and thanked the retailer for its support of British growers.
“This year’s crop is looking good and we are hopeful all UK supermarkets continue to work hard to promote British apples and pears to their shoppers,” she said.
Proud
Ashwin Prasad, Tesco’s chief commercial officer, said: “From British orchards to our tables, our customers love delicious home-grown apples. We are proud to work with British growers to provide the nation with more apples than any other supermarket.”
During the 2023-24 season, Lidl
was one of only a few retailers – and the only discounter – to stock British apples 52 weeks of the year as part of a trial in selected stores, a policy it said it plans to continue.
Ms Capper said: “Lidl’s continued commitment to sourcing British apples has been instrumental in supporting the British apple growing community. Its year-on-year increase in the purchase of British apples demonstrates its dedication to backing local farmers and ensuring customers have access to quality, home-grown produce.
“Lidl’s efforts are a great example of the kind of support needed to sustain and grow the British apple sector for years to come,” she added.
ing Minister Daniel Zeichner at the Labour Party Conference, adding he had left the meeting ‘quite optimistic’. He called for the joined-up approach to be across Government departments. He also wanted the broader community, including teachers and careers advisers, to understand and promote the opportunities for a career in agriculture.
David Christensen, an Oxfordshire Arla farmer, said: “For farmers, this has been a problem for a number of years and it is getting worse. We need schools, parents and careers advisers all to recognise the benefits of working in the food and farming sector and to share them with young people.
“Because in the end it is people who will deliver a thriving food and farming sector that feeds the nation and contributes to the growth of our economy.”
PILGRIM’S Europe, which includes Pilgrim’s UK, has announced a significant increase in revenue and profits for 2023 and the first half of 2024.
Combined revenues for 2023 increased by 5.5% to £4.2 billion.
Profits after tax almost quadrupled to £106 million, up from £27m in 2022, with profits after tax of £44m in the first half of 2024, an increase of £17m on the same period last year.
Dairy farms are facing huge challenges when it comes to recruiting skilled workers.
Strengthened market for wool
● Improvement of 40p/fleece at auctions
By Alex Black
WOOL prices have reached their highest level for four years, although prices still need ‘to rise further’, according to British Wool.
The wet weather this year has resulted in less dirt in each fleece, which has boosted prices.
British Wool’s auction prices have increased by 20%, which equates to an average improvement of 17p/kg or approximately 40p/fleece.
Chief executive Andrew Hogley said it was encouraging to see the market ‘strengthening’ and prices improving.
“Average prices for 2024 season wool have increased for every core grade of British Wool,” he said.
“The team has been working on a number of initiatives to support demand for British wool and deliver better prices. In addition, the tests we
run on each sale lot confirm that the wool this season has higher yields.
“The incessant rain over the last year means that there is less dirt and
grease in each fleece – this is also helping to support improved prices.”
British Wool said it now has more than 160 brand partners on its
licensee scheme as it looks to boost wool prices by working with manufacturers to strengthen demand.
It has also made an investment in Nexgen Tree Shelters to help bring wool-based biodegradable tree shelters to market.
It said this should drive demand for mountain wools over the mediumto long-term and help take single-use plastic out of the environment.
A Shaun the Sheep marketing campaign has also been launched to support wool carpet sales throughout the UK, with the promotion being rolled out to more than 2,000 carpet retailers.
Confident
Mr Hogley added: “With the initiatives we have in place and feedback from the market, we are confident the recent price gains are sustainable.
“Prices need to increase further, but this is a positive step in the right direction. Our depots and drop-off sites remain open and ready to receive wool.”
This year’s wet weather has resulted in less dirt in the fleeces, which has boosted prices.
Inset: Andrew Hogley, chief executive of British Wool.
Leaders from the animal health, aquaculture and agri-tech sectors met in Inverness for the A3 Scotland conference to discuss major challenges ahead. Farmers Guardian reports.
Agri-tech can play vital role amid shifting farm policy
l
Key research and farm adoption gap is bridged
A LONG-term commitment to agriculture and a considered approach to agri-technology should be key priorities for the new Labour Government.
That was the message from speakers at the A3 Scotland conference in Inverness last week (September 18-19), with panellists in the agri-tech session keen to see how Labour’s funding priorities will develop.
In a session chaired by UK AgriTech Centre chief executive Phil Bicknell, the University of Lincoln’s Prof Simon Pearson called for funding clarity from Government.
Prof Pearson, director of the Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology, said: “I want a long-term view from Government that provides an integrated policy which considers the important needs of farmers.
Push
“We need that push to get technology adopted on-farm, but if the [Government] budget is cut too much then that could be costly.”
Jim Wilson, of precision farming company Soil Essentials, said it was vital that the gap between academic research and on-farm adoption was bridged if big challenges, such as net zero and climate change, could be tackled.
He said: “With UK nations moving
away from Single Farm Payments, there are a lot of opportunities around precision technology and application on-farm. A long-term policy around that would be very helpful because it allows us to plan our evolution.”
For Mr Bicknell, whose organisation receives a large chunk of
CATTLE RETURN TO UPPER GLENS
MORE needs to be done to feed farm-based data back through the supply chain, according to Dennis Overton, speaking in his capacity as chair of the West Highland-based natural capital business Ardtornish.
He said: “The lack of data fed back on our store cattle is a huge frustration. We want to know more about our cattle’s performance once they have been taken up by lowland farmers, so come on Scot EID, it is time to speed up and get this done.”
Mr Overton added developments in agri-tech were enabling cattle at Ardtornish to access the highest ground for the first time in more than 200 years.
He added: “Our cattle have been in the upper glens for the first time since the 1810s. Back then we used to have children with sticks controlling where they went, but now we rely on satellite-linked collars to ensure they stay in the right area. Agri-tech is allowing us to re-establish these environments like never before.”
funding from Government body Innovate UK to facilitate agri-tech development and commercialisation, said a pragmatic approach was key on research priorities.
He said: “Having a mindset of what the problems are that we want to fix is really important. Cre-
ating agri-tech solutions that meet the needs of the farming industry is key.”
Prof Wilson added: “We will not solve the problems of the future by doing the same old things we always have done. We need agri-tech to help solve these challenges.”
Stronger sterling could challenge UK grain prices
STERLING reached a two-and-a-halfyear high against the dollar last week, following the Bank of England’s decision to keep interest rates unchanged while the US and Eurozone recently cut rates.
The Bank of England voted eight–one to hold the interest rate unchanged. It makes its next decision on November 7.
Stronger sterling generally makes imports more competitive on the UK
market, which tends to put pressure on UK grain and oilseed prices, according to AHDB.
Reduction
AHDB senior analyst Helen Plant said: “If world markets rise, a strengthened sterling usually reduces the amount of support for UK grain and oilseed prices. But if world prices decline, UK grain and oilseed prices can fall by a bigger amount.”
Industry experts are calling on the Government to implement a long-term agri-tech funding policy.
With access to finance one of the biggest barriers facing new entrants, Alex Black asked a farmer who has recently secured investment and the financial advisers who helped him, to explain the process.
Financial challenge for new entrants
● Limited funding available for next gen
YOUNG farmers are facing significant hurdles entering agriculture, with high costs and limited funding for essential machinery.
Securing financial support was one
of the key challenges for many new entrants.
Jack Ubhie-Webb is a 24-year-old farmer who runs livestock haulage business JT Webb.
He followed his father into farming, but found he was more interested in cattle lorries and wanted to do something a little different while staying in
Thinking of diversifying?
We’re with you every step of the way
the industry. He has now been running his livestock haulage business since July 2021.
One of his biggest challenges has been some farmer clients who have been slow to pay the bills and finding insurance was also difficult, as it was hard to insure lorries with livestock.
He said: “I think it is also a challenge to find insurance for other people within the industry, as is finding finance lenders – I did try a finance person online at the start, but it was hard work and I got nowhere,” he said.
Mr Ubhie-Webb said the best bit of advice was to find a decent finance and insurance broker to save time and money in the long run, as this could simplify the process and provide re-
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assurance everything was being handled properly.
He also advised other farmers to get a good infrastructure in place first as the lorries are not cheap to run.
Getting to know other people in similar businesses was also helpful, to learn from and also to share work, which could help to fill in quieter gaps.
Jon Hercman, of Haydock Finance, who partnered with Whitworth Finance to provide funding, highlighted the importance of supporting the next generation.
“Investment costs in agriculture are extremely high which poses a barrier to many young farmers and rural workers wanting to establish their own business.”
A member of the Association of British Insurers.
Finding insurance for his livestock lorries was one of Jack UbhieWebb’s biggest challenges when starting his haulage business.
It is an old tradition in Norway to change your surname to the name of your farm, and that is exactly what Martin Sætre did.
The name ‘Sætre’ is a variation of the word ‘seter’, which in Norwegian means ‘mountain’ or ‘summer farm’. It is the perfect title given that the farm is nestled into the side of the valley and most of the land is steep.
Mr Sætre, his wife Hege, and their two boys, Tarn and Imre, live in the south of Norway in the valley of Numedal, which is a three-and-a-halfhour drive from Oslo and in the county of Buskerud in Nore og Uvdal, the least densely populated municipality in Norway.
The area is well-known for its nature, history and skiing in the winter, and there are multiple nature reserves, including Hardangervidda National Park.
The couple found their home here after moving back from a stint in China.
The farm is run in a traditional way.
Mr Sætre says: “Our farm used to be the ‘seter’ for the parish farm in the
Having travelled far and wide, Martin Sætre has finally found a home farming in Norway, and keeping the small family farm thriving is one of his main missions. Emily Ashworth finds out more.
Small Norwegian farm keeps traditions alive
local village, and over time it eventually became its own small farm. When we came to the farm nine years ago, we were offered the opportunity to buy Sætre, but at that point it had been unused for about 45 years and had been heavily neglected since the 1960s.
“The farm itself was in pretty bad shape – fields had turned back to forest and most of the buildings were in an advanced state of disrepair. We knew we were taking on a lifetime project.”
But the place ‘had something about
it’, they say. Perhaps it was the scenery, which is ‘beautiful but wild’; their farm is surrounded by mountainous land and the area is dense with forest.
Flock
The couple are still right at the beginning of their farming journey, and with no other employees currently, over the next couple of years they hope to build a new barn and infrastructure and increase stock numbers.
They have a mixed flock of about 50 Norwegian Pelsau and Spæl sheep,
which Mr Sætre says is an ‘averagesized’ flock in the region.
“Our intention over the next couple of years is to double our flock size. The Pelsau breed is originally a cross between the Swedish Gotlands sheep and the Norwegian Spæl – it was only recognised in the 1960s, but it is considerably older,” he says.
He adds that it produces high-quality sheepskins and meat.
“The skins are an important part of our business as my wife is a skinnfellmaker – that is someone who sews and
Hege Sætre is a skinnfellmaker, which is someone who sews and paints traditional Norwegian sheepskin blankets.
Income from the sheep has been subsidised by a ‘nano bakery’ housed in a trailer behind the house, primarily stocked with a sweet flatbread called lefse.
Martin and Hege Sætre with their children, Tarn and Imre.
Martin Sætre hopes to preserve the traditional ways of farming.
The culture of farming here is strong, but if it is allowed to fall fallow [...] the wilderness
paints traditional Norwegian sheepskin blankets. All are handsewn and printed with card wooden blocks,” he says.
All the meat from the farm is sold privately, either directly to customers or under their own brand via the local supermarkets. Having multiple routes to market means they can survive off their small flock, as well as make a profit from the skins, selling various sized blankets.
“In fact, for the past couple of years, the local council has given one of our decorated skins to every baby born in the district. Our local council has been incredibly supportive of our project,” he says.
It is primarily a grass-fed system, and from spring up until the snow comes in November the entire flock is grazed across the mountains and in forests around the farm.
Through the winter, the sheep have access to a shed, but ‘they prefer to be outside unless the weather is extremely bad’.
Lambing normally takes place in April and May, and they supplement their hay with organic pellets throughout.
Weather extremes
“Our biggest challenge is the extremes of weather,” says Mr Sætre.
“Winters here in the mountains can be hard. A metre of compact snow is not unusual, and thankfully temperatures can drop on occasion below -30degC only a couple of times a year, but -20degC is reasonably common between December and March.
“Economics, like with every other farm in the world, is also a constant concern.
“We can only live off such a small flock because we add value to our products – our lamb sausages and meatballs sell out very quickly, and
The farm is based in the valley of Numedal, an area well-known for its nature, history and skiing, and is surrounded by mountainous land.
because we started slowly, we avoided loans and over-investing at the beginning.”
Income from the sheep has been subsidised by a ‘nano bakery’ housed in a trailer behind the house, which primarily produces a sweet flatbread called lefse.
“We sell into the local supermarkets, as well as running an honesty box throughout the summer for tourists and locals filled with a variety of cakes and breads. It is surprisingly successful,” says Mr Sætre.
The Government provides subsidies, and Mr Sætre says that without them it would be extremely difficult to farm, but many farmers are unhappy with the levels of subsidies given, with larger landowners being favoured.
Small and medium-sized farms often earn ‘considerably less’ than minimum wage on a per hour basis, with many needing at least one person to work full-time off-farm.
There has also been a shift towards regenerative agriculture over the last few years.
When it comes to sheep, there are shared concerns with the UK but, for example, deforestation is not a problem in Mr Sætre’s area of Norway.
He says: “Every year we lose pasture to the forest due to it not being worked or grazed. In fact, one of the Government subsidies is for keeping grazing land open – a subsidy I very much support and would like to see increase.”
Belonging
The couple feel that since moving to Sætre, they have found where they belong. And farming in a somewhat traditional way has captured Mr Sætre – it is a way of life he hopes he can help preserve.
“The culture of farming here is
strong, but if it is allowed to fall fallow for even just one more generation the thread will be lost, and wilderness will take over. All the back-breaking work of taming the land will be gone,” he says.
“Many people in Norway are supportive, and the vast majority of
MARTIN SÆTRE
farmers in Norway are doing their best to change and adapt to modern times, but part of that adaption is, I believe, keeping the concept of small-scale farming alive and reviving some of the traditional ways of farming and incorporating them into the modern context.”
Ember Energy UK WIDE
The family keeps a mixed flock of about 50 Norwegian Pelsau and Spæl sheep.
Farmers
producing more biogas than their needs could be sitting on an untapped resource. Andrew Parsons, of Bennamann, takes a look at the opportunities.
Hidden potential of AD plants
Farmers with an anaerobic digestion (AD) plant might be sitting on an untapped resource. That was the message from Bennamann business director Andrew Parsons, who said many AD plants, primarily designed to generate electricity and heat, often produce more biogas than their current systems can utilise.
He said: “This excess gas is typically flared off, representing a missed opportunity for additional revenue. However, innovative solutions are emerging to help farmers unlock the full potential of their AD investment.”
AD plants are usually substantial investments. On a farm with an AD plant, there will typically be one to three round towers with dome covers, known as digesters.
These digesters are fed with energyrich products, such as silage, livestock slurry and other organic materials,
with some farmers also collecting and processing food waste from supermarkets.
Inside the digesters, anaerobic bacteria break down the organic matter, producing biogas, primarily methane, in the process.
The digesters are usually heated, which accelerates the reaction and creates the biogas in a shorter period.
The feedstock/slurry retention time in these domes is typically 30-60 days, but it is a continuous process with daily inputs and outputs.
Mr Parsons said: “Most AD plants are designed to use the biogas they produce to generate electricity, while the heat is often used for various on-farm applications, such as drying fuel, heating buildings, workshops or greenhouses, or to heat livestock growing environments, such as pigs and poultry.
“However, many farmers get more
biogas out than they can put through the generator.
“To balance inputs with gas production, farmers often will scale back their feedstock inputs, effectively underutilising their AD plant’s capacity.”
Mr Parsons said when Bennamann approaches AD owners, many confirm they could produce more gas.
He added: “The key is in the mismatch between the plant’s potential output and the capacity of their generator.
“Many farmers intentionally built their plants slightly larger than necessary to ensure they would not fall short on electricity production. This oversizing now presents an opportunity for additional revenue streams.”
He said there were solutions for scalable biogas upgrading to biomethane.
Bennamann technology is skidmounted and similar in size to a 12-foot shipping container, preventing the need to install large infrastructure.
The excess biogas can be purified into a biomethane.
product containing 50-70% biomethane and putting it through our BioCycle to upgrade it to as high as 99% biomethane.”
The biomethane can be used to power some tractors or vans, which can potentially lower costs.
He said: “Moreover, beyond the farm there is a growing interest in transport hauliers and county councils using biomethane as a renewable transport fuel, so the opportunities can be significant if you join the dots.
Valuable
“Biomethane is also a highly valuable renewable energy source when it comes to decarbonisation efforts. Its versatility allows it to be seamlessly integrated into existing biogas infrastructures, minimising the need for costly new systems.”
It also repurposes waste which might otherwise contribute to environmental problems.
Agricultural drones have arrived.
• 50kg/80L payload
• Go where no tractor or quad can go
• Protect water logged ground. No damage to existing crops
• Whitewash or clean greenhouses or Polytunnels
• Spray Nematodes/slug pellets/ fertiliser
• Spray, cover crops
• Spray rate up to 22 L/min
• Spray width 3.5 to 9 metres
• Granular variable spread rate of up to 150kg/min
• Open fields up to 19Ha/h, orchards 2Ha/h Greenhouses/ Polytunnels 1 Ha/h
Mr Parsons said: “The beauty of this approach is that it requires relatively little additional investment from the farmer. About 99% of what the farmer needs to create the biomethane is already in place.
“All we are doing is taking a biogas
Mr Parsons said: “When refined to match the methane concentration of natural gas, biomethane can directly replace fossil-derived in engines and other applications, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
“This characteristic makes biomethane an attractive option for
Biomethane has additional value through the Government’s Renewable Transport Fuel Certificates.
industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint without major overhauls to their current operations.”
The biomethane produced has additional value through the Government’s Renewable Transport Fuel Certificates (RTFCs).
Mr Parsons said: “If the biomethane is created from a true waste product, such as slurry or food waste, the
vehicle-grade fuel has a much higher value from an RTFC perspective.
“The value is double if it is a true waste product compared to purposegrown energy crops.
Lucrative
“This incentive structure encourages AD plant owners to process waste through their AD plants, which is
more lucrative in terms of biomethane production, and aligns with Government objectives to promote more sustainable farming practices.”
Looking to the future, Mr Parsons said the potential for scalable biogas upgrading in the UK was substantial, with more than half of AD plants potentially suitable.
He said: “This presents a signifi-
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cant opportunity not just for farmers, but for the wider agricultural sector and rural communities. By creating local sources of renewable fuel, local farms could play a crucial role in decarbonising agricultural operations and rural transport.
“As farmers face increasingly challenging economic environments, maximising the efficiency and output of their existing investments is crucial.
“By tapping into the hidden potential of AD plants through smallscale biogas upgrading, farmers can create new revenue streams, reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the wider goal of sustainable agriculture,” Mr Parsons added.
Andrew Parsons said when Bennamann approaches anaerobic digestion plant owners, many confirm they could produce more gas.
Diversification APF Show
Held at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire, the APF Exhibition is the UK’s largest forestry, woodland, arboriculture, firewood, fencing and timber trade show. Toby Whatley looked at some of exhibits for farm and estate diversification.
Getting the wood from the trees
For the machinery-minded, the APF Exhibition makes for an interesting visit, with a varied display of timber harvesting, handling, processing and chipping items from across the sector. Impressive as much of it all is, the vast majority is not likely to be within the grasp of most farms focused on diversifications, with the price tags, productivity requirements and
LOGOSOL PROCESSORS
operational necessities demanding that the kit works as a full-time business, often travelling to UKwide sites.
However, for farms and estates looking to establish new woodland, or add value from existing standing timber and utilise the materials within building conversion and repair, some of the products on show could come within the budget, or investment grant criteria.
SUPPLIED by Borders-based Cheviot Trees, BioWool mulch covers are designed to provide weed suppression and moisture retention for newly-established trees, with the material decomposing as the plant establishes over a twoto three-year life.
Manufactured using UK-sourced wool, the 500mm x 500mm mats use a mixture of unrefined and raw wool, which retains higher quantities of lanolin.
This is claimed to increase the life of the product in use, but also deters deer from damaging new saplings due to a dislike of the lanolin aroma.
Each mat is pegged to the ground using either bamboo or softwood pegs, with the mat manufactured using a biodegradable woven backing which is claimed to prevent ripping and disintegration over its life.
Depending on unit quantities supplied, costs for each mat start from 60p each.
Merlo’s tool handler tractor
CHERRY PRODUCTS BOX GRADER
SUPPLIED in five working widths from 1.8-metre to 3m wide, Cherry Products’ box grader is designed to pull up compacted trackways and grade material to fill potholes and run-off channels.
A set of hardened reversible front tines can be individually varied in depth to pull material from the edges and centre of the track before a pair of angled levelling boards drags material over the grader’s widths.
Cherry advises the unit is operated multiple times over the
same area to achieve a uniform finish, with some users operating the implement with the tractor lower links adjusted to grade and profile the track surface to create a gradient for water run-off.
When working with plannings and additional infill, Cherry says this should be tipped along the track length and incorporated using the grading boards before consolidating with a roller. Retail prices vary between £4,715 and £5,710 depending on the working width.
XNo Fuss Meals for Busy Parents CIC is the brainchild of Milly Fyfe, created to bridge the gap between consumers and food producers in the UK.
The platform aims to educate consumers on food provenance, seasonal produce, local suppliers and the important role that farmers play in shaping the landscape.
As a busy mum of two, Milly understands the need for easy recipes that are healthy, tasty and ethically sourced from local producers.
The farm-to-fork ethos plays a leading role in recipe creation which is accessible to the customer.
As a farmer herself, her informed understanding of UK food production provides a trusted source of information for consumers. She has created an award-winning community interest company with a following of 58,000 through radio, Facebook, Instagram, X, podcasts, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok and magazines, for which she writes as a food columnist.
She provides a platform for farmers to share information about their business and works with brands such as Farmison UK, Love British Food, Yes Peas, British Sugar and Let’s Eat
Balanced. She has launched a cookery ebook aimed at time-poor individuals who want to create family-friendly meals from scratch.
With backing from the Princess Royal, Milly references this as her proudest moment.
She says: “I cried when I received the letter from Princess Anne who wanted to endorse and foreword my book.”
Continued media expansion led to the launch of ‘The Countryside Kitchen Meets’, a podcast providing in-depth information and personal interviews with guests ranging from TV farmer, Jimmy Doherty, to Paralympian Charlotte Henshaw.
CONTENT CREATOR OF THE YEAR
Vox Conference Centre, Birmingham Thursday, October 17, 2024
XRob Nicholson leads the digital presence of Cannon Hall Farm, boasting a combined following of 760,000 across various platforms.
His mission is to bridge the gap between agricultural professionals and the public, developing understanding and support for farming practices.
By creating live broadcasts, engaging videos and captivating photography, Rob provides an intimate look into farm life, particularly during key events such as lambing season.
His approach combines education with entertainment, allowing audiences to experience both the joys and challenges of animal rearing.
Cannon Hall Farm’s commitment to sharing knowledge extends beyond
entertainment; it also advocates for the farming community.
Rob’s content includes detailed explanations of farm management practices, animal care and conservation efforts. For example, videos showing routine hoof checks and animal welfare interventions serve to educate viewers on the importance of these tasks.
Additionally, the farm’s involvement with the People’s Trust for Endangered Species highlights its dedication to conservation and community engagement. Through successful participation in Channel 5’s ‘Springtime on the Farm’ and ‘Winter on the Farm’ programmes, and awards such as the TV Choice Award, Rob has solidified Cannon Hall Farm’s reputation as a leading voice
Sponsored by
XTom Lamb has built a successful YouTube channel, amassing 40,000 subscribers, where he shares innovative engineering projects related to farming.
With a passion for machinery and diversification, he showcases practical solutions for farmers, ranging from building grain sheds to creating selfsufficient shepherd’s huts.
His engaging content not only appeals to farmers, but also captivates a broader audience, highlighting the potential for cost savings through DIY projects.
Collaborating with YouTube creator Colin Furze, Tom has undertaken many exciting projects that have gained significant attention, including a lifesize Star Wars ship created in the farm grain store.
His videos emphasise safety and accessibility, making complex tasks easy to understand for viewers, particularly those with learning difficulties.
Tom is committed to achieving a sense of community among his audience, often encouraging viewers to share their projects inspired by his work.
As he looks to expand his reach, Tom recognises the importance of increasing his presence on platforms such as TikTok
in agriculture. The farm’s innovative use of social media not only attracts visitors, but also inspires other farmers to adopt similar strategies for greater visibility and profitability.
As it expands its digital footprint, Cannon Hall Farm aims to continue advocating for the agricultural industry and providing insights to audiences.
and Instagram. His goal is to double his YouTube following to 80,000 while pursuing collaborations with other creators to enhance his content further.
Tom comments on his channels, saying: “I think my YouTube videos have a good effect on the farming community by showing my engineering skills, but at the same time keeping it simple so people can easily follow along.
“I have had a massive amount of positive feedback from farmers, which is the main reason that I entered the awards.”
Motivated by the feedback and the desire to inspire others, Tom aims to continue pushing the boundaries of engineering and innovation in agriculture, sharing his journey with a growing audience.
XThomas Turner leverages his platforms to support farmers across the UK by delivering technical and business advice in an accessible manner.
With a following of 30,000, he focuses on simplifying complex agricultural policies, such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive, while providing valuable insights into cashflow forecasting, business planning and crop management. He aims to empower farmers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and enhance their business practices.
His commitment to education extends beyond the farming community, as his simplified content has attracted a non-farming audience
To celebrate with the finalists at the British Farming Awards, go to britishfarmingawards.co.uk to buy your tickets
WILLIAM MURRAY W&M BROWN, EDINBURGH
XKnown as @williammurray93 on TikTok, William has amassed a following of 194,500 across all his platforms.
Commenting on entering the awards, William says: “The application process allowed me to reflect on my TikTok journey and realise that I have achieved more than I initially thought.”
His engaging content showcases the reality of British agriculture, offering followers an authentic glimpse into daily life on his family farm.
By sharing behind-the-scenes footage of cattle, sheep, machinery and contract work, he highlights both the challenges and humorous moments of farming.
He aims to educate his audience about the hard work involved in food production, and his commitment to promoting livestock farming, particularly the beef industry, is evident through detailed explanations of optimal cattle rearing practices and the nutritional benefits of beef.
He actively addresses misinformation from anti-meat activists, raising awareness of the importance of providing accurate information to younger audiences, who may not learn about agriculture in schools.
eager to learn about agriculture. Thomas is dedicated to presenting a balanced view of the industry, addressing both positive and negative aspects, and educating people with a greater understanding of the challenges faced by farmers.
He is proud to have collaborated with Farmers Guardian’s Farm24 campaign, reiterating to the public how essential farming is for everyday life.
Looking ahead, Thomas recognises the need for improved planning and engagement to grow his audience, which naturally will help increase awareness of his brand and reach more people that can benefit from his advice. By actively engaging with fellow creators and audiences, he hopes to
For the full shortlist, scan the QR code or go to agrc.im/finalists-2024
His advocacy for mental health in farming led to a candid TikTok discussing his own struggles, which resonated with many and connected him with the mental health organisation ‘Farmstrong’.
William also participates as an ambassador for Farmers Guardian’s Farm24 campaign, which involves farmers sharing their daily activities to raise awareness of farming and its impact on day-to-day life to the public.
His plans for the future include expanding his content across platforms, collaborating with other creators, and promoting women in agriculture, given that 59% of his followers are women.
Through his ongoing efforts, William aims to enhance the visibility and appreciation of farming while addressing important issues such as mental health and sustainability.
discover trending topics that meet the needs of both farmers and the public. With clear goals in mind, he is determined to expand his reach and make a lasting impact on the agricultural community.
Commenting on the 2024 awards, he says: “The competition is extremely strong and the other creators are exceptional, so to be here is an honour”.
CHRIS MYERS PRO HORIZON, SOUTH YORKSHIRE
XChris Myers has built a significant digital presence through his company, Pro Horizon, with more than 3.8 million followers and two billion video views.
His content, which spans Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, highlights farming and agricultural technology, making the industry more accessible and engaging.
Chris has established a Facebook group of 40,000 members sharing farming content worldwide, and his videos consistently reach millions, with recent highlights including 87m Facebook impressions and 147m YouTube views in just 90 days.
He uses cutting-edge technology in his work, from drone footage to creating virtual reality (VR) demonstrations for agricultural machinery companies.
This innovation not only showcases the industry, but also helps him develop farm management systems to digitalise farm operations, increasing efficiency.
He is an ambassador for Farm24 and collaborates with companies such as
CHRIS WHITTAKER PLATTS AGRICULTURE, WREXHAM
XChris Whittaker is at the helm of the ‘Shout About Farming’ campaign, which seeks to educate consumers about the agricultural industry’s vital role.
Launched in February, the campaign has quickly gained traction, achieving more than 3,050 followers across various platforms within just months.
Chris recognises the limited coverage about farming consumers see each year and aims to make agricultural information more accessible through engaging content, ranging from detailed videos to behind-the-scenes vlogs. The campaign focuses on fostering connections between farmers and consumers, highlighting the impact of agriculture on the UK economy.
Notable video features include discussions on sustainability and animal welfare to resonate with audiences concerned about these issues. By collaborating with respected figures in the farming community, he has
to present their products at major trade shows.
Looking ahead, he plans to push the boundaries of technology with artificial intelligence and continue advocating for British farming.
He aims to grow his digital presence further by integrating new tools such as Meta glasses and exploring mental health topics through podcasts.
Upon being shortlisted, he said: “Being shortlisted is very humbling. Farmers are the real heroes, tirelessly devoting their lives to feeding us all despite hitting challenges no other industry faces in the same way.”
enhanced the campaign’s credibility and reach, generating positive conversations about the industry.
He is particularly proud of the Lucy Pye feature, which showcases the importance of social media in bridging the gap between farmers and consumers.
Moving forward, Chris plans to expand the campaign’s content, exploring diverse topics and hosting a conference to bring together farmers and consumers for meaningful discussions. By leveraging digital platforms effectively, he aims to promote the industry and foster a more informed public.
Chafer Machinery and Grimme, using VR
Farm Profile
Edited by Angela Calvert – 07768 796 492 – angela.calvert@agriconnect.com
For more features, go to
Changes are underway on one Surrey dairy farm, with a move from a milk delivery round to a mobile vending machine. Wendy Short finds out more.
Milk vending machines are usually in a fixed location and our concept will introduce flexibility
Direct selling the way forward for one Dairy Shorthorn herd
Matt Elphick has held the tenancy at Brays Farm, near Redhill, since 2017, and lives there with his partner Betsie Edge and their two young children. The couple, who produce cheese and yoghurt from their 25-cow Dairy Shorthorn herd, are committed to sustainable practices on the 21-hectare (52-acre) unit.
The milk delivery round was established in response to increased demand during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite attracting about 250 customers, it proved more difficult to make a profit post-lockdown, so the enterprise has been wound up.
The obvious alternative was to open a farm shop, but the idea had to be discarded due to road ownership and public access issues.
Plans are now in place for the professional conversion of the milk float into the equivalent of a mobile vending machine, powered by electricity. Sales will also be boosted
Farm facts
■ The soil type varies from sand to a heavy clay
■ The farm makes Greensand Bray and Surrey Red cheese
■ The Dairy Shorthorn was introduced in 2019
■ Cheese and yoghurt sales by
through a market stall and a few local outlets.
Matt says: “Milk vending machines have become popular, but they are usually in a fixed location and our concept will introduce flexibility.
“Some £10,000 of the £30,000 investment was raised in just over two months this summer through a crowdfunding appeal, which attracted more than 100 donors.
“Incentives were offered in return for the contributions, with small donations rewarded with a product pack and time-fixed discounts. The larger
courier are being considered for the future
■ The products are mainly promoted via Facebook and Instagram
■ Contractors are used for silage bale-making
donors were also offered discounts plus a ‘milking experience’, which could become a regular feature.”
Sustainable
Most of the supporters were previous milk round customers or regular market stall visitors. People were keen to get behind the idea of sustainable dairy farming, says Matt, particularly appreciating the policy of delaying the separation of cow and calf, which is a practice the couple have always followed, believing it best for both cow and calf.
“The converted float will prob-
ably be taken to a couple of locations within a five-mile radius to start with,” he says.
“We have already secured an agreement with an agricultural merchant to use the car park on certain days. Customers can fill up containers through the dispensers or buy pre-packaged products.”
Two types of cheese are produced, as well as five different fresh and frozen yoghurts marketed under the Nutfield Dairy brand, established in 2020.
“It would have been quite a juggling act to manage milk supply and demand for the cheese and yoghurt, but fortunately a coffee shop and a farm shop take our surplus whole milk. They buy a minimum of 300 litres a week and it is very good for cashflow,” says Matt.
The Dairy Shorthorn herd calves all-year-round to maintain an even milk supply for production. Bull calves are marketed privately, with surplus heifers sold to other breeders.
MATT ELPHICK
Matt Elphick and his partner Betsie Edge with their children Albie (left) and Rory.
Surrey Farm Profile
“The herd is milked into jars oncea-day at about 8am in an eight-stall abreast parlour, fitted with standard clusters and automatic cluster removal,” says Matt.
“Production is not recorded, but the average yield is about 4,000kg. Cows go through the parlour immediately post-calving, remaining with their calves for 12-14 weeks.”
Breeds
The Dairy Shorthorn breed is considered dual-purpose, but the business will focus on milk production for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, three young Albion females, bred by Gloucestershire-based rare breeds enthusiast and BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, were added to the herd last autumn.
Matt says: “The Albion is a breed which has attracted my interest for some time. In my opinion, it is worth preserving the genetics. I disagree with the saying that rare breeds are rare for a reason.
“These ancient breeds may have traits that will suit some of the revived farming practices and turn out to be highly valued in the future.
“Albions are also dual-purpose. They are mainly used as sucklers, although they are being milked on a minority of UK farms and I have selected sires with the milker genetics.
“The first calf is a heifer from a cow that was purchased in-calf. The
other two females have been served, and we are looking forward to seeing the outcome.”
The management system largely follows organic principles, but the products are marketed as ‘regeneratively farmed’ as the land is not officially registered.
“No chemicals or artificial fertilisers are used, and the cows are not treated with wormers or fly sprays. However, the acreage is limited and in the winter months we have to buy-in organic silage, which is difficult to source in this area. We will consider organic registration if
an opportunity arises to rent some additional land nearby,” says Matt. The low-output, forage-based system puts minimal pressure on the cows, and they are extremely healthy and fertile. The permanent pasture is split into 30 paddocks, which are usually rotated every 24
The low-output, forage-based system at Brays Farm puts minimal pressure on the Dairy Shorthorn cows.
Matt Elphick and Betsie Edge plan to convert their milk float into a mobile vending machine.
Farm Profile Surrey
hours. The cows are currently fully outdoors for about five months, although the hope is to extend the period through a bale grazing system. They are loose housed on straw over winter.
“I have overseeded with white and red clover and this autumn cocksfoot, chicory and trefoil will be combined with the clover for the mix,” says Matt.
“The normal routine is to broadcast it by hand and then graze the area for trampling in, but that may not work so well with the new species.
Feeding seed
“I have been reading up about feeding seed to the cows and I am going to put some in the parlour feeders as an experiment. The amount per animal and the length of time for feeding the seed have not been set, as I need to carry out some more research.
“Apparently, its passage through the cows’ digestive systems helps with germination and the dung provides moisture and nutrients after excretion. That could help to offset the competition from the existing grass swards. It will be interesting to see the results.”
The farm is rented from the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT), which inherited the property in 2021.
Matt says: “I had an existing tenancy with the late owner, having become acquainted with him when my cattle were kept on an adjacent farm. When the CRT took over, the arrangement was continued after an interview and a walk round the farm.
“I have been very lucky, because I have not had to apply for tenancies on the open market and I have also been able to stay in my local area.
“Betsie is from a dairy farming background, and although I am not, I knew that I wanted to farm
from the age of 12 and went to agricultural college. Prior to taking on the tenancy, I had built up a small suckler herd on rented premises and was working as a relief milker.
“This was initially continued at Brays, but the farm was gradually adapted for dairying by installing a milking parlour and processing room. At that point, the suckler cows were replaced with in-calf Dairy Shorthorn heifers.”
Future
It is hoped that the mobile vending machine will make up the deficit in sales from the milk round and allow the couple more opportunity to spend time with their two children – threeyear-old Albie, and Rory, who was born at the beginning of this year.
The herd is milked once-a-day in an eight-stall abreast parlour, fitted with standard clusters and automatic cluster removal.
COUNTRYSIDE REGENERATION TRUST
THE Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT) owns more than 809 hectares (2,000 acres) of land across 16 UK properties, with the approach based on sensitive land management, including conservation projects and nature-friendly farming practices.
Established in 1993, the
“If the vending machine takes off, we may reduce the number of market days.
“Our family live nearby and will help out when needed. Betsie usually milks the cows and handles the paperwork, while I make the cheese and yoghurt, and we share
organisation aims to reverse the decline in biodiversity. It has several tenanted farms, as well as areas of woodland, riverside meadows and heathland.
The CRT also hosts events throughout the year, where visitors can learn more about the outdoors.
the rest of the tasks. A new cheese variety is being developed, and in future we may go up to 30-35 cows, which would be the limit for the farm size and management practices. On a small unit like ours, we see direct sales as the way forward,” adds Matt.
Two types of cheese, as well as five different fresh and frozen yoghurts are marketed under the Nutfield Dairy brand.
Brays Farm makes Greensand Bray and Surrey Red cheese.
Edited by Jane Thynne – 07882 219 917 – jane.thynne@agriconnect.com
For more arable content, go to farmersguardian.com/arable-news-hub
AHDB trials reveal struggle to contain foliar diseases Arable
●
By Jane Thynne
AHDB says it ‘struggled to keep a lid’ on foliar disease in its Recommended Lists (RL) trials amid high disease pressure caused by challenging growing conditions.
The levy body says even ‘belt-andbraces’ fungicide programmes often failed to protect winter wheat from diseases such as brown and yellow rusts and septoria leaf blotch.
Catherine Harries, AHDB senior crop protection scientist (Cereals and Oilseeds), says: “Until recently, we aimed to keep disease below 5% in fungicide-treated trials. If disease was above this, the yield information would not have been used in the main data set. With the chemistry now avail-
Cropwalk
able, we can no longer hope to keep disease below 5%, especially in a high disease pressure year.”
As a result, the body has included data from fungicide-treated yield trials even when disease exceeded 10%, to better assess genetic potential.
Ms Harries says brown rust has been a particular problem for growers, which was reflected in the RL trials. However, she says what was more unusual was its occurrence, with peaks coming around 14 days earlier than in 2023 (a more typical year).
In terms of yellow rust, Ms Harries says AHDB piloted a new way to provide data, measuring it in winter wheat field trials with crops infected by the isolates naturally present. Trials were conducted at two sites in Cambridgeshire (one was also inoculated) and one in Midlothian, Scotland.
They were carried out on crops drilled in mid-May, so varieties
were still at the young plant stage in June, when yellow rust usually peaks.
Ms Harries says: “Overall, the trials gave good levels of yellow rust and differentiation between varieties, and the results also correlated relatively well with the traditional UKCPVS growth room tests, with the exception of KWS Skateum [a candidate in harvest 2023 trials], which was resistant in growth room tests in 2023, but not in all the field trials.”
The final foliar disease under consideration was septoria leaf blotch. In the 2024 RL trials, the most septoria susceptible varieties – KWS Firefly (no longer listed) and Swallow (disease rating of 5.1) – had four times more septoria than the most resistant variety – Mayflower (disease rating of 8.9).
However, Ms Harries says despite the extremes, AHDB does not anticipate major changes to disease ratings in the next RL edition.
Crops off to a flying start thanks to good seedbeds
The new season has got off to a flying start here in the North West, which is very welcome after the distinctly average season that is coming to an end.
Growers have been busy drilling winter cereals, many since the first week of September. Winter barley tends to be first sown, but a fair amount of winter wheat sown after grass is also in the ground.
Crops have been sown into gener-
ally good seedbeds with adequate moisture. They have emerged quickly and look healthy.
Pre-emergence sprays have been applied to control a range of broadleaved weeds and annual meadow grass. They should work well given the conditions.
Early drilled barley and wheat are, of course, prone to barley yellow dwarf virus, so growers should be particularly mindful of this and be prepared to monitor fields for the aphid vectors.
Oilseed rape is notable by its absence in my area, although it was never widely grown.
East of the Pennines I am hearing reports of good early August-sown crops with little sign of flea beetle.
But the area is down sharply; one colleague has seen a 50% reduction among his customers. Forage rape,
stubble turnips and cover crops have established well and, together with spring-sown fodder beet, should provide plenty of quality winter feed.
Beet western yellows is appearing in some fodder beet, although I would not say levels are any worse than we usually see.
Maize
Most final grass silage cuts have been taken and maize harvest is about to start. Following the wet, cool spring, which delayed drilling and held back plant development, a lot of crops are not going to mature fully – very little grain fill occurs in October.
Generally, maize crops sown under film were more forward, but it is a real mixed bag – some unprotected crops on good land look promising, while some protected ones on heavier, colder soil have struggled. In addi-
tion, a few fields in low-lying areas were hit by frost a fortnight ago. Badly hit crops will need cutting sooner rather than later. Finally, once the autumn workload slows, we expect quite a lot more farmers will be looking at Sustainable Farming Incentive actions.
If you have not done anything so far, it is still well worth considering.
with Simon Nelson
SIMON Nelson advises farmers on a wide range of arable and forage crops across Cumbria, north Lancashire and into south west Scotland. He has worked for Agrovista for 23 years.
About Simon Nelson
Simon Nelson
The wet weather increased foliar disease in AHDB trials.
Brown rust was particular problem
New tools to help tackle PCN
l
Almost 21,000ha of Scottish soil affected
By Teresa Rush
GOOD progress is being made towards the development of tools to help potato growers tackle a potato cyst nematode (PCN) epidemic which is threatening the future of the British potato sector.
Speaking at an Association of Applied Biologists Symposium of Potato Cyst Nematode Management at Harper Adams University, PCN Action Scotland project leader Dr James Price said that failure to manage PCN could spell the end of the Scottish seed potato industry by 2050 – in practice, just four or five rotations away.
Legislation in Scotland prevents seed potatoes from being grown on land where PCN have been detected, but with close to 80% of seed potatoes planted in Great Britain originating from Scottish farms, the threat extends far beyond the Scottish seed sector.
An economic study conducted as part of the PCN Action Scotland project has revealed the value of the potato sector to the wider UK economy, said Dr Price.
The UK is the fifth largest potato producer and exporter in Europe, with an industry worth about £928 million at farmgate and £4.5 billion in downstream industries.
Statutory seed land testing shows that PCN is already present in almost 21,000 hectares of Scot-
tish soils, but it is thought that close to a third of potato-producing land could be infected. Current market varietal requirements and a lack of control options for growers mean that PCN is continuing to spread. The potato industry is, however, coming together to tackle the problem on several fronts.
Threat
PCN Action Scotland is a five-year, Scottish Government-funded project involving 50 industry, science and policy organisations. It got underway in 2021 in a bid to address the PCN threat – aiming to manage the epidemic, increase the sector’s capability to implement change and preserve the land base for future generations –by providing new tools for pest management.
The project’s nine work packages cover breeding for PCN resistance, gaining a better understanding of variety tolerance to PCN, decision support, groundkeeper control, novel integrated pest management tools and knowledge exchange.
Recent developments have included training a machine learning model for spot spraying groundkeepers, development of dihaploid potato breeding lines containing different PCN resistances and combinations and creation of a decision support system (DSS) to help growers make best use of varietal resistance to PCN. This DSS is currently undergoing beta testing before being shared with a grower group for on-farm testing.
Dr Price, a molecular biologist and nematologist at the James Hutton Institute in Scotland, believes the tools are now available to control globodera rostochiensis
Less PCN in the soil will mean higher yields and reduce our reliance on chemicals
DR JAMES PRICE
and will also be relevant to control of G. pallida going forward.
He said: “We have the tools to control that problem [G. rostochiensis] right now and once we have got this pathway set up for controlling rostochiensis, then pallida will follow. We have the same tools for pallida, they are just a bit further behind where rostochiensis is.”
Varieties
He also highlighted the role of PCN-resistant potato varieties such as Elland, Buster and Amanda.
“We see there is some really good resistance. Something that is really interesting with Elland [which has resistance to G. pallida] is that in Scotland we have had almost unheard of demand for this relatively new variety for seed production.
“This means we are seeing high seed production and by growing resistant seed on land that potentially could be infected by pallida, but [where it] has not been detected, we will be able to keep that land free from pallida, and the resistant seed can be used in Scotland, but also in the rest of the UK to grow resistant ware.
“This will help clean up pallida -infected land, and less PCN in the soil will mean higher yields and reduce our reliance on chemicals,” added Dr Price.
MORE INFORMATION
To find out more about PCN Action Scotland, visit pcnhub.ac.uk and for more on the Association of Applied Biologists, visit aab.org.uk
Tools are now available to help growers tackle the PCN epidemic threatening the future of the UK potato sector, said Dr James Price, PCN Action Scotland project leader.
After almost a year of exceptional rainfall, soil sulphur and other key nutrients are at low levels across the country, with growers urged to consider options for boosting soil nutrient status this autumn. Farmers Guardian reports.
Considering autumn sulphur applications important this year
Water soluble key nutrients will have taken a hit in recent months with the risk of significant reductions in soil sulphur content now being likely.
That is according to Compass Agronomy adviser Allison Arden, who says soil nutrient deficiencies during establishment can have a profound impact on early growth and root development. The after-effects can then be carried through the season, leading to reductions in crop yields and quality if not identified and corrected.
Mrs Arden says: “Met Office data suggests some 1,695.9mm of rain fell from October 2022 to March 2024, which is the highest level for any 18-month period in England since comparable data began in 1836.
“Some areas of the country experienced more than double the average rainfall in spring 2024, with little let-up in precipitation until the early summer.
“High levels of rainfall have a significant impact on soils, affecting
the amount of organic matter and available nutrients they contain.
“In the case of sulphur, this is compounded by decreasing levels seen over the last few decades.
“Levels of atmospheric sulphur have been falling rapidly since the industrial clean-up some years ago, yet it plays an essential role in the ability of many crops, to recover and utilise nitrogen efficiently.”
Some areas of the country experienced more than double the average rainfall in spring 2024 ALLISON ARDEN
Numerous trials have shown lifts in yields of up to 10% from sulphur applications due to sulphur’s role in improving nutrient use efficiency with a corresponding increase in crop quality, too, she says.
Essential
“Sulphur is essential in building vital amino acids and, if absent, not only are plants unable to use nitro-
gen effectively, they are also unable to manufacture protein efficiently, which can be real problem, especially when aiming for milling markets.
“Spring applications of sulphur are the most effective, but ensuring that soil levels are maintained earlier in the season is important to protect early crop development and establishment.
“Autumn applications might be appropriate in such situations, but growers need to be careful with product choice.
“Sulphur in the soil is highly mobile and behaves similarly to nitrogen. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid applying a large amount of sulphur that the plant root system cannot access, and which is likely to be leached from the system due to winter rainfall.”
Nottingham University trials have shown more than 50% of the sulphur contained in polysulphate is available in the first 12 days after application, with the remainder released over the following six to eight weeks.
Agrii agronomist Charlie Catto, who advises growers in Scotland, says he has never seen such low levels of sulphur in soil analyses as this year.
“It is all down to the recent wet conditions. We had over a metre of rain between October and March and a lot of the sulphur has simply been leached out of the soil.
“Those growers that have not been keeping on top of sulphur levels in recent years, are the worst hit.
“Potash is an issue too, particular on lighter soils, and although this may not have been lost completely, it is definitely been washed down the soil profile and away from the root zone.
“If you are on heavy clay loam it will not move so much due to the cationic exchange holding it in place, but it is a real issue in lighter soils.”
Several Agrii trials have focused on how soil nutrient levels can be
best maintained in the light of increasingly variable weather conditions across the country, he adds.
“We have completed five-year trials on a variety of farms, for example, to monitor the health of soil and crops with a particular focus on how nutrient levels change through the growing season.
“The aim has been to identify where significant nutrient uptake has taken place during the crop’s growth cycle and the efficiency of the process, as well as looking at how this can be improved by using various application timings.
“Particularly consistent results have been seen from using the naturally occurring multi-nutrient mineral polysulphate (48% SO3, 14% K2O, 6% MgO, 17% CaO).
Better balanced
“We have seen progressively better balanced soils with improved sulphur, potassium, calcium and magnesium levels and no nutrient deficiencies in the root zone, particularly from spring applications of polysulphate.
“Much of this seems to be down to the prolonged release of its sulphur content. This gives crops much more time to absorb the nutrients it contains along with others as they are released into the soil.”
According to Scott Garnett, ICL Growing Solutions, this prolonged release of nutrients has also been shown to have significant benefits when looking at the most effective autumn options.
“University of Nottingham trials
IN THE FIELD
JOHN STONEHOUSE, SCARBOROUGH
JOHN Stonehouse, who runs a mixed arable and grass farm near Scarborough, says an autumn application of polysulphate really helped crops get away quickly last year, with the practice being repeated again this season.
“Conditions last autumn were really challenging with a lot of rainfall. The polysulphate was applied at the back end of the year using a standard lime spreader and despite the poor conditions, crops established really well.
“You could really tell the difference in the crops, especially in the oilseed rape, with a noticeable difference between the sizes in plants as well a big difference in visible root mass.
“We will be doing the same this year, with the polysulphate applied alongside straight potash and the nitrogen then going on in the spring.”
have shown over 50% of the sulphur contained in polysulphate is available in the first 12 days after application, with the remainder released over the following six to eight weeks.
“This means nutrients are released at a rate that plants can use them, improving both efficiency of uptake and reducing potential environmental issues from leaching and loss.
“When looking specifically at autumn applications, three years of trials carried out with independent field trials specialists Envirofield, have shown better nutrient utilisation efficiency and increased root development resulting from the practice.
“While spring applications of polysulphate have been shown to increase wheat yields by 5-8%, including an autumn application at the start of the season lifts yields by a further 0.3 tonnes/hectare, while significantly reducing leaching of N and P over winter.
“Such applications result in a typical 30-40% increase in root mass with this improving the plant’s ability to access more soil-bound nutrients and water leading to a stronger, healthier plant going into the winter.
“In ICL winter wheat establishment trials in 2020/21, an application of 100kg/ha of polysulphate increased phosphate and nitrogen uptake by 41% and 28%, respectively.”
Adequate nutrition
Ensuring adequate nutrition for establishment will be essential if crops are to deliver their full potential next year, with the effects of poor early root development and weaker plants being difficult to counter with spring applications alone, he adds.
“Every seed sown has a theoretical yield potential which can be reduced over the growing season by a host of factors including poor seedbeds, adverse weather, pest and dis-
Polysulphate was applied at the back end of the year and despite the poor conditions, crops established really well
JOHN STONEHOUSE
ease, so giving crops the best start possible is key.
“Effective establishment is the foundation on which yield and quality of autumn-sown crops is built and adequate nutrition in this period is critical.”
For autumn use he recommends applying 100kg/ha of polysulphate, with several options open to growers as to how to achieve this.
“Applications can be carried out from early October to before Christmas either as a straight or in a blend as part of a grower’s autumn fertiliser programme and it can be broadcast using conventional fertiliser spreaders or direct-drilled with the seed.”
Spring applications of sulphur are the most effective, but ensuring soil levels are maintained earlier in season is important to protect early crop development, says Allison Arden.
SY Cheer confirmed as full Group 1 milling wheat variety
l Offers ‘balanced foliar disease resistance’
WINTER wheat variety SY Cheer has been confirmed as a full UKFM Group 1 variety, UK Flour Millers has announced. The move upgrades the Syngenta-bred variety’s provisional rating from 2023.
The UK Flour Millers Varieties Working Group (VWG), comprising representatives from the largest flour milling businesses in the UK, met in early September to discuss the wheat, milling and baking quality data of SY Cheer from 2024 crop samples, as well as assessments from the previous three years of testing.
Following a consensus agreement, the group assigned the variety the industry-recognised UFKM Group 1 rating. This is the first winter wheat to be given a Group 1 rating since KWS Zyatt in 2017.
Joe Brennan, head of technical and regulatory affairs at UK Flour Millers, says: “Over the four years of testing, this variety showed good protein, high specific weight and a strong gluten quality. The baking performance was good, although slight variation has been seen.
“While the group ratings assigned by the VWG relate only to the functional quality of the variety from a milling and baking perspective, some of the agronomic features of this variety are welcome, in particular the excellent disease resistance profile and the strong grain analytic-
al quality, which should help increase the chances of meeting the mill intake specification and achieve the full premium.”
Deficit
The popularity of Group 1 wheat varieties has been in decline, dropping from 31% of the wheat area in 2020 to only 24% in 2024. This has contributed to a deficit in the
supply of homegrown breadmaking wheat, with millers having to rely more on imports.
Syngenta seeds technical manager Matthew Bull says SY Cheer’s exceptional grain quality is backed up by consistent yields across the country and no major weaknesses to the common foliar wheat diseases, including plugging an important gap against rust.
Mr Bull says: “SY Cheer brings disease resistance ratings of 7.4 against yellow rust and 6.0 against septoria tritici on the AHDB Recommended List [RL], and 5.5 against brown rust.
“This balanced foliar disease resistance profile underpins its high and stable yields; it has the highest untreated yield figure among Group 1 varieties on the current AHDB winter wheat RL.”
Seed treatment used to mitigate ergot threat
FOLLOWING a year of high ergot infection levels, growers face an increased risk in the new season as ergot sclerotia can persist in the soil or on infected seed. Growers should consider ergot control when choosing a seed treatment to help reduce the threat, advises crop protection manufacturer UPL.
Grass-weed pressure, especially black-grass, and wet weather at flowering are all factors associated with increased risk. Although the immediate concern for affected farmers is the marketability of their crop, they should also take steps now to ensure these difficulties are not repeated next harvest,
says Tom Wheelhouse, UPL technical specialist.
“Colour sorters are in high demand to remove ergot in grain samples and infected seed lots. Even if it is colour-sorted out of a seed sample, treatment is strongly advised because particles of ergot will still be present,” says Mr Wheelhouse.
Grass-weed control
The same sclerotia particles will also be present in the soil of the infected fields. Because of this, Mr Wheelhouse advises that these fields should ideally be sown with a non-cereal break crop, and par-
ticular attention should be paid to the control of grass-weeds, which increase the inoculum at flowering.
He says: “Selecting a seed treatment with activity on ergot will also greatly help to reduce the risk. Rancona-i-Mix is effective for the suppression of ergot particles in contaminated seed stocks and the reduction in the spread of spores.”
UPL trials indicate the seed treatment will reduce incidences of ergot by 40-60%.
“When combined with cultural control measures like colour sorting, it could be the difference between a rejected crop or not,” says Mr Wheelhouse.
With its newly-awarded full Group 1 milling status, SY Cheer could hold strong appeal for growers looking to reduce some of the risks of growing wheat for breadmaking, according to Syngenta seeds technical manager Matthew Bull.
Tom Wheelhouse
Edited by Angela Calvert –
North Country Cheviot rams reach top price of 15,000gns
l Leading flock average was £3,900
THE sale of North Country Cheviot Park rams at Lockerbie topped at 15,000gns for Allanshaws Eye Candy, a son of Glebfarm Class Act out of a home-bred ewe from J. Runciman and sons, Galashiels. The buyer was Messrs Ewing, Annan. Messrs Runciman had the leading flock average of £3,900 for 11 rams.
Next, at 8,000gns, was a ram from G. Davies and Partners’ Synton flock, Selkirk. By Gospelhall Bob and out of a home-bred ewe, it was knocked down to Messrs Baillie, Orkney.
Messrs Dun, Heriot, paid 6,500gns for Philiphaugh Eben Etzebeth, a
ram by Carruthers City Lights out of a home-bred dam from Philiphaugh Estates, Selkirk. Hownam Grange Exquisite, a son
Allanshaws Eye
Candy, from J. Runciman and sons, Galashiels, which sold for 15,000gns to Messrs Ewing, Annan.
of Pen Groes Bond consigned by W.J. Thomson, Kelso, made 6,000gns to Messrs Pate, Heriot. Next, at 5,500gns, was Knockcocher
Energy by Overacres Amorous from Gemma McCornick, Newton Stewart, which went home with Jack Webster, Ashbourne, who also paid the top female price of £700/head for a pair of shearling gimmers from W.D. Allen’s Humblehaugh flock, Alnwick.
A ewe lamb from David Aiken, Biggar, sold for £600 to Messrs Grant, Kilrenny, Fife. Messrs Allen also sold a shearling gimmer for £550 to Messrs Lynn, Newcastle upon Tyne.
THE reserve male champion, a ram lamb from Tom Tennant’s West Forth flock, Selkirk, led the trade at £3,200 at the sale of Border Leicester sheep at Lanark. The son of Alticane Churchill sold to P. and D. Playfair, Kelso.
Two rams sold for £3,000. The first was a son of Drennans Jet from Mary Laidlaw’s Drennan flock, Galston, which was bought jointly by David Walker, Alticane, and Jack Lamb, Ingliston.
The other lamb to be sold for
Southam dispersal leads
Lleyn trade at Ross-on-Wye
THE sale of Lleyn sheep at Ross-onWye included the dispersal of Lionel Organ’s Southam flock, which led the trade at 3,400gns for the shearling ram, Southam Malachi by Lluest Jerry, which sold to W. Roobottom, Rugeley. Southam Mastermind by Northern Irish Kennedy from the same home made 2,500gns.
The second prize ram from J.A. and R. Geldard and Sons’ Wray Castle flock, Levens, sold for 2,800gns to E. and D. Jones, Comins Coch.
The Southam flock also topped the females at £510 for a shearling ewe, which was one of the first prize pen of five shearling ewes. The buyer was Messrs Timm, Pickering, who also paid £290/head for the leading pen of shearling ewes from the same home.
Just behind, on £260/head, was a pen from M. and S. Etherton, Oxford, which went to A. Lewis, Maesycrugiau.
Aged ewes from Mr Organ’s dispersal topped at £295/head for a pen of 11 two-year-old ewes, which sold to D. and S. Searle, Cornwall.
The Southam flock also topped the ewe lambs at £275/head for a pen of five, which went to H.M. Wells, Ferwig.
AT the inaugural Jersey Jewels sale at Carlisle, trade peaked at 2,220gns twice for heifers in-milk from the Yates family, Castle Douglas. Both were bred from a Canadian cow family going back to Oaklea Gemni Ginger, which was grand champion at the Canadian National Show in 1989.
The first was Logan Victorious Glamour which was bought by the Parker family, Maybole, and the other was Logan Casino Glamour which went to the Hodge family, Mauchline.
The Parker family also paid 1,950gns for the August-calved heifer, Kerricks Video Claire, from the Cowhill Trust, Dumfries.
In-calf heifers
In-calf heifers topped at 1,700gns for Longing Venus Bandangle by River Valley Venus VIP, consigned by the
Armitage family, Flockton, which was knocked down to the Leitch family, Ayrshire.
The Kingsbeck herd, Biggar, sold 17 in-calf to average £1,521, topping at 1,580gns for Kingsbeck Victorious Starweed, which was bought by the Mitchel family, Ayrshire.
Short-bred heifers and bulling heifers sold well below their true value, with a large percentage not selling. Bulling heifers topped at 850gns for a daughter of VJ Hanulus, consigned by Callymains Farming, Castle Douglas.
Visit the UK’s most comprehensive auction listings at auctionfinder.co.uk
● Female champion tops at 2,000gns
THE centre record for a Beltex ram lamb was broken at Lanark when the pre-sale show champion, Faughhill Kealey, from Grant and Katie Maxwell, Melrose, sold for 21,000gns.
By 11,000gns Kingledores Godzilla, out of Faughhill Full Swing, a Faughhill Elephant In The Room daughter, it sold to Alan and Ellie Millar, Lurg flock, Inverurie.
Just minutes previously, the Millars took 10,000gns for Lurg Knockout, male champion at Beltex Scotland’s Scottish National Show in July.
By 14,000gns Pager Jackpot, Knockout’s dam is the 11,000gns Buckles Gem by 45,000gns Buckles Dark Dawn.
Split
It sold in a three-way split with Messrs Buckle, Kirkby Stephen, taking a half share while Messrs Pedley, High Ploughlands, Kirkby Stephen, and Louie Van Geffen, Geffens Livestock, North Yorkshire, both took a quarter share.
High of 21,000gns for Beltex at Lanark
The Maxwells then sold Faughhill Journeyman, a shearling ram by Faughhill Hector, for 4,400gns to Ed Page, Ripon, for the Rookwith flock.
Elmo, which sold to Robert, Maime and Robert Paterson Jnr, Dunblane.
Alistair Meikle’s, Helentongate flock, Symington, achieved a personal best of 3,400gns for Whindyke Jack Frost, by Loandhu
Pedigree heifers top at £3,300 at Gisburn sale
TOPPING Gisburn dairy sale at £3,300, and one of four making over £3,000, was a Denhamhill heifer from E.H. and R. Eccles, Chorley.
The 31kg Bookmaker Red-sired heifer is from their herd’s April family.
Next up at £3,280 was K.E. Robinson and Son, Carnforth, with Maybar Shield Tietje Red by Koepon Shield-Red, then at £3,050 was a Whitecarr heifer by Stantons Adorable from T. Cowell, Kirkham.
First prize
From the Pennine herd of Drinkall Brothers, Over Wyresdale, was Roxy 21, a Supershot daughter
which took the section’s first prize and sold for £3,020.
The non-pedigree trade peaked at £2,950 for an unregistered 30kg Shottle heifer from J. A. Lawn, Bradford, who also had a heifer at £2,720 and another at £2,700.
In-calf heifers from three vendors peaked at £2,050 for one of six from R. A. Kirkham, Nateby, whose six heifers averaged £1,910.
AT the sale of Mule and continental gimmer lambs at J36, Mules averaged £161.38, up £35.76 on the year.
The first winning pen of 10 Mules were from A.C. and K. Pye, Dunkenshaw, and went on to sell for the top price of £270/head.
A pen from W.I. and A.M. Atkinson, Bleasdale, made £240/head and
A. and L. Huddleston, Overhouses, sold a run of 10 at £230/head, with a number of top pens selling for more than £200/head.
Mule shearlings sold to £200, with older Mule ewes to £145, Texel cross ewes to £130 and Texel rams to £500.
Auctioneers: North West Auctions.
Females
Topping the females at 2,000gns was the section champion, a shearling gimmer by Curwen Hill George, from the Gray family’s Ettrick flock, Selkirk, which had been breed champion at Kelso Show and any other breed champion at Duns Show.
The buyers were Neil and Mark Wattie, Alford.
The dispersal of the adult por-
tion of the Cochrane’s flock on behalf of Judith, John, Ewan and Craig Cochrane, Darvel, topped at 1,000gns for the females Osprey Gucci, which sold to Messrs Hammond, Darvel, and Cochrane’s Honeysuckle, which went to Messrs Haigh, Slaidburn.
A NEW breed record of 1,850gns was set at the Wiltshire Horn premier show and sale at Rugby for the pre-sale show male and supreme champion, Celyn Cybi.
The ram lamb by Brockhall Tornado from B. and H. Thomas and Sons, Anglesey, was bought by W. Roberts, Anglesey.
Shearling rams from J.M. Jeyes and family, Warwickshire, saw Lawford Percival, by Cynfarwy Vicar, going to J. Brown, Bedfordshire, for 620gns and Slapton Upton, selling for 580gns.
The first placed shearling ram was the reserve male champion, Glanmor Orion, by Manor Monty from M. Jones, Gwynedd, which sold to R. Owen, Anglesey, for 550gns.
Also at 550gns was Messrs Owen’s own ram, Trefri Ynyr by Celyn Yays.
The winning aged ram, Catcomb
Gordon, from M. Gibson and family, Warwickshire, made 300gns.
Shearling ewes
The top priced females on the day were shearling ewes from N. and T. Hodgkinson’s Souldrop flock, Lincolnshire, with the reserve female champion by Highhedges Eagle making 620gns to C. S. White, Devon, with their fourth placed shearling selling to the Jeyes family for 520gns.
Messrs Hodgkinson also topped the ewe lambs at 300gns with the female champion by Highhedges Eagle.
Faughhill Kealey, from Grant and Katie Maxwell, Melrose, which sold for 21,000gns to Alan and Ellie Millar, Inverurie.
Lurg Knockout, from Alan and Ellie Millar, which sold for 10,000gns in a three-way split.
Texels top a healthy trade at NSA Builth
MORE than 3,000 rams went under the hammer on the Royal Welsh Showground with a turnover of £2.35 million and a clearance rate of 92%.
Leading the trade over the 14 rings was Nottinghamshire breeder, Philip Weaver. His Texel yearling, Empire Gladiator, soared to the top of the sale board at 30,000gns after securing the championship in the pre-sale show under judge Ben Wight, of the Midlock flock, Biggar. The son of Caron Express from Mr Weaver’s 550-head pedigree flock sold to the Ingram family’s Logie Durno flock, Aberdeenshire, and Michael James, Builth Wells, who is set to disperse his Texel flock at Christmas.
Next, at 24,000gns, was another Texel, this time from Cefin Pryce, Welshpool, with his recorded yearling Caereinion Goliath. By Clun Enhancer and out of a home-bred ewe, it was knocked down to the Reed family’s Scolton flock, Pembroke. His pen of six rams averaged 5,800gns.
Mr Weaver also saw highs of 9,000gns for Empire God Father, which sold in a two-way split to the Vaughan family, Hereford, and Esmor Evans, Mold, and 8,000gns for Empire Greatest Showman, selling to Christopher Cornthwaite, Stumpscross.
Pen topper for Gary and Meinir Howells, Carmarthen, at 6,200gns was Tycam Geronimo, a Greenall Everest son which sold to G. Jones, Pontypridd.
First prize lamb and reserve overall champion, Blaencar Hurcules by Sportsmans Einstein from the Morgan family, Brecon, was knocked down at 4,200gns to Shae Price, Abergavenny. Females topped at 3,000gns for the female champion from Alan Powell, Herefordshire, selling to C. Smale, Devon.
The Bluefaced Leicester ring saw a high of 20,000gns for the pre-sale show champion, a ram lamb from Alan McClymont, Kirkstead, Selkirk. Sired by a Blythbank ram out of a home-bred ewe, it was bought locally by the Jones family, Llanbadarn Fynydd.
Next, at 6,200gns, was another ram lamb from the Harries family’s Lland-
eilo-based Hope flock which sold to Ms Campbell, Blythbank, West Linton.
Anglesey breeder Dewi Williams topped the yearling ram trade with his Blacket House flock at 4,200gns for a Woodcroft-sired ram which was placed first in the pre-sale show.
Charollais
A strong commercial trade was seen in the Charollais ring, dominated by the Jones family’s Robbleston flock, Haverfordwest. Their pen topped at 3,500gns for a December 2022-born yearling by Boyo Vancouver out of a Wernfawr Vinnie-bred ewe. It sold in a two-way split to John and Phillipa Owens, Hereford, and David Roberts, Shrewsbury.
The Jones’ secured 2,000gns for another yearling by Loanhead Washington, which sold to R. Swift, Staffordshire. Robbleston consigned 135 tups across the Suffolk, Texel, Charollais and cross-bred rings with a 100% clearance rate.
Top priced ram lamb at 2,400gns from the Thomas family’s Dafalog flock, Carmarthen, was one of the last sons of Springhill Boss Man. It sold to Owen and Barney Morgan, Hereford.
Suffolks saw a solid trade topping at 4,200gns for a yearling from J. and N. Hartwright, Worcester, which went to Mark Lloyd, Hereford.
John Elliot, Kelso, hit 2,050gns for his Rawburn Evel Kneivel Suffolk yearling.
Topping the Suffolk lambs at 1,900gns was Glyn Lewis, Pontardawe. Charollais crosses topped the cross-bred ring at 2,000gns for the champion, bred by the Ingram family, which sold to the Logie Farm Partnership, Fife.
Logie Durno also had the next highest Charollais cross at 1,900gns which sold to H. Wood, Shropshire.
North Country Cheviots saw high demand, with a 100% clearance and a record average of £719.
The top price of 2,000gns was for the champion bred by H. Cockburn, Kingside, which sold to A. Jones, Llangollen. Hill type rams topped at 700gns from Tomos Ellis, North Wales.
South Country Cheviots topped at 2,800gns for a yearling, Hindhope Apache from T. Elliot, Northumberland.
A boom in trade was seen in the l
Berrichon ring, with two new breed records set.
The first went to the James family’s Ditton flock, Bridgenorth, with their first prize ram lamb and reserve male champion from the Royal Welsh Show which sold for 4,000gns. The buyers were Gareth and Ifan Thomas, for the Goitre flock, Carmarthen, who then set a new female breed record of 2,900gns for a ewe lamb which went to the James family.
Pre-sale show Texel champion, Empire Gladiator, from Philip Weaver, Nottinghamshire, which sold for 30,000gns in a joint purchase. Texel Caereinion Goliath, from Cefin Pryce, Welshpool, which sold for 24,000gns to the Reed family, Pembroke.
Pre-sale show Bluefaced Leicester champion, Kirkstead T16, from Alan McClymont, Kirkstead, Selkirk, which sold for 20,000gns to the Jones family, Llanbadarn Fynydd.
Charollais yearling from the Jones family, Haverfordwest, which sold for 3,500gns in a two-way split.
Auctioneers: Clee, Tomkinson and Francis; Harrison and Hetherington; Hexham and Northern Marts; Jones Peckover; McCartneys; Ruthin Farmers Auction Co; J. Straker Chadwick and Sons; Michael Walton.
Shearling gimmer tops Skipton’s Texel trade
● Supreme champion sells for 2,200gns
THE Northern Area Texel Breeders show and sale at Skipton peaked at 3,000gns for the second prize shearling ewe and reserve female champion from B.I. and B.M. Mosey’s Blackdale flock, Gilling East. The daughter of Claybury Dunkirk out of a Craigdarroch Clint ewe sold to Glen Wilson, Hawick, who also paid 2,000gns for another shearling gimmer from Blackdale, again by Claybury Dunkirk.
Angela Nairey, Meinspride flock, Blackburn, consigned the first prize shearling ewe, female and overall reserve supreme champion by Hartside Calypso which sold to B. and R. Lawson, Richmond, at 2,200gns.
Ewe lambs sold to 800gns for the first prize winner by Hexel Gorgeous George from Reece and Jenny Stevenson’s Brick Hills flock,
Whitby, which sold to A.J. Chapman, Hempholme.
Joint best of the rams at 2,800gns were two shearling rams from Martin Furness’ Westgate flock, Buxton. Both were by Maineview Four Square, with one joining the Priestley family, Kirkcambeck, the other Josh Ryder, Masongill.
Shepherd Elliot Gisborne with the reserve female champion shearling ewe, from B.I. and B.M. Mosey, Gilling East, which sold for 3,000gns to Glen Wilson, Hawick.
Thirsk, topped at 2,400gns for a son of Stonehills England which sold to D.H. Ryder, Lindley. Alwent Hercules by Strathbogie Yes Sir from Steven Nesbitt and Michael Dent, Darlington, won the recorded lamb class and went on to be supreme champion before selling for 2,200gns to Mark Keighley, Leathley.
Masham record
A NEW record mart price for Masham gimmer lambs of £520/head was set at Bentham by Messrs Verity, Middlesmoor, for the champion pen of 10 which sold to David Buck, Barnard Castle. The same vendor also sold a pen of four at £400/head and a pen of 12 at £340/head.
Dales Mule gimmer lambs topped at £188 for the winning pen from Chris and Henry Fawcett, Ireby. Top pens sold from £155-£170/head, with running lambs between £120-£130.
The first prize pen of Cheviot Mules from Adam Carr, Bentham, topped the section at £280/head to one of the judges, James Atkinson, Bentham. The second prize pen from S.R. and P.A. Thompson, Sedbergh, sold to £220, with this run of 288 averaging £160.16. Tupping lambs were £180-£205, stronger running lambs £155-£175 and smaller running lambs £140-£150.
Third prize
North of England Mule lambs sold to £580 for the third prize pen from W.M. Hutchinson, Redgate, bought by Winter Bros, Clickham. The first prize pen from A.C. and K. Pye, Abbeystead, sold to £550, with G.E. Jackson, Bentham, making £500 for the second prize winners.
Blue Texels sell to 1,700gns twice
Shearling ram
at Stirling
AT the sale of Blue Texels at Stirling the female and overall champion, Hunters Hannah, a gimmer by Stonycroft Fifa from W.J. and M. Hunter, Insch, sold for the joint top price of 1,700gns to J. Taylor, Orkney.
Matching the top bid was the ram lamb class winner, male champion and reserve overall champion from Stephanie Dick, Stirling. This was Stephick Jack Sparrow by Cynllwyn Golden Boy, which went to J. Taylor, Killin, Perthshire.
Making 1,200gns was a ram lamb by Dragon Fab from David Alexander’s Millside flock, Galston, which went to J. Forster, Lilliesleaf.
Class winner
Shearling rams topped at 900gns for the class winner, Hunters Haggis, a Brandon Frank son from Messrs Hunter, which was knocked down to R. McCulloch, Armadale.
Andrew, Kay and Morgan Weir, Bonnybridge, sold their first placed ewe lamb and the reserve female champion by Derg Fireball for 600gns to W.A. and D. Roberston, Isle of Arran, who bought its twin sister, Castlemill Jelly Baby for 700gns. Auctioneers: United Auctions.
Eve Hodge, Huntlywood, sold her first prize recorded shearling ram, Greenarch Great Scot, for 2,600gns to James Robertshaw and Eleanor Bradley, Bradford.
Tupping lambs were £190-£240, with several top pens £280-£380 and the strongest running lambs £160-£180.
AVERAGES: Gimmer lambs – Masham – £135.40 (+£17 on 2023); Dales Mule –£136; Cheviot Mule – £157.46 (+£25.61); North of England Mules – £157.26 (+£31.65). Auctioneers: Richard Turner and Son.
Balwens peak at 810gns at Monmouth
LEADING the trade for Balwen sheep at Monmouth Livestock Centre at 810gns were Dafydd and Amy Harries, Llanddeusant, Carmarthenshire, with a three-year-old ram. It was knocked down to Geraint Jones and family, Llanllwni, Carmarthenshire, for their Hebog flock.
Next, at 750gns, was the male
and overall champion, again from Messrs Harries. By the sale topper, it was a winner at this year’s Royal Welsh Show and sold to Helen Waylen Morse, Flintshire.
Top price in the yearling rams of 500gns went to G. and M. Howells and family, Llandysul. The first prize aged ram from Zavhia Paewai-Jones, Castle
Sale leader, a three-year-old ram, from Dafydd and Amy Harries, Llanddeusant, Carmarthenshire, which sold for 810gns to Geraint Jones and family, Llanllwni, Carmarthenshire.
Isaac, sold for 460gns to G. and M. Groucott, Crumlin, Gwent. The third placed ram lamb from the Downes family, Pumsaint, sold for 280gns to John Evans, Abergavenny.
Ewe lambs
Females topped at 400gns twice for ewe lambs. The first from D.R.L. Williams, Talley, was the female and reserve overall champion from the Royal Welsh Show this year which sold to the Downes family, Pumsaint. The other was the second prize ewe lamb from Zavhia Paewai-Jones, which went to Paul Hancox, Kidderminster. Messrs Howells sold their best yearling ewe for 340gns to the Ebbw flock of S.C. Newman, Ebbw Vale.
A NEW Bluefaced Leicester centre record of 28,000gns was set at Ballymena for the winning shearling ram and reserve champion. By R14 Hewgill, bought for 7,500gns at Carlisle and out of a Midlock-bred dam by Big Yin, it was bred by the Mills family, Ballytober. The Northumberland-based buyers were the judge, Martyn Archer, Carry House flock, and Andy Hunter, Steel flock, who judged the ram in Antrim.
Ram lambs from Dominic McCrystal’s Drummuck flock, Lavey, topped at 16,000gns for Ya Dancer by
£8,000 Cottage out of a ewe by £30,000 N1 Hewgill. It sold to Jimmy Bell, Cottage, Messrs Wight, Midlock, and Messrs Campbell, Overburns. Its full brother sold for 10,000gns to Tom Staunton, Mask View, and another S2 Cottage son sold for 7,400gns to S.J. Duncan, Hill Vale.
Shearling
Making 14,000gns from S. and J. Wilson’s Deerfin pen was a shearling by 7,500gns Temain out of a ewe by M2 Asby Hall, which sold to an online bidder.
The day’s champion was a ram lamb from Timothy Wray’s Knockstacken flock, Carnlough, which also won the trophy for the best run of
sheep at the sale. By Overburns Farm Hitman, it sold to Steven Wilson, Deerfin, and Graham and Julie
Overall reserve champion and winning shearling ram from the Mills family, Ballytober, which sold for 28,000gns to Martyn Archer and Andy Hunter, both from Northumberland.
Loughery, Temain, with Mr Wray keeping a share.
Texels lead Thainstone multi-breed rams at 4,800gns
RECORD averages were achieved at the multi-breed ram show and sale at Thainstone which topped at 4,800gns.
The sale topper was a Texel ram lamb by Clanfield Golden from Robbie Wilson’s Milnbank flock, Turriff, which sold to R. Mackay, Lybster.
The second top price of 2,600gns was paid for a Texel shearling ram by Craig Douglas Evoke from Rodney
Blackhall, Banchory, which sold to Ardhuncart Farm, Alford.
Suffolks topped at 1,800gns for a shearling ram by Frongoy Explosion from J.C. Innes, Huntly, who sold another shearling at 1,500gns.
Charollais sold to 1,200gns twice for the champion and reserve, both shearlings from E. and E. Duncan, Mintlaw, which both sold to J. and J.S. Wilken, Keith.
Texel ram lamb from Robbie Wilson, Turriff, which sold for 4,800gns to R. Mackay, Lybster.
Champion gimmer lambs top NEMSA sale at Barnard Castle
AT the show and sale of North of England Mule Sheep Association (NEMSA) gimmer lambs at Barnard Castle, the championship went to a pen of 10 lambs from J. and S.E. Bainbridge, Richmond. They went on to sell for the top price of £330/head to D.W. and D.M. Elliot, Penrith.
Messrs Bainbridge also won the award for the best run of 201 or more lambs with their 273 lambs averaging £196.50.
The best run of 50-100 lambs were from J.E. and E. Dobson,
Frosterley, who also had the leading average, selling 70 lambs to average £218.73.
Best run
R.W. Makepeace, Newbiggin, Teesdale, had the best run of 101200 lambs averaging £167.85 for 171 lambs.
The 3,810 NEMSA gimmer lambs averaged £160.47, up £41.47 on 2023.
Auctioneers: Barnard Castle and Teesdale Farmers Auction Mart Co.
Beltex rams peaked at 1,000gns twice. Firstly, for the reserve champion, a shearling from Miller Farms, Inverurie, which went to I. Mackenzie, Instack, and then for a ram lamb from Stuart Wood, Skene, which sold to R. McLeod, Finzean.
The top price for the Blue Texels was 900gns paid for a shearling from W.J. and M. Hunter, West Insch, which sold to C.L. Sclater, Orkney.
Border Leicester
The Border Leicester champion from J.G. Douglas, Fraserburgh, made the top price of 1,600gns, with the reserve champion from the same vendor making 600gns and both selling to W. Mather and Son, Brechin.
M. Seed and Son, Cuminestown, secured both champion and reserve in the Bluefaced Leicester section, with the champion selling for 1,000gns to C. Shorten, Keith, and the reserve to Brumber Hill Farm, Appleton Roebuck, for 800gns.
Topping the Dutch Spotted section at 1,200gns was a gimmer from J. Marshall, Kinross, which sold to P.D. and E.A. Thorp, Ellon.
Left to right: Judge Steve Kirby, vendor Lance Bainbridge, Richmond, and judge Thomas Walmsley with the champion lambs, which sold for £330/head to D.W. and D.M. Elliot, Penrith.
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MONDAY 7th OCTOBER (10.30am)
AT MARKET DRAYTON MARKET, TF9 3SW (moved from Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, for sale convenience)
For R & J Merrett DISPERSAL SALE OF THE PEDIGREE ROJADA HERD 110 HOLSTEIN FRIESIANS
★ Final dispersal sale except dry cows and close calving heifers ★
★ Young herd ★ 64 x 1st, 17 x 2nd, 19 x 3rd, 9 x 4th ★
★ Mostly fresh to 150 days calved ★
★ All cows giving 25 to 60kgs ★ All cells under 200 ★ ★ 10,500L 4.30F 3.40P 90CC ★ Cubicles
FRIDAY 11th OCTOBER (10.15am)
AT WIGFAIR FARM, CEFN, ST ASAPH, DENBIGHSHIRE, LL17 0ET
(3 miles A55 St Asaph, 30 miles Chester)
01630 652 926 | marketdraytonmarket.co.uk
Jonty Cliffe 07595 453 306 dairy@barbers-auctions.co.uk Catalogues by post on application only GWILYM RICHARDS &
For H & M Jones ON FARM DISPERSAL SALE THE FIRST CLASS PEDIGREE WIGFAIR HERD
grichards.co.uk | 01600 860 300
Gwilym Richards 07768 020 393 Jason Brown 07774 816 384 info@grichards.co.uk
300 HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN MILKING COWS & HEIFERS
★ 260 milkers to be sold in calving order ★ 34 heifers left to calve ★
★ 10,179L 4.52F 3.37P 95CC ★ 3,966L from forage ★
★ YOUNG HERD ★ 60% 1st and 2nd calvers ★
★ Proven Genus sires including Applejax ★
★ Autumn bias 180 calving 1-7-24 to 31-12-24 ★
★ In-calf Cows due to Beef (BB/Lim) Heifers to AA ★
★ CUBICLES ★ HERRINGBONE PARLOUR ★ ★ NEVER HAD TB ★
FRIDAY 18th OCTOBER (10am)
AT TILSTONE BANK FARM, TILSTONE FEARNALL, TARPORLEY, CHESHIRE, CW6 9QH
(Just off A51 Nantwich Road, 2 miles Tarporley)
For TJ & SL Mansell ON FARM COMPLETE DISPERSAL SALE
THE PRIZE WINNING PEDIGREE TILSTONE HERD 400 HOLSTEIN FRIESIANS
★ Former Champion Farm Cheshire Farms Competition ★
★ Former Runner up Tesco Dairy Farmer of the Year ★
★ 245 milkers to be sold in calving order ★
★ 155 followers of all ages from baby heifer calves to served heifers ★
SALE ON BEHALF OF THE MIDLAND SHIRE FOAL SOCIETY at Field House Equestrian Centre, Marchington, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire ST14 8NX. To include 25 Heavy Horses & 350 lots of Associated Tack. Sale starts 10am tack follow by Horse’s 1:30 pm Prompt
WEEKLY STORE LAMB SALE
Monday 30th September 11am
Further entries accepted on the sale day.
WEEKLY
PRIMESTOCK SALE
FORTNIGHTLY
STORE CATTLE SALE + CALVES/ STIRKS
Tuesday 1st October 12.30pm
Prime Lambs & Cull Ewes
Thursday 3rd October 12.30pm Sale of Young Bulls, Store Heifers & Steers. Rearing calves 12 noon
Saturday 5th October
Show & Sale of Registered Lonk Sheep on (Rams & Females) on behalf of the Lonk Sheep Breeders AssociationCatalogued entries close Mon 30th Sept
Sunday 6th October
Show & Sale Registered Cheviot Sheep (Rams & Females) on behalf of North Country Sheep Society
Saturday 12th October of Registered Derbyshire Gritstone (Rams & Females) on behalf of Derbyshire
Gritstone Sheep Society Catalogue entries close Tues 1st October
Monday 14th October
Show & Sale of Horned & Hill Going Rams plus Show & Sale of Bluefaced LeicesterCatalogue entries close Mon 7th October
Friday 25th October
‘Old Fair Sale’ of 5000 Breeding Ewes, Feeding Ewes, Shearlings, Gimmer Lambs & Store Lambs –Catalogue entries close
Tuesday 15th October
Saturday 26th October
‘Old Fair Sale’ of 350 Breeding Rams –Catalogue entries close
Tuesday 15th October
FARMSTOCK AUCTIONEERS, BROKERS & VALUERS
BORDERWAY MART, CARLISLE
Tel: 01228 406200
Saturday 28th September
211 PEDIGREE TEXEL SHEEP
Show 9.30am Sale 10.30am
On behalf of Solway & Tyne Texel Club
96 BLUE TEXEL BREEDING SHEEP
Show 8.30am Sale 10.30am
102 PEDIGREE HAMPSHIRE DOWN SHEEP
Show 10.30am Sale 12.30pm
30 PEDIGREE ROUSSIN SHEEP
Show 12.30pm Sale 2.30pm.
18 PEDIGREE BADGERFACE TEXEL SHEEP
Sale 3.00pm
600 STORE CATTLE
Wednesday 2nd October -10.00am YOUNG CALVES – 10.00am
PEDIGREE BEEF DAY
Wednesday 2nd October Show and Sales of BRITISH BLUE CATTLE
Show 9.00am Sale 11.00am
– on behalf of the Border British Blue Club 11 bulls & 4 females
Followed by SALERS – 4 females
BEEF SHORTHORN – 3 females
HEREFORD – 1 bull
ABERDEEN ANGUS – 12 bulls, 3 females
CHAROLAIS – 3 bulls
80 BEEF BREEDING CATTLE
Wednesday 2nd October – 11.45am
Sale includes dispersal of the Lunelly Aberdeen Angus herd on behalf of Howatson Frms, Corriemains, Lockerbie
Approx 20 pedigree and 20 pure bred cows and heifers with calves at foot
Followed by
WEANERS & YOUNG BULLS – 12.00noon
To include 100 Limousin/Charolais cross suckler calves from M/s Saunders, Castle Clanyard
506 DAIRY CATTLE SELLING AT BORDERWAY MONTHLY DAIRY DAY
Wednesday 2nd October - 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
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. 74 MID LACTATION COWS - these are all Irish Friesian cows that calved in Feb/March and are either running with the bull or PD+ due from April onwards.
175 IN CALF HEIFERS
SANDISFARNE YOUNGSTOCK DISPERSAL
this will be the last chance to buy Holstein heifers from the famous Sandisfarne herd from Ballalough Farm, Isle of Man. They were winners of the Gold Cup in 2003 and the UK’s No1 NMR Production herd in 2003 & 2004 a change in direction then saw the herd move to a mainly Spring Calving, grass based system and Viking Red genetics where then introduced on the Holstein herd. The herd is currently averaging 7298kg 4.22% 3.42% with only 1 ton of concentrate fed per cow. The first 50 heifers in this consignment are all Holstein heifers from the original high production Holstein cows. An additional 23 are British Friesian heifers from Viking Red dams and the final 26 heifers in this consignment are Pure Viking Reds. All of these heifers are due from the 20th March to the Hereford.
CHAROLMOUNT YOUNGSTOCK DISPERSAL
– following the recent sale of Mount Pleasant Farm along with the milking herd the Shuttleworth family are dispersing their Pedigree Holstein youngstock. This impressive Holstein herd was averaging 9127kgs 4.1% bf 3.3%p. This super group includes 49 recently served heifers, 50 bulling and yearling heifers & 10 heifer calves.
YOUNGSTOCK 35 bulling heifers sell from Knockneen Farm
“Nxt Gen” Show and sale of females and weaned calves
Friday 2nd December
Entries close Monday 7th October
BORDERWAY BLACK & WHITE PEDIGREE DAIRY SALE
Saturday 7th December
Entries close Friday 11th October
ONLINE SALES
SALE OF MACHINERY, IMPLEMENTS & HEAVY PLANT items
Sale bidding starts 10.00am
Wednesday 2nd October until 10.00am Thursday 3rd October
WOOLER MART
Tel: 01668 281223
Show and sale of SUCKLED CALVES. STORE SHEEP
Tuesday 1st October - 11.00am
Show for the Spence Cowan & Bobby Robinson Trophy Ballot Thursday 26th September
LOCKERBIE MART
Tel: 01576 202332
150 STORE CATTLE
Tuesday 1st October - 11.00am
KIRKBY STEPHEN
Tel: 01768 371385
BREEDING SHEEP
Friday 4th October
Ewes & Shearlings – Judging 9:30am Sale 10:30am
Gimmer Lambs – Judging 12noon
Sale following the Ewes & Shearlings
Special sale of 3000 Swaledale ewes, shearlings and gimmer lambs. Show for registered and unregistered uncrossed and cross correct Swaledale ewe and shearlings
Prize show and sale of 162 BLUEFACED LEICESTER RAMS & FEMALES
Annual prize show and sale of 2000 STORE LAMBS & FEEDING EWES
Thursday 3rd October
Show 12.00noon Sale 12.30pm
Second sale of MULE GIMMER LAMBS
Wednesday 9th October Show for NEMSA members
Entries close 10am Monday 30th September
Prize show and sale of BLUEFACED LEICESTER and SWALEDALE RAMS
Saturday 12th October also rams of other breeds
Entries close 10am Wednesday 2nd October
Uncrossed And Crossed SWALEDALE BREEDING FEMALES
Also other breeds of ewes and shearlings
Call 01772 799500 and place your ad today
MIDDLETON MART
Tel: 01833 640281
Annual prize show and sale of Uncrossed registered and unregistered 3800 SWALEDALE EWES & SHEARLINGS
Monday 30th September
Show 9.30am Sale 10.30am
SWALEDALE SHEEP BREEDERS ASSOCIATION
“A” District 200 RAMS
Wednesday 9th October – 10.30am
H&H Group plc (H&H)
SALE OF 2520 SHARES OF £1 EACH IN H&H GROUP PLC BY AUCTION
Thursday 3rd October 2024 – 10.30 am in the ring at St Boswells Auction Mart
If you are unable to attend the auction, you can make alternative arrangements to purchase shares either by phone or by leaving commission bids with Margaret Irving on 01228 406334, 07912 485326 or margaret.irving@hhgroupplc.co.uk
Please note that copies of the Annual Report for the period to 30th June 2023 and Interim Report to 31st December 2023 are available on our website at http://hhgroupplc.co.uk/share-news/
Please note that only existing shareholders or restricted investors will be permitted to bid for these shares. If you are Interested in purchasing shares you should contact Margaret Irving to establish whether you meet the eligibility criteria as a relevant investor under relevant legislation.
Investments in shares are for the long term. The value of your investment and the income derived from it can go down as well as up and you may get back less than you originally invested. You should not invest unless you are prepared to lose the money you invest. Investment is high risk and you may not be protected if something goes wrong.
If you are in any doubt about purchasing shares, you should consult an independent financial advisor author-ised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. This financial promotion has been approved by SPARK Advisory Partners Limited (“SAPL”) under s21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act. SAPL is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. SAPL makes no recommendation as to the suitability of shares in H&H Group plc as an investment.
Special prize show and sale of EWES & LAMBS
Saturday 12th October
Entries close 10am Wednesday 2nd October
Sales can be Viewed and Online bidding available through
HAWES, NORTH YORKSHIRE, DL8 3NP 01969 667207 www.hawesmart.co.uk
Friday 27th September
Sale of 2215 Store Lambs.
Monday 30th September 9am
10,837 Mule, Cheviot Mule & Cont x Gimmer Lambs & Shearlings. Judging 8am Sale 9am Sponsored by JN & E Capstick Insurance Consultants.
Tuesday 2nd October 10am 2000 Prime Lambs 400 Cast Ewes & Rams.
Thursday 3rd October 9am
Annual Show & Sale of 673 Bluefaced Leicester crossing Rams & Females On behalf of the Bluefaced Leicester Sheep Association. Monday 7th October 10am Show & Sale of Swaledale Breeding Ewes & Gimmer Shearlings. Sale includes Uncrossed & Crossed ewes.
Friday 11th October 10:30am
Sale of 2000 Store Lambs.
Entries close Wednesday 2nd October
Saturday 12th October 9:30am
Annual Show & Sale of Swaledale Gimmer Lambs & Shearlings.
Entries close Tuesday 1st October.
Monday 14th October
Third sale of Mule, Masham Cheviot Mules & Continental Gimmer Lambs Entries close Tuesday 1st October. Ian Atkinson 07957 256337 Kenton Foster 07711 469280.
Mark Lee: 07980924179
Simon Lamb: 07815 188125 Ryan Spackman: 07725 653542 Mark@nortonandbrooksbank.com
MONDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER (10.30 AM)
CARMARTHEN LIVESTOCK CENTRE, SA33 5DR GATROG HERD DISPERSAL (280 HEAD)
Dispersal of the renowned GATROG herd, the property of Elwyn and Cheryl Thomas. One of the country’s most outstanding herds to go under the hammer this year. A master breeder herd, displaying the ultimate combination of deep pedigree’s, high production, renowned cow families and show potential. 160 sell in milk with 33 Excellent and 97 Very Good (inc. 39 VG-2yo), comprising 116 bred from 6 to 16 gens VG/EX in the milkers alone. Current herd average of 9,686kg 4.62% 3.20% cell count under 100. Fed on a complete ration of grass and maize plus a blend, housed in cubicles, 2x milking. 120 youngstock sell, providing a unique opportunity for the future, comprising 35 in calf heifers, many due shortly, 47 maidens and 42 calves at foot. Top proven sires throughout, backed will full pedigree’s from families such as Adeen, Ambrosia, Celicia, Cosmopolitan, Farrah, Ghost, Jodie, Lila Z, Oralie, Rapture, Roxy and Vaakje, to name a few. High Health, IBR Vacc., BVD monitored & Free (Gwaredu BVD Scheme) with NO positive Johnes. This sale offers cattle for all systems and should not be missed. Join us for what promises to be the event of this Autumns sales calender.
Sale in conjunction with NOCK DEIGHTON Llyr Jones 07812 934964).
Sale via MARTEYE. Catalogues available by request, call, text, email for copy.
FRIDAY 11TH OCTOBER (11.00AM)
EXETER LIVESTOCK CENTRE, MATFORD PARK, EXETER, EX2 8FD LOFORD HERD DISPERSAL (164 HOLSTEINS)
Dispersal sale of the entire first class LOFORD herd the property of Master Breeders MJ & JE Wade of Bideford, Devon and removed to Exeter Livestock Centre. The Sale contains 85 milkers of which there are no fewer than 37 Excellent & 37 Very Good (inc. 14 VG 2yo), added to that superior conformation is a quite exceptional catalogue. A true breeder’s herd, with depth of pedigree seldom seen! 98% of the entire catalogue are bred from 5 to 16 generations EX or VG. Many super representatives of all the leading cow families such as Ambrosia, Chassity, Dellia, Elegance, Fifi, Flo, Ghost, Gloria, Lausine, Lila Z, Lustre, Marci, Moxy, Rae, Raven, Rhonda, Rose, Roxy, Sharon and Shower . Fed on a modest TMR of grass silage with blends, topped up with concentrates in the parlour and housed in cubicles. Herd average 9,841kg 4.48% 3.42% cc164. Sale also includes 80 youngstock, including 40 A lot calves, by noted sire such as Bullseye, Chief, Davinci, Lambda, King Doc, Lemagic, Legend, Pepper, Ryder and Showtime, all of which catch the eye for all the right reasons. High Health, NO Vaccinations with NO evidence via bulk testing. Johnes monitored – never had a clinical case. A genuine dispersal of one of the best small herds to be sold this Autumn. Sale in conjunction with KIVELLS.
SALE ANNOUNCEMENT – TUESDAY 15TH OCTOBER
Dispersal sale of the entire HOLLAFRENCH herd of Holsteins the property of WS Jose & Son (Holsworthy, Devon) and removed to Exeter Livestock Centre. FULL DETAILS NEXT WEEK!
Sale in conjunction with KIVELLS.
All catalogues available by request, call, text, email for catalogues. Sales via MARTEYE FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR SALE INFO & PICTURES!
Telephone: 01824 705000
CLWYD WELSH PONY & COB ASSOCIATION
Sale @ 11am
Of 90 Registered Welsh Ponies, Cobs & Part-Breds
At The Vale of Clwyd Livestock Centre, Ruthin. LL15 1PB
At the Vale of Clwyd Livestock Centre, Parc Glasdir, Ruthin LL15 1PB Sale @ 12noon
Catalogues being prepared and will be online @ www.ruthinfarmers.co.uk
All enquiries contact Dafydd Parry on 07780 924460 *** *** *** *** ***
SATURDAY 19th OCTOBER 2024
2nd SALE OF SUCKLER BRED WEANLING CALVES
At the Vale of Clwyd Livestock Centre, Parc Glasdir, Ruthin LL15 1PB Sale @ 12noon
Please Note Closing Date For Entries:- Friday 11th October 2024 Entry Forms available or enter online:- www.ruthinfarmers.co.uk
All enquiries contact Dafydd Parry on 07780 924460 *** *** *** ***
Entries now invited for the Annual Autumn Sale of Farm Machinery, Implements, Hand Tools, Vehicles & Agricultural Miscellanea (Limited to 1,000 lots) on:-
SATURDAY 2nd NOVEMBER 2024
At the Vale of Clwyd Agricultural Centre, Parc Glasdir, Ruthin, LL15 1PB
Please Note Closing Date For Entries:- Friday 18th October 2024 Entry Forms available from the Auctioneers on 01824 705000 Or enter online:- www.ruthinfarmers.co.uk
AUCTION MARTS
LIVESTOCK AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS Find us on Facebook
LONGTOWN MART Tel (01228) 791215
Monday 30th September at 10am
7,000 Border Cheviot Ewe & Ram Sale 7,000 4,000 North & South Country Cheviot Ewes
1,000 Shearling Gimmers, 1,500 N.C. Ewe Lambs & 500 S.C. Ewe Lambs N.C. Cheviot Society Sale of 150 Park and Hill Shearling and 2-Shear Rams
Special Sale of 70 Traditional Bluefaced Leicester Shearling Rams
9,000 Tuesday 1st October at 10.30am 9,000
9,000 Store Lambs to include Cheviot and Blackface
Wednesday 2nd October at 10am
9,000 Store Lambs to include Cheviot and Blackface
Wednesday 2nd October at 10am
4,250 Border Horned Ewe & Ram Sale 4,250
2,500 Blackface & Swaledale Ewes, Dispersal of 320 reg. ages., ex Sourhope. 750 Shearlings & 1,000 Ewe Lambs
Show & Sale of North of England Blackface Gimmers & Ewes
50 North of England & Scotch Bred Blackface Shearling Rams & Ram Lambs
1,500 Lowland Breeding Sheep 1,500 2nd Sale of Mule Ewe Lambs
Mule & Other Breed Shearlings, Ewes & Ewe lambs
500 Saturday 5th October at 10am 500
Show & Sale of 500 mainly Continental Bred Suckler Calves & Store Cattle
Friday 4th October 2024
To be Held at: Tern Farm, Longdon On Tern, Shropshire, TF6 6LN Tools, Equipment & Sundries: 10:30am Machinery, Implements & Tractors: 12:00pm
Sale to Include: 2016 Case Puma 165, 2012 John Deere 6630, 2012 JCB 536.60, 2015 Knight 2050 Self Propelled Sprayer, 1973 Massey Ferguson 135, 2014 Grimme Potato Planter, Grimme GT 1705 Potato Harvester, 2014 Meidema Conveyors, Squire Grader & Hopper with elevator, Grimme CS1500 Destoner, 2020 Baseliner 190 topper, 2013 Toyota Hilux Pickup truck, 2012 Volvo XC60, Masters Super 120 M Dryer, Bailey 10T Rootcrop Trailer, West 14T Rootcrop Trailer, 2007 E31 Bauer Hose Reel, 2011 Greencrop Mobile Pump & Engine, John Deere X300R Ride on Mower, as well as 200x lots of Workshop Tools and Sundries.
For further information please contact our Shrewsbury Auction Centre Team on: David Giles Jonny Dymond Henry Hyde
Monday 30th September at 6.00pm (Show at 4.00pm)
Show & Sale of Crossing Type Leicester Rams & Ram Lambs
Thursday 3rd October at 10.00am
Sale of 6000 Breeding Sheep
Show & Sale of Blackface & Swaledale Draft Ewes & Gimmers
Sale of Mule, Cheviot, Swaledale, Blackface & Other Ewe Lambs
Genuine Flock Dispersal of 300 Texel & Cheviot Mule Aged Ewes & 25 Pure Dutch Texel Aged Ewes
On behalf of Messrs J E Henderson & Sons, Burntongues
Friday 4th October at 9.00am
Sale of 1500 Cast Ewes & 6000 Store Lambs
Sale of 500 Store Cattle & Suckled Calves including monthly sale of Native Breeds
Entries invited by 10am Monday 30th September
Wednesday 9th October at 10.00am
Second Sale of 400 Texel, Suffolk, Bluefaced Leicester & Crossbred Rams & Ram Lambs
Entries invited by 10am Tuesday 1st October
Friday 11th October at 9.00am
Sale of 1500 Cast Ewes & 6000 Store Lambs
Annual Prize Show & Sale of 600 Continental Store Cattle & Suckled Calves
Entries invited by 10am Monday 7th October
Monday 14th October at 10.30am (Show at 8.00am)
Prize Show & Sale of Blackface Aged Rams, Shearlings & Ram Lambs
Under the auspices of the Blackface Sheep Breeders Association
Entries invited by 10am Tuesday 1st October
SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE 01278 410250 | livestock@gth.net, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF
SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE 01278 410250 | livestock@gth.net, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF
AVAILABLE BY PRIVATE TREATY 2 HERD DISPERSALS
✰ 60 Dairy Cows including Holsteins, Friesians, Shorthorns & Norwegian Reds. NMR Herd Av: 7656kgs 4.16%BF 3.35%P SCC=167. Calving all year round. Cubicles & Herringbone Parlour.
✰ 100 Holstein Friesians (Inc 20 Ayrshires). NMR Herd Av: 7656kgs 4.16%BF 3.35%P SCC=167. Calving all year round. Cubicles & Herringbone Parlour. Contact Andy Clements 07769 904704 andrew.clements@gth.net
SEDGEMOOR’S WEEKLY SATURDAY DAIRY MARKET
AVERAGES OVER 80 EACH WEEK
Catalogues now available on Friday’s online and on social media. Bidding on Marteye. Contact GTH 01278 410250 livestock@gth.net
4791
AUCTION MART
61444 - Sale Days 61246
Stephen 07713 075 661 Greg 07713 075 664 Will 07590 876 849 www.benthamauction.co.uk
Friday 27th September at 11am BREEDING EWES GIMMER SHEARLINGS
Saturday 28th September at 10am 5352 GIMMER LAMBS
4812 NofE Mule & 540 Masham, Chev Mule etc
Monday 30th September
10.30am Feeding & Cast Cows & OTM Cattle Followed by 200 STORE CATTLE
Tuesday 1st October
Annual Show & Sale of 3772 SWALEDALE, CHEVIOT & OTHER HILL EWES & GIMMER SHEARLINGS
Viz. 3057 Swale Ewes, 700 Shearlings & 65 Cheviot
Wednesday 2nd October
11am 100-150 Rearing Calves
2.30pm 2500 Cast Ewes followed by 3000 Prime Lambs
DALESBRED ASSOCIATION SALES
Friday 4th October at 11am 1249 DALESBRED EWES, SHEARLINGS & GIMMER LAMBS
Monday 7th October at 11.30am
213 DALESBRED AGED & SHEARLING RAMS
Tuesday 8th October FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF STORE LAMBS
Entries for catalogue close Friday 27th September
Wednesday 9th October
Fortnightly Sale of Dairy Cattle
Wednesday 9th October
TWO AUCTION MART SHARES-For Sale at 7.30pm
Thursday 10th October
MULTI BREED RAM SALE Viz All Breeds followed by Annual Show & Sale of SWALEDALE AGED & SHEARLING RAMS
Entries for catalogue close Friday 27th September
Saturday 12th October
Autumn Sale of Tractors, Farm Machinery & Equipment Entries requested for advertising
Tuesday 15th October
1st ANNUAL SHOW & SALE OF SUCKLED CALVES
Inc. Annual Entry of 70 Char/Sim from Fishwick Farms
Monthly Sale of Stirks, Young Stores & Feeding Bulls
Friday 18th October
Autumn Field Sale of Working Sheepdogs & Pups
Richard Turner & Son
Complete on farm dispersal of Tractors, Machinery & Equipment on behalf of DG Boothman – Halton East 10.30am Details on www.ccmauctions.com
Pre-Sale Commission bidding is available via the online auctions page until Friday 27th September
SALE OF CALVES Sale 10.30am
Entries & Enquiries to Kyle PRIME, CAST & FEEDING CATTLE Sale 11.30am (TB exempt section available) PRIME LAMBS - Sale 12.30pm followed by CAST EWES, RAMS & GOATS
542-70 Agri Super Loadall (20’) 538-60 Agri Super Loadall (21’), 531-70 (21’), 525-60 (18’) 530-70 Farm Special, Manitou MLT 630-115 Elite & Blanche TW36 Mini 4WD Loading Shovel JCB 4220 Fastrac, 4WS (20’) Kioti RX 7330 4WD c/w KL7320 Power Loader (24’) Kioti DK 6020 HST 4WD c/w KL551ON Power Loader (24’) Ride On Mower, RTV’s and Vehicles, Loading Shovel & Yard Forklift Mowers and Hedgecutters, JCB 8008 Compact Excavator (18’) Kubota B1750 4WD Compact Tractor, Small Plant Equipment, Weights and Buckets Telehandler Attachments, New Parts and Agricultural Supply Accessories Workshop Furniture, Tools and Sundries
For further details: Mark Elliott on 07973 673092 || 01889 562811 email: mark.elliott@bagshaws.com www.bagshaws.com Or James Walton 07920 496350 & Anita Riggall 07966 597930 Of the Brown & Co Humber Office 01482 421234 www.brown-co.com
SMALL HOLDER DISPERSAL
NETHER PARK FARM, ALDERWASLEY, DERBYSHIRE, DE56 2RE
WEDNESDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2024 – 3PM AFTERNOON SALE
Massey Ferguson & Ferguson Classic Tractors
Small Range of Implements, Antiquities and Household Items Tools, Sundries & Effects, To include End of Tenancy Livestock Items
SATURDAY 19TH OCTOBER 2024 AT 10.30AM
New Holland, Leyland and Fordson Super Dexta Tractors Volkswagon Caddy Crew Van, 2 Ford Transit Vans, 2 Lorries
John Deere, Iseki, Kubota Ride on Lawn Mowers
Large range of Professional and Robot Lawn Mowers Range of Garden Tools, Workshop Items and Sundries Catalogues are available to download at www.bagshaws.com Email: olivia.fernihough@bagshaws.com
Tel: 01629 812777
www.bagshaws.com
DISPERSAL OF THE HEMINGBY HERD OF PEDIGREE LINCOLN REDS, PEDIGREE BRITISH BLUE BULL & BLUE X BREDS on behalf of Michael Read, Hemingby, Lincolnshire Friday 11th October 2024 at Noon at Louth Livestock Market, viewing from 8am
110 animals to include Stock Bulls, In-calf Cows & Heifers, Yearling Heifers, many Calves with show potential & Semen For more information contact auctioneer Ed Middleton on 07395 570303 or auctions@masonsandpartners.co.uk View catalogue online louthmarket.co.uk Online bidding via
Entries to the yard by Mon 30th strictly before 2pm Thursday 3rd October
10:30am PRIME BEEF followed by CULL CATTLE
For further information contact: Alastair Brown: 07885 804450 Jake Wagstaff: 07487 526803 01832 732241 or visit the website for weekly listings of sale entries
www.bletsoes.co.uk
1 AA Bull, 1 AA Heifer, 2 HE Heifers, 3 LIM Bulls, plus further entries on the day Catalogues available on our website Contact James Kilner - 07984 400902 Sponsored by Bishopton Veterinary Group
10:30am REARING CALVES, 11:00am MASSEY FEEDS with LELY LONGTOWN SHOW & SALE OF DAIRY entries to Eleanor by MON 2pm Saturday 5th October
First Suckled calf show
9:30am WEEKLY CAST SHEEP & PRIME LAMBS
10:00am BREEDING, FEEDING & STORE CATTLE inc 1st suckled calf show & sale & dispersal of the ‘Buffs’ herd Pedigree Simmental cow & calves
Thursday 10th October
10:30am REARING CALVES
10:30am PRIME CATTLE followed by CULL CATTLE
11:00am DAIRY CATTLE
12:30pm STIRKS - Entries to the office by Tue 8th Oct
Saturday 12th October
First October breeding fair
9:30am WEEKLY CAST SHEEP followed by PRIME LAMBS, All classes of BREEDING SHEEP, RAMS and STORE LAMBS SEASONAL SHOW AND SALES
Sat 26th Oct - 2nd OCTOBER BREEDING FAIR OF SHEEP Sat 2nd Nov - 2nd SUCKLED CALF SHOW & SALE Tue 5th Nov MONTHLY MACHINERY SALE
24-25 YOUNG HANDLERS OVERWINTERING BUYING WINDOW IS OPEN!
WORCESTER MARKET, WR4 0SQ
TUESDAY 1st OCTOBER
South Devon Herd Book Society’s Autumn Show & Sale 34 Pedigree Females, 9 Pedigree Bulls Judging at 9.30am, Sale at 12.30pm Online bidding will be available via Marteye. For more information and catalogues, Contact Worcester Office on 01905 769770
SATURDAY 5th OCTOBER
Oktoberfest Sale of Pedigree Charollais Sheep 63 In Lamb Shearling Ewes, 10 Ewe Lambs 1 Ewe Sale at 11.00am
Badger Face Welsh Mountain Sheep Show & Sale
Torwen and Torddu Males & Females Show at 10.30am, Sale at 1.00pm Online bidding will be available via Marteye. For more information and catalogues, Contact Worcester Office on 01905 769770
Wednesday 2nd October
8am Cast Ewes & Rams followed at 10.30am with Prime Lambs (Ballot 10.30am)
Sunday 6th October
Show 3pm; Sale 5pm
Show & Sale of 200 Crossing Bluefaced Leicester Rams and Females Noted flocks selling Cockleberry; Greenhow; Brockholes; Mains; Crossfell Farm; Scarrowmanwick; Hollins; Wescoe; Hegdale; Laypool; West Coast; Oak House; Howgate; Bowderdale; Kentmere Hall; Hawkswell; Kirkby Redgate; Todhills; Low Scales; Leavyholme; Hewgill; Waterside; Street House; Binsey; Ynys Mon; Sky High; Yore House; Spurigg; Sullom; Skeughdale; Cotehouse; Gillbeck.
Monday 7th October
Sale of Store Cattle and Feeding Bulls of all classes
Entries close Noon Monday 30th September
Monday 7th October
Sale of Store lambs of all classes
Entries close Noon Monday 30th September
Thursday 10th October
Annual Prize Show & Sale of Swaledale, Herdwick, Cheviot and other Hill Bred Ewes & Gimmer Shearlings also, Swaledale and Herdwick Gimmer Lambs
Entries close noon Tuesday 1st October
Tuesday 15th October
Late Autumn Fair of the Second Sale of North of England Mule Gimmer Lambs, Breeding Ewes & Shearlings of all breeds. Also the Annual Sale of Swaledale Rams, also Bluefaced Leicester, Cheviot, Suffolk and Continental Rams.
Entries close noon Tuesday 8th October
Andrew Maughan 07717 611952 Paul Gardner 07552 589141
...Yorkshire’s Friendly Mart
SATURDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER
Breeding & Store Cattle of all classes inc
15 LimX Part Str/Hfrs, 16/18mth M&K Watson
5 Limx Str/Hfrs, 16/20mth, R Hughes & Son
5 Lim Hfrs, 18/20mth JF & R Shipley
12 Lim Bulls, 9/12mth, T Thomas & Son
2 AAx/ShthornX In Calf Cows, K&M OConnor
8 Shorthornx strs/hfrs,16m,Middle Park
Breeding & Store Sheep inc
50 Tex X Lambs, M&K Watson
Breeding & Store Pigs Pigs 9am Sheep 9.45am Cattle 10.45am
To include Case International 4230 tractor, Case International 695 tractor and a Massey Ferguson 240
Combine with an 8’6” cut. There is also a wide range of farm machinery including a 10’ Ifor Williams livestock trailer, Samasz two drum mower, trailers, cultivation equipment, drills and two Bamford conventional balers, Mesko-Rol Z275 hay bob, livestock equipment, fencing, galvanised gates, small tools and sundry items and also a range of collectable vintage items of machinery and antique dairy equipment, a stone trough, antique water pumps, dolly tub, copper milking machine buckets etc.
Enquiries contact John Wilson or Peter Kirton-Darling Tel: 01782-522117
Email: john.wilson@whittakerandbiggs.co.uk or peter@whittakerandbiggs.co.uk
Catalogue available at www.whittakerandbiggs.co.uk
THE PREES PLANT, AGRICULTURAL, TRUCK & TRAILER AUCTION
Ring 1 – Skips & Bins, Buckets Followed by Construction Plant, Agricultural, Vintage Equipment, Cars & Vans, Ring 2 – Trailers, Tractor Units, Skip Loaders, Hook Loaders, Tippers & Other Rigids HYBRID ONLINE AUCTION – Monday 7th October 2024 - 10am Misc Garage / Yard Equipment & Small Tools
FURTHER ITEMS BEING ADDED DAILY
Visit our website for full details or contact Charlie Foyle, Chris Hanmer or Debbie Ormerod. Onsite, Online, Phone & Left Bidding Available 01948 667700 www.malcolmharrison.co.uk auctions@malcolmharrison.co.uk auctions@malcolmharrison.co.uk All overseas buyers & buyers not known to the auctioneer must lodge a refundable deposit of 10% of expected spend, £1000 minimum, on registration by cash/credit/debit card.
ADLINGTON EQUESTRIAN CENTRE DISPERSAL SALE
10.30AM - SATURDAY 5TH OCTOBER 2024 STREET LANE FARM, ADLINGTON, CHESHIRE, SK10 4NT
300 Bales of Hay, Tipping Trailers, MCHALE Bale Grab, NEW HOLLAND Conventional Baler, Steel Container/Welfare Cabin. 38 Foot Long, 2012 LOGIC GDS150 Salt Spreader, LISTER Elevator, Qty Of JCB Buckets, Muck Fork, RM Irrigation Reel, EQUESTRIAN SURFACES Menage Grader, 31
LODDON Internal Stable Fronts, 6 IAE Internal Stable Fronts, Large Qty Show Jumps, 2 x Arena Surfaces (Indoor Fibre & Outdoor Rubber), Equine Sundries & Farm Miscellanea. Catalogues on Website. For Mr D Shore.
Displenishing Sale
Friday 4th October at 10.30 am
Traditional On Farm Displenishing Sale
On behalf of Messrs Landale & Co, Dalswinton Estate, Dumfries DG2 OXZ McCormick 7.440 4WD Tractor SF19 NNR (4000 hours):McCormick 60.40 4WD Tractor c/w Loader SV15 BUW (6000 hours): McCormick MTX 150 4WD Tractor SF13 OAP (8000 hours):Ford 7840 4WD Tractor L668 FSE (Approx 1500 hours):DIECI Agristar 40.7 EV02 Telehandler SF22 AFZ (4000 hours):MF135 Tractor ESM 545L c/w Grass Topper: Honda TRX 500 Quad Bike (1800 hours) PX69 EFD: Honda TRX 500 Quad PX68 DCY (2100 hours):Honda Big Red 250:Abbey VF1650 Tub Mixer (2016): Lucas Castor +30 Straw Chopper (2 yr old): Quad X Weed Wiper 8ft: Fraser Silage Trailers (F15T) x 3:TWOSE Cambridge Roller:Star 2000 Tanker: KRM Fertiliser Spreader:Schuitemaker Feeder 50: Grass Harrows:Team Alpha 12m Boom Sprayer: KRM L20 (Lineplus) Fertiliser Spreader (1yr old): Krone Single Rotar Rake (42/13): Norman Raw 10ft Grubber: Grays 10ft Multiharrow (New discs): Tandon 10ft Grass Rollers: Malone Post Knocker: Krone 7:82/6x7 Tedder: Ifor Williams Double Axle Stock Trailer 12 ft: Kvernland 3 Furrow Plough: Galvanised Double Axle Stock Trailer 20ft (2010): Malone 8ft Mower (2016): Buckrake 8ft (Manatou Brackets): Silage Pusher: Fleming Bale Squeeze (Euro Brackets): Tomb Stone Ring Feeder: 10 Ring Feeders: IBC Tanks x 4: Double Trough x 5: Concrete & Plastic Water Troughs x 10: BO Steel Calving Gates x 2: Calving Gates x 4: 10ft Cattle Gates x 20: Field Gates 12ft &14ft x 40:Portequip Calf Creep x 12: Portequip Feed Trailers 14ft -16ft x 8: Pushoff Buckrake: Fiona Grass Drill: Strimech Bucket & Brush Attachment: Logic Quad Bike Trailers x 3: Cashels Bale Squeeze (Manatou Brackets): Various Buckets & Grabs: MF Trailer: Petrol Pressure Washer: PTO Pressure Washer: Small Tools: Shear Cordless Clippers x 2: Various Cattle Clippers: Calving Jack x 3: Electric Fencer Post & Wire x 4: Chain Saw: Grinder: Welder (GYMS 1): Various Workshop Tools: 4 x Farm screen 360 calving cameras: INPUTS: Krone S Wadro TC880 Rake: John Deere 455 Ride on Lawnmower (please note no further inputs will be taken at this sale)
All sales are subject to UA Livestock Limited’s Terms and Conditions. Bidders and purchasers shall be deemed to have full knowledge of these Terms and Conditions and by taking part and bidding in any auction, you agree to be bound by the Terms and Conditions. Copies of the terms and conditions are available on request. Buyers must obtain a bidding number from the office prior to purchasing. PAYMENT TERMS STRICTLY CASH AT SALE Contact: John Roberts 07885 580778 Andy Williamson (Farm Manager) 07702 847334 Refreshments will be available on the day.
Scottish Auctions
Scottish Auctions
TUESDAY 1ST OCTOBER at 10.30am (Judging: 9.30am)
SHOW & SALE OF AUTUMN BORN SUCKLED CALVES
Classes: Single Bullock/Heifer (Haltered/Un-Haltered) and Pen of Four Bullocks/Heifers
Judge: Katrina Donaldson
Kindly sponsored by L. S. Smellie & Sons Ltd
This will be one of the finest shows and sales of suckled bred store cattle to be held within Central Scotland and well worthy of buyers attendance
TUESDAY 8TH OCTOBER at 10.30am SALE OF STORE CATTLE
TUESDAY 15TH OCTOBER at 10.30am (Judging: 9.30am)
SHOW & SALE OF SPRING BORN SUCKLED CALVES
Classes: Single Bullock/Heifer (Haltered/Un-Haltered) and Pen of Four Bullocks/Heifers
Judge: Anderson Waddell Kindly sponsored by TBC
TUESDAY 22ND OCTOBER at 10.30am SALE OF STORE CATTLE
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
FGBuyandSell.com
Workshop Fitter / Mechanic
Outline of responsibilities:
• The principal role of the workshop fitter/mechanic is to repair, service and inspect
• Plant and equipment prior to delivery and on return from hire.
This includes equipment from manufacturers such as Takeuchi, JCB, Komatsu, Doosan, John Deere, New Holland, Terex, Hamm, Ammann, and Indeco.
Your Responsibilities:
• Repair & locate faults with equipment in-line with manufacturer recommendations and in a timely fashion to ensure minimum downtime.
• Service equipment in-line with manufacturers’ recommendations.
• Carry our PUWER & LOLER inspections for all equipment.
• Follow the procedures and guidelines to ensure compliance with our ISO9001 quality management system.
Professional experience we would like you to demonstrate:
Previous experience in a similar role.
Dealership training (manufacturers listed above)
Understanding of engines, hydraulic systems and electrical systems.
Some of the skills you will have:
A professionally recognized qualification in plant maintenance and repair (NVQ level 3 or equivalent Knowledge of Microsoft products (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
Excellent communication & organizational skills
A full UK driving license
What’s in it for you?
We offer competitive salaries in the industry and treat our staff fairly and as individual people - we really look after you. We don’t hold anyone back and there are many examples of employee promotions within the business and a lot of our employees have been with us for many years. We like to train and develop our staff to get the best from them and in return for your hard work and commitment, we provide a safe, fun, relaxed and flexible work environment for you to succeed.
Interested in hearing more and coming to join the family?
If so, please submit your CV today. Email: richard.Walsh@bphsp.com
Used for central heating, cooking and baking. Runs 20 radiators. Delivered free nationwide. Tel: 0114 257 8891 www.cookersimporteddirect.com
FIND A PARTNER
info@britmilk.co.uk www.britmilk.co.uk
• Borehole Drilling
• Treatment & Filtration
• Water testing 01625 878411 www.blairdrilling.co.uk WATER WELL DRILLING
• BOREHOLE DRILLING FOR DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL PURPOSES
• WATER SYSTEMS INSTALLED
• BOREHOLE PUMPING INSTALLATIONS
• 24HR BREAKDOWN SERVICE • FREE QUOTATIONS AND SITE VISITS THE POTTERIES GARAGE SMALLBROOK LANE, LEIGH, WIGAN, LANCS, WN7 5PZ. TEL: 01942 871900. FAX: 01942 896843. Out of office: 01942 893660 Visit our Website www.waterwellengineers.co.uk Email: sally@waterwellengineers.co.uk
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New & Used Bulk Milk Tanks
Welsh Dairy Show 2024
22nd OCTOBER 2024 - 9am to 4pm
UNITED COUNTIES SHOW GROUND, NANTYCI, CARMARTHEN SA33 5DR
Tickets: £15.00
Under 16s: Free
Showcasing dairy animals from across Wales and the borders, the event features small and large businesses promoting all aspects of the Welsh dairy industry.
Contact the Show Office 01267 232141, email enquires@unitedcounties.co.uk
TRADE STANDS AND SPONSORSHIP STILL AVAILABLE.
Portable Milking Machine
Complete with Honda engine and Electric motor. This unit is ready for work and can be delivered anywhere in the UK.
Daily collections of all types of fallen stock throughout the North of England.
Tel: 01524 261144 or 01524 263022 or 01274 833196
SAVERNAKE SUFFOLKS
18 Outdoor reared, grass fed, pedigree and commercial Suffolk shearling rams for sale.
Vigorous modern type, with some New Zealand genetics, selected for low birth weight, high growth and muscling, and balanced terminal and maternal characteristics. MV accredited. Mid-season discounts available. Also 12 well priced Shearling Ewes available.
Wise, North Yorkshire T: 07890 135183 | E: info@suffolkrams.co.uk
Please feel free to contact Richard – 07816 173689 John – 07885 739120
DAIRY CATTLE FOR SALE
TOP QUALITY
BELTEX x TEXEL, BELTEX x CHAROLLAIS & CHARMOISE x BELTEX shearling rams. Carefully bred for over 20 years, over 40 available, grass produced, no corn. The rams need to be seen. Heptavac P. No silly price.
Excellent conformation. Extremely well-muscled. All home bred.
Tel: 01298 872500 or Mobile: 07570 272376 Derbys
Beltex X Texel X Charollais Shearling Rams
Excellent conformation, tight skins, ready for work. Heptavac P. Naturally Reared, no corn
Contact Mr Brocklehurst on 07764 196462 or 01260 223338
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. Livestock Supplies Ltd Ashley: 07831 887531, Office: 01829 260328, Will: 07769 974476 www.livestocksupplies.co.uk
LANGLEY HERD OF BRITISH FRIESIANS
HAS FOR SALE A SELECTION OF DOWN CALVING HEIFERS DUE SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER TO BRITISH FRIESIAN BULL
WELL GROWN, VERY GOOD CONFIRMATION, EXCELLENT PEDIGREES, BVD FREE CALL JOHN - 07768 645124
Solo Herd Reduction Sale of Pedigree Charolais Cattle
2 first calved heifers 6 cows with calves
1 yearling heifer 1 yearling bull
Bloodlines include Balthayock, Blelack, Glenericht, Wesley, Whitecliffe and Woodpark.
SAC Premium Cattle Health Scheme. BVD vaccinated and johne’s level 1 accredited
To be held at Carmarthen Livestock Market SA33 5DR on Monday 7th October Approx 12 noon.
For more information call Rob 07970 006945
Black & White and some Red & White
Plenty to choose from - first come first served! Tel: Ray Brown 01477 532220 or 07885 652718 Cheshire (T)
Buckhurst Aberdeen Angus
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)
FRESH REARING CALVES
Available in suitable batches delivered to most parts of the country Continental Bull and Heifer calves 3-5 weeks old available now. Quality store cattle sourced directly from Welsh/Shropshire Borders Farms, delivered to your farm. Delivery Nationwide. Livestock Supplies Ltd
www.livestocksupplies.co.uk
17-22 months. Some Semen tested. TB4 area. Younger bulls also available
High Health, Bulls fertility tested Contact Alex Tel: 01869 810202 S Northants
Herd
BVD & Johne’s. TB4. Also bulling heifers and yearling heifers for sale
Tel: 07952 228632 West Yorkshire (P)
R.F FIELDING
Hay & Straw for Sale in all types of Bales. Good quality. Reasonable prices.
TEL: (01625) 531629 OR (01625) 522249
LOWER YOUR VET BILLS WITH WASHED SILICA SAND CUBICLE BEDDING
* Helps to eradicate mastitis problems and lowers your milk count
* Equestrian sand also available
Tel 07730 897138 / 01484 603130
Registered Pedigree Parson Russell Terrier Pups Dog and bitch, well reared family home, lovely temperament. Tel: 07778 156513 Kent (P)
LIQUID FEEDS to encourage forage intake. Molasses and molasses blends plus additional minerals if required. J E Morten: 01663 734621 High Peak, Derbyshire (T)
CLEANED / WASHED Fodder Beet. All delivered I D Bailey & Son - Tel: 07968 362227 Lancs (T)
NEW STORE IN CUMBRIA
First cut silages are highly variable this year with high fibre and low sugar, energy and digestibility
Sugars can help balance forages and maximise fibre digestibility
Increase fibre digestion to extract the most nutrients from forage
Tank
Concrete Wall Panels
Concrete Hard standing for the storage of ash based fertiliser Minimum size approx. 4000m2 with good access for artic vehicles Would suit former runway Location, All areas of England and Wales considered
Our brands reach deeply into all the major agricultural sectorsarable, dairy, livestock, agricultural machinery, finance and equipment
he National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is in the process of reform, which could affect how land is assessed for development. These proposed changes aim to accelerate housing delivery, emphasise sustainability and provide flexibility for land use, creating new opportunities for landowners to consider promoting their land.
Key proposed changes
1 Increased flexibility in housing delivery: The 2024 NPPF proposals are set to further reduce restrictions on housing development, particularly in areas facing high demand. Local authorities are being urged to approve more land for housing, potentially bringing previously unconsidered land into play in both urban and rural areas, giving landowners wider scope for development opportunities.
2 Review of protected land and green belt: While protecting the green belt remains a priority, the 2024 proposals suggest that authorities can explore boundary adjustments under ‘exceptional circumstances’. This flexibility could unlock potential for development that previously seemed unlikely.
3 Sustainability and environmental focus: With the growing emphasis on tackling climate change, the proposed changes include stronger guidance on sustainability, biodiversity and carbon reduction. Land that meets these environmental criteria could become highly attractive to land promoters, especially as councils prioritise eco-friendly developments.
4
their land for potential promotion through their local plans. With local authorities facing increased pressure to meet housing targets, land previously considered unsuitable may now align with new planning policies.
Promoting land through the planning process can be a costly exercise and come with significant risk. To maximise value without risking significant sums of monies, an ‘option’ or ‘promotion’ agreement can be entered into with developers and/or promoters.
For landowners, engaging with developers and/or promoters offers several advantages:
n Expertise in planning: Promoters understand the intricacies of the NPPF and local planning policies, helping to secure planning permission.
n Cost-effectiveness: They cover the costs of promoting land, including planning applications and legal fees, reducing financial risk.
n Maximising value: Once planning permission is secured, the value of the land can increase significantly, with the landowner benefiting from a share of the uplift in value.
For up to 250 head. Multiple sites available. Also, potential grazing available for 2025. TB4 area.
Tel: 07967 798014 Cumbria (P) CATTLE BED AND BREAKFAST
Grazing Wanted
For 300 Swaledale gimmer lambs, not necessary all at the same time. But any number and locations considered. Tel: 07976 776078 (P)
Brownfield and greenfield sites: Although the preference remains for developing brownfield sites, the 2024 NPPF proposals recognise the need for greenfield development in areas where housing demand is particularly acute. This could make underutilised rural and agricultural land more appealing.
The proposed changes to the NPPF highlight the need for landowners to act quickly and evaluate
The proposed changes to the NPPF can present new opportunities for landowners to unlock the development potential of their land, providing the opportunity to turn underutilised land into a valuable asset as the planning landscape evolves.
Charlotte Shepherd is a partner and chartered surveyor with Berrys. Call 01743 271 697, or email charlotte.shepherd@berrys.uk.com
Charlotte Shepherd
OAKHEAD BANK FARM, BENTHAM, LANCASTER LA2 7DN
A well-equipped and productive livestock farm including a three bedroom farmhouse, a range of modern and traditional farm buildings along with approximately 111.35 acres (45.06 ha.) of meadow and pastureland together with rights for Burnmoor (Yorkshire) and Lythe Fell.
For sale by Auction as a whole or in up to 6 lots. (Subject to Conditions and unless sold previously) at Bentham Golf Club, Bentham LA2 7AG on Tuesday 15th October 2024 at 7.30 pm Guide Price for the whole £1,340,000
Contact: Paul D Dennis paul@abarnett.co.uk 01539 751993
** FOR SALE BY INFORMAL TENDER **
Tender Deadline: 12 Noon Tuesday 10th October 2024
A substantial block of agricultural land extending to 30.81 acres (12.47 hectares) or thereabouts of land to the north of Woolhead Lane, Gamblesby, Penrith CA10 1HR which provides excellent grazing and mowing ground with some arable potential.
** FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION **
7.30PM TUESDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2024 AT CROOKLANDS HOTEL, CROOKLANDS LA7 7NW
• Two blocks of meadow and pasture land at Lyth Valley, Levens available as a whole or in two lots benefitting from good access and a natural water supply. Lot 1 extends to 12.99 acres (5.26 hectares) with a steel portal framed agricultural building. Lot 2 extends to 14.58 acres (5.90 hectares) - Guide price as a whole £250,000
• 7.19 acres (2.91 hectares) block of meadow and pasture land at Crosthwaite, Kendal with a natural water supply and stock proof boundaries.
Guide price £80,000
• 5.34 acres (2.16 hectares) of pasture land located in the centre of Crosthwaite, Kendal with natural water supplies and stock proof fencing.
Guide price £60,000
• Land and woodland extending to 2.89 acres (1.17 hectares) of productive grassland and woodland located at Sedgwick, Kendal with hardcore yard area and a water supply.
Guide price £35,000
for full information see www.abarnett.co.uk or contact cumbria@abarnett.co.uk
Mill House Farm, Watery Lane, Astbury, Congleton, Cheshire
Offered for sale in six lots, an increasingly rare and exciting opportunity to purchase property and land, in the sought after rural locality of Astbury. Lot 1 presents a chance to purchase the farm steading, with a sizable two storey four bedroom brick farmhouse in need of selective renovation and modernisation, two ranges of traditional brick barns with potential for residential or commercial conversion (subject to obtaining planning consent), a modern farm building, yard areas and grassland extending to 12.50 acres in total. Lots 2 to 6 present the opportunity to purchase blocks of sound grassland ranging from 1.94 acres to 30.01 acres, which are suitable for mowing and grazing. Expected to be of strong interest to a wide variety of purchasers ranging from lifestyle purchasers, local and neighbouring landowners looking to add to their existing holdings, equestrian parties, developers and investors.
Lot 1 - Farmhouse, Buildings, Yard and Surrounding Grassland (12.50 acres)
Lot 2 –Grassland (17.77 acres) Lot 3 - Grassland (30.01 acres)
Lot 4 –Grassland (1.94 acres) Lot 5 – Grassland (10.76 acres)
Lot 6 – Grassland (7.16 acres)
In all about 80.14 Acres (32.44 hectares)
To be sold by Public Auction on Wednesday 9th October 2024 at 7:30pm
For more information please contact Peter Kirton-Darling Whittaker & Biggs Leek Office 01538 372006 www.whittakerandbiggs.co.uk
DO YOU HAVE LAND?
Sites of 1- 1000 acres required for residential development.
If you think that your land has potential for development, or you have been approached by a developer, then you will need expert advice that is not available at traditional sources.
Michael Rutherford is a specialist agent acting and negotiating for landowners. Contact me for a confidential and expert consultation at no cost.
All areas of the UK covered.
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Machinery
Edited by Toby Whatley – 07583 054 831 – toby.whatley@agriconnect.com
For more machinery content, go to farmersguardian.com/machinery-news-hub
Looking for a lightweight run-around for a farm diversification? The Norwegians may just have come up with the answer. Jane Carley takes a closer look.
Getting around and transporting tools, equipment and supplies can present a dilemma for glamping and events businesses.
Using a 4x4 can be costly, whereas quad bikes require skilled driving; neither necessarily fits in with a sustainable ethos or a leisureoriented environment.
Battery vehicles can offer a solution and outdoor leisure is one market that utility vehicle specialist Boss ORV is targeting with the Paxster range.
The vehicles are manufactured in Norway, where an early market was the postal service, an application which put the battery technology to the test in sub-zero temperatures.
Paxster’s commitment to sustainability includes offering the option of 2ndDrive specification, where 95% of the parts and materials are reused from vehicles coming back from lease, supplied with a new warranty, battery test certificate and minimum battery capacity of 80%.
Models feature a 48V battery with a range of up to 110km and a choice of 2,460mm chassis (eCom-
Norwegian electrics: Paxster 4x4 delivers
pact) or 2,955mm chassis (eStretch) offering a flat load bay with removable sides and tailgate. Maximum load capacity is 240kg
and 400kg respectively; an electric tip option is currently under development. An open platform eCompact Air version has recently been
launched, offering improved allround visibility and the ease of access to use an implement such as a sprayer hand lance for weed control on driveways or in tree plantations.
Designed to be simple to operate and highly manoeuvrable, the vehicles use handlebars rather than a steering wheel, with forward drive activated simply via a twist grip throttle.
There are three drive modes, with ‘high’ providing extra torque if needed and ‘winter’ turning off slip to cope with icy conditions; expect to spend most of the time in ‘eco’ which reduces power consumption. Turning radius is from three metres, using a thumb switch on the handlebars to flick from forward to reverse for easy shuttling. The electronic park brake is deactivated when the throttle lever is rotated.
It looks like a quad, but the Paxster eCompact Air is a battery-powered alternative which is straightforward to drive and quiet.
The load bay makes for a useful workhorse when machinery needs maintenance, especially as its inverter can power hand tools.
Neil Everett, Boss ORV national sales manager, says: “It is a very easy vehicle to drive and should make deliveries in confined areas such as narrow tracks or to stores much quicker and more efficient.”
Off-road
Fitted with mud terrain tyres and a partially locking differential, the Paxster vehicles also have a degree of off-road capability.
“Many of the popular smaller quad bikes which have disappeared from the market due to emissions legislation were two-wheel drive and, even with larger UTV brands that we distribute, we find that there are very few occasions that you actually need four-wheel drive, so the Paxster vehicles should be able to get anywhere that you need in an estate or leisure situation,” adds Mr Everett.
Battery power means that the Paxster vehicles are effectively silent, which benefits both the operator and third parties.
Charging is via a cable carried in one of the storage bins on the platform or in the cab, using a standard 13 amp supply.
Boss ORV suggests a charge time from 0% to full of eight hours, but modern battery technology means that it is also possible to ‘top up’ the charge if the vehicle is idle for an hour or two.
Extensive testing in Norway has shown that the LiFEP04 batteries suffer minimal capacity loss in cold weather, good news on more exposed sites. Top speed is 60kph and the UK spec is road homologated; like a quad bike, the eCompact Air does not have a seatbelt and the operator should wear a helmet.
Machinery
The cabbed versions have a three-point seatbelt for the positionadjustable seat.
Heated grips add comfort, but as these vehicles are designed for operators who need to be constantly in and out of the seat, the cab is a canopy and windshield with wash/ wipe and optional screen heater rather than fully enclosed.
Comfortable
It is an easy step in and out and the cargo bay offers a comfortable load height, too; A-arm suspension on the front axle improves the ride and offers a bit more security on rough ground.
Boss ORV says that the Paxster is also a good option for those needing a handy worksite vehicle including in crop stores and packhouses as it is emission-free.
An integrated inverter is an option which allows a pair of outlets offering up to 3kW (adding £500 –£1,200 to the price tag depending on voltage) to power tools or charge batteries for handheld equipment such as blowers or strimmers.
Front and rear receiver hitches take a towball so other applications could include manoeuvring caravans or towing an arena grader on an equestrian enterprise.
Most machines come with some tech these days and the Paxster is no different.
For businesses with a fleet of machines, Paxster Connect offers geofencing and GPS tracking as well as monitoring charge status.
Remote diagnostics helps with servicing and managers can also check charging history if needed for troubleshooting.
The eStretch version has a longer load bay and comes with a windshield and roof to protect drivers from the elements.
The charging cable is stored in one of the bins located to each side of the seat and plugs into any 13 amp supply.
Heated hand grips are standard, plus a screen heater and wash/ wipe on the cab versions. The LED display shows charge levels. An
Machinery
Two multiple split hoppers launched
l Different metering units offer flexibility
By James Huyton
SPLIT hoppers are a useful tool in a world orientated around com -
panion planting, starter fertiliser applications and multi-species cropping. But often a front tank has limitations on the number of hopper splits.
Both Sky Agriculture and Lemken look to plug the gap in this market with their latest front hopper tanks.
SKY PROGRESS TF
THE newly-launched Progress TF front hopper from Sky Agriculture offers the option of two, three and four hopper splits.
It potentially offers prospective buyers the option to sow four different metered applications in a single pass.
The IsoBus-controlled unit uses two independent air circuits to distribute the seed at two depths, and individual seed rates can be selected through the control terminal.
Using a pressurised pneumatic circuit, the front hopper can achieve claimed flow rates of up to 60kg/min.
The manufacturer says the design with a pressurised pneumatic circuit allows for an
unpressurised tank, so individual hoppers can be checked and filled without stopping the machine and eliminating the need for an airtight hopper seal.
The Progress TF can be optionally specified with a detachable, wheeled front packer.
A two-way camera system aids operator’s visibility when transporting the machine. Road and work lighting is also specified.
Prospective buyers can also optionally specify the front hopper with the manufacturer’s E-Drive system.
The system allows individual coulter shut-off and selectable tramline adjustment.
LEMKEN SOLITAIR F
LEMKEN has launched its latest range of front hopper seeding units, the Solitair F, boasting a pressurised 2,400-litre front-mounted tank.
The latest derivative claims to offer greater drilling flexibility in conjunction with rear mounted combination units and minimal tillage drills.
The split hopper offers potential for seed only, fertiliser only or split distribution.
Four modular metering units allow the machine to be optionally
used with four-way split distribution, or singular application.
Working in conjunction with the manufacturer’s new OptiDisc coulter bar, the Solitair F can offer both double and single shot drilling.
Lemken’s Solitair F can also be specified with a detachable tyre packer or external weight offering up to 800kg extra ballast.
The steerable tyre packer can also be mounted on its own as a front tyre packer and be ballasted with suitcase weights of up to 500kg.
Additionally, with the new CCI console paired with a guidance system, automatic tramlining is possible without having to sow in a back-and-forth pattern.
The manufacturer also claims its sloping front tank design offers greater operator visibility, both in the field and on the road. Tank capacities come in 2,200-litre and 2,400-litre options.
Working in conjunction with the front hopper, Sky Agriculture has also designed a new single point side pipe attachment system to aid attachment logistics.
● Event raised more than £8,700 for charity
By Toby Whatley
BASED in Appleby-in-Westmorland, machinery and agricultural supply business H. Pigney and Sons has recently celebrated 200 years in business. The event included the raffle of a Suzuki ATV and a charity bar, which raised funds of £8,000 for a local hospice and over £700 for the Great North Air Ambulance.
Cumbrian dealer celebrates 200 years
Speaking at the event, Anna Pigney, part of the eighth generation to work in the business, said: “It feels like a great sense of achievement to be part of such a long-standing family firm, and when looking back in the archives it is great to see local farm names that are still going strong today. It is apparent there is still a great sense of loyalty and family in the community.”
Records show the business can be traced back to at least 1824, when it was recorded as a blacksmiths. As agriculture evolved, the business adapted, with the firm introducing agricultural machinery supply in 1932, alongside general smithing and shoeing. It has remained fully independent and family owned, and has expanded
It feels like a great sense of achievement
ANNA PIGNEY
over the last 60 years to provide for the horticultural and forestry industries, and offers a fuel station plus a hardware and ironmongery shop.
Several different tractor franchises have been carried, including SAME and now Kubota, with the firm offering a full range of machinery including garden and horticultural products, alongside tractors and implements for grassland and upland farmers.
Records show the business can be traced back to 1824, when it was recorded as a blacksmiths.
Machinery Tillage Live
Tillage Live brings together a host of manufacturers showcasing the latest in crop establishment technology. James Huyton reports from the show.
Over the years, Tillage Live has grown a reputation as a specialist working demonstration, with the annual show touring the country with different regions playing host to the event.
This year’s event took place outside of Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, with a wealth of equipment manufacturers providing product insight and technical information.
Following a challenging year of weather, fortunately the sun shone on this year’s event.
Tillage Live site manager Andy Newbold said: “The event is organsied by the Agricultural Engineers Association and, in a change from last year, the weather conditions have been ideal for this year’s event .
“There are market challenges, but clearly there is still an appetite to see manufacturers’ latest products operating in real working conditions.”
The show gave visitors the opportunity to see some UK firsts and a range of product updates from manufacturers.
GSB MACHINERY MULTICULT 300
GSB Machinery showcased its latest derivative of its MultiCult 300 primary cultivator.
The latest variant is designed to a customer’s specification, with hair-pinning around the primary cultivation legs countered by a row of six 520mm cutting discs. Each leg is mounted with a pivoting leg, with three depth adjustment points on a single pin and two greasing points.
Versions
Five- and six-leg versions are available and optional hydraulic depth control can be specified,
FOLLOWING its return to the UK market with distribution through Maschio UK, Gregoire Besson has unveiled a number of cultivation products.
The Planipak front press is the latest in the UK line-up currently offered in a three- and 3.5-metre working width, with 4m, 5m and 6m variants also available next year. Soil consolidation is formed
through the manufacturer’s 120-degree V-roller with scrapers to clear soil off the roll.
Cultivation
Two rows of levelling tines at the front of the machine levelling tines offer primary cultivation. The pivoting headstock design allows for the claimed field curve and contour following.
AMAZONE SL TOOLBAR
AMAZONE’S standalone toolbar is claimed to work in conjunction with both Amazone and other manufacturers’ equipment.
The link arm coupling system allows the fitment of a two-leg track eradicator system to a
number of trailed drills and cultivators.
Track eradicator legs can be moved to suit the working width with adjustment on the sliding bar and each implement comes with hydraulic, IsoBus and air brake connection points.
VADERSTAD TOPDOWN E-SERVICES
SHOWCASED at Tillage Live, Vaderstad’s latest generation of TopDown cultivator is offered with the optional fitment of the manufacturer’s E-Services.
E-Services offer full in-cab depth control of the machine.
The in-cab tablet control terminal
AGRIWELD ASL TOOLBAR
allows individual depth adjustment of the machine’s four working zones.
Potentiometers mounted on the machine are claimed to monitor the machine’s working depth and adjust the cultivator zones to reach the set parameters.
AVAILABLE in three- and four-metre ridged designs and 4m folding, the ASL comes in six- and eight-leg variants.
Edited by Katie Jones – 07786 856 439 – katie.jones@agriconnect.com
For more livestock content, go to farmersguardian.com/livestock-news-hub
Sheep keepers not already recording animal movements online are being encouraged to do so, but what are the benefits of this system? Farmers Guardian reports.
Benefits of switching to online movement reporting
● Accurate data needed for disease response
IT has been 15 years since electronic identification (EID) and individual movement reporting for sheep came into force.
Now, the Livestock Information Service (LIS), which was launched in March 2022 to replace the Animal and Reporting Movement Service, aims to enhance the traceability of livestock in England by encouraging more sheep keepers to report their moves digitally.
Developed by Livestock Information on behalf of Defra, LIS provides a single digital platform to connect the supply chain in recording the movements of sheep, goats and deer in England.
James Taylor, LIS product manager, says: “LIS helps sheep farmers save time, reduce paperwork and maintain a compliant holding register, producing movement records which can be accessed and amended as required.
“Best of all, LIS is free – all you need to register for an LIS account is a County Parish Holding [CPH] number and the associated email address. Once you have signed up it is simple and easy to navigate your way around the service and there is a professional support team available.”
Mr Taylor says that when it comes to building a strategic response against disease, the more accurate
■ Accurately and efficiently report movements on/off your holding
■ Remove the need and cost of posting paper forms to report a movement
■ Records are held securely and can be accessed at any time
■ Automatically update and maintain an online holding register
■ Accurately record animals’ tags, their replacements if lost/damaged and deaths
■ Faster and more accurate
animal traceability data is, the more effective the response can be.
He adds: “LIS forms part of a bigger picture in enabling industry, farmers and Government to be better placed to effectively manage disease outbreaks via the enhanced traceability data it provides.
Real-time data
“Reporting movements via paper forms [means it] takes considerably longer [for the data] to be received and processed.
“Reporting movements online
Why use the Livestock Information Service?
online movement data to support better disease control
■ Farm vets can record a digital
Vet Attestation for your holding and the Livestock Information Service (LIS) can hold your Vet Attestation Number, which you provide when selling your livestock
■ Sheep farmers using electronic identification readers can accurately and efficiently upload their tag ID data to LIS or integrate with farm software
gives close to a real-time view, which is fundamental in helping to manage the spread of disease.
“By knowing the location and movement history of an animal, health officials can quickly isolate and manage incidents of disease, helping to minimise the impact of the outbreak.”
Ian Hewett, managing director of Livestock Information, says efficient and effective disease control relies upon a centralised, up-to-date and accurate data store.
“We strongly encourage keepers to sign up and use the LIS for reporting their animals’ movements online. The service is free to use and help is available, and that will support us in transforming the accuracy of the traceability data available,” says Mr Hewett.
Since the launch of LIS in March 2022, many enhancements have been made to the platform, the most recent being in December 2023 when new ways of providing evidence to facilitate GB-to-EU exports were introduced.
This change means that all keepers producing livestock, products derived from livestock, or livestock
and products intended for export to the EU, must have a Vet Attestation Number if not covered by a qualifying farm assurance scheme.
A new digital capability has also been introduced, which allows vets to mark a sheep keeper’s CPH as having a valid vet attestation visit and will allow abattoirs to be able to view that attestation before export. To date, nearly 20% of practicing sheep vets have digitally recorded an attestation for more than 1,150 holdings.
Improvements
There is now ongoing work to improve the ease of using the movement service for sheep keepers, with guidance documents and videos coming soon to the LIS website. User insights drive these developments, and recent surveys and meetings have helped to shape a two-year enhancement roadmap.
Additional species such as cattle and pigs will be onboarded onto the system in the future to create a single, digital livestock movement tracking service that is simple and convenient for livestock record management throughout the supply chain.
The Livestock Information Service provides a digital platform to connect the supply chain in recording the movements of sheep, goats and deer in England.
After seeing scanning percentages drop incrementally from 166% in 2020 to a low of 136% in 2023, Sam Williams decided change was needed for his family’s 1,400 Aberfield Mule flock.
Mr Williams, who farms with his partner Rachel Cooper, is the fourth generation at Highlands Farm, in Shropshire, with the family business trading as G.F. Williams and Sons. The farm’s flock of sheep are farmed alongside 202 hectares (500 acres) of arable land and 162ha (400 acres) of grazing pasture.
He says introducing a bolus in 2023 has been ‘fundamental’ in bringing scanning percentages back up, with yearlings scanning at 176% in 2024.
“We are now aiming to get the yearlings up to 180% by concentrating on body condition ahead of tupping, and working with our vets to keep a close eye on diseases such as Johne’s, which we plan to test for specifically this year,” he says.
Mr Williams adds he chose the bolus to improve the consistency and the longevity of supplementation and also suggests that, with the bolus, the administration is more manageable and offers much needed iodine.
“It covers them for 180 days and provides high levels of iodine, selenium, cobalt, zinc and manganese. We were particularly interested in the iodine because we have established that there is a deficiency in the flock. The bolus is also good for delivering vitamins A, D3 and E,” he says.
Home-grown
The flock is finished on a home-grown concentrate that includes barley and oats mixed with a bought-in protein supplement. Finishing more intensely suits his mixed system, where the goal is to see most of the lambs leave the farm by the end of July.
“We need to get the bulk of lambs off the farm so we can manage harvest.
The use of a bolus, rather than other supplements, has improved scanning percentages, combatted an iodine deficiency and saved time for sheep farmer Sam Williams. Farmers Guardian reports.
Bolus helps increase scanning percentage
Most of the lambs are sold deadweight to ABP locally, but we also use our local livestock markets. All the lambs are sold by October so we can concentrate on ewe condition ahead of tupping,” he says.
The farm is introducing some herbal leys to improve the overall diet of the flock, following blood tests that showed iodine levels to be low.
“We know we are in an area where iodine deficiencies are common, so we are hopeful that the herbal leys will go some way to helping this.
“However, having experienced how
the bolus has positively affected the flock, we are confident that ewe condition and overall flock health is significantly improved,” he says.
He adds that the bolus was not a straightforward switch and developing a method, and the skills to administer it, was a challenge at the start.
“First time round it was a bit tricky. We learned that it helps to have the ewe facing upwards because it is easier to lean the head back and applicator positioned. This year it has been easy and we are up to about 170 ewes in two hours,” he says.
Fewer vet visits
The bolus has led to fewer vet visits and blood tests which he believes has lowered stress levels and is saving the farm money.
“We are also better placed to look for disease issues and so can concentrate our time with the vet on this because the bolus is providing the vitamins and minerals the flock needs,” he adds.
The flock was largely made up of a Cheviot Mule put to a Texel ram.
However, a shift to the Aberfield Mule and a Suffolk or Texel ram has produced a more commerciallyviable lamb.
“We found we were getting more genetic issues, such as lameness and in-turned eyelids, so we moved to performance recorded rams which has enabled us to produce a carcase
The bolus is providing the vitamins and minerals the flock needs SAM WILLIAMS
that will grade well in our faster finishing system,” he says.
He further adds a move to not castrating or tailing ram lambs has helped with joint ill, with ram lambs also reaching the grade weight required faster.
“We also find them easier to handle with the ewe lambs,” he adds.
Ewes go to the tup in October and lambing starts in March, so there is a focus on ewe condition from early summer, with a bolus being administered in July to ensure the flock is as strong as possible going in to tupping.
“The EnduraBol bolus has taken away the sense of doubt we have had in the past and helped us to concentrate on other aspects of flock health. We are now confident we will see percentages rise above 180, which will make a big difference to where we were a few years ago,” he says.
Sam Williams farms 1,400 Aberfield Mules at Highlands Farm, Shropshire.
Sam Williams and Rachel Cooper (pictured) can bolus up to about 170 ewes in two hours.
Despite the torrential wet weather, the new site at Staffordshire County Showground held a triumphant All Breeds All Britain Calf Show. Ellie Layton reports.
Border and Lakeland claims Holstein calf championship
l Lawson family takes British Friesian title
A HIGH standard of calves was seen in the Holstein ring, with the final line-up selected by Northern Irish judge Steve McLoughlin. Taking the top spot in the championship was Starlett Legend Barbara, a calf from Penrith-based Will Horsley, who was from the Border and Lakeland club and in his final year of the competition.
The calf was bred by Kevin and Sian Rickard, Newport, and was bought by Mr Horsley for 4,200gns at the December 2023 Black and White sale in Carlisle.
The August 2023-born calf was out of home-bred cow Starlet Erie Sirwood Barbara. This award continued Mr Horsley’s success at the All Breeds All Britain show following his showmanship championship win last year.
Mr McLoughlin said: “My champion stood out to me in the ring from its first class, being correct throughout, with width of chest and depth of rib, and being excellently turned out.”
In reserve was Chasmar King Doc Frances 12, completing a successful weekend for this year’s showmanship champion, Peter Cotton, on behalf of D.R. and B.A. Cotton, Staffordshire.
Earlier this year, this April 2023born calf was reserve champion calf at the Great Yorkshire Show. It was out of an EX91 classified home-bred cow, Chasmar Cancun Frances 3, and a daughter of Woodcrest King Doc.
In the British Friesian classes and for the second year in a row, the Lawson
family’s Fife-based Lismulligan herd took the championship, and this year also scooped the reserve.
Topping the line was Lismulligan Aster 12, a November 2023-born heifer which was praised for its correctness. This calf was sired by Manorpark Google and out of the 2020 National Friesian show champion, Lismulligan Aster 2.
The reserve heifer, Lismulligan Honeyschaap 6, was a March 2023born heifer out of Culverness Honey-
schaap 153. This success followed the calf’s win as junior champion at the Borderway UK Dairy Expo earlier this year.
Brown Swiss
The Brown Swiss judge, Andy Cope, Staffordshire, tapped out two calves from the Lochhead’s Kedar herd, Dumfries, as his champion and reserve.
The champion was Kedar Cech Sunny, which had already made an
impression in the showring, claiming inter-breed champion calf at Northumberland Show. It was a January 2024-born daughter of Kedar Sunny Side Up, which went back to eighttime All-American winner, Old Mill E Snickerdoodle EX94.
Mr Cope said: “I could not look past my champion, who was beautifully balanced, open and stylish. She had strength and excellent locomotion.”
Reserve was Kedar Cech Ashley, a November 2023-born calf by the same
PICTURES: RICHARD HODGSON
Overall showmanship championship winner, Peter Cotton, Staffordshire.
Holstein calf champion, Starlett Legend Barbara, from Will Horsley, Penrith, of the Border and Lakeland club.
All Breeds All Britain Calf Show Livestock
Results
Calves
Holstein (Judge, S. McLoughlin, Ireland) Supreme, W. Horsley, Starlett Legend Barbara; reserve, D.R. and B.A. Cotton, Chasmar King Doc Frances 12 . British Friesian (S. Howarth, Yorkshire) Sup., B. Lawson, Lismulligan Aster 12; res., B. Lawson, Lismulligan Honeyschaap 6. Brown Swiss (A. Cope, Staffordshire) Sup., T. Lochhead, Kedar Cech Sunny; res., T. Lochhead, Kedar Cech Ashley. Guernsey (G. Lucas, Dumfries) Sup., Thomas family, Kimcote Victory Georgina 15; res., Thomas family, Kimcote Victory Violet 5. Dairy Shorthorn (J. McLean, Northern Ireland) Sup., J.M. and J. Fisher, Mossrigg Barrington Iris 22; res., I. Collins, Churchroyd Nicola 43. Ayrshire (A. Walters, Cornwall) Sup., I. Thomas, Paith Calcutta Eclipse; res., Seaton Farms, Styche Jeepers Melody. Jersey (L. Flemming, Northern Ireland) Sup.,
sire as the champion, Swissgen Capucino Cech SG.
The Guernsey championship went to the Thomas family, Leicestershire, who swept the board and took all three podium spots. Their champion heifer was a darker coloured calf, Kimcote Victory Georgina 15, which was home-bred on both sides and sired by Kimcote Victory.
Reserve went to the December 2023-born heifer, Kimcote Victory Violet 5, which was by the same sire as the champion.
The Fisher family, Armathwaite, won in the Dairy Shorthorn ring under judge John McLean, Northern Ireland, with an August 2023-born heifer, Mossrigg Barrington Iris 22, which was bred from a successful show line.
Following in reserve was Churchroyd Nicola 43, a September 2023born heifer sired by Churchroyd Hercules, bred and exhibited by the Collins family, Yorkshire.
The Ayrshire title went home with Iwan Thomas, Carmarthen, with his February-born heifer, Paith Calcutta Eclipse. A daughter of a VG86 classified cow, Paith Focus Eclipse, this win topped off a successful 10 days in the showring after its stablemate Paith Hawaiian Eclipse took Ayrshire
W. Horsley, T. Horsley, J. Robinson and K. Bainbridge, Silversparkle Chocochip Roses; res., B Greenhalgh, Bees Valens-Thyme.
Showmanship
Inter-breed Holstein (L. Helen, Ireland) Supreme, Peter Cotton, Staffordshire; reserve, Rory Scott, Scotland. British Friesian (A. Wilson, Cardigan) Sup., David Oultram, Shropshire; res., Orlaith Lawson, Scotland. Brown Swiss (A. Wilson) Sup., Calum Gray, Scotland; res., Lowri Morris, Shropshire.
Ayrshire (A Wilson) Sup., Kyle Scott, Scotland; res., Louis Pocock, Shropshire.
honourable mention at UK Dairy Day. Seaton Farms, Cheshire, were tapped out at reserve with their homebred heifer, Styche Jeepers Melody.
The July 2023-born heifer was an Ardmore Jeepers Creepers daughter.
Jersey
Champion Jersey was Silversparkle Chocochip Roses, from the partnership of W. Horsley, T. Horsley, J. Robinson and K. Bainbridge, and originally bred by Izzy Lee. The October 2023-born heifer was a Blythbridge Huxford Radiant daughter, a third prize winner at the All Breeds All Britain Calf Show in 2022. Reserve in the Jersey judging went to Bethan Greenhalgh, Shipley, with the February-born Bees ValensThyme.
In the Red and White judging, it was the South Wales qualifier, Tregibby Rager Listre Red, from Arwyn Wilson, Cardigan, and shown by Evie Tomlinson, that took top honours. The December 2023-born heifer was a Tregibby Octane Lustre daughter.
Reserve went to the Scottish-bred calf, Knoweside Addison Warrior Red, from Neil Sloan, Cumnock. The May 2023-born calf was a Mr Blondin Warrior Red daughter.
LOUISE HARTLEY AWARD
THE Louise Hartley Award was launched in 2017 to honour the life of Louise Hartley, a member of the Farmers Guardian livestock team who died in 2016. In celebration of her life, the Louise Hartley Memorial Fund was set up to give a youngster with an interest in agriculture the chance to further their career.
This year’s award winner was Rosie Dennison, Lancashire, who has made an outstanding
contribution to the breed and Holstein Young Breeders (HYB). She was first guided and encouraged in HYB by Louise herself.
This year’s Dick Stapleton Award was awarded to Zac Bacon, Derbyshire, a young breeder who was recognised for his assistance while the sheds at the showground were flooding during extremely heavy rainfall on Saturday afternoon.
Winner of the Louise Hartley Award, Rosie Dennison, Lancashire, receiving her award from John and Sarah Hartley.
Stockjudging Open (Judge, AndrewThomas,SouthWales): Jointfirst,TorieWilson,Borderand Lakeland;LeonieO’Neill,Lancashire. Showmanship team award: Supreme,Scotland. Calf team award: Sup.,Border andLakeland.
Tidy lines: Sup.,Derbyshire; reserve,BorderandLakeland. Best presented stands: Sup.,Derbyshire;res.,Scotland.
Overall best presented stand: Sup.,Derbyshire;res.,Borderand Lakeland.
Club choice awards: 1,Cornwall; 2,BorderandLakeland;3, Derbyshire.
Dick Stapleton Award: ZacBacon,Derbyshire.
Little star award: 1,JamesGrags, NorthernIreland;2,Charlotte Moore,Western;3,FrankGriffin, EastMidlands.
Holstein Young Breeders competition results
Left to right: Showmanship champions Grace Pye, David Oultram, Maisie Wade, Margaret Thomas, Kyle Scott, Peter Cotton and Calum Gray.
EMMA, BILLY AND MARK BILLINGS
MANBY GRANGE LIMOUSINS, LINCOLNSHIRE
XEmma, Billy and Mark Billings operate Manby Grange, a familyrun farm with more than 100 years of history, specialising in pedigree Limousin cattle.
The focus on breeding quality stock has established a strong reputation, with customers across the country relying on the family’s commitment to excellence.
Along with her husband Mark and son Billy, Emma actively manages the farm, emphasising the importance of breeding efficiency and animal welfare in their operations.
With plans to increase the herd to 50 suckler cows, Emma prioritises genetics and bloodline management, ensuring that the cattle produced are easy-calving and have excellent temperaments.
The breeding program is supported by rigorous veterinary protocols, including fertility testing, which is essential for maintaining high herd status.
Emma’s approach to business is in building long-term relationships with customers, treating each client
as part of the extended family.
The farm’s sustainability practices are designed to promote a healthy ecosystem, with an emphasis on soil health and responsible nutrient management.
Emma recognises the challenges being posed by climate change, adapting farming practices to mitigate risks associated with weather variability.
Emma actively engages in the local community, sharing insights into the farming sector through various media channels, including her farm diaries broadcast on BBC Radio Lincolnshire, which aim to highlight the realities of agricultural life.
She says this transparency is vital in building public trust and demonstrating the value of British farming.
As the farm continues to evolve, Emma remains committed to maintaining high welfare standards and promoting the benefits of the Limousin breed, ensuring that Manby Grange Limousin thrives for generations to come.
BEEF FARMER OF THE YEAR
Vox
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Sponsored by
ROB EVANS
C.H. EVANS & SON, WARWICKSHIRE
XRob Evans manages a thirdgeneration family farm business, C.H. Evans and Son, which spans 300 hectares (741 acres) and encompasses a pedigree herd of Simmental cattle, arable crops and a small flock of sheep.
With a focus on producing high-quality livestock, Rob has strategically reduced herd numbers to enhance profitability and sustainability.
This decision has allowed for reinvestment into the farm, including the construction of a new cattle shed that significantly improves the environment for the livestock.
The farm operates a spring and autumn calving system, using stock bulls to ensure a consistent supply of quality foundation stock.
Rob is dedicated to genetics, having introduced polled genetics into the herd over two decades ago, resulting in a predominantly polled herd that meets market demand.
His commitment to breeding excellence ensures that each animal is carefully selected for health and performance, with
an emphasis on ease of calving and good temperament.
Rob’s proactive approach to herd management includes investing in young talent, providing training and mentorship to students in the industry.
The farm’s administrative tasks are efficiently managed by Rob’s wife, who oversees the financial health of the business.
This collaborative environment thrives with a strong family dynamic, while ensuring that the farm remains competitive and responsive to market changes.
Rob is also focused on environmental practices, implementing initiatives such as tree planting and soil health management.
Also, addressing the challenges posed by bovine TB and climate change, he is committed to maintaining high welfare standards and promoting the benefits of British agriculture.
With plans for future diversification and a keen eye on industry developments, Rob is determined to secure a sustainable future for his family farm.
Left to right: Emma, Billy and Mark Billings.
To celebrate with the finalists at the British Farming Awards, go to britishfarmingawards.co.uk to buy your tickets
XAt Folly Farm, James Herrick is leading a transformative shift from mixed livestock and arable farming to a focus on grassland and suckler cows.
This change reflects a strategic review of the farm’s operations, with a goal to increase the herd size to 250-300 suckler cows, while implementing rotational grazing practices.
Inspired by experimentation and a family tradition of farming, James emphasises the importance of soil health and efficient grass management in achieving optimal livestock performance.
The transition to a rotational grazing system has already resulted in a significant increase in grass production, enabling increased stocking rates on the available land.
James has shifted from traditional breeds to Stabiliser cattle, allowing for greater control over breeding and enhanced herd fertility.
This strategic move not only improves calving ease and the overall health of the herd, but also streamlines management, reducing the number of groups to facilitate better labour efficiency.
James was entered into the awards by Herdwatch, and he
For the full shortlist, scan the QR code or go to agrc.im/finalists-2024
says it ‘feels like a complete privilege’ to be a finalist.
James and his team have focused on high health status within their cattle, employing rigorous testing to maintain herd integrity and reduce disease risks.
The farm operates with a commitment to sustainable practices, incorporating precision farming techniques and minimising inputs through effective management of resources. This holistic approach enables a strong work-life balance and ensures that family involvement remains central to the farming operation.
As part of the Herrick Partnership, James is also keenly aware of the external challenges facing the industry, such as market volatility and changing agricultural policies post-Brexit.
By embracing innovation and creating partnerships with neighbouring farms, he aims to enhance resilience and adaptability within the business.
With a clear vision for the future, James is committed to integrating livestock into local arable systems while promoting sustainable practices that benefit the environment and ensure the farm’s longevity.
agricultural enterprise that spans 2,000 hectares (4,942 acres) and includes 180 suckler cows.
The business uses an integrated supply chain model, finishing 1,200 cattle annually while also impressively engaging in arable farming, environmental stewardship, and various other ventures such as weddings and property management.
Ruari’s approach emphasises evidence-based decision-making, utilising data capture and analysis to enhance productivity and sustainability across all business operations.
and 95% weaning success while incurring minimal overhead costs.
Key to their finishing operation is the holding of 1,000 store cattle on the marsh during summer, achieving good daily weight gains with supplementary feeding.
The spring-calving suckler herd plays a crucial role in managing environmental agreements that benefit local biodiversity, including wading birds and the preservation of saltmarsh ecosystems.
Through targeted breeding and a strict culling policy, Ruari has developed a herd known for easy calving and excellent temperament.
The cattle graze outdoors year-round and despite challenging ground conditions, the herd maintains impressive reproductive rates, achieving a 90% in-calf rate
Cattle are introduced in batches, which allows a continual in-and-out system that provides an income similar to a milk cheque.
This element gives security to the business and allows more high risk rewards elsewhere.
Ruari is actively collaborating with researchers from SRUC to develop models that enhance beef calf health, focusing on temperature and humidity data to create automated ventilation systems.
With a commitment to integrating environmental and commercial goals, Armeria is transitioning towards a more sustainable future, reducing its carbon footprint while enhancing productivity.
Ruari commented on making the final at the awards, saying: “It is a fantastic feeling to be shortlisted as it is a recognition of all the hard work that goes into the business, the teamwork and dedication of everyone involved.”
XRuari Martin manages a diverse
JAMES HERRICK HERRICK PARTNERSHIP, LEICESTERSHIRE
RUARI MARTIN ARMERIA (UK), CUMBRIA
Best practice advice for identifying lameness and applying the right solutions was discussed at a recent AHDB lameness event. Jonathan Wheeler reports.
● Frequent mobility scoring advised
IF a cow experiences lameness as a heifer, it could become predisposed to the disease and its life could also be shortened, mobility mentor Dr James Wilson told delegates at a recent AHDB open day in Leicestershire.
Dr Wilson also said lameness was often clearly visible to the public, which was damaging to the industry’s reputation as well as the farm business.
“There is no getting away from a lame cow which can be seen walking around.
“It is also a massive cost to the industry and is one of the biggest factors related to fertility issues,” he said.
Heifers affected by lameness were more susceptible to recurrence of the disease throughout their life, he told farmers at the open day which was held at Alma Bank Farm, Somerby, near Melton Mowbray, farmed by Mark and Jane Barnes.
The event concentrated on the threat faced by grazing animals and highlighted the AHDB Healthy Feet Programme, designed to support farmers in improving cow mobility using an evidence-based approach.
Dr Wilson said the programme focused on four key risk areas: early detection and prompt, efficient treatment; forces on the feet; infection pressure; and developing a robust foot.
One of the methods for reducing lameness is early detection and prompt, effective treatment, which Dr Wilson said meant frequent and sensitive mobility scoring.
Long-term impact of lameness
He also said the key to avoiding problems was to ensure cows’ feet remained healthy, with special attention paid to maintaining the thickness of the sole and correct foot-trimming practices.
Foot-trimming
He said good foot-trimmers worked like chefs, constantly assessing the quality of their work in the way chefs would regularly taste the food they were cooking.
He added: “Bad foot-trimming can cause substantial harm and can leave the cow’s weight on the fleshy part of the foot, which is the wrong outcome.
“We need foot-trimming to be much more functional and not cosmetic. Preserving sole thickness is essential, especially in the toe triangle. Thin soles in this area cause real issues.”
Dr Wilson said farmers could help avoid problems by eliminating ‘pinch-points’ in their units and those
Mart dipping service fights back on sheep scab
WITH sheep scab reaching worrying levels in Scotland, Caledonian Marts at Stirling is trialling a sheep dipping service at its store and breeding sheep sales.
Buyers can opt in to have the sheep dipped before leaving the mart, and they are separated out as they leave the ring.
Oliver Shearman, managing director of Caledonian Marts and council member of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland, says: “Since we started offering the dipping in July, it has gained popularity at each sale, and last week we dipped 1,100 sheep.
“Sheep scab is becoming a real issue across the country, and this
is such a simple solution to help minimise it in the national flock.
Buyers have the confidence that they are taking home clean stock and it is one less worry, but it is also efficient.
“It saves the work when you get home of unloading into the field, then taking them out again to be dipped, and the time and effort that involves.
“It is also good for smaller enterprises that do not have enough sheep to employ a dipper for a day on-farm.”
Caledonian Marts subcontracts the dipping on sale dates and the charge is £1.20 per sheep, added to the purchase price.
areas which might subject their cows’ feet to either standing or shearing forces.
He said: “An ulcer on the foot is the last stage of the problem. There is a three-month lag between the initial insult to the foot and the ulcer appearing – that is a very long time for the animal to be walking around on a sensitive foot.
“A sole ulcer, or open white line lesion, represents a failure to detect the problem at an early stage. And the most reliable way to make those early detections is to mobility score fortnightly.”
Practical interventions around the cows’ living space could also help, he said.
“Look at things like improving the grip in the farmyard or installing footbaths – look for the easy, quick wins that can help improve things,” he added.
As an example of a ‘quick win’,
Dr Wilson said correct grooving of concrete would help avoid the danger of cows slipping. Grooves should run in the same direction as the cows’ main direction of travel and be 13mm deep, 19mm wide and about 80mm apart, so cows’ hooves always made contact with them, which would help them get a firm foothold.
Cutting grooves into set concrete rather than floating them when it was being poured was preferable, he said, because it left a crisp, defined edge which helped animals gain a secure grip.
He added that in areas where cattle moved in multiple different directions, using a mini groove would be preferential.
“When you consider the cost of a cow doing the splits, you do not need to avoid many accidents for grooving to be worthwhile,” he said.
He also said that in some areas, rubber matting – for which Defra grant aid might be available – would provide relief.
Dry cow yard
One key area for attention was the dry cow yard, according to Dr Wilson, especially if heifers were expected to share it.
He said: “That is a common area for digital dermatitis getting established. This can especially affect heifers, which might get infected for the first time. Foot bathing dry cows and heifers is a great way to reduce this risk. The lesions can take 120 days to develop, so if you are seeing the problem in heifers in early/ mid-lactation, the chances are it started with the dry cows.”
Key to reducing lameness is early detection and prompt, effective treatment.
The Barnes family said they were considering making changes to milking procedures to reduce the time that cows spent standing in the collection yard.
Currently, if they call up all the milkers at the same time, some of them might wait two and a half hours in peak season before entering the 24/48 parlour.
So, they were considering switching to calling them up in smaller groups to reduce the waiting and standing times to minutes.
They were also developing a network of cow tracks so the herd could access all the pastures on the 243-hectare (600-acre) farm.
Dr Wilson highlighted the need for tracks to be wide enough and have a safe gradient.
“Tracks need to be four metres wide
for 200 cows, and add an extra metre for every additional 100 cows. This ensures adequate cow flow along the track, especially for heifers,” he said.
“Tracks can be convex, with up to 20cm camber, so rainwater runs off them, or sloped to a maximum incline of 5% to one side.”
Track substrate
He said choosing the right substrate was also important, with oolitic limestone being popular as a walking surface.
If tracks went up slopes of more than a 15% gradient, they should include steps.
Dr Wilson said: “Work to an optimum of 10cm risers and a 1.6m step depth. You can use a smaller step depth, but avoid increasing the riser height.”
There is a threemonth lag between the initial insult to the foot and the ulcer appearing – that is a very long time for the animal to be walking around on a sensitive foot
DR JAMES WILSON
A ‘mini’ groove should be used in areas where cattle are moving in multiple different directions.
Cow tracks need to be both wide enough and of a safe gradient.
Grooves should run in the same direction as the cows’ main direction of travel.
Livestock GrassCheck
GRASS GROWTH ACROSS THE UK
Scotland
The
Wales
39.5kgDM/ha/day
The South
Grass growth Soil moisture (cb)
Soil temperature (degC) Rainfall (mm per week)
DAILY GROWTH FORECASTS
Region Seven-day forecast 14-day forecast
North England 36.6kg DM/ha (14.8kg DM/acre) 28.9kg DM/ha (11.7kg DM/acre)
South England 44.9kg DM/ha (18.2kg DM/acre) 24.7kg DM/ha (10kg DM/acre)
GrassCheckGB is a collaboration between The UK Agri-Tech Centre, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Rothamsted Research, AHDB, Hybu Cig Cymru, Germinal, Handley Enterprises, Sciantec Analytical, Yara, Pilgrim’s UK and Quality Meat Scotland. Regular updates will appear in Farmers Guardian.
Fylde Sheepdog Society secretary, Michael Glasgow (left) alongside Thomas Huddleston, Fylde member and Littledale secretary, handing over a joint cheque from the Fylde society and Littledale sheepdog trial to St John’s Hospice, Lancaster.
Trials diary
SCOTLAND
September 28. CARRICK, Farden Farm, Turnberry, KA26 9LB, contact, Liz, tel: 07825 818 270. NEW CUMNOCK, Dumfries House Home Farm, Cumnock, Ayrshire, KA18 2LN, first prize, £300, contact, David Young, tel: 07909 518 799, email straidfarm@btconnect. com. LOCHCARRON, New Kelso Farm, Strathcarron, IV54 8YR, 8am start.
September 29. WULLIE STEVENSON MEMORIAL TRIAL, Glenkiln Farm, Lamlash, Isle of Arran, contact, Iain McConnell, tel: 07825 038 955 or 01770 600 897.
October 5. LUSS, Ballyvulin Farm, Glen Fruin, G84 9EB, first 60 dogs, 8am start, contact, Caitlin Ross, tel: 07392 309 700, or Alistair McKenzie, tel: 07572 310 641. October 6. ABINGTON, ML12 6SE, 8am start, entry on field, no double dogs after 1pm, tel: 07707 397 584.
ENGLAND
September 28. WOOLHANGER, Contact David Kennard, info@boroughfarms.co.uk. UPPER REDESDALE, NE19 1RB, enter on field, 8.30am start, contact, K. Gaukrodger, tel: 07803 083 792. HOLME, BB4 4AT, contact, shirley.barcroft@yahoo. com.
September 29. LITTLE BLAKENHAM, Little Blakenham, Suffolk, contact, Sam, tel: 07531 145 447, or Kath, tel: 07786 605 419. HEREFORD AND SHROPSHIRE NURSERY, SY6 7JP, contact, 07711 534 504.
September 28 and 29. MEMORIAL TRIAL, Sutton on the Forest YO61 1EE, in memory of Sandy Beaton and George Redpath, open and nursery trials, 9.30am start.
For winning results
English results
ROMNEY MARSH, AM (Judge, W. Cole) 1, M. Banham, Brooke, 90/100; 2, H. Long, Wren, 79; 3, T. Carter, Copper, 75; 4, R. Hawke, Flame, 72; 5, J. Marsh, Del, 71; 6, J. Marsh, Rose, 68. Novice, 1, J. Marsh, Rose, 68; 2, E. Anstey, Ben, 56; 3, E. Anstey, Joy, 52. PM (R. Hawke) (29 dogs ran) 1, M. Banham, Taff, 90/100; 2, M. Banham, Brooke, 88; 3, M. Banham, Jon, 86; 4, T. Carter, Copper, 73; 5. H. Long, Ted, 71; 6, G. Gower, Kelsal, 69. Novice, 1, J. Marsh, Rose, 66 OLF; 2, W. Cole, Gipping Valley Lil, 66; 3. W. Cole, Moss, 56 OLF; 4, E. Anstey, Joy, 56. TREWINDLES (T. Griffiths) Driving (17 ran) 1, W. Carter, Belle, 82; 2, J. Nicholls, Maud, 81; 3, M. Fox, Merlin, 80; 4, B. Watson, Will, 79; 5, B. Watson, Taff, 76; 6, J. Carter, Joe, 74. Open (T Hopper) (17 ran) 1, J. Nicholls, Maud, 76; 2, W. Carter, Belle, 75; 3, J. Carter, Nip, 62; 4, W. Carter, Jen, 54. Novice, 1, T. Griffiths, Roy, 76; 2, J. Nicholls, Queen, 74; 3, W. Carter, Frank, 67. CORNWALL VS DEVON (T. Griffiths) Driving (16 ran) 1, V. Pitts, Brooke, 89; 2, W. Carter, Jen, 88; 3, W. Carter, Belle, 84; 4, T. Hopper, Pip, 79; 5, V, Pitts, Jago, 77; 6, J. Tucker, Sally, 75. Team score, Cornwall: W. Carter, Jen, 88; W. Carter, Belle, 84; T. Hopper, Pip, 79; S. Williams, Chase, 68; total, 319. Devon: V. Pitts, Brooke, 89; V. Pitts, Jago, 77; J. Tucker, Sally, 75; P. Symmons, 62; total, 303. Maltese cross, 1, T. Hopper, Sam, 79; 2, J. Carter, Rob, 78; 3, J. Tucker, Tess, 77; 4, W. Carter, Frank, 75; 5, P. Symmons, Meg, 74; 6, J. Carter, Lad, 71. Team Score, Cornwall: T Hopper, Sam, 79; J. Carter, Rob, 78; W. Carter, Frank, 75; J. Carter, Lad, 71; total, 303; Devon: J. Tucker, Tess, 77; P. Symmons, Meg, 77; L. Lock, 69; total, 220; overall; Cornwall, 622; Devon, 523. AVON VALLEY, 1, B. Smith, Ben 2, 95; 2, L. Kasel-
October 5. HEVENINGHAM HALL, Heveningham Hall, Suffolk, pre-entry via EASS website: eass.org. uk, trial contact organiser, Lucy Allison, tel: 07828 001 575. RAINOW, Dane Bent Farm, Lamaload Road, Rainow, SK105XP, £10 a dog, 9am start, entries to Gerry by email: geraldine53clark@gmail.com or geraldine53clark@gmail.com. YETHOLM, Contact, Bill Elliot, tel: 07769 550 128.
October 5 and 6. BISHOPSTONE, Charity trial, Bishopstone, Salisbury, October 5, open driving; October 6, double fetch, 8am start, contact secretary, Anna Hawke, tel: 01722 718 228, or email hawke@onetel.com
October 6. MID SHIRES CHAMPIONSHIP, Details TBC. OTTERBURN, NE19 1JX, pre-entry and run strictly to ballot, first 40 dogs, 9am start, contact, M. Anderson, tel: 07530 429 000.
Seibert, Frost, 92; 3, B. Smith, Kirby, 87 T; 4, B. Smith, Roy, 85; 5, C. Eddie, Sally, 82 OLF; 6, B. Smith, Ben 1, 82 T OLF.
Welsh results
DUNBIA (Judge, A. Price) AM, 1, E. Hope, Meg, 13; 2, E. Morgan, Lil, 14; 3, L. Williams, Nedwin Maddie, 15 OLF; 4, L. Bevan, Lyn, 15; 5, O. Lewis, Genog Ruby, 16; 6, J. Howells, Millie, 16. PM (M. Morgan) 1, E. Hope, Trefynor Lass, 4; 2, D. Howells, Wyverne Pip, 6; 3, C. Millichap, Gelli Smudge, 8; 4, B. Charles Lester, Jill, 12; 5, J. Howells, Cydros Boss, 13; 6, L. Williams, Efail Mick. Final, 1, E. Morgan, Lil, 15; 2, E. Hope, Trefynor Lass, 17; 3, D. Howells, Wyverne Pip, 19; 4, L. Williams, Maddie, 20; 5, E. Hope, Meg; 6, C. Millichap, Gelli Smudge. FFOS Y FRAN HILL, Day One, 1, B. Lester, Nantcelyn Jet, 10; 2, D. Millichap, Bedlwyn Jack, 20; 3, L. Hansson, Molly, 21; 4, K. Evans, Kemi Jack, 22; 5, B. Lester, Jill, 29; 6, M. Edwards, Efail Tam, 30. Day Two, 1, K. Broad, Kinloch Ciaran, 18; 2, R. Ellis, Tod, 19; 3, G. Howells, Patch, 26; 4, P. Tomkins, Fynydd Kylo, 30; 5, R. Ellis, Pip, 32; 6, A. Carin Andersson, App, 32. PENUWCH (I. Evans) AM (25 ran) 1, L. Harries, Teifi Taff, 12; 2, J. Davies, Rex, 13; 3, J. Price, Tynygraig Holly, 15; 4, J. Price, Ben, 17; 5, J. Davies, Bonnie, 18; 6, M. Morgan, Scott, 20. PM (L. Harries) (29 ran) 1, I. Evans, Gwnnws Jet, 6; 2, E. Hope, Trefynor Lass, 14; 3, J. Wheaton, Erwood Kate, 15; 4, B. Laemmle, Floss, 16; 5, T. Morgan, Kennox Tess, 19 OLF; 6, E. Hope, Meg, 19.
Scottish results
DRYDEN (K. Preston) (52 ran) 1, M. Arres, Midge, 95; 2, C. Dickson, Tom, 94; 3, B. Parker, Reba, 88; 4, B. Parker, Keita, 86; 5, P. Uhlemann, Amy, 85; 6, C. Dickson, Bill, 84. STRATHNAVER, 1, V. Shearer, Misty, 96; 2, I. Sutherland, Cap, 92; 3, J. Sutherland, Spot, 91; 4, I. Sutherland, Dan, 90; 5, I. Matheson, Molly, 86; 6, N. Sutherland, Spot, 84.
WALES
October 5. CWM PENNANT, LL51 9AX, 9am start, contact, tel: 07876 552 285. NANTMEL, Contact, Anna Prothero, tel: 07795 178 451, or anna_ prothero@hotmail.com. NEW ROW, Pengwernydd, Pontrhydygroes, SY25 6DS, Open national and open South Wales, 8am start, enter on field, contact, Mared Hopkins, tel: 07985 774 328. October 26. LLANGELYNNIN, LL36 9ND, 8am start, contact, tel: 07979 156 650. October 26 and 27. NANT-Y-MOEL HILL, Pontardawe, SA8 4RT, one session Saturday and one session Sunday, Double gather final to be run on Sunday afternoon, 8am start, contact, Floyd Farthing, tel: 07891 246 997.
Market Prices Primestock
ENGLAND
Source: LAA/MartEye
Market Prices Store Cattle
ENGLAND
Louth
SCOTLAND
Figures show livestock numbers first, then average price per head.
CATTLE values increased across the board at auction marts in England and Wales this week.
Dairy-sired cull cow prices were up the most by 4.5p/kg to 150p/kg, while steers had increased by 4.3p/kg to 282.7p/kg.
Young bulls had grown in value by 1.2p/kg to 276.5p/kg, and heifers had gained 0.8p/kg from the previous week.
Lambs were down by 0.8p/kg to 287.4p/kg.
All pig categories had decreased in value, with baconers decreasing the most by 17.2p/kg to 170p/kg.
As Farmers Guardian went to press on Wednesday (September 25), UK LIFFE wheat prices for November 2024 were trading at £181.65/tonne, a reduction of £2.30/t on the week.
Source: LAA/MartEye
LIVESTOCK AVERAGES
Primestock throughput, price and price change (p/kg). Week ending September 24, 2024.
Source: LAA/MartEye
Market Prices
DEADWEIGHT CATTLE
STORE SHEEP ENGLAND
DEADWEIGHT SHEEP
N/S deadweight prices for the week ending September 21,
Deadweight sheep prices are collected from a sample of GB abattoirs.
DEADWEIGHT PIGS
PIGS
WALES
SCOTLAND
*Pigpricesarew/eSept 14,2024. Source: AHDB
HAY AND STRAW PRICES
GOOSTREY: Mon, hay, square bale to £115/tonne, round bale to £64/t; barley straw, square bale to £103/t; wheat straw, square bale to £96/t.
A farm incident changed the course of Sammi Kinghorn’s life, but a determination to succeed has seen her become a Paralympian and British World champion wheelchair racer. Alex Black reports.
Paralympian’s resilience rooted in her family farm
● Resolve, hard work and pride have paid o
IT is quite an event to simply watch the Paralympics, let alone compete in them. Hours of dedication, focus and a will of steel are all necessary attributes for the athletes, but are all also qualities gold medallist Paralympian Sammi Kinghorn learned from her childhood farming in the Scottish borders.
Sammi, 28, says she had the ‘best childhood in the world’, and was always outside in her wellies.
Farming was all she thought about at school and doing it alongside her dad was something she loved even more.
She says: “From a young age, my dad respected and trusted me. I used to do night lambing – I was passionate about the sheep.”
But in the winter of 2010, everything changed for Sammi, when heavy snow hit the farm and the surrounding area.
Her dad woke her up to help, as he was attempting to clear snow from the streets with his forklift. Sammi was walking in front of the forklift and decided to jump on the front.
She says: “I was being an annoying 14-year-old, trying to put him off his job. I have no idea why I decided to jump on the forklift – I jumped on the joining part where the boom comes up and I thought he had seen me.
“I remember thinking I was really cool, showing off and not thinking about the consequences of being on a piece of machinery.”
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Sammi’s dad had not, unfortunately, seen her, and started to lower the shovel.
She recalls there was an immense amount of pressure on the back of her neck and then she felt her back ‘pop’.
But before she felt the pain, she says she immediately felt a huge amount of guilt.
“I grew up in a household where they love what they do and I have taken away the two things Dad loved the most – one of his children, as I thought I was going to die, and the farm. Dad would not want to farm again after this.”
The shovel started to come back up and she managed to pull herself off, but as her feet hit the floor, although she could not really feel them, she could move.
In a bid to get her dad to see her, she began sprinting but slipped on some compacted snow.
She says: “I was on the ground and had pins and needles in my legs and everything contracted and then released. That was the last time I felt my legs.”
Sammi was rushed to the nearest hospital in the Borders, and as she lay there, she began to ‘plan my life in bed’, believing this was now her existence.
It was her mum and dad’s reaction, however, which led her to pursue greater things.
Sammi says: “Mum and Dad came in and screamed: ‘My baby, we are so sorry’. My dad could not even look at me – I was not having that.
“He did not do anything wrong, and I thought: ‘I am going to do something else and make him proud’.”
Getting her wheelchair was ‘exciting’, giving her a new outlook and, more importantly, independence.
At the time, at just 15 years old, her friends were starting to go out and go to parties, and Sammi decided she was going to make a life for herself, no matter her circumstances.
She says: “I realised very quickly that I could lie here every night and ask: ‘Why me?’ But in the morning,
I will still be paralysed, so why not build a life around that? Disability has changed in the last 28 years, but so has women’s sport. I did not know that was something I could do. When I was given a chance to do sport again it gave me a chance to meet other people like me, which was huge.
“I had always wanted to be a zoologist, and that was probably the hardest thing to hear after the incident, that this probably would not happen. So, I had to work out who I was again.
“I was pretty lucky when I found a sport I loved and something me and my dad could enjoy together. That is something which made me love it more.
Cycling
“He comes out cycling with me. In the beginning, before school, I would go out pushing and Dad would be out checking the sheep and give me a little wave. It has brought me and Dad closer together.”
Getting the chance to connect with her dad again was really important to Sammi. Although growing up on the farm was something she cherishes, there was never really a chance to take time out to find out who Sammi was away from that or go to school events – taking time off is something many farmers struggle with.
Her experience changed that.
She says: “He takes more time off than ever. I cannot shake him. He comes and watches me compete all over the world.”
Sammi has since achieved various accolades, travelling worldwide to compete.
Last year, she won four medals at the Para Athletics World Championships in Paris, including gold in the T53 100 metres, securing her third career world title and setting a new championship record time.
She also achieved silver medals over 400m, 800m and in the universal 4x100m relay.
Sammi has previously won two world gold medals, as well as silver and bronze medals at the Tokyo
[Dad] takes more time off than ever. I cannot shake him. He comes and watches me compete all over the world
SAMMI KINGHORN
Paralympics in 2021 and, most recently, took home another gold at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Her parents still live on the mixed beef, sheep and arable farm – her dad works for the Tweedie family and has done for 30 years.
And Sammi will never shy away from her farming roots.
She says: “I think it made me a confident and independent child, because my dad always allowed me to help and be involved with his job which he took seriously, so, in turn, I did too. I loved to help him and to learn from him.”
But it has been a journey and, looking over her story from the incident to now, it is certainly one of resolve, hard work and pride.
Did she ever think she would be in this position?
She says: “It is so incredible; I do not think it has quite sunk in yet that I have actually done it. But I am just in a place of contentment right now, which is amazing.
“I was so pleased that all my friends and family were able to come out and watch me in Paris – that was the best part of it all and the part which meant the most to me.”
Sammi Kinghorn after winning a gold medal at this year’s Paris Paralympics.
In Your Field
Every week we follow the ups and downs of farmers around the UK
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.
In the life of a farmer, numerous challenges arise on a daily basis. One particularly distressing issue is the increasing number of livestock attacks.
Recently I had such an incident on the Great Orme.
I had just sat down for a meal with friends. As I opened my first beer, my phone rang reporting a loose dog attacking a Welsh Mountain ewe lamb.
I apologised to my guests, put my farm boots back on and headed out. This was by no means my first experience of a dog attack, but the sinking feelings never lessen with experience.
Arriving at the scene I was met with a gathering of people, onlookers, witnesses and a very distraught dog owner. In this case, the dog was a beloved family pet that had never shown aggression. Unfortunately, the lamb did not survive its injuries.
Sadly, livestock attacks are all too common. In 2021 I lost 12 sheep in 12 separate incidents. How is it that we are still facing these heartbreaking scenes over and over?
The solution, to keep your dog on a lead or under close control at all times, is such an easy one, yet seemingly we are asking for the impossible.
‘How is it that we are facing these heartbreaking scenes over and over?’
The emotional and financial impact for the farmer cannot be overstated, nor the stress for the dog owner.
Tackling this issue requires a multifaceted and joint approach. Fostering partnerships between farmers, dog walkers, local authorities, animal welfare organisations and the law is essential for developing and implementing strategies to prevent livestock attacks.
This could include increased signage, designated dog-walking areas, and accessible resources for reporting incidents and seeking assistance.
On a more positive note, I am
Farmers Weather by Dr Simon Keeling
thrilled to announce my participation in the esteemed Nuffield Farming Global Focus Programme.
By the time you read this I will already be at my first destination, Borneo, a place I’m truly excited about.
My journey will then take me on to Taiwan, Japan, Poland, and Italy.
Over the six weeks I will join international scholars to explore agriculture and food production systems. This will allow us to exchange insights, broaden our understanding of global farming practices, and learn about sustainable farming techniques from diverse perspectives.
Unsettled outlook for a ‘proper’ October
YOU don’t need me to tell you that for most of the country, it’s been a wetter, colder week.
Autumn has certainly arrived and during the coming week it shows no real sign of improving.
A trough in the upper atmosphere, associated with low pressure at the surface, is proving a perfect breeding ground for wind, rain and showers.
As I type, earlier in the week, a hurricane is forecast to be developing in the Gulf of Mexico, becoming a major hurricane before making landfall in the southern USA.
As this moves north it is forecast to bring soaking rains, the remnants of
which then move into the Atlantic, becoming absorbed into the low pressure areas affecting the UK during this weekend and next week.
That rain will be adding to an already wet September with some parts of southern England likely to record more than three times the average rainfall for the month, when, by contrast, parts of Scotland will have rainfall totals closer to two thirds of the average for the month.
Temperatures have also turned much cooler now, although the warm weather at the beginning of the month has served to keep temperatures close to or above average for most of us.
Further afield, the temperature at the pole continues to fall.
When northerly winds set in, colder air drains south through the country and brings the cooler temperatures that we are seeing through the course of this week.
The current outlook for October maintains the theme of some more unsettled weather. Low pressure seems to be close to the British Isles for much of the month with high pressure being split in two in the Atlantic and Europe. The result could be a ‘proper’ October in the UK.
Weareconstantlyupdatingatwww. Weatherweb.net, so join me there.
Participating serves as a reminder that while we face significant challenges in farming, there are also opportunities for growth and innovation.
By embracing these opportunities and working together, we can build a brighter, more resilient future in agriculture. I eagerly anticipate sharing my experiences and new-found knowledge so we can all learn from one another and contribute to the success and sustainability of our industry.
For location specific forecasts visit farmersweather.co.uk and for video updates go to weatherweb.net or call the number below.
NEXT WEEK
Cornwall Alan Carter
Kent Dan Hawes
‘Right now though, trust in the SFI system is low’
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.
Last week I managed to get some September silage done.
I was lucky to catch a small weather window here in North Devon, where we seem to experience three seasons in a day.
Over the weekend at the pub, I was talking about it when someone quickly told me: “You’re not a real
man until you’ve made November silage.”
While I hope to avoid that milestone, at least I know where the bar is.
After a slow summer, this month has been anything but.
Between shearing new ewe lambs, bolusing, collecting rams, and spreading two years’ worth of muck and re-liming the whole farm, it has been non-stop.
We’ve also been prepping the barn ready for the winter ahead.
Thanks
A big thanks to my wife, Isobel, who has been holding the fort at home with our two boys while also dealing with morning sickness.
We are expecting our third child just a week after calving starts and a month before lambing kicks off.
Looking back, we probably could have timed that better, but it does beat our first child who arrived at 8pm and I was calving a cow at 4am.
Crossword 1264
In August, we put in our Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) application.
The SFI payment is set to be three times what we would have received under the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), and the herbal leys, though not ideal for topnotch silage, will not reduce our stocking rate.
I was keen to get going this autumn, but I’ve just had an email delaying our application.
Adding to the uncertainty are re-
ports in The Guardian, which suggest Labour plans to cut £100 million from the agricultural budget. That leaves me wondering if the delay is politically motivated.
I can’t be the only one concerned about this.
SFI was meant to be flexible, easy to apply for and deliver more value than BPS.
In return, we farmers would give back more to the taxpayer.
Forthright opinions from throughout the world of agriculture
‘Farmers desperately need reassurance governments will support a fair transition’
Make no mistake –
Orkney is a wild, rugged and testing landscape. The windswept islands, islets and skerries of this ancient archipelago may take no prisoners among those making a living here, but there is something about this challenging landscape and way of life that has me and many others hooked.
As the patchwork of landscapes are shaped by the bracing sea winds, an equally varied mix of wildlife and people face the elements in order to call this mystifying place home.
It is no great surprise that for Amy Liptrot, a return to these islands, during which she aided the RSPB’s work for the endangered corncrake, was the inspiration for her memoir The Outrun, the film adaptation of which hits cinemas later this week.
One of the sounds Amy paid particular attention to was the ‘crex crex’ call of the elusive corncrake. Once widespread across the UK, their numbers began to fall dramatically from
the early 20th century when farming was mechanised and earlier mowing of grass crops became the norm.
Recording the calls of these rare and secretive birds, as Amy recounts in her memoir, proved vital to monitoring the success of conservationists, farmers and communities in helping to protect this species. And, as our nationwide monitoring of the birds continues to show, without farmers’ and crofters’ efforts to deliver corncrake-friendly land management, the protection and recovery of this bird would not be possible.
Well-being
As The Outrun depicts, being immersed in nature played a crucial role in improving Amy’s own well-being during her recovery from addiction.
In refamiliarising herself with this wild and unforgiving landscape, Amy unravels the harsh realities of both farming and conservation work on Orkney, and how, despite the stresses and strains, there is also a great wealth of restorative opportunity to be found
FG Farm Dog of the Month
on the windswept clifftops, heathlands and moors.
In Orkney and beyond, conserving nature and battling the elements is no mean feat, and farmers and conservationists alike will know that the real challenge lies in remaining hopeful despite the pressures that a changing climate and biodiversity loss can bring.
While much commentary has been made in recent years on the impact nature can have in restoring and healing our own mental well-being, it can only perform this role when it is properly restored and protected itself.
Amy’s memoir perfectly depicts how, despite making up less than 1% of the UK’s landmass, Orkney punches well above its weight when it comes to nature.
Home to 11% of the UK’s seabirds1 and a wealth of rare farmland-dependent species such as the corncrake, no other place is quite like it in bringing farmers, conservationists and communities together with such a strong identity, culture and love of nature.
Collaboration
We know that our work in Orkney does not exist in isolation, but rather, the challenges and opportunities experienced here are also felt across the UK as nature-friendly farming and conservation work hand in hand.
Bringing nature back to all four corners of the UK will take tenacity and collaboration, and we know that many brilliant farmers and land managers are already rising to the
challenge while still producing food in a profitable way.
With 70% of UK land farmed, we simply cannot reverse biodiversity loss without farmers. There is a wealth of opportunity in nature, in finding new approaches, in underpinning our food security, and, as The Outrun explores, in restoring our own well-being.
Ensuring the future of our vanishing farmland birds and wildlife, clean rivers, and thriving farming and rural businesses is critical, and that is why we are calling on the governments of the UK to provide more and better funding for nature-friendly farming.
Farmers desperately need the reassurance that governments will support a fair transition to a more sustainable and nature-rich future, and so our petition, launched this week, will create a public mandate that governments cannot – and must not – ignore.
1 Orkney is home to 11% of the UK’s seabirds, according to the Seabird 2000 census
SARAH SANKEY
Industry experts will discuss:
• How to best diversify your land, including Solar, Wind, Biodiversity Net Gain, Battery Storage, Grants, Camping/Glamping, Agri-Tourism, Housing, Carbon Credits and Forestation
At Farm Business Innovation, you’ll have FREE access to insightful talks, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, which will equip you with practical advice and solutions.
• Advice and lessons learned from farmers who have started their diversification journey
• Real-life case-studies from landowners who have made a profit from diversifying
• Recent tax changes and how they will impact your business
And much more!
Plus, you’ll get free access to the talks and workshops taking place at our co-located exhibition, the Land, Leisure and Tourism Show!
6-7 November 2024 NEC, Birmingham
For your free ticket, scan the QR CODE or visit agrc.im/register
