Farming Monthly National January 2025

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Farming Monthly National is published monthly in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537

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AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY NEEDS TO REMAIN VIGILANT

As the UK faces the brunt of winter’s unpredictable weather—with storms, flooding, rain, snow, and high winds wreaking havoc – Mark Holroyde, Risk Manager, Towergate Insurance Brokers is calling on the agriculture industry to remain vigilant and prepared for the ongoing challenges.

The recent extreme weather conditions underscore the increasing vulnerability of UK farms to climaterelated disruptions. From waterlogged fields and damaged crops to disrupted supply chains and livestock welfare concerns, the impacts of severe weather are far-reaching and can have devastating consequences for farmers and their livelihoods.

The Big Dangers Facing Agriculture

Farmers are grappling with several critical risks as a result of the current poor weather:

1. Flooding and Waterlogging: Heavy rainfall can leave fields waterlogged, rendering them unworkable and damaging soil structure. Prolonged water exposure can also lead to crop loss and delayed planting schedules.

2. Erosion and Soil Health Damage: High winds and flooding can strip fertile topsoil, reducing long-term productivity and increasing the risk of runoff into nearby water sources.

3. Livestock Stress and Health Issues: Ice, snow, freezing temperatures, and high winds can put livestock at risk of hypothermia, illnesses, and stress.

4. Infrastructure Damage: Farm buildings, greenhouses, and machinery are vulnerable to storm damage, which can lead to costly repairs and business interruptions.

5. Disrupted Supply Chains: Blocked roads and transportation delays caused by ice, snow and flooding can hinder the movement of feed, crops, and goods, impacting farm operations.

Practical Solutions for Farmers

Holroyde is encouraging farmers to take practical steps to address these challenges and build resilience:

1. Enhanced Drainage Systems: Invest in proper drainage solutions, such as contour ploughing and installing retention ponds, to prevent waterlogging and protect soil structure.

2. Reinforce Infrastructure: Regularly inspect farm buildings, machinery, and fencing to ensure they are secured and capable of withstanding severe weather.

3. Livestock Management: Ensure animals have access to shelter, adequate feed, and water during extreme conditions. Stockpile feed and

bedding materials to avoid shortages.

4. Diversify Crops: Consider planting weatherresilient crop varieties and staggering planting schedules to reduce the risk of widespread loss.

5. Emergency Preparedness: Develop an emergency response plan that includes clear protocols for evacuating livestock, securing equipment, and communicating with suppliers during disruptions.

6. Leverage Technology: Use weather forecasting tools, satellite imaging, and farm management software to make data-driven decisions in response to changing conditions.

Proactive Risk Mitigation

Holroyde is also urging farmers to consider these proactive measures to safeguard their operations:

• Assess and Update Insurance Policies: Ensure your coverage includes key risks such as storm damage, flooding, and business interruption.

• Create a Farm Risk Assessment Plan: Identify vulnerabilities across your property, including buildings, machinery, and livestock housing.

• Prepare Livestock Housing: Secure shelters and ensure livestock has access to dry bedding and sufficient feed.

• Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates and utilise early warning systems to anticipate and respond to potential disruptions.

• Manage and Maintain: Ensure, before poor weather sets in, ditches and dykes surrounding fields and properties are clear of debris and all drainage systems (including treatment plants) are clean and serviced.

• Service and Maintain: All your personal and farm vehicles are maintained and serviced to ensure that, should you need to use them, you can and they will get you to where you need to go and back safely.

• Personal Awareness: Be aware of your own, your family and employees physical and mental health capabilities and resilience. Remember, things can be replaced; people cannot.

The Growing Importance of Resilience

"The UK’s agriculture industry is no stranger to the challenges posed by unpredictable weather," said Mark Holroyde, Risk Manager at Towergate Insurance. "However, the intensity and frequency of these events are increasing, making resilience planning more important than ever. By adopting practical measures and ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage, farmers can better weather the storm—both literally and figuratively—and safeguard their operations for the future."

WITHAM GROUP HONOURED TO RECEIVE NEW ROYAL WARRANT

The Witham Group, a leading UK manufacturer of lubricants and paints, is delighted to announce that it has been granted a renewed Royal Warrant of Appointment as suppliers to His Majesty King Charles III.

Royal Warrants are a prestigious mark of excellence, awarded in recognition of the supply of goods or services to the Royal Household and senior members of the Royal Family. This renewed appointment signifies continued trust and confidence in Witham Group's high-quality products and services.

His Majesty King Charles III has retained 386 companies from his mother, Queen Elizabeth II's, list of Royal Warrant holders, including renowned brands such as John Lewis, Waitrose, Jaguar Land Rover, and Barbour. Witham Group joins this distinguished group, a testament to its long-standing commitment to quality, reliability, and service.

Nigel R Bottom, Group Managing Director of Witham Group, commented: “We are immensely proud to have this Royal Warrant granted by His Majesty. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are committed to continuing to serve all our customers with the utmost care and professionalism, and we are honoured to continue our association with the Royal Household and Royal Estates.”

Witham Group were originally granted a Royal Warrant to HM The Queen in 1991. The Appointment was the start of a magical journey which has culminated in the company supplying lubricants and paints for the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, as well as other connected properties, estates and farmland.

Farmers urged to avoid rash decisions amidst budget changes

As we look forward to 2025, farmers are encouraged to take a measured approach and avoid making any hasty decisions around succession planning and diversification plans. Head of agriculture and estates and partner at HCR Law, Denise Wilkinson, says the changes made during the 2024 Autumn Budget sent a wave of panic across the farming community potentially forcing farmers into making rash decisions.

“As it stands, we still don’t have the guidance that we need to make all the decisions with regards to succession planning,” she explains. “And when it comes to succession and rethinking business structure, you shouldn’t make changes overnight.”

increased financial pressure on farming businesses," says Mrs Wilkinson.

For farmers looking to diversify into additional income streams, Mrs Wilkinson highlights concern about proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), which could undermine the viability of such ventures.

However, she advises farmers to sit down with their solicitors and accountants in the early part of 2025. “There may be some things which can be done now and initiating these discussions is key,” she explains.

Mrs Wilkinson says some families may already have a plan in place that could be revisited and potentially implemented. If not, they should assess which assets currently qualify for inheritance tax relief.

“It's also worth considering discussions about involving younger family members in the business or addressing asset planning with older relatives,” she says.

“If health permits, exploring life assurance to offset tax liabilities could also be a valuable step." She says the past year has been challenging for farming families, and 2025 is unlikely to bring much relief.

"The phase-out of BPS, coupled with uncertainty surrounding habitat-based farming support schemes like SFI (or SFS in Wales) — particularly regarding budgets, tax implications, and required capital investment and infrastructure — has

"The suggestion that assets may be devalued due to reduced reliefs raises questions about funding, and the banks’ stance on these changes remains unclear," she says.

However, she explains that this is not a one-sizefits-all approach, and seeking legal advice to understand how the changes might affect your business model is crucial.

“Every farm is different, whether that’s the size, the family dynamic or the structure, so what works for one farm might not work for another,” she says. “Talking to your solicitor and professional team is essential for making informed decisions around estate planning.”

Mrs Wilkinson says there are other potential challenges for farmers to be aware of in 2025. “We’re awaiting technical guidance on the proposed changes and that will include how it will impact on existing trusts, so structures already in place to protect farm assets,” she says.

“There are also talks of a comprehensive review of stamp duty land tax which, if increased, could make buying land more expensive.”

Mrs Wilkinson concludes: "Hopefully, 2025 will provide greater clarity enabling farmers to plan effectively for their future, their family’s future, and the future of their farm.

“It is though undoubtedly the case that 2025 will bring plenty of challenges for the farming community, whether that is by way of tax issues, government support and increasing costs.”

Farmers’ Union of Wales respond to latest Welsh Government farm income data

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has responded to data released today by the Welsh Government on Farm Income Data for April 2023 to March 2024.

The latest data showed that average Farm Business incomes in Wales have fallen by 39% year-on-year.

In 2023-24, estimated dairy farm income has dropped by 59% to £67,500 -drastically reducing from an all-time high in 2022-23. The latest data also showed a drop in income for Cattle and sheep in Less Favoured Areas (LFA) farms, falling by 9% in 2023-24 to £22,000.

Commenting on the figures, Farmers’ Union of Wales Deputy President, Dai Miles said:

"The latest statistics on Farm Business Incomes in Wales demonstrate the economic reality of attempting to maintain levels of profitability against a backdrop of increasing costs and red tape.

"Dairy farms have seen significant declines due to both an average increase of 10% in overall farm business costs coupled with reductions in income.

"Across the board, however, the proportion of farm businesses in Wales generating a negative income continues to increase to over 20%. At the very least, this demonstrates the need for the future Sustainable Farming Scheme to offer an equal level of economic stability, currently provided through the Basic Payment Scheme, the maintenance of which for 2025 has been welcomed by the industry.”

The farm incomes data used in the release are derived from the annual Farm Business Survey (FBS).

Full Welsh Government data is available via the link below:

https://www.gov.wales/farm-incomes-april-2023march-2024-html

The Original Muck Boot Company Launches New S5 Certified Safety Boot, the Grit: Ultimate Protection for Men and Women

The Original Muck Boot Company, a leader in high-performance footwear, is proud to announce the launch of its latest S5 Certified Safety Boot, the Grit, including the pioneering Muck Grit S5 specifically designed for women. This ground-breaking boot is the first in the safety wellington category to introduce ladies specific lasts and fit, offering unmatched protection, comfort, and durability tailored to women’s needs.

Engineered with a nonmetallic construction, the new Grit is 100% waterproof, ensuring complete protection in even the harshest conditions. The boot features a breathable air mesh lining that facilitates optimal air circulation, keeping feet cool and dry throughout the day.

insulation, ensuring all-day comfort. The Grit also includes a safety toe and an anti-penetration sole, offering superior protection against impact and punctures, making it ideal for demanding work environments.

Hand-laid rubber overlays add an extra layer of durability, while the Grit's low-profile design allows for greater mobility without compromising on safety. The non-slip bob tracker outsole is specifically designed to provide maximum traction, ensuring stability on a variety of surfaces. In addition to its robust construction, the Grit is antistatic, preventing the build-up of static electricity, which is crucial in sensitive work environments.

At the core of this boot's design is the 5mm neoprene bootie, which provides flexibility and

The new Grit Boot will be available to purchase from February 2025 from: www.muckbootcompany.co.uk - RRP £130

NFU responds to government's trade strategy consultation

The NFUhasrepeated its call for a robust system of core production standards for food imports to protect UK farmers and consumers from imported food that would be illegal to produce here.

In its submission to theDepartment for Business and Trade's consultation on a new trade strategy, the NFU has also set out the principles it hopes will open up access for more UK farming businesses to international markets and promote ourhighest standards when it comes to food production.

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: "After regaining independent control of our international trade policy in 2020, the previous government chose to move at pace, striking unbalanced trade deals and positioning the UK on the global stage without a clear and transparent strategy.

"Confidence among UK farmers has hit rockbottom, not helped by an approach to trade policy that encouraged the import of goods produced to

lower environmental and animal welfare standards. It's unreasonable for our government to demand ever increasing standards from our farmers that bring additional costs and burdens, while allowing products to be sold on our market that fail to meet equivalent production standards.

"An effective plan that sets out coherent and consistent policy principles is long overdue – one that champions a positive trade model, that is fair and trusted by farmers and consumers, and ensures our food is safe, healthy and affordable and produced to the highest standards.

"We are urging government to level the playing field and translate its pledge to "protect farmers from being undercut by low welfare and low standards in trade deals," into a set of statutory core production standards that must be met by both domestically produced and imported food to be sold in the UK.

"A comprehensive trade strategy that places domestic producers at its heart is essential in securing the nation's food security."

Many farms won't make it to 'New Deal for Farmers', says NFU

Following the announcement of the government's 'New Deal for Farmers', NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: "There are positive elements to this announcement, but it fundamentally fails to recognise that the industry is in a cash flow crisis with the lowest farmer and grower confidence ever recorded. That's today. Many are worried about making it to the end of 2025, never mind what happens 25 years down the line.

"Devastating inheritance tax changes, national insurance hikes, crippling cuts to direct paymentsand delays to environmental schemes mean many businesses won't survive to benefit from the 'New Deal'.

"It's great that government thinks farming and growing businesses should be more profitable and sustainable in the long-term. It's also good to hear the government say the primary role of farmers and growers is to produce food, but how is it going to ensure food production is profitable when thousands of farmers and growers are questioning whether they'll still be in the industry in the next year?

"The agricultural transition, which began with the previous government's Health and Harmony consultation in 2018, assumed that the loss of direct payments would be offset by farmers getting a proper financial return from environmental schemes, significant improvements in productivity, and increased returns from fairer functioning markets. This has not happened.

"The government must now face up to the reality of the fierce policy headwinds and challenging market conditions the industry is facing into and act to secure the future of British farming. Its first priority as a matter of urgency must be to pause and consult on changes to Agricultural and Business Property Relief and review the delays and challenges to agri-environmental schemes.

"To have a genuine reset moment with farmers and growers after the inflationary budget, all of these issues need to be addressed. Only then can the government's long-term vision be achievable. As we go through the detail of today's announcements, we will continue to engage with Defra and stand up for the voice of British farming."

Sharp rise in rural residents seeking financial advice

The proportion of rural residents saying they are more likely to seek financial advice almost trebled in the last quarter of 2024 amid the tougher economic backdrop according to new research from NFU Mutual.

The UK's leading rural insurer questioned 382 customers in early November about their confidence in saving and investment as part of its twice-yearly investor sentiment study.

It found that the numbers of people saying they were more likely to seek financial advice jumped to 30 per cent in November 2024 up from 11 per cent in March 2024.

NFU Mutual's study found that 59 per cent of those questioned said they strongly agreed or agreed that they were concerned about their finances in the next five years –up from 48 per cent in March 2024.

As a result, demand for advice has increased with around 35 per cent of those aged under 65 said they were significantly more likely to seek financial guidance, the study found. Farmers were also much more likely to seek financial advice in the near future with 45 per cent saying they planned to do so, although the numbers were not statistically significant.

The report found that rural residents were now prioritising more of their disposable income on saving rather than spending on leisure and family activities - with 54 per cent in November 2024 citing it as their top priority against 50 per cent in March 2024.

Women and rural residents aged under 55 years old were more likely to prioritise savings (62 per cent and 66 per cent respectively).Women were also significantly more concerned about their finances over the next five years (71 per cent).

Caution about the economic outlook has led to more customers opting for lower risk savings – with many prioritising easy

access cash Individual Saving Accounts (ISAs) and premium bonds. Regular saving is on the decline with saving and investing done on a more ad hoc basis, the study found.

David Nottingham, personal finance expert at NFU Mutual, said: "This study suggests an increase in financial concerns amongst the rural population over the past six months which explains why we are seeing an increased appetite for financial advice as rural customers seek to navigate uncertainty about their financial future.

"Inheritance tax is a particular concern for older participants, and many are worried about the impact on their pensions and finances. There is a big increase in people who are looking to seek financial advice, particularly among people under 65 and those who are concerned about tax efficiency and returns on their investments," he added.

Five reasons for UK Government to restore nature in 2025

Afocus on restoring nature in 2025 could help solve a raft of problems facing UK Government – from the economy, to floods and our water supply, and from climate, to farming and our health –writes David Allwright, public affairs officer at The Wildlife Trusts.

The briefing below highlights five priorities:

• Restore nature to underpin economic growth: why planning reform and economic stability can benefit from a thriving natural world.

• Restore rivers and seas: how strategic investment in natural habitats across river catchments will tackle floods and pollution, and why it's time to stop damaging Marine Protected Areas.

• Restore nature to protect the UK from climate chaos: how safeguarding the wild places that store carbon on land and at sea makes business sense.

• Back farmers to restore nature: supporting sustainable farming practices will go a long way to meeting environmental targets and also give farmers a more certain future.

• Restore nature by 2030 for wildlife and people: why meeting the UK's commitment to protect 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030 offers huge societal benefits including for our health and wellbeing.

Floods, financial fears, and furious farmers have marked the start of this year and it's already clear that the environmental crises facing the UK have never been greater. Communities are under water and the Office for Environmental Protection has warned that green goals are under threat. A week ago we were told that 2024 was the warmest year on record and that 2024 was the first year with temperatures 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Gloomy news indeed.

As the Chancellor demands that regulators tasked with protecting nature 'tear down the barriers' to growth, she appears unaware of the critical role nature plays in the UK. Nature protections are not blocking the UK's success – they underpin our economy and make us safer. A nationthat undermines nature is a house of cards with shaky foundations.

The Wildlife Trusts have identified five areas where we believe political action can have the most significant impact on nature recovery – and which would also solve a raft of other related problems at the same time. From planning reform to the next Environmental Improvement Plan, it is vital that the UK Government improves its focus on supporting nature-friendly farmers, restoring fresh waters, and making us more resilient to the climate crisis. It must recognise that the nature and climate crises are the biggest long-term threats to economic growth.

1. Restore nature to underpin economic growth

The Prime Minister was right to say recently that the UK shouldn't 'Sit in the tepid bath of managed decline'. SinceThe Dasgupta Reviewshowed how much of the UK economy is built on a nature foundation, The Wildlife Trusts have called on the UK Government to

put nature recovery at the centre of planning reform and economic recovery.

Economic growth and nature recovery are not mutually exclusive. In fact, we would go further and say that stable, secure economic growth is dependent on the resilience and restoration of the natural world. By embedding nature recovery into all our economic plans, we can tackle the challenges of economic shocks from climate chaos, development, and housing together. We also need political leaders to clear up misconceptions about regulation. Strong leadership about properly enforced regulation is key to providing simplicity, certainty and driving business innovation in an integrated way.

The UK Government must reform planning rules to create housing with green space on its doorstep as standard. It must also ensure large nationally significant energy and development projects avoid harming protected wildlife sites and make a positive contribution to restoring nature.

Historically, development has often led to habitat loss, pollution and declines in wildlife. It is time for a climate-resilient planning system which ensures that growth is ambitious, sustainable and beneficial for both people and the natural world.

2. Restore rivers and seas England's rivers are among the most polluted in Europe, with poor water quality affecting every river, lake, estuary and coastal water. This is a crisis that demands urgent action and countries like Switzerland have shown how strong political leadership on water can deliver impressive results. Investing in natural habitats in river catchments can improve water quality by trapping agricultural pollutants and protecting communities from floods. The UK Government must also ensure 'the polluter pays, including being held accountable for cleaning up pollution like PFAS 'forever chemicals' that threaten our health.

Water companies should be encouraged to invest in wetlands and other nature-based solutions that filter and hold back rainwater to reduce nutrient pollution and protect valuable farmland and homes. Allowing natural processes – such as reintroducing beaver to build dams – is often cheaper and more effective at slowing the flow of water than human-engineered solutions. The UK government should get on with licensing and monitoring wild beaver releases to reap the rewards of this hard-working native species.

Anger at the sorry state of England's waters played a meaningful part of the debate during the 2024 General Election, and the public will rightly demand action beyond targeting water companies, who are only part of the problem. Farming and food production needs to be supported to play its part, through the new environment schemes, a new food strategy and a Farm Roadmap, in ending harm to rivers and seas.

In UK marine waters, The UK Government must prevent damaging activities, such as inappropriate

energy infrastructure and bottom trawling in Marine Protected Areas. The UK Government has previously shown strong leadership in recognising the need to protect our wider marine ecosystems, such as the closure of the sand eel fishery in the North Sea, which benefits the long-term resilience of seabirds, fish and wildlife populations. We need that leadership again – and we hope the ban remains, despite attempts by the EU to overturn it.

3. Restore nature to protect the UK from climate chaos

By November 2025, the world will gather for COP30, marking the 30th anniversary of acknowledging human-driven climate chaos. The Wildlife Trusts are leading the drive for ambitious climate action to tackle the twin nature and climate crises. The drive for unprecedented efforts to reduce carbon emissions at the source is urgent and necessary. Yet the UK's carbon calculations for reducing emissions are deeply flawed without an understanding of the carbon stored and absorbed in nature.

Protecting habitats like peatlands and marine sediments is crucial for storing carbon and supporting wildlife. The UK Government must integrate nature and climate goals in a single mission to deliver lowcarbon energy whilst expanding carbon-rich habitats and climate adapted farming and land use. Picture all the effort required to build a new wind turbine supplying low-carbon energy to your home. How wasteful it is then, if that turbine is poorly located, and its construction damages a peatland, saltmarsh or seagrass meadow – habitats that are brilliant at storing carbon but can only do so when they're in peak condition. As our recent Blue Carbon Mapping Projectshowed, these are not just amazing habitats for wildlife, but they also hold vast amounts of carbon that is released if they are disturbed.

4. Back farmers to restore nature

Food producers and farmers are on the front line of the climate crisis, facing rising instability and unpredictable weather patterns. However, there is a silver lining: when farmers move towards naturefriendly farming practices, they can increase profitability and improve food security. Organic and regenerative farming practices, which focus on restoring soil health, increasing biodiversity, and reducing chemical inputs, offer a sustainable path forward with massively reduced environmental impacts. However, farmers need support in transitioning to these new farming practices. Public investment is vital to ensure that our food systems are resilient and that farmers are rewarded for their efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment.

Farmers deserve a more certain future. Through high-quality advice, fairer supply chain treatment and decent prices for their products and robust, consistent rules to protect nature on all farms, we can drive innovation and secure the future of a resilient rural economy. As the new progress report fromthe Office for Environmental Protection,shows, supporting sustainable farming practices can significantly contribute to achieving environmental targets and enhancing biodiversity whilst also supports the

livelihoods of those who work the land, ensuring that farming remains a viable and sustainable profession for generations to come.

All this means the UK Government and devolved administrations must embrace farming with nature to get a more profitable, less polluting farming sector that can deliver hugely cost-effective actions to achieve nature and climate targets and provide public services.

5. Restore nature by 2030 – for wildlife and people

The UK has committed to the Global Biodiversity Framework, which includes the ambitious '30 by 30' target which means protecting 30% of land and sea by 2030. This target is crucial for halting and reversing biodiversity loss before it's too late. Achieving it will require significant effort to conserve and manage wildlife-rich habitats, ensuring cleaner rivers, lakes, and seas, and boosting nature-friendly farming methods. The State of Nature report revealed that one in six species is at risk of extinction in Great Britain, underscoring the need for immediate and decisive action. By prioritising nature restoration, we can create a healthier, more resilient environment for future generations.

The clock is ticking loudly here – all eyes are on this Labour administration to make this happen. The UK Government is legally committed to 30 by 30, but so far, only around 3% of land and around 9.5% at sea are protected. Progress has stalled. The Office for Environmental Protection warned last week that "unless things change materially, key targets, such as the 30 by 30 target for land and sea will not be met." A clear delivery plan is urgently needed to cover the gaping shortfall. This plan should include establishing a temperate rainforest programme, better protections for Local Wildlife Sites and using nature-based solutions to buffer us from the worst effects of climate chaos as well as implementing management measures in all remaining MPAs. Restoring and rewiggling rivers to reduce flooding and drought, expanding tree cover to cool our towns and cities, and bringing back missing species like beavers that help slow down floodwater and reduce river pollution are all essential steps.

Achieving the '30 by 30' target isn't just about wildlife – it's about people too; the benefits of nature for physical and mental health are profound and welldocumented. Engaging with the natural world not only promotes physical activity, which is essential for maintaining good health, but also significantly enhances mental well-being. Studies have shown that people with access to green spaces are more active, mentally resilient and experience lower levels of stress and anxiety.

Reaching '30 by 30' could create accessible, wildliferich areas in every community, ensuring that everyone can reap these benefits. Connection with nature improves quality of life, reduces the burden on healthcare systems, and creates a healthier, happier society for all. It's a no-brainer.

Calls for continued collaboration at Oxford Farming conference

Deputy First Minister tells conference he will 'always stand up for a fair and sustainable future for farmers'

Speaking at the Oxford Farming Conference 2025, the Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies outlines how we must act today to prepare and help ensure the future of the industry is robust and secure.

The focus of OFC25 is on “Facing Change, Finding Opportunity”, highlighting how today’s challenges in agriculture can spark groundbreaking solutions. Speaking from OFC25, the Deputy First Minister, said:

“There are a range of challenges facing the industry, from energy prices to animal diseases and more. And it’s no coincidence that my portfolio includes both Rural Affairs, and Climate Change. The changing climate and extreme weather already affect Welsh farms, and their soils, waterways and livestock.

beyond as part of the same landscape and the same community of people who lived and worked together. Farming is part of the fabric of Wales, our jobs and our way of life. I have always strived to be on the side of working people, and that includes people who work hard day in, day out, looking after land and livestock and producing the food we eat. That’s why I’ll always stand up for a fair and sustainable future for farmers.”

The Welsh Government announced updated outline plans for the Sustainable Farming Scheme in November.

The changes address the needs of Welsh farmers, while supporting the ongoing sustainable production of food, as well as climate change and nature commitments.

Partnership has been key to developing proposals so the scheme is accessible and achievable and the Deputy First Minister thanked farming stakeholders for their significant contribution so far. The final Scheme decision will be made later this year, based on further discussions at the Ministerial Roundtable and evidence including the economic analysis and impact assessment.

“These changes will intensify and in ten, twenty, let alone fifty years, the farmers of the future will face even more challenging conditions. We must act today to prepare for these impacts and help ensure the future of the industry is robust and secure.

“The transition to a decarbonised economy will be a challenge across all of society – and that includes farming. But it also brings opportunities. The Welsh Government is committed to working side by side with farmers to reap those benefits.

“And for me, that commitment is personal – it’s part of how I see the world. As a young lad growing up in South West Wales, I would look out from our house and see the steelworks and farmland

The Deputy First Minister, continued: “Sustainable production food has always been at the heart of SFS proposals, and it remains so.

And we must make meaningful progress on adapting and mitigating the climate and nature emergency. We are determined to design a scheme that does both; we have to take steps now to protect our future food producing capacity in light of climate impacts.

“Our plan is for the SFS to be introduced in 2026, and there is so much for Welsh farming to gain, we can shape a flourishing sector where jobs and businesses are resilient and secure, which helps to protect and restore the environment, and continues to put food on the tables of households across the country.

“We will continue to collaborate with the sector and I remain committed to listening to and working with our stakeholders. By working together we can ensure a prosperous and sustainable farming industry now and for future generations of Welsh farmers.”

MY HONDA POWERFUL AND RELIABLE

Tesco urges government to deliver a clear plan for UK agriculture as it launches low carbon concept farms

Tesco is calling on government to provide a clear and comprehensive plan to support UK farmers in the transition to net zero as it announces new plans to set up two low carbon concept farms in its supply chain to trial low carbon farming methods and help suppliers accelerate innovation.

Speaking in a session today at the Oxford Farming Conference, Tesco’s Chief Commercial Officer, Ashwin Prasad will call on government to set a clear vision for sustainable agriculture, including greater investment and policy certainty, to enable the industry to drive sustainable economic growth. The recommendations are based on a new report, produced by Tesco in collaboration with Harper Adams University, which consulted more than 300 UK farmers on the future sustainability of the industry.

The research found 74% of farmers surveyed are concerned about the impact of climate change on their farms and two thirds (67%) are already seeing the effects. Three quarters however (76%) haven’t been able to implement all the environmental measures they want to due to high upfront costs, the risk of poor

financial returns and a lack of policy certainty from government.

Tesco is calling on government to better support UK farmers through a long-term land use and food security strategy; improved funding for all stages of innovation that aids sustainability; and setting common environmental standards which farmers can regularly measure against to help prioritise investment in the most effective and sustainable farming techniques. At the same time, Tesco will continue to support the industry to implement clearer sustainability requirements and standards; working with farmers to simplify and standardise data collection; and exploring new models and incentives that could help farmers manage investment risk.

The call to action comes as Tesco announces plans with key suppliers for two low carbon concept farms in its UK supply chain. The multi-year commitment from Tesco will see the trailblazing farms trial new technologies and share learnings to scale the adoption of sustainable approaches. The farms – one in partnership with potato supplier Branston and one in partnership with livestock processor, ABP, will explore current and

future innovations such as low carbon fertilisers, alternative fuels, state-of-the-art cold storage, and carbon removal techniques, as well as innovation in other areas including soil health, grazing management, biodiversity assessment and management, and genetic improvements. The farms will aim to provide farmers in Tesco’s supply network with a practical demonstration of a route to net zero, helping pave the way to more low carbon farms in the future.

Ashwin Prasad, Chief Commercial Officer, Tescosaid “As the biggest customer of UK agriculture, we know providing our customers with healthy, affordable and sustainable food wouldn’t be possible without the expertise and dedication of our farmers across the country. But to continue to thrive in the future, the industry needs more certainty and support. Many of the solutions we need exist today, but government and the food industry need to make sure we have the right incentives in place so that UK agriculture can reach its potential as a driver of both sustainability and economic growth.

“We’ve already been working with farmers to help them reduce their environmental impact, from providing incentives to farmers to measure their carbon footprint to rolling out new innovations like low carbon fertilisers. We’re pleased to be building on this further with our new low carbon test farms, working with some of our supplier partners to pioneer new approaches to understand the most effective ways to reduce emissions and environmental impact, while continuing to bring the British public great quality food, at a price they can afford.”

Harper Adams University Deputy ViceChancellor Professor Michael Lee said:“As the Greenprint report notes, farmers know the importance of tackling climate changewith most reporting they are already seeing its effect on their farms. Giving farmers the skills and knowledge they need to farm sustainably was one of the drivers for Harper Adams University as we set up the School of Sustainable Food and Farming. The School works with key industry players to boost the skills and knowledge of

farmers and others in our food chain as we move towards sustainable Net Zero.

“The successful Tesco Future Farmer programme is a great example of how farmers, retailers and researchers at universities like Harper Adams can all strive together to build a sustainable future.

“The challenge of moving our food and farming systems towards Net Zero and ensuring food security at the same time is huge, and we all need to work together to take it on.”

The new farms are the latest in a range of commitments from Tesco to support farmers across the supply chain, following on from its partnership with Lloyd’s Banking Group, the Soil Association and other retailers earlier this week to support farmers to reduce emissions on farm.

They build on the work of Tesco’s long running sustainable farming groups (SFGs), which convene industry representatives; share knowledge between farmers, suppliers and Tesco colleagues; and trial innovations that can help reduce on-farm emissions and protect biodiversity. Tesco’s SFGs include groups dedicated to its milk, cheese, beef, lamb and potato farmers, and offer members fair and transparent pricing structures, as well as support to reduce emissions through carbon footprinting for lamb, beef and dairy group members.

The fullGreenprint for UK Farmingreport and its recommendations are availablewww.tescoplc.com/greenprintreport

Farmers connect youngsters with food origins through education pilot

Anew farm education pilot project funded by the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme is helping farmers deliver meaningful farm experiences to children, connecting them with the origins of their food and fostering an appreciation of farming and nature.

The programme supports farmers with accreditation, peer networking, and tools to engage schools and community groups. Farmers are reimbursed for the visits, with school travel costs also covered.

The initiative could encourage those who are involved to develop it into an income stream, explains Ruth Suddaby, Lake District National Park Authority's (LDNPA) Learning and Engagement Manager.

Delivered by the LDNPA in partnership with Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF), the initiative has attracted 14 Lake District farmers since its launch in April 2024. It has been made possible by a FiPL grant of £57,000 from Defra via the LDNPA.

Ruth, who is leading the pilot programme, said: "Participants, many new to hosting educational visits, began with fully funded training for the Countryside Educational Visits Accreditation Scheme (CEVAS). This nationally recognised certification equips farmers with skills to plan engaging, curriculum-linked activities, ensuring safe and practical learning. Accredited farmers are now hosting school visits, while others will complete their certification by December," added Ruth.

Michelle Hughes, one of the first to complete her updated CEVAS training, has hosted groups at her 55 acre organic farm at Low Stanger, Lorton. She said: "I've gained fresh ideas for linking farm activities to the curriculum and tailoring visits to different needs. The pilot's financial support covered

course costs, reimbursed materials, and connected me with local schools and groups including Lorton and All Saints School and Cockermouth Caterpillars, a wildlife group for young nature detectives. Hosting events for them has been uplifting—sharing ethical, sustainable farming while helping children connect with nature is so important."

Helen Rawlinson and Adam Crowe at Hall Farm, Rusland have been keen for a while to host farm visits. After completing the course, Helen, initially hesitant, now feels confident planning and delivering engaging activities tied to their farm's seasonal work. As she explained: "Our local school, Leven Valley CE Primary School, has visited twice already to explore hedgerows, see our stock and understand how we're farming with nature," Helen shared. "I've learned how to adapt visits for different age groups, making them interactive, creative and fun. Meeting other farmers through this network has been a huge bonus, and hopefully we'll be able to host more visits for other schools in the future," she added.

The pilot is designed to:

• Provide free CEVAS training and accreditation through LEAF.

• Build connections between farmers and schools.

• Foster a supportive farmer network.

• Offer financial assistance for hosting free educational visits outside other payment schemes.

Ruth hopes that farmers participating in the pilot are not only enriching children's learning but also exploring new income opportunities through educational farm visits. "It's a win-win for farmers and their communities," added Ruth.

Farmland retains its inherent resilience: Demand continues to outstrip supply, despite numerous challenges in the political and environmental landscape

Overall, the farmland market edged up slightly during 2024, according to the latest results from the Knight Frank Farmland Index, which tracks the value of bare agricultural land in England and Wales. Despite the turbulent year there are still plenty of active buyers in the market looking for a wide variety of rural property, with varying motivations, says Alice Keith in Farms & Estates at Knight Frank.

When considering the year as a whole, the index showed average values at the start of 2024 stood at £9,152/acre; 12 months on, there was a marginal increase of 0.1% to £9,164/acre.

“The knee-jerk reaction in the wake of the Autumn Budget was to worry that farmland values would slide significantly, but so far and given the time of year, when sales are notoriously slower, there have been too few transactions to back that theory up.

“While the changes to Inheritance Tax are, of course, extremely unwelcome and ill-considered, with careful succession planning it will be possible for many farmers and landowners to mitigate them. We don’t foresee that the changes will deter any significant proportion of potential buyers nor see an immediate impact on the current supply-and-demand dynamics of the farmland market.

advises Mrs Keith. “Furthermore, prospects for marginal areas that were previously thought to be unproductive, are being driven by the environmental potential for land.

“In the net-zero era, various opportunities exist for uplift in value and income potential for marginal land which might be unsuited to commercial agriculture. Funding from the public and private sectors will support a number of alternative uses for biodiversity, carbon offsetting, renewable energy, and tree planting.”

These factors will continue to make farmland attractive to a broad spectrum of buyers, including environmental NGOs, private investors and funds, and are responsible for demand continuing to outstrip supply as the underlying motivations for land purchasing extend far beyond the taxation position.

“We are not seeing any signs of a significant rise in land coming to the market in 2025. Without that kind of surge, I don’t expect to see land values weaken radically over the next 12 months.”

Given some of the major challenges that have faced the farming industry over the past 12 months – wet weather and flooding, delayed grant schemes, rapid reduction of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), and the budget – to come out of the year with an overall rise in values shows the inherent resilience of agricultural land as a secure, low risk multi-functional asset class.

"Its performance as an asset - outpacing gold, equities, and residential property in recent yearsunderscores its security and growth potential,”

This was demonstrated by the recent sale of the Rothbury Estate in Northumberland to The Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts, in which Knight Frank served as the selling agents.

This expansive estate encompasses 9,486 acres of grassland, moorland, and woodland, along with a portfolio of farms and cottages, including sites of special scientific interest (SSSI).

Claire Whitfield, Partner, Knight Frank commented: “Throughout a considered sales campaign of the Rothbury Estate, we received extensive interest in this exceptionally rare opportunity from our network of environmentally conscious prospective buyers. This highlights the appeal of beautiful,

nature-rich environments like these to a wider range of purchasers than we may previously have observed.”

“Post-Brexit and with net-zero agendas, the farming industry in the UK is certainly at a crossroads. While this is bringing challenges, there are multiple options for those looking to use their land to generate new and more diverse income streams,” concludes Mrs Keith.

M Government figures ‘highly uncertain’

inisters keep stressing how their figures for the Inheritance Tax (IHT) changes proposed in the Budget are certified by the Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR). But that simply isn’t the case: In fact, the OBR only certified the costings as “highly uncertain” and “unlikely to reach a steady state for at least 20 years”.

“It does not appear to be an OBR figure,” said Mr Moody.

“The Government still clings to figures that the OBR has told it are “among the most uncertain in the policy package” when everybody else is telling them how much damage the proposals would do. The OBR report is not a defence; it is a certificate of uncertainty.”

“The OBR has not given the Government the confidence it claims for the figures it uses,” said Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser to the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV). Speaking at the Oxford Farming Conference, he added: “Instead, the OBR’s report repeatedly says that the financial figures are highly uncertain, and it does not even touch the question of how many taxpayers are affected.”

The Government consistently refers to only 500 farmers being affected by the IHT changes. Indeed, in the pre-Christmas meeting of the House of Commons Liaison Committee, the EFRA Committee Chairman, Alistair Carmichael, directly asked the Prime Minister if he thought that the official figure of 500 was a “robust figure”. The Prime Minster replied: “That is a robust figure. It was published by the Treasury, certified by the OBR.”Parliament TV

However, the OBR gave no figure for the number affected in its paper, Economic and Fiscal Outlook – October 2024, published by it and the Treasury with the Budget papers and giving its assessment of the Budget measures.

The CAAV has already calculated that the Government is underestimating the number of affected farmers by a factor of five, with inflation bringing yet more over the tax threshold within the next generation. One of the reasons for this is the Government’s failure to consider farming tax claims made solely under Business Property Relief (BPR) as well as those under Agricultural Property Relief (APR).

So where does the figure of 500 farmers come from? “It seems to be first stated in the Treasury paper, Summary of Reforms to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief, issued with the Budget,” said Mr Moody. “Here it offers 500 as the number of those affected by the changes who claim APR; a relief on land and buildings, not on operational farming assets which benefit from BPR.”

This is an HMRC figure, not an OBR one. “HMRC may have answered the Treasury’s APR question but that does not give the full picture of who is affected by the tax changes, as it completely ignores those claiming BPR alone,” said Mr Moody. “Strictly, the official paperwork has never said that it did, whatever Ministers have then said.”

The OBR predicted the tax take from the IHT changes would be £521m by 2030. “[But] both the static and behavioural elements of these costings are uncertain,” said the report. “We assign an uncertainty rating to all certified policy costings.”

For more information visit www.caav.org.uk

A Farmers’ Union of Wales marks 70 years with breakfast week

s 2025 kicks off, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) will once again be hosting hearty breakfast events across Wales this January to bring people together, and raise money towards a good causes.

Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day and it is a great opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together and enjoy a plate of premium produce whilst sharing their thoughts before starting a busy day.

The breakfasts form part of the FUW’s annual Farmhouse breakfast week, a stalwart of the Welsh agricultural calendar, which will see 24 breakfast events held across Wales this January. The week will also mark two milestones for the Farmers’ Union of Wales, as it celebrates seventy years since its formation in 1955, and fifteen years since the county breakfast events were first trialled in Caernarfonshire in 2010.

The week will see the breakfasts dotted across Wales in farmhouses, village halls, cafes and livestock markets, as well as an event in Cardiff Bay, bringing together politicians and policy makers. The event, kindly sponsored by Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader, Jane Dodds MS, will also see a speech from Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca Davies MS.

Proceeds from the breakfasts will be donated towards the Wales Air Ambulance and other local charities. Last year’s FUW Farmhouse breakfast week raised over £17,500 towards the Wales Air Ambulance.

The FUW breakfasts are also an opportunity to promote and showcase the quality premium local produce that farmers grow in a sustainable way and throughout breakfast week the FUW will shine a spotlight on the importance of our rural economy.

Commenting ahead of the FUW’s Farmhouse

breakfast week, PresidentIan Rickmansaid: “From Llangefni to Llanarthne, the farmhouse breakfast week is one of the highlights of the year, providing an opportunity to start the day together with family, friends and neighbours, in a positive way and at the same time raise money towards our charitable causes.

This year’s breakfast week will be even more special, with the FUW celebrating 70 years since its foundation in 1955. A lot has changed over the past seventy years, agriculturally, socially and politically, but the FUW’s commitment to our family farms and rural communities remains unwavering.

All of us are looking forward to yet another good turnout. It’s fair to say that a healthy start is not just good for a healthy heart but also for a healthy mind.”

Guto Bebb, FUW Group Chief Executive added: “With short days, bleak weather and plenty to do on the farmyard, January can often be a tough time for many farmers. The FUW Breakfast week offers a welcome opportunity to come together over a warm, nutritious meal and have a chat and catchup.

At what is a difficult time for the sector, we particularly look forward to the event in Cardiff again this year - ensuring politicians and policy makers hear the needs and asks of the Welsh agricultural sector.”

For a full list of the FUW breakfast events visit their website (www.fuw.org.uk/news) or call 01970 820 820.

AHDB statement on the Farm Assurance Review report

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) welcomes the independent Farm Assurance Review report, published today (Monday 20th January).

AHDB has always maintained that farm assurance is integral to the functioning of a transparent and safe food and feed supply chain. We understand the importance of a farm assurance system that commands the complete trust and confidence of our Levy Payers.

This review marks a significant step forward for farm assurance, and we are optimistic about the opportunities it presents for meaningful change across the agricultural industry.

We extend our gratitude to the four commissioners – David Llewellyn, Mark Suthern, Katrina Williams, and James Withers – and to Promar International for their thorough and diligent work.

Their wide-ranging consultations across the industry and their ability to bring together the complex strands of farm assurance into a clear and meticulously considered report are commendable.

Over the next few weeks, we will take time to consider the findings as well as meeting with the other impacted industry parties to determine the next steps for this positive moment of change.

We will update the industry and levy payers in due course.

Five ideas for better maize in 2025

The challenging 2024 season produced some unwelcome weather for growing forage maize, but it also underlined several valuable lessons, says Simon Montgomery, ProCam Field Options technical lead.

Taking on board these lessons could help produce better maize this year, he suggests.

“Like other high-value crops, successful maize requires attention to detail,” says Mr Montgomery. “This starts with early planning. Decisions at the start of the season can have long-reaching consequences.”

To help farmers, Mr Montgomery outlines five key lessons.

1. Field type and film

It goes without saying, but choosing land suitable for growing a heat-hungry crop like maize – such as fields that receive good sunlight – is essential, says Mr Montgomery, but what 2024 also underlined was the value of establishing maize under film.

“Film kept crops growing during the cold June last year,” he says, “and it can also allow maize to be planted earlier, for example during April depending on location. It can also bring crop maturity forward as much as three weeks, which increases the likelihood of the crop being harvested before the autumn weather deteriorates.”

2. Successful seedbeds

Although the wet weather that hampered soil preparations last spring was beyond farmers’ control, the season did reinforce the importance of good seedbeds, Mr Montgomery says.

“Where seedbeds were overworked, maize establishment was hindered. But where crops were drilled later into superior seedbeds, it might have ultimately delayed harvest, but they often grew better.”

3. Variety values

Key for getting the most from maize is choosing

appropriate varieties, says Mr Montgomery, not only for yield and energy but also harvestability. “You never know if the weather at harvest is going to be kind. So steer clear of varieties that reach the optimum 33% dry matter (DM) content but then dry down rapidly and resemble tobacco plants in as little as 10 days. Not only is dead, dry foliage less digestible and lower in sugar, it’s also difficult to consolidate and at risk of heating in the clamp.

“Ideally, choose varieties where the cobs ripen, providing starch, and the plant gets to around 33% DM, but then stays green as long as possible, for maximum chance of harvesting while at its nutritional peak. The variety Rodriguez, which is early, high yielding and high in metabolisable energy (ME), is one example. But the newer options of Marcopolo, which is early maturing, or Jardinero, which is ultra-early, are others,” he adds.

4. Wiping out weeds

Where it was possible to apply pre-emergence and postemergence herbicides last season, they generally worked well, says Mr Montgomery, but what was clear was the importance of a programmed approach.

“Where post-emergence herbicides couldn’t be preceded by pre-emergence herbicides because of rain, it created bigger weed burdens in a season when crops struggled. This was worsened by the cool June, which slowed growth and so reduced crop competition.”

5. Nutrition knowhow

Getting maize up and out of the ground rapidly is crucial, says Mr Montgomery. Maize needs phosphate and potash early for strong root development, he stresses, but also a reliable supply of nitrogen (N).

“What worked well to complement traditional N sources last season was applying the endophyte bacterial treatment, Encera. This fixes atmospheric N inside the plant. Applied with post-emergence herbicides, treated crops looked healthier, and previous trials have shown Encera to both improve DM yield and boost ME yield by 10,000 MJ/ha.”

Weed expert recommends these three steps for optimal grassweed control in spring barley

Dr Will Smith, Gowan’s UK and Ireland technical lead, shares three pieces of advice for maximising the grassweed reset opportunity presented by growing spring barley.

Spring barley has grown in popularity outside the traditional malting barley heartlands because it gives farmers valuable opportunities to control grass weeds in the rotation. However, simply growing the crop does not guarantee a reduced grassweed burden, especially in fields with large populations after a tough couple of years for control in winter crops.

“Typically, 15-20% of black grass emerges in the spring,” says Dr Will Smith, technical lead for Gowan. “Couple that with wild oats, bromes and even annual meadow grass and there can be a considerable burden.”

The key advantage spring barley offers over winter wheat or barley in managing grass weeds is the additional time to employ all the cultural control measures, he adds.

1. Make the most of stale seedbeds

“An important part of spring cropping is ensuring all the weeds carried over from the previous autumn are taken out before drilling. Typically, this is using glyphosate or tillage.”

With £129 /ha of SFI funding available for the CSAM2: Multi-species winter cover crop option, Dr Smith advises growers who signed up for this action to check whether their plans to destroy the cover crop before sowing spring barley comply with the terms outlined on the DEFRA website.

“Whether applying glyphosate, cultivating or crimping the cover crop to destroy it, the critical factor is ensuring it is fully killed off before drilling. Typically, this is four to six weeks before the intended drilling date.

“Destroying the cover crop early also opens up the canopy, allowing a flush of weeds and for farmers to see what weeds are already present and act accordingly.”

2. Prioritise establishment and plant populations for better crop competition

Establishing spring barley well not only gives the crop the best possible chance of above-average yields but also helps it compete against grass weeds, continues Dr Smith.

With the drilling window for spring barley stretching from January to May, there may be flexibility with the drilling date, depending on the weather. Even though earlier drillings are likely to face more black grass, Dr Smith counsels that picking the best conditions for establishment is preferable for grass weed control regardless of the calendar date.

“If you can drill in good conditions in February and get herbicides on, you will be in a better position than in April with a rough, dry seed bed.”

Farmers should consider increasing seed rates on fields with a known grass weed problem to improve crop competition and allow for any potential losses from herbicide applications, he adds.

3. Plan a herbicide programme to tackle grass weeds proactively

Most farmers know which fields have grass weed issues, especially black grass and wild oats, says Dr Smith. In this situation, he advises tackling them head-on.

“As soon as weeds are in the crop, they take light nutrients and water. What you want to do is stop them from establishing.

“You are better off trying to control them preemergence. Then there’s still the option of postemergence herbicides to take out any grass weeds that survive.”

Relying on post-emergence chemistry alone only gives one opportunity to control grass weeds, he continues. This high-stakes option can leave big yield robbers like wild oats in the field or return a large amount of seed for following crops if blackgrass is not controlled.

When selecting pre-emergence herbicides for spring barley, Dr Smith advises farmers to check the label rates as many popular options are only able to be used at half the winter wheat rate.

“A positive for products like Avadex Excel and Avadex Factor (tri-allate) is that the label allows the full rate to be used on spring barley, meaning farmers can expect the high levels of control they are used to from Avadex.

“Both products also have approval for use on malting barley, which will be a priority for growers in Scotland and East Anglia.”

Choosing between Avadex Factor and Avadex Excel largely depends on what equipment is available to a farmer, say Dr Smith.

“Avadex is highly active against wild oats in particular. In this case, we see very little difference in performance between Avadex Factor and Avadex Excel despite Avadex Factor delivering less tri-allate per hectare.”

Applying Avadex pre-emergence to spring barley gives farmers confidence that they have improved the control of all the key spring emerging grass weeds, with bonus activity on problem broadleaved weeds like speedwell and cleavers, Dr Smith concludes.

J Diddly Squat Farm to host Cereals 2026

eremy Clarkson is set to host the Cereals Event next year at Diddly Squat Farm, an exciting new site and collaboration for 2026.

Cereals at Diddly Squat Farm will deliver a technical, progressive arable event, while further raising the profile of British farming, says event director Alli McEntyre. “Hosting Cereals at the high-profile farm under the auspices of host farmer, Jeremy Clarkson, will help to draw attention to the ongoing issues that arable farmers, and the wider UK farming industry, are facing.”

Over two days, 10-11 June 2026, the larger site in Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, will see an estimated 550 exhibitors and upwards of 25,000 visitors call the famed farm home. As ever, the event will bring people from across the industry together with access to all the popular features of the annual Cereals Event.

Charlie' in the farm’s popular TV series.

“There are a lot of conversations that happen every day on any given farm,” says Mr Ireland. “And now more than ever the industry needs solutions to meet the challenges and priorities on both sides of the farm gate. Diddly Squat Farm is very much like any other arable and diversified farm, despite the cameras; it is still subject to the vagaries of the weather, volatility of markets, and navigation of industry transition and policy.

“So the event will be a great platform for conversation, demonstration, and exploration of how farm businesses can best deliver sustainable food production while achieving profitability – because the two should not be separated.”

With a global reach, the goings-on at Diddly Squat Farm have been shared with viewers as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa – captivating a broad audience worldwide. “Another consideration for the future of the sector is how we can attract the best and brightest into the industry – and I think that is where the farm’s popularity will be advantageous,” adds Mr Ireland.

“Farmers across the country are facing some of the toughest conditions seen in decades,” says Mr Clarkson. “So we wanted to be involved in something positive, and hosting Cereals was an opportunity for us to run a largescale, practical event for UK food producers.

“For us, it will be interesting to see how the event’s crop plots perform on our Cotswold brash land, and of course there will be the pop-up Farmer’s Dog bar to enjoy.”

Helping to curate this key date in the 2026 calendar is Cereals’ agronomy partner Ceres Rural, led by the farm’s agronomist, Charlie Ireland, managing partner at Ceres Rural, and who’s fondly known as 'Cheerful

Visitors to Cereals at Diddly Squat will have full access to all of Cereals’ informational and technical features like the crop plots and agronomy zone, KWS Seed to Shelf stage, BASE-UK Regenerative Ag seminars, and the Syngenta Sprays & Sprayers Arena. For a good social, a new central networking areapresented by Ceres Rural and Diddly Squat Farm - will include stands from the farm shop, Hawkstone beer, the Farmer’s Dog, Hops & Chops, the Farmer’s Puppy and the Hawkstone Filling Station.

“Live events are historically important in bringing UK farming communities together to connect, share ideas and find solutions,” says Ms McEntyre. “Visitors to Cereals 2025 – which already has crops in the ground - will be offered exclusive early access to Cereals at Diddly Squat in 2026.

“Cereals 2025 will be hosted by arable guru Andrew Ward at Heath Farm, Lincolnshire, on 11-12 June. We are really delighted to be working with Andrew, and are looking forward to releasing more details on both upcoming events.”

Registration for Cereals 2025 opens on 3 February 2025 at www.cerealsevent.co.uk

Multi-year offers to include 2025 and 2026 events will be available at this time for 2025 registrants and priority stand booking for 2025 exhibitors.

Corteva's R&D yields new solutions for grassland management

Corteva Agriscience™ has just gained approval from the UK's regulatory authority for pesticides, Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD), for two new selective herbicides for use on grassland.

Founded on the rich heritages of Dow, DuPont and Pioneer, Corteva Agriscience is one of the largest crop protection companies in the world with an annual research and development budget of more than $1.3 billion.

Robin Bentley, Category Marketing Manager at Corteva Agriscience, says: "It costs around $300 million to develop a new active and navigate it through the development process to secure approvals around the world.

"It's been nearly 20 years since aminopyralid (Forefront®T) was introduced - the last new active for use on grassland. It is truly exciting to be presenting these two new active ingredients: Rinskor™ and Arylex™. Each are presented as new product formulations and reflect new potential use areas."

Rinskor is the basis of ProClova® XL, a highly

effective broad-spectrum clover-safe weed control solution which enables farmers to successfully establish and preserve clover populations in grassland and realise the benefits of its inclusion which range from nitrogen fixation, improvement of soil structure and biodiversity improvement.

ProGrass™ contains Arylex and brings longlasting control of tough-to-control key broadleaved weeds in established grassland.

Robin says: "Both products will be available this spring and represent innovation which will help maximise the productivity of grassland and grass plus clover. Corteva will share more details on where and how to use the products this spring."

Pulverizadores Fede AIs

System reduces soil deposition in olive groves by up to 66%

Tests conducted by Syngenta in olive groves, in collaboration with Castillo de Canena and Pulverizadores Fede, confirm an improvement in the quality and efficiency of treatments using the AIs technology.

Syngenta, a leading company in crop health and vegetable improvement, carried out field tests applying crop protection treatments with the Pulverizadores Fede

AIs system in an olive grove located at the Finca Cortijo Guadiana. This plantation belongs to Grupo Castillo de Canena, a benchmark company in the production and commercialization of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

The AIs system, developed by Pulverizadores Fede, is an integrated agronomic solution for specialty crops based on image processing and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Installed on a tractor, AIs can “see” the state and vigor of crops by capturing high-detail, temporally precise images using 3D cameras. The processing of these images allows for real-time adaptation of spraying, enabling individualized nozzle opening and closing for each tree based on the canopy’s configuration.

Precision technology for improved foliar applications

The objective of the trials was to test this precision technology as a solution to improve the quality and efficiency of foliar

applications of phytosanitary products in intensive and traditional olive groves. For this study, treatments were performed using a conventional sprayer, an ultrasonic sprayer, and a Fede sprayer equipped with H3O technology linked to the AIs system. Syngenta’s tracer was used to evaluate the percentage of coverage and deposition on the crop. This tracer allows quantification of spray deposits on different parts of the tree canopy and the ground.

Spraying volume and soil deposition reduction

The results confirm that performing phytosanitary treatments with the AIs system minimizes plant protection product loss and improves coverage and uniformity of deposition on the tree canopy. In addition to maintaining sufficient product levels for effective treatment, the AIs system achieved up to a 67% reduction in spray volume and up to a 66% decrease in soil deposition.

Prestigious speaker event on strengthening collaboration in the farming industry

Delivering long term sustainable value to its farmers through cooperation is the overarching aim of farmer-owned grain storage and marketing cooperative Trinity Grain, which is launching its new five-year strategic plan by hosting an evening panel of distinguished speakers, titled ‘Helping Yourself and Helping Each Other’.

Baroness Minette Batters, Member of the House of Lords, Farmer, and former President of the National Farmers’ Union, will engage in the discussion, along with Nick Shorter, Group Chief Executive of Velcourt; Dan Knight, Director at Evolution ABS; and James Dallas, CEO of Openfield.

Taking place on Wednesday 5th February, at Thruxton Race Circuit, Hampshire, the event will deliver on Trinity Grain’s vision to showcase the true power of cooperation in helping to overcome current challenges in the farming industry.

David Evans, Managing Director at Trinity Grain, said: “We are thrilled to have such a prestigious mix ofspeakers to discuss the importance of cooperation amongst farmers, sharing ideas and having important conversations on how we can work together to enhance practices across the industry and deliver value to farmers.

“The benefits of cooperation, with many voices speaking louder than one, has the potential to improve efficiency and productivity but also to boost wellbeing in the sector by fostering connections between those with common interests and priorities. Providing the opportunities and mechanisms for these discussions to be had is a priority for us as a cooperative.”

Open to those in the south of England, the event will provide members, prospective members, and those linked to the industry, either as stakeholders, contractors, or other partners, the opportunity to hear from highly regarded industry experts on the benefits of collaboration in opening doors and finding solutions.

Trinity Grain Limited specialises in the

professional processing, storage, and marketing of its farmer members’ grain across the South of England. The company offers a comprehensive service that mitigates risk, simplifies operations, and provides a reliable foundation for farmers navigating significant political, economic, and environmental challenges.

Handling over 200,000 tonnes of grain and oilseed annually for its 300 members, the business’s new five-year plan emphasises its commitment to safeguarding and enhancing long-term sustainability while consistently delivering value to its farmer members. True to the essence of a cooperative, it strives to act in the spirit of cooperation, not merely in name.

Richard Williamson, Executive Chairman of Trinity Grain, said: “By facilitating an event like this, we hope our members find it influential; growing their networks and contacts throughout the industry, as well as with fellow members, and gaining perspective and inspiration to enable them to make improvements to operations.

"In today’s challenging economic and political climate, enhanced cooperation is likely the only way for farmers to maintain their footing. Against this backdrop, Trinity is uniquely positioned to serve as both a conduit and a facilitator for collaboration. Our ethos as a cooperative is rooted in working together for the greater good, and it’s essential that we embody this not only at an operational level but on a personal level as well. We are delighted to welcome such respected speakers to help bring this to life at our panel discussion."

“In response to evolving agricultural policies, market volatility, and growing impacts of climate change, Trinity Grain is launching this new dynamic strategy to ensure long-term sustainability of existing activities and assets, while recognising its cooperative nature and generating true value for its members.”

The panel event will begin following the members-only AGM on Wednesday, 5 February, at 5.45pm at Thruxton Race Circuit, Hampshire. Please contact Rose Moore rose. moore@trinitygrain.co.uk to find out more information and book a place.

Looking ahead at 2025 prices

It's difficult to predict grain and oilseed prices, especially in the long term. But thanks to futures prices, we can analyse the main trends for future crops. This is beneficial, especially as many farmers are now focusing on grain and oilseed prices for the 2025 harvest. After the latest USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) were published last Friday, grain and oilseed prices rose on the back of supportive fundamentals. But what about prices for the 2025 crop?

the strong demand and limited supply of rapeseed on the EU market this season. Winnipeg canola futures had a difference of £11/t between new and old crop futures contracts. Thanks to the potential decreasing US planted soyabean area in 2025, soyabean futures for 2024 and 2025 crops are without much difference.

Looking ahead

A comparison of futures for crops in 2024 and 2025 could provide farmers with some additional arguments for planning the spring planting campaign. In addition, the main trend in futures prices between different crops will provide farmers with information to help them develop a strategy for selling their cereals and oilseeds.

After the WASDE was published on Friday (10 Jan), Chicago wheat (Dec-25) and UK feed wheat (Nov-25) futures for the 2025 crop closed higher than the 2024 crop contracts (May-25) at £14/t and £4/t respectively. On the other hand, Chicago maize futures (-£9/t) and Paris milling wheat (-£3/t) futures closed with a discount into new crop. Indeed, Chicago 2025 wheat futures have been supported by winter weather risks, while thesoyabean/maize price ratiomay encourage more spring planting of US maize.

For oilseeds, on 10 January new crop (Nov-25) Paris rapeseed futures closed at a quite considerable £40/t discount to old crop prices (May-25). The main reason for this large difference is

The USDA's 101st Annual Agriculture Outlook Forum (AOF) will be held on 27–28 February 2025. Traditionally, this forum is used to present the first forecast figures for the US spring crop. This could have a huge impact on the price difference between the 2024 and 2025 crops for grains and oilseeds.

Credit: Yuriy Ruban, AHDB Analyst (Cereals & Oilseeds)

Update to test requirements

s part of compliance for the whole chain of plant protection product (PPP) use, HSE pesticide enforcement officers (PEO) have the role of checking all official controls are in place. From importers, manufacturers and distributors right through to the operator applying the product.

Visits made to the businesses using and applying PPPs are carried out in all sectors, but it is mainly in the horticulture and amenity sectors where clarification of test requirements of certain types of equipment has been made necessary. The term ‘pedestrian’ equipment falls in the category along with knapsack and handheld where a statutory test is not required, however these still must be inspected on a regular basis. Over time the complexity of a number of

these machines has evolved that some are now as sophisticated, and comparable in size, to tractormounted equipment that is required to be tested.

Following discussions with CRD, terminology has now been added to the guidance to help give better clarity, and which is explained as follows; equipment that does require an NSTS test now includes manually propelled or self-propelled trolley type equipment with three or more wheels and a motorised pump. These machines fall in the same category as boom sprayers which are 3m and under, slug pellet and micro-granular applicators, seed treating and weed wipers. Testing is required before the equipment is 5 years old, then every 6 years thereafter. Equipment that does not require a test are pedestrian sprayers with a maximum of two wheels or with a manually

pressurised pump. To assist operators in meeting the requirements of regular inspections NSTS have check sheets available on their website which also includes somewhere to record a calibration.

Flowgro Ltd.

Barton Turns Farm Lichfield Road, Burton upon Trent DE13 8ED 01283 712172 www.flowgro.co.uk

A T Willis Agricultural Services

Barnwell House Barningham Richmond DL11 7DN 07752 371216

BRM Ltd.

Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd, East Cowton, Northallerton, DL7 0DX 01325 378552 www.brianrobinson.co.uk

Agrifit Machinery Ltd

Arglam Dairy Farm Arglam Lane, Holme-OnSpalding-Moor, York YO43 4HG www.agribuggy-yorkshire.co.uk

Farmstar Limited

Grove Farm, Church Lane, Marr, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN5 7AU 01302 786786

Present in Yorkshire & Lincolnshire farmstar.co.uk

N C Agricultural Services

Woodlands West Knapton Malton YO17 6RL 07971 871383

Moore Farm Services Ltd

Unit A7, Lords Wood Rd Harworth Doncaster DN11 8BZ 01302 759969 / 07980 656122 www.moorefarmservices.com

All other equipment types and timescales of test and re-test remain the same. For clarification on other types not listed please contact NSTS directly and our team will be pleased to help.

CW Sprayers Ltd

14 Garden Village Micklefield Leeds LS25 4AB 0113 287 7674 / 07931 582713 www.cwsprayers.com

XAGRI Ltd

Molescroft Grange Farm Grange Way Beverley HU17 9FS 01482 580000 / 07507 801897 www.xagri.co.uk

Apex Agri Ltd

Hillcrest Thimbleby Horncastle LN9 5RB 07786 343613

AVG Farm Services

26 Parkfield Road Ryhall Stamford PE9 4ER 07824 382277 www.avgfarmservices.co.uk

DJ Agri Services Ltd

24 Kipling Way Stowmarket IP14 1TR 07500 556215

John Rhodes A.S Ltd

Shinehill Farm Shinehill Lane South Littleton Evesham, WR11 8TR testing@johnrhodesas.co.uk 01386 832728 / 07817 868889 www.johnrhodesas.co.uk

Sprayline (UK) Ltd.

Unit 17A West Raynham Business Park, Fakenham NR21 7PL 01328 838712 www.spraylineuk.co.uk

J JCB WINS “MACHINE OF THE YEAR”

CB secured Silver in the prestigious “Machine of the Year” award at the LAMMA agricultural machinery show – the largest event of its kind in Britain – at NEC Birmingham last week (15/16 January, 2025).

The all-new JCB Telemaster TM280S telescopic wheeled loader was recognised for its productivity, operator comfort and innovative engineering ahead of a host of other new farming machines launched at the show.

JCB Agriculture Managing Director, John Smith, said: “No stone has been left unturned in developing the new TM280S as a highly capable, operator-friendly materials handling machine for farming and related industries, so we’re delighted this has been recognised by the LAMMA show organisers with this award.

“It’s testament to everyone’s work carried out at factories across the JCB group that we now have a very competitive addition to our market-leading range of telescopic wheeled loaders with appeal to new farming customers at home and overseas.”

JCB’s Telemaster machines are the only ones of this type engineered and built in Britain –manufactured at JCB’s Earthmovers factory in Cheadle, Staffordshire, the TM280S features an innovative chassis design, and a unique transmission engineered and manufactured at JCB Transmissions, Wrexham and a 130hp DieselMAX engine designed and built at JCB Power Systems, Derby.

Together with a spacious cabin from JCB Cab Systems at Uttoxeter, the newcomer offers farmers a powerful and highly productive machine in a midsize package that will be perfect for daily chores on dairy, beef and other livestock farms.

Its telescopic boom lifts 2.75 tonnes to 4.8 metres and the unique DualTech VT transmission provides flexible and highly controllable hydrostatic drive when working at low speed before switching to direct mechanical drive at travel speeds for maximum power-efficiency and fuel economy.

Standing just 2.6 metres tall – a key objective to ensure the machine can enter traditional farm buildings with low doorways – the new model provides great all-round visibility from its central driving position so that operators can work with confidence in and around farm buildings to get jobs completed quickly during a busy farming day.

AWARD FOR NEW WHEELED LOADER

S Agricultural industries join NFU's call to #StopTheFamilyFarmTax at LAMMA

peaking to numerous agriculturerelated industries at the machinery and technology show LAMMA, the NFU has heard that they too are concerned their businesses will suffer because of the government's family farm tax.

With the future of UK farms at serious risk from theproposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), in addition to other inflationary policies within October's Budget, including rises to National Insurance and the National Living Wage, it comes as no surprise the wider agri-food sector and allied industries are also questioning the impact of the recent Budget.

Independent analysis commissioned by the NFU shows that 75% of farm businesses could be impacted in some way by the family farm tax1. Meanwhile, new data from CBI Economics has shown that the changes to BPR could lead to more than 125,000 job losses, with family businesses significantly cutting investment2. Given so many of these businesses are reliant on a thriving farming sector for their own trade, they too are urging the government to reconsider the policy.

as their customers – Britain's farmers – face a cash flow and confidence crisis that's been exacerbated by the family farm tax. This shows the knock-on effect of poor policies, squeezed margins and a market not functioning properly.

"That is why we have chosen today to launch a pledge3for businesses to sign to show they will join our fight to stop this unfair tax and secure the future of British family farming – the bedrock of the nation's food and drink manufacturing industry –and those allied industries whichrely on a thriving farming sector.

"For the future of our industry and for vital growth in the economy, I urge all businesses associated with agriculture to sign our pledge to show the Government it is not too late to review plans and consider the unintended consequences of changes to APR and BPR on our sector and the wider economy. Changes to inheritance tax must be paused and consulted on."

NFU President Tom Bradshaw spoke to the attendees at LAMMA. He said: "Just as family farm businesses stand to be crippled by this tax, businesses within the wider agricultural space may soon find themselves under crushing pressure too.

"Farm businesses are often the bellwether of the rural economy and many have curtailed investment on their farms because any penny they had or could have borrowed will now have to go on saving the future of the farm.

"From builders, vets and feed merchants, to fencers, machinery dealers and tool manufacturers, there's been talk of calls drying up and order books looking sparse for the year ahead

Mr. Bradshaw was joined on stage at LAMMA by Jeff Claydon, CEO of drill manufacturer Claydon, who

explained how his business has been affected by the family farm tax. He said: "I started our family drill manufacturing business alongside our farm 20 years ago and I'm incredibly concerned the inheritance tax changes will curtail privately owned businesses and growth in family businesses.

"Without profit, you haven't got a business. And the current policy and economic outlook means so many are seeing their profits slashed. In addition to the family farm tax, there are so many questions Government still haven't got an answer for. For our business, the indecision about the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund means orders have stalled and we've got warehouses of unmoved stock.

"We want growth, the government has repeatedly said it wants growth, but it must revisit its shortterm plans for the agriculture industry because it is being stifled."

THERMOBILEoffersprobablythemostcompleteselectionofspaceheaters availabletotheUKAgriculturalTrade.Thefullrangeofheatersfrom THERMOBILEnowcomprisesover300modelsvaryinginheatoutputfrom 3Kwupto450Kw(10,000to1,500,000BTU/HR).

A British Manufacturer

errys have been a key part of the British agricultural sector for over 75 years. Perry design & manufacturer their entire product range in the UK which means that all the support you need is rapidly available, including a large stock of spares.

Is Ergot Contamination In Your Crop Causing You An Issue?

Colour Sorters are the answer.

Why should I consider buying a colour sorter?

Quite simply it increases the value of your crop by removing the impurities which pull your price per ton down. In this case the impurity is ergot.

You’ve worked hard to bring that crop in, so it’s vitally important you do all you can to increase its price per ton.

What does a colour sorter do?

In a nutshell it sorts the sample it is given by using colour differences between the grain type you want to keep and the impurity you want to remove.

Don’t be bamboozled by the tech. Yes, a colour sorter uses loads of clever cameras and air jets to do the sorting, and that is controlled by intelligent algorithms. But the important thing is to have a very userfriendly system that takes the expertise out of the process, and that’s exactly what the IST Colour Sorter range has.

Why should I buy a colour sorter from Perrys?

Plus, as Perrys distribute them we are also able to provide commissioning, training, support and spare parts from the UK.

What

else

can an IST colour sorter do?

The IST colour sorters can do far more than just sort out ergot from your grain.

They are the perfect addition to your grain processing if you plan to intercrop as they can sort barley from wheat as well as separating other crops.

The NIR technology can also separate fungal contaminated grain from good due to the colour difference caused by the fugus.

What capacity ranges do the IST colour sorters come in?

As with most Colour Sorter ranges the IST goes from 1 chute through to 8 chutes with ~ 4-6tph capacity on wheat per chute. The actual capacity is governed by the characteristics of the product and the level of contamination present.

Perrys are the only UK distributer for the IST range of colour sorters. What’s so special about the IST colour sorters? They are design & manufactured in Italy, are super straightforward to use, incredibly well designed, and highly accurate. And that all comes in a very cost-effective product when compared to other well-known brands.

But, chute sizes vary between manufacturers so don’t be caught out. For example, the IST 6 chute has the same capacity as another well know brand’s 8 chute.

Integration is key

The significant benefit of purchasing a colour sorter from Perry of Oakley is that we manufacture all the handling, cleaning, drying, storage and control systems you need to integrate the sorter into your operation.

Using the combination of our UK designed and manufactured handling, drying, storage & control equipment and our established European partners Perrys can design a complete integrated cleaning & sorting plant for your grain store.

Contact Perrys today for all your handling, storage & drier requirements on 01404 890 300 or email sales@perryofoakley.co.uk, and receive a free, no obligation quotation.

Suzuki gives owners peace of mind with Datatag security marking and Datatool tracker/immobiliser fitted as standard

Suzuki’s ever-popular KingQuad ATVs now come fitted with an enhanced security package as standard courtesy of their partnership with Datatool and Datatag.

The Japanese manufacturer has been working with Datatag and fitting its CESAR forensic marking system for over 10 years but has now bolstered its security offering by partnering with Datatool to fit a Thatcham-accredited tracking and immobiliser system as well.

The Datatool Stealth S5+tracker and immobiliser actively protect the ATV against unauthorised movement as well as providing hotwire/forced ignition protection. Waterproof with a built-in antenna, the Datatool Stealth is a cuttingedge tracking device which benefits from a UK-based 24/7/365 Theft Monitoring Team and is 4G-enabled for superior tracking abilities as well as providing tow-away alerts and key cloning protection. In addition, the Datatool app enables customers to see the location of their ATV in real-time as well as journey history so you can see where the vehicle has been used.

The Suzuki range currently comprises of three versatile models; the KingQuad 500 and 500XP as well as the KingQuad 750XP (XP denotes independent suspension and power steering). These robust utility ATVs are the culmination of years of refinement and their high levels of technical specification and ease of handling give riders confidence on any terrain, making them suitable for several applications including hill and lowland farming, estate management and use on

equestrian properties.

Suzuki’s position as a leading supplier of ATVs to the UK agricultural and landmanagement markets continues to be strengthened by this security package and gives owners the peace of mind that everything is in place to deter theft and that it is also possible to track and recover their KingQuad ATV should it be stolen.

Mark Beeley, Head of ATV & Marine for Suzuki GB said, “A Suzuki KingQuad is an invaluable asset to a wide variety of businesses, particularly in the agricultural industry, so we understand the need to protect them as much as possible. We hope customers will see our security package as another added benefit and an additional reason to choose Suzuki.”

Customers can find out more by seeing Suzuki at the LAMMA show on the 15th and 16th of January at the NEC (hall 7, stand number 436) or visiting: www.atv.suzuki.co.uk

LONGCLIFFE SHOWCASES AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS AT LAMMA SHOW

Independent calcium carbonate producer, Longcliffe Quarries Ltd has showcased its specialist agricultural products among 600 exhibitors at this year's LAMMA show at the NEC in Birmingham.

With its Derbyshire quarries containing the highest purity mineral, Longcliffe is able to make a range of products suitable for animal feeds, agricultural lime and animal bedding.

The family-owned company, which is almost 100 years old, exhibited at LAMMA for the first time this year. The Show gave the company an opportunity to promote the benefits of its current product range and

discuss its plans for future innovative developments.

Longcliffe Commercial Director Darren Mooney said: "With our agricultural product range becoming increasingly important, it was vital for us to have a stand at LAMMA. Meeting so many agricultural experts at this prestigious show gave us an opportunity to discuss farmer concerns and priorities, particularly around fertilisers, soil and the benefits of using the right lime product for the individual soil type. As always, having this kind of face-to-face opportunity to listen and talk to so many customers was invaluable."

NFU Education brings farming to life for schoolchildren at LAMMA 2025

Scores of children from the urban centre of Birminghamhave experienced ataste of farming's high tech after attending the farm machinery show being held at the NEC.

NFU Education once again participatedin the LAMMA show1. Building on the success of previous years, this initiative aims to introduce schoolchildren from urban areas to the agricultural industry, highlighting the diverse career opportunities available within the sector with exciting, state of the art technology on show.

In collaboration with event organisers Agriconnect and with sponsorship from AGCO, NFU Education guidedover thirty Year 9 students from the centre of Birmingham2through the exhibition. The students engagedin interactive workshops and exploredthe event further through a scavenger hunt with support from NFU Farmers for Schools ambassadors. These experiences are designed to provide insights into modern farming practices and the latest technological advancements in agriculture.

students now, we can plant the seeds for a future workforce that is passionate and well-informed about the challenges and rewards of agriculture, and who understand and value the role of farming in their lives."

Agriconnect marketing manager Sophie JacksonHolgate said:""We werethrilled to have students attend the career zone at LAMMA for a second year running. LAMMA is a fantastic place for students from a non-ag background to come and

learn about agriculture and the exciting career and learning opportunities available in the industry."

NFU Vice President Rachel Hallos said:"Introducing young people from wide and diverse backgrounds to the agricultural industry is vital for its future sustainability. Many young people, especially those from urban areas, are disconnected from farming and food production. By showcasing the innovation, technology, and dedication that underpin modern farming practices, we hope to bridge that gap and inspire the next generation to consider careers in agriculture.

"The farming sector offers an incredible diversity of opportunities, from engineering and science to environmental management and food production. Events like LAMMA provide the perfect platform to spark curiosity and encourage students to see farming not just as a job, but as a fulfilling and essential industry that feeds the nation and cares for the environment. By engaging with these

AGCO Ltd. Aftersales Training Business Development Manager Ash Briggs said:"With almost everything in today's modern world being powered by electronics, the AGCO UK & Ireland Aftersales Training Team were more than happy to deliver a series of short micro-teach sessions to local school children on the subject of basic vehicle electrics at LAMMA 25.

"Although the AGCO Apprenticeship Scheme has been enormously successful in recent years, we strongly believe that anything we can do to encourage the next generation of agricultural engineers is vital to the future success of our sector.

"We would like to thank both the NFU and Farmers Guardian for arranging the opportunity for us to showcase some of the technology and diagnostic processes used by our dealer technicians to trace and repair vehicle electrical faults."

Weaving launches new-look

Unveiled at LAMMA 2025, Weaving Machinery introduce their redesigned tine combination drill, offering improved efficiency and adaptability for farmers using conventional cropping systems.

Available in 3, 4 and 6 metre working widths, the redesigned drill incorporates improvements aimed at increasing productivity and ease of use.

One of the key features added is the hydraulic depth control, enabling precise adjustments directly from the cab. Coupled with an enlarged hopper capacity, operators can

cover greater areas without needing frequent stops, streamlining the drilling process.

The drill's electric driven metering unit and hydraulic fan ensure a consistent and accurate seed rate, while its robust design includes three rows of auto-reset tines and a double following harrow for effective seed placement and coverage.

Simon Weaving, Director of Weaving Machinery, explained: "Recent years of wet autumns have created significant challenges for farmers, increasing the demand for tine drills capable of handling challenging conditions.

new-look combi drill

"With this redesigned combi drill, we've not only improved performance but also introduced a multi-fit system. This feature allows the headstock to accommodate a range of power harrows, whether they're manufactured by Weaving or Kuhn, providing greater flexibility for operators."

Visitors to LAMMA can see the new drill at the Weaving Machinery stand (20.770). This launch follows Weaving Machinery's recent recognition with the prestigious Gold Award in the British and Irish Manufacturer of the Year category at the LAMMA Innovation Awards 2025.

Simon said: "We are very grateful for the LAMMA Innovation Awards for recognising the product developments we have achieved at Weaving Machinery in recent years.

"We are always looking for ways to improve the results our customers can achieve using our machinery.With this in mind, we are pleased to also announce that later this spring, a disc version of our combi drill will also be available for purchase featuring a double disc opener on a parallel linkage with a rubber closing press wheel."

Mobile separator from Bauer takes slurry management flexibility to new heights for large farms and contractors

Bauer’s mobile slurry separation solution for efficient nutrient management takes on a fresh perspective with the new Plug & Play Elevator that lifts a separator 4.3m into the air to open up different discharge options.

The new device will be exhibited for the first time at the LAMMA Show, NEC Birmingham, 15-16 January 2025.

Bauer’s current mobile separator package can be loaded on to a flat-bed trailer using pallet forks and comprises a galvanised steel frame housing a pump, all necessary pipework and an enclosed control panel,

with a choice of screw press separators mounted on top.

The new Elevator version can also be trailer-mounted but has a parallel lift structure incorporating slurry intake and separated dirty water pipes, so that the separator can be positioned to discharge the solids into a trailer or spreader, or into a large loader bucket.

“Like our current mobile unit, the Plug & Play Elevator is a solution for large farms with more than one dairy unit and slurry storage and handling facilities, only with greater flexibility in terms of how the solids are managed,” says Adrian Tindall, UK &

Bauer Plug & Play Elevator slurry separator

Bauer’s new Plug & Play Elevator model lifts the separator unit 4.3m into the air to discharge into a trailer or spreader.

Ireland sales manager at Bauer.

“For contractors, both mobile units provide an opportunity for providing an on-farm service that brings more controlled nutrient management without the capital investment needed for a fixed installation.”

The Bauer S655 and S855 (and equivalent FAN) screw-and-screen separators are suitable for the new Elevator package, the S655 achieving a typical throughput of 30cu m per hour and organic material up to 32% dry matter using a standard-length screw with single screen.

The same dry matter performance is achieved with the S855 separator but at throughputs of up to 40cu m per hour thanks to an extended screw and double screen; both are powered by a 5.5kW electric motor.

Mobile separation packages require minimal permanent infrastructure, so can be useful in situations where planning restrictions hamper a fixed installation, and Bauer Group’s FAN separators in mobile form are a useful option for multi-site anaerobic digester (AD) plants.

Two users highly rate their Bunning Lowlander TVA spreader

Two farming businesses operating Bunning’s Lowlander Twin Vertical Auger (TVA) spreaders are benefiting from increased reliability and flexibility to apply nutrition at the optimum times. The two users, one farmer and the other a large contractor, have invested in the spreaders as long-term machines to improve application timeliness and maximise manure.

Robert Neill – Lowlander 120 TVA

With an estimated 3,000t of manure per year to

apply, Robert Neill views the Lowlander 120 TVA as the right size for his farm, offering good output in a small wheelbase and a light footprint, helping to limit compaction and enable ideal application timing.

He says: “We have always liked the Bunning spreaders for being well built and their ability to break down the manure during spreading. They will spread well-rotted manure to a consistent spread width of 10-12m. Owning the spreader has allowed us to have greater control over the works and means we can fit spreading in around other jobs, rather than save it all up for the short window of hiring.”

Robert Neill

The farm extends to 690ha, of which 400ha is down to arable crops, including winter barley, winter wheat, spring barley and spring beans, with 120ha of grassland. Alongside this, there is a herd of 350 Limousin x Friesian suckler cows, with a total head of cattle rising to over 1,000. These are all bedded solely on the straw, which means the spreader is an integral part of the system.

Until a few years ago, Mr Neill would hire a Bunning Lowlander manure spreader and praised the reliability, which helped when it came to purchase his own machine. Second-hand value was also a key consideration, and he is

confident that a Bunning machine will hold its value and the cost to change will be smaller.

Owning the spreader has increased the flexibility and size of spreading windows. It has allowed smaller jobs to be undertaken, such as clearing feeding areas in fields to allow the soil and grass to recover quicker. Finally, Mr Neill has also been impressed with the throughput of the spreader.

“Fresh straw bedding being spread straight from the pen can bridge, but we’ve never experienced anything like this with the Bunning machines we’ve used.

The 120 TVA fits the needs of our farm well.”

Robert Hamilton – Lowlander 105 TVA Compact

“I’ve run Bunning machines since 2010, and I know what I’m getting with every spreader. It is difficult to fault them from the spread pattern to the paint work,” says Robert Hamilton, who runs a contracting operation based in Strathaven, Scotland.

“I wouldn’t consider anything else now. One of the biggest benefits is that we don’t require much dealer or technical support for the spreaders, which can’t be said for every machine we run. We maintain them well and, when we have rare issues, they are sorted quickly by Bunning.”

Spreading usually happens alongside the more intensive silaging works and Mr Hamilton says the reliability and bullet-proof nature of the Bunning machines is why he converted to Bunning from another brand over a decade ago. He says the option of Widebody twin vertical augers is a high requirement.

“The Widebody augers allow extra throughput and an even spread pattern. We have helped farmers out in the past who run standard auger spreaders, and you can see the difference the Widebody ones make to the pattern and product consistency. Keeping the tips sharp is important for shredding material and we check these regularly to ensure the chopping of material.”

The Compact body design option measures 6.5m long, whereas the Lowlander 105 standard body is 7.5m. This is a key factor as some of the small hill farms he contracts to like to see a small machine on their fields.

“The customers like the Compact machine. It fits in

nicely behind the tractor and doesn’t appear as large as the standard body. It has the same carrying capacity and the output is similar. The shorter wheelbase also allows us to easily negotiate field entrances and small farm yards,” concludes Mr Hamilton.

3 Year Warranty | Details available upon

Lowlander ® Manure Spreaders

Dairy Tech UK 2025

The Dairy Hub aims to offer advice, political insight, guidance, knowledge and take home messages for current on farm issues.

This year’s Dairy Hub includes panel debates and seminars on key industry issues, such as managing volatility, improving efficiency, meeting the net zero challenge, plus lots more.

The RABDF stand adjoins the Dairy Hub and will provide visitors with the chance for ‘Ask the Expert’ sessions with key industry figures and Council members. We will also be championing all RABDF activity including policy work, the APPG, RABDF membership, RABDF Young membership, Entrepreneurs in Dairying, Gold Cup, our Awards, Down to Earth and Women in Dairy.

Seminars and workshops at Dairy-Tech are eligible for Dairy Pro points and registered Dairy Pro members can collect points which will be recorded against their personal and business profiles, giving recognition to their professionalism in dairying.

The 2025 Dairy Hub timetable below:

I 85 years of BouMatic : a milestone in the dairy industry

n 2024, we proudly commemorate the 85th anniversary of BouMatic, a milestone marked by innovation, dedication, and a rich legacy in the dairy industry.

It all began with Gilmon Albrecht's groundbreaking invention at the Dairy Equipment Company, where the front-loaded can cooler revolutionized the dairy industry. From there, the journey continued with the visionary Lawrence Bouma, whose collaboration led to the creation of Bou-Matic Milkers, shaping modern milking practices.

Today, we celebrate this achievement and recognize the invaluable contributions of dairy farmers, dealers, and our dedicated employees. Lawrence Bouma's milking philosophy has successfully stood the test of time, revolutionizing the industry. This philosophy is reflected in innovative products such as the Gemini UP milking robot, ensuring superior milk quality and increased efficiency in the milking process.

With pride in our heritage and unwavering determination, we look ahead, poised to continue our legacy of excellence in the dairy industry for years to come.

YAMS attracts new exhibitors to North’s

The free entry show draws around 15,000 visitors to the 30 acre site at York Auction Centre, Murton, York with 12 new exhibitors already lined up to make their debuts on 5thFebruary 2025, joining more than 200 stands featuring every major agricultural machine dealership across the region.

The new exhibitors at YAMS 2025 include Agri Incineration Services, BWE Engineering for sprayer servicing and maintenance, Go Low Carbon for business solar and energy solution, Torum for grain dryers and storage, Thorburn for new steel framed buildings, Yagro for business management and analytics. They join regular exhibitors Scrutons, Peacock & Binnington, Claas, Farmstar. Ripon Farm Services and Russells.

As well as the latest state-of-the-art machinery from leading manufacturers displayed by local dealerships, the show also offers a prime opportunity for small businesses and bespoke engineers to display their products to a targeted audience and gain valuable exposure.

Richard Tasker, YAMS founder and organiser, said: “This year has been incredibly challenging for the farming sector, coupled with adverse weather conditions and the uncertainty brought about by the Autumn Budget. Despite all the difficulties, I am delighted to see our exhibitors and supporters demonstrating such resilience and determination for the future of our industry.

“YAMS continues to thrive with new exhibitors joining our extensive list of show favourites to accentuate the fact the agriculture industry remains vibrant despite the ongoing pressures. As a business and technology agricultural show, we deliver exactly what we promise, and we’re proud of that.

“We have worked extremely hard to retain our position as the leading one day show in the North of England. As they say, “if you

rest, you rust” which is supported by everyone involved in YAMS, reflecting our commitment to continuous improvement.”

One of the key aspects of YAMS ongoing success is its ability to incorporate support for the health and welfare of farmers which has been an important factor in the show’s award winning success.

This year, the Samaritans, RABI, Farming Community Network, and Prostate Cancer UK will all have dedicated stands at YAMS. Richard added:

“Supporting the farming community is more important than ever, as farming continues to be a challenging and often isolating occupation. Having experts on hand who can provide advice, support, and even health checks is a crucial part of what we offer at YAMS, and we are proud to play a role in supporting the well-being of farmers. YAMS is not just about showcasing innovation - it’s also a fantastic social and networking occasion, giving the farming community a valuable opportunity to come together,

North’s leading one day machinery show

connect face to face, and support one another."

The show also enables visitors to collect Continuing Professional Development points – BASIS and National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) as part of their qualification for membership renewal.

The show organisers continue to offer a convenient transport system to ensure smooth travel to the site. The Grimston Bar Park & Ride service is free of charge, with

buses running every 15 minutes and dropping visitors right at the show entrance. Additionally, there is free onsite parking for up to 3,500 vehicles, with adjacent overflow parking available to accommodate extra visitors.

The Yorkshire Agricultural Machinery Show will take place on Wednesday 5thFebruary 2025 at York Auction Centre, Murton, York.

S New vertical farm a first for Scottish education

RUC has stepped up its commitment to global and local food production and security by becoming the first higher education institution in Scotland to open a commercial-sized vertical farm.

Jim Fairlie MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, officially opened the £1.8 million SRUC Vertical Farming Innovation Centre – which has received £200,000 from the Scottish Government – at the Edinburgh Campus of Scotland's Rural College.

SRUC, which gained taught degree-awarding powers in October, will use the six-metre facility to carry out research, as well as educating the food and horticulture scientists, growers and industry experts of tomorrow.

use at a time when the world's populationis set to increase by two billion by the year 2050, to ten billion while agricultural land is lost to urbanisation. In this global context providing education and new knowledge in how to use vertically layered space under precisely controlled environmental conditions is an important part of our future sustainability.

Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: "I am delighted to attend the SRUC Vertical Farming Innovation Centre opening event, and proud of the Scottish Government support for it. Making farming as efficient as possible is vital to the sustainability of the sector. The development of vertical, low carbon farms will be a boost both to researchers and our ability to produce more fruit and vegetables in Scotland.

Students will learn how to grow crops more quickly, or with higher nutritional value, as well as how to grow food using less water, with 250 times more water required to grow a lettuce in an open field than in a vertical farm.

The SRUC Vertical Farming Innovation Centre, which will be available to students and researchers, particularly those students studying Advanced Horticultural Production, will support the acquisition of new skills and knowledge of growing a range of plants under controlled growing conditions, including water, nutrients and light, in order to enhance food production in the presence of climate change.

Featuring technology designed by Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS), the facility is coming into

"The research that will come from this and the access students will have to cutting-edge horticultural technologies will be invaluable to them and our farming sector."

Professor Wayne Powell, Principal and Chief Executive of SRUC, said: "The SRUC Vertical Farming Innovation Centre enhances SRUC's ability to address the major challenges facing the world, both now and in the future.

"It provides us with an innovative learning and research platform to advance our

understanding and practice of growing crops under controlled environmental conditions and the design of climate resilient crops.

"Our researchers will utilise this advanced technology to progress solutions to issues such as more nutritious and energy efficient crops, matching demand to supply, supporting locally produced fresh produce and year-round production."

The vertical farm is one of SRUC's collaborative innovation hubs, designed to drive place-based innovation, economic growth and creating new jobs and opportunities.

To find out more, contact Hadi Aliki:hadi. aliki@sruc.ac.uk

A Solving climate change needs new food systems

University of Winchester academic is among the authors of a new article in a leading scientific journal calling for a wholesale change of the world's food systems to combat global warming.

The year 2024 was thehottest year on record. For the first time the average global temperature rose to 1.6C above pre-industrial levels, exceeding the 1.5C vital to preventing accelerating climate change. The effects of climate change are now visible on every continent and are a key factor in the recent LA fires.

Up to a third of global greenhouse gas production to date can be attributed to animal agriculture and food systems. Yet, most climate change solutions neglect the importance of food systems in climate change mitigation.

In 'Solving Climate Change Requires Changing Our Food Systems,' published in leading scientific journal Oxford Open Climate Change, prominent scientists from around the world propose that the pressing nature of irreversible climate change requiresrethinking our food systems.

Lead researcher Dr Feigin and her co-authors assert that "we must undertake a global shift to a fundamentally plant-based diet and a gradual global reduction and eventual phaseout of intensive factory farming, the most prolific and damaging form of agriculture."

Professor Andrew Knight, a veterinary Professor who is a Visiting Lecturer in Animal Welfare at the University of Winchester, states: "Climate change threatens much of life on Earth – including ourselves. Animal agriculture is a major emitter of greenhouse gases, and a major cause of deforestation and fresh water use.

"Yet – compared to smaller emitters, such as the transportation sector – agriculture has received shockingly little attention. Emissions from animal agriculture are so large that we cannot effectively slow climate change and environmental degradation by ignoring them. We simply must transition our societies towards more sustainable, plant-based diets."

Growing demand for meat and animal products is unsustainable, argue the article's authors.

The FAO (the United Nations' Food and

Agricultural Organisation) estimates that demand for meat will double by 2050, which would require that approximately 80 per cent of existing forests and shrubland be converted into land devoted to raising animals. Such a trajectory would have devastating consequences for us and the planet warns the article.

"As the world population increases, food insecurity and starvation will intensify if we continue to rely on a model of food production (i.e. animal factory farming) which is extraordinarily inefficient and resource intensive", the study authors contend.

The authors present strategies to achieve a rethinking of current food systems including the removal of government subsidies and higher taxation of animal products to account for externalized costs of animal agriculture.

The health benefits and savings to healthcare costs of adopting a fundamentally plant-based diet are profound. Consumption of animal products contributes to the development of many chronic diseases. Moreover, "antibioticresistant infections in humans are associated with proximity to animal farms and are a global health threat, killing approximately 700,000 people worldwide annually," the authors declare.

The proliferation of industrialized animal farming has brought uscloser than ever beforeto the outbreaks of lethal human zoonoses such as avian influenza (bird flu) and H1N1 (swine flu) resulting from factory farming operations.

The authors suggest thatplant-based diets pet foodsshould also be included in the global shift away from animal agriculture. Pet dogs and cats consume at leastnine per cent of all livestockannually and nutritionally sound plant-based pet diets would free up large amounts of land which could be used for climate mitigation.

Critical changes to our food system and consumption habits will require a shift in global mindset – lead author Dr Feigin states, "the future of humanity and all life on our planet depends on sustainability, and the data indicate that we will not succeed on the issue of climate change unless we change the way that we produce and consume food."

s a first-generation farmer I'm often asked my story, how does a carer from Preston become a farmer who spreads the message about great British agriculture? Get thrown in at the deep end that's how.

in 2009 i had no experience of farming or the realities that came with it. That soon changed when I met my other half Roy, Roy's family had a busy garage in Cumbria and on the side calved 40 cows, I got a job as a carer and in every spare moment threw myself into farming. I had only ever driven a Nissan Micra and had experience with horses, I learnt the hard way as nobody had the time to show me and soon after arriving I found myself mothering on

calves to three quarter bred limmy cows. We spent every available moment on the farm between our day jobs. Fast forward to 2016 two children later we moved into our very own farm overlooking the northern Pennines, Laitha.

Jersey dream

we are in a transitional period at present and will finally be milking cows and making the final switch later this year, after years of planning and implementing infrastructure we will be milking 120 Jersey cows on two Lely robots. This will be a huge change and a steep learning curve, in April this year we have had a productivity grant approved which will help with the cost of the robotics and we are currently sourcing cows.

From foot and mouth until 2016 laitha was home to a herd of jerseys and we plan to restore that, not just for nostalgia but out of practicality, the land here is suited to a small diary farm the fields are lush and growy yet on the wet side the land is situated 360 around the farmyard and lends its self to a paddock grazing system, I feel this approach could be translated into the wider management of land, I would love to be an arable farmer but in reality that's not what suits our area. I believe everything has its place including more environmental practices and a more tailored approach to land use for instance planting trees where

it's appropriate, leaving land aside and creating habitat when appropriate and likewise on good quality land prioritising food production and in our case grazing cattle.

Missed opportunities

Throughout my short farming career it's become more apparent that agriculture isn't accessible for everyone, and partly due to a lack of education, I never considered anything land based it just wasn't an option shown to me as a youngster. And I feel this is a barrier when trying to attract new entrants into the industry, they simply don't see themselves as a farmer. It isn't relatable, If I nearly missed out on something I now consider my passion, how

many thousands of people who would have thrived in the outdoors and have taken a more mainstream path in life? This has led me down the route of inspiring youngsters through video on YouTube and social media.

I hope my passion for farming is evident in my often comedic videos that aim to bridge that rural town divide and reach a wider audience than our usual farming circles. Both me and Roy have worked outside agriculture and I hope this brings a slightly objective view. Farmers are not mainstream our practices, although common sense to us but we are guilty of socialising in our farming communities and overlooking the general publics naivety to agriculture if we don't show them who will? curated fluffy television programs that skip out any areas that might offend people? Which brings me to social media, not only does social media connect

us to farmers across the country it allows us to feel better connected without leaving the yard. Loneliness and wider mental health problems are something prevalent in farmers, you often don't get time for anything other than work and that can be isolating, I started My YouTube channel in October 2023 and it now has 19,000 subscribers. My videos cover a wide range of topics related to farming, from lambing and calving to machinery and hot topics in the farming world. I share my experiences and any knowledge I've gained over the last 14 years in a fun and engaging way that I hope appeals to a broad audience. I don't take myself too seriously and hope people find this relatable. I regularly post updates on social media and provides insights into the daily life of a farmer I strive to stay grounded which I believe farming helps with, we are tied to the seasons and changing needs of our animals and the land, world issues and life changing viruses did little to impact our farming routines and practices, I find this a comfort. Every year we largely continue doing the same thing regardless of what's on the news. There is a magic in this, farming is enduring and moulded by the men and women at the time but ultimately it controls us not the other way around.

Sheep

As a woman in farming I'm very often asked how I find it, the answer is pretty simple I'm part of a team, we aren't traditional at all in the gendered roles sense I'll be making a video while Roy cooks the tea and we are both outside on the farm together with Roy more of a machinery operator than me and that's just because we like our buildings in-tact, that being said I can outdrive anyone on a bobcat, and have recently got

myself a mini merlo to help get to those hard to reach places that a bobcat can't reach.

My other executive decision was to bring sheep back to the farm, Roy hadn't kept sheep since foot and mouth when they discovered how much grass they went with when sadly they were taken along with the six million other animals in 2001. From very early on I petitioned hard and was told from both Roy and his dad absolutely not if I had five I might as well have a hundred. After getting our own farm Roy caved in with nobody to back him up and in 2020 31 Lleyn sheep stepped off a trailer and into laitha fields. We chose a Lleyn after having some of them here to winter and doing some research we had the idea of blue Texel x Lleyn lambs, in our minds we saw a superb mother, milky, easy to lamb, fairly hardy with a descent pair of lambs at foot, for the first year we put a Lleyn tup on and retained the females to add to our flock, I now lamb about 150 mixed sheep Texel X and Lleyn with a couple of north of England mules thrown in because it is Cumbria after all, we added the blue Texel and expected great things, the lambs are superb however lambing percentages dropped without the Lleyn tup and although pleasing to look at

didn't finish as fast as the pure Lleyns, and weren't quite as hardy, when sending deadweight they did grade out a lot better, don't get me wrong when sent to the auction it was nice to see your name in the paper for prices but when you look feed costs over the prolonged period we kept them for in comparison they didn't stack up, farming for pride did not last long, the whole thing came back to efficiencies and we have learnt our lesson, back to basics and not worrying about being fancy or what anyone else is doing, There is a reason the big estates run lleyns, two lambs, plenty of milk and easy to lamb and come this year we need the sheep to be as efficient as possible when concentrating on the jerseys.

I am overjoyed to be a farmer. I feel so fortunate every day to wake up and do what I love and even better share it with the world and hope it inspires more young people from Preston to spread their wings and think outside the box the world doesn't need more childcare workers or hairdressers it needs more farmers.

Follow Charlotte on Instagram: @charlotteashleyfarm

Yara UK joins forces with Branston

Yara's mission to decarbonise food production continues with the announcement of a new partnership with Branston, one of the UK's leading suppliers of potatoes. As part of the joint initiative, Yara will supply Branston, the potato growers for Tesco Finest white potatoes, with a Lower Carbon Crop Nutrition Program to reduce the carbon footprint of the end product.

Already a buyer of Yara's liquid and solid fertiliser products, Branston's commitment to achieving long-term sustainability led to discussions around how Yara could help them lower their carbon footprint, with lower carbon fertilisers.

YaraMila, YaraBela and YaraLiva have beenlowercarbon since 2006 when Yara introduced state-of-the-art abatement technology to reduce nitrous oxide emissions. However, this is only part of the picture. Alongside supplying fertiliser products, Yara will provide Branston with comprehensive potato crop nutrition support focusing on whole plant health to improve yield. This will involve carrying out soil and leaf testing at its Lancrop Laboratories to assess NUE and identify

nutrient deficiencies and providing micronutrient products from the YaraVita range to ensure crops have everything they need.

The initiative amounts to a proof-of-concept project for Yara, aimed at gathering data to demonstrate to Branston and Tesco just how much of a carbon reduction is possible with its lower carbon fertilisers. Included in this data will be verification statements which will show the carbon footprint reduction of the products supplied.

"Introducing this holistic crop nutrition program approach will positively impact the potato crop at Branston's by lowering carbon footprints whilst maintaining or increasing yields. Yara fertilisers have been independently verified since 2006 and now include the new Climate Choice Low Carbon grades. These lower carbonfertilisers will beincluded as part of the Crop Nutrition Plan will inevitably help both Branston and Tesco reduce their carbon footprint even further," says Gareth Flockhart, Key Account Manager for Yara UK. "Our hope is that through this initiative, we can demonstrate that by making the switch to lower carbon fertilisers is the way to a more sustainable food system for the future."

Branston to cut carbon in potato crops

The initiative will be trialed on the Branston Farm in Lincolnshire, a hub of regenerative agriculture, and it's hoped that it will be rolled out to the company's external growers in the near future.

"Yara have done some great work in developing a number of genuinely low carbon

fertiliser products that should offer potato growers the same storability, handleability and nutrient uptake that they are used to from conventional products. We hope that over time, innovative products such as these will be incorporated into our recipe for low carbon (or even Net Zero) potato production," says Mark Willcox, Agronomy Director, Branston Ltd.

023 was not an easy season for potato growers. A cold, gloomy and damp summer was followed by 6 months of appalling weather – crops abandoned and early planting nigh on impossible. For the fortunate few with crops securely stored and able to play the market, prices were at levels probably not seen since 1976. Potatoes from Cyprus, almost unseen in the UK in the 21st century, could be found in many markets. Inevitably, the response of farmers to high prices is to plant more next season. For those in the UK, planting more has proved something of a challenge – raining nearly every day through the spring and quality seed hard to find. Surely prices would remain high for 2024.

Elsewhere on the continent, however, planting conditions have proved more benign. Early harvested crops in central Europe have swiftly overwhelmed local demand and prices have fallen fast. Crops in Poland are reported to be a week ahead of normal, and the planted area in France is up 7% year on year. Careful storage of the 2024 crop is likely to be as important as ever.

Store-keepers are now familiar with the need to review every aspect of store management to ensure that they got the best from the more volatile products, such as Biox-M, which have stepped in to fill the gap left by the removal of CIPC:

• Store integrity is essential; fix any leaks;

• Ensure that stores remain closed (and closed means closed) for 48 hours following treatment, and longer where possible;

• Check air (and fog) distribution in store to ensure good and even distribution; an even distribution of fog is essential for good efficacy; address the ‘sprouty’ patches in store;

• Be very aware of the risk of condensation and/or coalescence;

• Relentless attention to detail is always strongly advised.

The focus is now on fine tuning application and store management, so that the return period can be extended for longer term storage. There is still some work on store integrity (Biox-M is unlikely to work to best advantage if is allowed to escape at any time), and distribution of fog in store during and immediately following application. Areas within a store, for which efficacy has been less than ideal, should be identified for improved air

movement, or the use of multiple application ports.

In addition, the sudden increase in energy costs since February 2022 has brought consideration of tweaks to target storage temperatures into focus. Might it be worth storing crop at a degree or so higher and take a big chunk out of the costs of cold storage?

Biox-M:

• Is a naturally occurring and truly sustainable product, in widespread use in the food industry,

• Is approved for use on organic potato crops,

• Has no harvest interval or MRL beyond the one-day mandatory withholding period after treatment, and is thus ideal for use on crops for which the date of movement is uncertain

• Has flexibility of timing of application,

• Results in minimal weight loss in store,

• Does not leave persistent residues in the fabric of stores and boxes used for storage,

• And is therefore suitable for use in stores, which may subsequently be used for the storage of other crops or seed potatoes,

• Is effective at higher storage temperatures, reducing the risk of acrylamide development when crop is processed,

• Sequesters carbon during growth, removing 1t of CO2 for every 1,000t of potatoes treated,

• And should be a component of the sustainability plan for every farm and every customer; effectively carbon neutral.

Biox-M is the only 100% natural and sustainable sprout control for potatoes.

The only completely natural product. Stand-alone. Truly sustainable. Excellent efficacy.

Sequesters carbon during growth. Flexibility of timing.

Minimal weight loss in store. Curative and preventative. No MRL.

The

Taking Back Tartan: The Highlanders’ Fight to Reclaim Their Iconic Heritage

Tartan—a fabric that has become a global symbol of Scotland—is as iconic as the Highland hills and glens. Worn on runways, by royals, and at celebrations worldwide, tartan embodies a rich cultural heritage. Yet, for all its fame, the fabric’s Highland roots have been overshadowed by industrialisation, globalisation, and centuries of systemic suppression. Now, a determined group of Highlanders is

spearheading a historic campaign to bring tartan home and ensure the region’s rightful place in its story is enshrined forever.

A Campaign Centuries in the Making

The Highlands’ rich history with tartan has often been fraught with challenges. The Act of Proscription in 1746, enacted in the aftermath of the Jacobite rising, banned the wearing of tartan, the playing of bagpipes, and even speaking Gaelic. These measures sought to dismantle Highland identity and suppress rebellion. Though the ban was lifted in 1782, its effects lingered for generations, leading to the industrialisation and commodification of tartan outside its Highland birthplace.

Today, Clare Campbell, founder of the only weaving mill on the Highland mainland, is leading the charge to reclaim tartan’s legacy. Her campaign, “Taking Back Tartan,” aims to pass a Highland Tartan Act through Parliament— legislation that would protect and legitimise tartan’s Highland heritage, much like the 1993 Harris Tweed Act has safeguarded the authenticity of Harris Tweed.

“This campaign isn’t just about recognising history; it’s about

building a future,” says Campbell. “For centuries, Highland communities have been excluded from the economic and cultural benefits of tartan. We’re seeking to change that narrative and bring tartan’s production back to the people and the land it comes from.”

The Angel of Reparation: A Global Call to Action

At the heart of this movement is the launch of the “Angel of Reparation,” a striking patch that encapsulates the campaign’s spirit of heritage, resilience, and hope. Woven on tartan fabric made in the Highlands, the Angel is available to anyone who wishes to support the campaign, either as an addition to their existing tartan garments or as a standalone collectible.

But this isn’t just any patch—it carries fibres from Dolly the Sheep, the world’s first cloned mammal and an enduring symbol of Scottish innovation. Dolly’s wool has been stitched into the first Angel patch, which was presented to Karen Walker, one of the scientists behind Dolly’s creation.

“I am thrilled and very proud to be able to provide a little piece of Dolly wool to support the future Highland tartan industry,” Walker says. “I hope Dolly’s iconic status helps spread the word and makes this exciting project another piece of important Scottish history.”

The patch’s design, created by renowned Highland pop surreal artist Michael Forbes, features an angel playing bagpipes while adorned in tartan and surrounded by Scottish primroses, a resilient wildflower that thrives in the Highlands’ rugged terrain.

“The Angel is a symbol of hope, rebellion, and connection,” says Forbes. “I wanted the design to reflect the strength and spirit of the Highland people. It’s a tribute to those who kept our culture alive despite centuries of adversity, and a rallying cry for the next generation.”

A Vision for the Highlands’ Future

The campaign isn’t just about symbolism; it’s about creating tangible change for the Highlands. Funds raised through sales of the Angel patch will go toward establishing the Highland Caim Dion Trust, a not-forprofit organisation dedicated to supporting local weaving mills, fibre processing hubs, and sustainable textile production across the region.

The trust’s work will help decentralise tartan production,

encouraging the creation of micro mills and ensuring that tartan manufacturing contributes directly to local economies. This decentralisation aligns with the campaign’s broader goals of sustainability and resilience, providing a modern counterpoint to the industrialised production methods that dominate the tartan industry today.

“Many people all over the world wear tartan, but only a tiny fraction of it is made in the Highlands,” Campbell explains. “We want to change that. By creating a network of local mills and hubs, we’re not just preserving a tradition—we’re revitalising it for the future.”

Reclaiming Tartan’s Legacy

The campaign has already begun generating excitement and support, with plans to open pre-orders for the Angel patch in January 2025. But Clare Campbell and her team are not stopping there. They are actively lobbying the Scottish and UK governments for the Highland Tartan Act, which would formalise the region’s role in tartan production and protect its heritage.

To ensure the campaign’s success, Campbell has been working closely with stakeholders across Scotland, including historians, textile producers, and community leaders. “This isn’t just about the Highlands; it’s about Scotland as a whole,” she says. “We’ve had many conversations to ensure we approach this with respect and inclusivity. We want to add to the story of tartan, not divide it.”

A Call to Action for Scots and Tartan Lovers Everywhere

The “Taking Back Tartan” campaign is more than a regional initiative—it’s a global movement. Whether you’re Scottish by birth, heritage, or simply in spirit, this is an opportunity to be part of a historic moment.

Supporters are invited to subscribe to updates from the Highland Caim Dion Trust at www.hcdtrust.org, where they can learn more about the campaign and pre-order the Angel patch when it becomes available.

“Reclaiming tartan is about more than fabric—it’s about identity, history, and the future,” says Campbell. “We hope people will embrace the Angel of Reparation not just as a symbol of the Highlands but as a symbol of what we can achieve when we stand together.”

Polling data shows widespread support for solar on new buildings

ata from a recent poll conducted by YouGov for CPRE, the countryside charity, showed that 82% of respondents support the installation of rooftop solar on all new homes and commercial buildings. This figure increases to 89% for Labour voters.

This data comes at a crucial time. On Friday 17 January, MPs will hear the second reading of the Sunshine Bill, a Private Members Bill tabled by Max Wilkinson, Liberal Democrat MP for Cheltenham. It calls for mandatory rooftop solar on new homes.

However, the bill cannot progress unless enough MPs vote to end the debate and move to a vote. This requires not just a majority, but also at least 100 MPs to be present.

In recent days, more than 5,000 CPRE supporters have contacted their MP to urge them to support the bill. To date, more than 600 MPs have been contacted.

Research by UCL in May 2023 revealed that there is enough unused roof space for 117GW of installed

solar energy capacity, far outstripping the government's own target to generate 70GW by 2030. Investment in rooftop solar would support green growth creating more than 100,000 new jobs in North West England alone.

Climate change is the single biggest threat to the countryside, with more and more extreme weather already threatening livelihoods, food security and nature. CPRE has long advocated for rooftop solar as a key solution to deliver clean power by 2023, helping the country meet its international legal commitments to help combat climate change.

Roger Mortlock, CPRE chief executive, said:'Rooftop solar is a common-sense solution to our energy needs that helps make the best use of our finite supply of land. That's why the Sunshine Bill is such an exciting opportunity to change how the UK generates energy.'

'It's unbelievable that it isn't already a requirement for solar panels be fitted as standard on all new homes. The time for change has come. The government must set a target for generating at least 60% of the UK's solar energy from rooftops and make it easier and cheaper to install panels on existing homes and commercial buildings.'

Reganuary: A Perfect Prelude to Low Carbon Agriculture Show 2025

ith Reganuary inspiring people to rethink their food choices this January, it’s the ideal time to focus on the upcoming Low Carbon Agriculture Show 2025. Taking place on 5-6 March 2025 at NAEC Stoneleigh, the show is the UK’s only event dedicated to sustainable farming and carbon reduction practices.

While Veganuary encourages millions to embrace plant-based eating, Reganuary offers a different perspective: sourcing food from regenerative farming methods that not only reduce environmental impact but can actively enhance ecosystems. This ethos aligns closely with the goals of the Low Carbon Agriculture Show, which provides farmers and landowners with the tools, technologies, and insights to make agriculture more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally conscious.

What is Reganuary?

Coined by Glen Burrows, co-founder of the Ethical Butcher, Reganuary challenges consumers to prioritise foods produced using regenerative farming practices. Unlike Veganuary, this movement encourages eating seasonal and sustainably sourced foods, whether plant-based or animal-derived, that contribute to improving the environment. Reganuary is about thinking critically about the impact of your food choices. It shifts the focus from a binary plant-vs-animal debate to supporting farming practices that regenerate the land and enhance ecosystems. This mindset is central to the Low Carbon Agriculture Show 2025, which unites farmers, innovators, and industry leaders to explore low carbon agricultural systems, clean energy, lowemission vehicles, and cutting-edge farm technology.

Low Carbon Agriculture Show 2025 Highlights:

The show offers a comprehensive platform for those eager to embrace sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint:

1. Environmental Business

Transitioning from the EU’s CAP regulations to a UK system that rewards sustainable farming, this

sector provides insights into policy changes and strategies for enhancing environmental performance.

2. Clean Energy

Explore renewable energy solutions like solar, wind, and bioenergy that are reshaping rural energy generation and boosting energy security.

3. Low Emission Vehicles

As the transport sector transitions in response to the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles, discover the latest low-emission vehicles designed for farmers.

4. Farm Technology Innovation

Gain hands-on insights into pioneering technologies, from AI-driven solutions to precision farming tools, all designed to improve efficiency and sustainability on the farm.

Why Reganuary and Low Carbon Agriculture Go Hand-in-Hand

Both Reganuary and the Low Carbon Agriculture Show focus on the bigger picture, rethinking how we produce, source, and consume food to address global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss. For consumers, Reganuary offers a way to make more thoughtful food choices. For farmers and landowners, the Low Carbon Agriculture Show provides the expertise and tools needed to implement regenerative practices on a wider scale.

Reganuary and the Low Carbon Agriculture Show share the same mission: to inspire meaningful change in how we approach farming and food production. Our show offers practical solutions for achieving sustainability goals while improving farm profitability and efficiency.

Secure Your Place Today!

Join the movement driving the future of sustainable farming and energy solutions by booking your free ticket to theLow Carbon Agriculture Show 2025here.

French Methane Production Farm Produces 1MW of Solar Energy, Overcoming Safety Challenge with SolarEdge

olarEdge, a global leader in smart energy technology, today announced its premium-safety DC-optimized solar inverter solution has been chosen to power a pioneering 1MW solar plant recently installed at a methane production farm in France. SCEA Robin (Société Civile d'Exploitation Agricole) from the Ain district, has received praise from firefighters and insurers for its new 8,000m2 rooftop solar system that features advanced technological safety capabilities required for such an installation nearby to highly flammable methane production.

SCEA Robin’s business portfolio includes pig farming, cereal growing and methane production. To counter its high energy costs, the company installed its first rooftop solar system in 2020 with a 100kW installation used purely for self-consumption. Witnessing attractive economics, the farm has now expanded its deployment of rooftop solar by over ten times, with a new accumulative power capacity of 1MW. Approximately a quarter of the solar energy produced is used for self-consumption, while the remainder is sold to the grid creating an entirely new revenue

stream for the business. Since moving to this dual-use solar model, SCEA Robin is saving approximately 18% a year on its energy bills.

While the expansion of solar has become very profitable for SCEA Robin, it has been hailed a success for other reasons. The proximity of methane production to solar presents significant safety risks which required approval from the local firefighters and insurance company. According to Christine Brouillet, farmer and methanization operator at SCEA Robin, technological innovation made all the difference.

“Solar is a now a key part of our business, helping us not only to significantly reduce our operational costs at the farm, but also generate additional revenues for us from the surplus energy produced,” says Brouillet. “However, with our methanization farming on-site posing a flammable risk, as well as our farm animals roaming, we had rigorous testing to demonstrate that firefighters could shut down the solar system instantaneously in the event of a fire. SolarEdge Power Optimizers played an important role in getting approval, having the advanced rapid shutdown safety

SCEA Robin’s dual-use 1MW solar installation nearby to the methane production plant

feature to assure us and the insurance company that firefighters could quickly and safely intervene if needed. This capability, along with their 25-year warranty, gives us the peace of mind that our investment is safe for the long term.”

Unlike traditional solar inverter technologies, SolarEdge’s innovative DC-optimized solution combines solar inverters with Power Optimizers. These are small devices attached to the underside of every pair of solar panels. The innovative SafeDC™ feature automatically powers down the solar array to a touch-safe 1V whenever the inverter or grid is shut down, enabling safe maintenance and emergency intervention should it be required. Integrated arc fault protection is also included, detecting and interrupting potential arc faults. Arc fault detection and interruption are not required by French regulations but are commonly requested by insurance companies. SolarEdge inverters include this safeguard which is designed to mitigate the effects of some arcing faults that may pose a fire risk.

According to Gilles Bonnet, Prevention Engineer at insurer Groupama Rhône-Alpes-Auvergne, these advanced safety capabilities have not gone unnoticed.

“As a leading insurer in the agricultural world, we support a wide variety of farms which are now transitioning to solar with additional methanization activities. The phenomenon is spreading, and more and more large buildings are equipped with rooftop solar systems,” says Bonnet. “We develop

specifications to minimize risks and make recommendations for buildings, livestock farms and production facilities. SolarEdge’s Power Optimizers caught our attention having been tried and tested successfully in the USA where most buildings are made of wood and therefore the current needs to be shut down as close as possible to the solar panel in order to mitigate the risk of overheating or a fire. Unlike other traditional string inverter technologies, anomalies can also be detected at a panel-level. At Groupama, any technological innovations like these that improve risk management of buildings –particularly when it comes to solar – are always very much appreciated.”

Solar installers are also seeing the value of Power Optimizers, particularly when it comes to maintenance. In the case of SCEA Robin, local solar installer Planète+ is able to monitor the system remotely at a panel-level to accurately pin-point any issues and resolve them quickly –minimizing time on site and maximizing system uptime.

Kamel Messai, Co-Director of Planète+, concludes: "As the adoption of solar continues to grow, it is critical that safety continues to be non-negotiable. Safety features such as SafeDC and SenseConnect from SolarEdge have set a high industry benchmark for safety. Given that most people outside of the solar industry are not aware of these risks, we're now working with emergency services, insurers and our customers to help them understand these important issues.” With

Spotless Performance From Dirty Water Pump

n Northern Lincolnshire, a Chopper Pump made by Landia has completed five years of continuous service at the main, 2MW biogas plant run by Singleton Birch, who for over two hundred years, have produced high quality lime products.

Working underground as part of an automated system for dirty run-off water, the

Landia pump chops up maize and other particles that end up in the drainage; sending the recirculated liquid to the site’s lagoon, or back to the digesters as and when required.

“The Landia Chopper Pump does an excellent job,” said Danny Mason, Renewable Energy Supervisor at Singleton Birch, where the AD plant’s three 2800m3 digesters use a feedstock of maize, chicken litter and sugar beet.

He added: “The pump is very easy to maintain and has really helped us out with drainage on site, chopping up solids that would block up lesser quality pumps. Landia take care of the full servicing, and always ensure that there isn’t any downtime.”

Invented by Landia in 1950, the Chopper Pump is designed with an external knife system that continuously reduces solids. In addition to this Landia unit at Singleton Birch, Landia has numerous Chopper Pumps installed at biogas plants as part of its digester mixing system. These include Scottish Water, Eco Verde Energy, and Republic Services in California.

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How planning policy reform can increase food production output

harlotte El Hakiem and Jacqueline Jackson, planning directors atMarrons, discuss how further reforms to planning policy can benefit the country’s farmers

With economic, political and regulatory changes piling on the pressure for the agricultural sector, farmers are in desperate need for support with every facet of their livelihoods. As part of the latest ‘New Deal’ announcements by environment secretary, Steve Reed, has certainly attempted to address the shortfalls in the planning system for farmers, in addition to other issues that hinder efficient farming, but whether thesereforms go far enough has been called into question.

To improve the viability of farming in the UK, reforms to the planning system have been highlighted as playing a key part in facilitating these changes and the upcoming spring consultation is intended to help cut red tape for farmers and form a policy that will support both income diversification and food production.

Although not revolutionary, the reforms are expected to comprise small tweaks to existing planning policy, which should help speed up planning decisions in order to allow farmers to build the infrastructure they need.

Recent planning policy reform has helped

Additional changes to permitted development rights, introduced in May 2024, made it easier for farmers to change use classes of agricultural buildings to dwellings under Class Q or to commercial buildings under Class R, which were expected and welcomed. To date, changes have made it easier for farmers to diversify their income streams, allowing them to more easily turn disused buildings into farm shops, wedding venues, holiday lodgings, or other profit-making amenities.

While this has certainly helped farmers diversify portfolios, it has overlooked ways to support the increase in food production.

Diversification has become a double-edged sword. It is integral to a farm’s survival in the current climate; however, it can also take the

focus away from a farm’s primary purpose: producing food. This can potentially decrease the farm’s overall output and affect the food and beverage sector as a whole. Successful farming protects food production but also allows farmers to diversify to remain viable and releases land for development.

How planning reform can go further for farmers

The planning reforms made last year have been criticised by some for over-focusing on supporting income diversification, inadvertently de-prioritising food production, and the upcoming changes may address this imbalance.

Currently, the buildings that can be converted using permitted development rights, such as Class Q and Class R, are restricted by various conditions, including size, suitable access, and how long they have been classed as agricultural buildings. These restrictions don’t consider how farming has modernised and changed over time.

For example, machinery has become much bigger and requires larger storage space. Being able to make changes to an agricultural building, for example, by adding an extension or constructing larger barns to store modern equipment without requiring planning permission, would be beneficial for farmers, as well as aid food production rather than income diversification.

Although permitted development rights do not require planning permission, they are still within the planning system, and many classes require prior approval. While some think that it is an easier process, this is a misconception. With dwindling resources and increasing pressure on local planning authorities, the prior approval process is often complex and plagued by delays. This leaves farmers in limbo, unable to adapt their infrastructure quickly to fit modernised farming methods, such as larger equipment.

How simplification can benefit all

The government needs to review the criteria for permitted development rights and ask if it

really is necessary for farms to need prior approval in all cases. Amendments for commercial purposes under Class R may need to be flagged to local planning authorities due to concerns such as increased noise or traffic levels. Others, however, such as new barns or farming infrastructure, may not. Not only would cutting this red tape allow farmers to quickly construct or convert their buildings to be more usable and, as a result, profitable, but it would also ease pressure on an already strained planning system in the process.

Consideration for the operational aspects of a farm was also noticeably missing from changes made in 2024. Amendments need to make it far easier for farmers to put up animal enclosures, hardstandings, or barns without being limited by arbitrary regulations or criteria. Making these more accessible to farmers could help them grow their farms and increase food production as a result.

Another likely change that would benefit farmers is being able to build flood defences more easily and freely. Flooding can hugely impact planting, harvesting, and crop rotation and, in turn, cause huge disruption to food production. Up until this announcement, flood defences aimed at protecting farmers’ crops hadn’t been high on the government’s agenda. While the previous government did set up a ‘farming recovery fund’ to support farmers whose land and livelihood had been affected by flooding or extreme rainfall, preventative measures are surely more beneficial for all parties.

While planning reform can certainly help farmers, it should in no way be thought of as a quick fix for the problems in the agricultural sector. The spring consultation and subsequent outcomes are part of a much wider 25year roadmap for farming that covers all aspects of

farming, including renewable energy, procurement, supply chain and much more. Without reform in other areas, changes to planning policy will have little impact on the sector as a whole.

With small tweaks to existing planning policy, a real difference in the lives of everyday farmers could be realised. Making planning a smoother process will play a part in helping farmers have the appropriate infrastructure to carry out their jobs and, as a result, increase food production as a whole.

Credit: Charlotte El Hakiem and Jacqueline Jackson - Planning directors – Marrons – www. marrons.co.uk

Police across the county continue to bring the fight to rural criminals

Police across Hampshire are continuing to bring the fight to rural criminals operating in the county.

Offenders have been making use of the darker evenings throughout autumn and winter to target fields, isolated communities, and rural estates to commit crime. This has involved rural properties being burgled, with power tools, quad bikes and farm machinery being stolen, in addition to offences targeting our county’s wildlife including poaching and hare coursing.

Last week, a number of farms in the areas surrounding Stratfield Saye and rural Basingstoke in particular were burgled.

On Thursday 9 January, Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya joined officers on a proactive operation across the county with the objective of disrupting criminals involved in this type of offending. The operation ran overnight into the early hours

of Friday morning (10 January).

The operation was led by our specialist Country Watch team, with additional support from neighbourhoods policing, armed response, the Dog Unit, National Police Air Service (NPAS), and colleagues over the border in Surrey.

Local gamekeepers and estate security managers also collaborated with us on the night, offering to notify officers directly involved in the operation immediately of any suspicious or criminal activity they witnessed in their local areas.

A large area of the county was covered by roaming patrols including the rural towns, villages, estates and country roads in the districts of Basingstoke, Test Valley, Winchester, Hart, and East Hampshire.

On Thursday night, officers from the District Policing Team (DPT) were deployed to reports of suspicious individuals walking around a fishery on the

River Test. On attendance, officers were then made aware of two individuals and a dog trespassing on nearby farmland in East Wellow. Police located and spoke to the individuals on the farmland – two teenage boys aged 13 and 14 respectively. A bag was retrieved from a nearby bush which contained two dead hares. The Country Watch team will be making further enquiries.

Further north in the county, officers were particularly interested in a silver Honda CR-V which was suspected of being involved in the burglaries which took place earlier in the week. The vehicle was spotted by officers in the South Warnborough area and efforts were made to pursue and contain it, with aerial support from NPAS and the drone utilised in the early hours of Friday morning.

The vehicle had failed to stop for police and is then suspected of making use of the byways and fields in the area to evade detection. The vehicle was later located burnt out. Enquiries continue.

Units also conducted a number of stop checks of vehicles in the county which were being driven in rural areas late at night, including in Tadley and Andover, and

other areas within the Test Valley, Winchester and Hart districts.

One vehicle, which was not fully defrosted, was spotted speeding on icy roads in Longmoor. The vehicle was stopped and the driver was given a word of warning by police, whilst another vehicle was seized by police in Popham as the driver had no licence.

Inspector Cath MacDonald said: “Catching criminals involved in this type of offending is just half the battle. Whilst no arrests were made on the night of this operation, the heightened visible police presence assisted in disrupting the activities of a suspicious vehicle in South Warnborough for example, and undoubtedly prevented further offending.

“Prevention is just as important, as we know the significant impact that rural crime is having on our communities living in these remote areas. Stopping it from happening in the first place goes some way in minimising the harm that is being caused.

“We will be conducting further operations of this nature, whilst also continuing to investigate any crimes reported and develop the intelligence picture around the

people and vehicles involved.

“The public are key to helping us do this, and it was fantastic to see people from rural communities such as gamekeepers and estate security managers offering their support to police on the night of this operation.

“Country Watch regularly engage with landowners, farmers, gamekeepers and other members of the rural community as part of their role. We want to ensure the community are as much a part of our efforts to bring the fight to criminals as police and partners are.

“Please keep reporting information you have to us. Whether this relates to suspicious individuals or vehicles, burnt out vehicles or other unusual vehicles left on farmland, or information about crimes. Every piece of information you provide to us strengthens our intelligence picture and our ability to disrupt the people involved in crime."

If you have information about crime or suspicious activity in your area, please report this to police on 101, or via the report tool atwww.hampshire.police. uk

Dial 999 if a crime is in progress, or in the event of an emergency.

If you are a member of DISC you can also use this platform to provide information to the police.If you have a business connection to the rural and wildlife environment, you may be eligible to be a member of DISC. Please emaildiscreports@hampshire. police.uk

Lantra makes Farm Safety E-Learning course free of charge at Oxford Farming Conference 2025

Lantra is proud to announce that it’s suite of Farm Safety E-learning Courses will be made free of charge from today, Friday 10th January. This announcement underlines Lantra’s commitment to ensuring that farm workers have access to the latest information to keep themselves, their employees, families, and colleagues safe on their farms.

Fatalities and serious injuries continue to remain at a high level within agriculture. The most recent figures show that 38 people sadly lost their lives from April 2023 to March 2024, as well as more than 9,000 people suffering serious injuries in the agriculture, fisheries, and forestry industries.

Following the news of the Health and Safety Executive decision to move away from routine farm safety inspections in Spring 2024, and recognising the importance of training and keeping knowledge of farm safety timely, Lantra is now making the Farm Safety Training suite, which includes Agriculture Health and Safety: How to Meet Your Legal Responsibilities (E-Learning), Agriculture Health and Safety: How Do I Manage Health? (E-Learning), and Children on Farms (ELearning) free of charge for all to access.

As part of Farm Safety Week 2024, the Farm Safety Foundation undertook some research with the farming community that found that 57% of those interviewed who were under 40 years old said that they would like more health and safety training. Also, 34% of those interviewed who were over 40 years old stated they want more health and safety training. This

is a promising sign for the agriculture industry, potentially turning the tide on the high number of fatalities and serious injuries that happen year on year.

On the announcement that Lantra is making more of its Farm Safety E-Learning free of charge, Marcus Potter, CEO of Lantra, commented: “Sadly, I regularly receive notifications of serious incidents, and fatalities on farms, – with the same handful of causes cited, such as falls from heights and crushing by cattle, or falling objects.

“Lantra is committed to supporting the agricultural sector with health and safety training and ensuring that we give farmers and farm workers the knowledge they need to remain safe. Working with the Farm Safety Foundation, I am pleased to share our Farm Safety E-Learning suite free of charge from today.”

Lantra’s Farm Safety E-learning courses have easily digestible modules covering all aspects of farm safety with each module being packed with practical information and guidance. Those who undertake the e-learning will also receive a certificate upon successfully completing the courses. The courses are approximately two hours long, and a benefit of them being elearning, is that farmers, and farm workers, can learn at their own pace.

Lantra urges all farm owners, managers, and workers to prioritise safety and take advantage of this learning opportunity. Together, we can make farming a safer profession for everyone.

New feed launched to help finish cattle quicker

Beef farmers could finish their cattle quicker and more efficiently thanks to a new feed launched by Carr’s Billington.

ProFinisher, which is available in blends or as a farm pack, has been proven to boost daily liveweight gain by up to 6% resulting in cattle being finished earlier on less feed.

Carr’s Billington’s feed sales specialist, Jessica Bertram, says trials have shown huge benefits from using the feed in finishing rations.

“ProFinisher has been found to improve daily liveweight gain by 0.1kg, with feed conversion efficiency increasing by 0.11, and cattle boasting an overall 19kg increase in total liveweight,” she adds.

“This not only delivers a financial benefit for farmers due to less feed being required but also delivers environmental gains because the cattle are being finished on less inputs.”

ProFinisher is manufactured for Carr’s Billington by Techna and the company’s GB technical sales manager, Jamie-Leigh Douglas, says the product contains natural active ingredients.

Ms Douglas adds: “ProFinisher contains a

blend of 100% natural plant-based essential oils, which work to improve the energy efficiency of the digestive tract in ruminants.

“It increases the amount of propionate – a volatile fatty acid – in the rumen, which is really important for improving energy utilisation from the feed the cattle are eating.

“It also works in the hind gut by increasing the crypt depth of the villi, ensuring better absorption of nutrients.”

She says another benefit of the feed is the inclusion of specific coatings on the natural oils for targeted release within the rumen and hindgut – ensuring it is effective where it needs to be.

Ms Bertram believes these two modes of action, alongside the coatings on the oils, are key to ProFinisher’s success, and the wider success of a beef enterprise.

She adds: “By ensuring cattle make better use of the energy and nutrients in their diet, they will gain weight more quickly – something which is key to the success of a profitable and efficient finishing enterprise.”

For more information on ProFinisher, please get in touch with your local Carr’s Billington representative.

Book now for Dumfries Monitor Farm meeting on colostrum research

With main lambing and calving season fast approaching, farmers are invited to the Dumfries Monitor Farm on Thursday 6 February to hear more about ground-breaking research highlighting the serious ‘unintended consequences’ of poor colostrum storage and equipment hygiene, and what can be done to tackle the issue.

The research was carried out during last year’s lambing on the Monitor Farm’s flock by the University of Glasgow, funded by Monitor Farm Scotland and Livestock Health Scotland. It discovered that 80% of the farm’s supplementary colostrum tested failed total bacterial count tests. “The results were not good, but we are learning from them,” says Monitor Farmer at Barnbackle, Richard McCornick.

High bacterial counts in supplementary colostrum – likely to be an issue on many farms - cause several serious issues, as vet and researcher Ali Haggerty from The Stewartry Veterinary Centre in Castle Douglas will explain at the meeting, which runs from 10am-1pm. She will be joined by research colleague Katie Denholm, University of Glasgow senior university clinician, to talk about colostrum and its management.

“The critical message is that these results indicate that where colostrum has not been stored correctly, and/or equipment is not properly cleaned, giving supplementary colostrum has the potential to cause more harm than good,” warns Ali. “However, some samples on-farm were impressively clean with very low counts, showing that achieving clean samples is possible.”

Richard, Ali and Katie will talk through how the farm will store and keep colostrum so that it is low in bacteria this lambing, ensuring it helps lambs rather than hinder them. They will also look at setting up a ‘lambing or calving shed kitchen’, including a working fridge (which chills at a consistent 4°C) instant hot water, electric, space to work, a sink and the required detergents such as basic washing up liquid, a disinfectant, and appropriate bottle brushes.

They will talk about how farms can tackle the issue before lambing, focusing on hygiene and setting up a practical ‘lambing shed kitchen’. Richard will be discussing how he has taken on board the results and what he is planning to do to ensure this year’s lambing is successful.

While the results may seem shocking, bacteria can quickly multiply, explains Ali. “Bacteria grow exponentially and can double their population very, very rapidly. Colostrum left at ambient temperature—like you might find sitting in a container or feeding equipment in the lambing shed while you're busy working around the pens—offers both the optimal temperature and nutrients that speeds up bacterial growth by shortening their doubling time.

Attendees will also hear from SAC Consulting ruminant nutritionist Lorna Shaw. She will look at the critical issue of getting nutrition right in the lead up to lambing and calving.

Monitor Farm regional adviser Maura Wilson added: “This will be a practical meeting, helping everyone in the run up to lambing and calving. The research results are probably very typical of many farms, and it will be good to hear what Richard will do this year as a result.”

The meeting starts at 10am, and lunch is included. Booking is essential. Car parking is limited - car share if possible, please wear suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy/waterproof footwear and ensure good biosecurity - clean vehicles, footwear and clothing before attending. Children under 16 and dogs are not permitted.

• Dumfriesshire Monitor Farm lambing and calving open meeting Thursday 6 February 10am-1pm at Barnbackle Farm, Lochfoot, DG2 8NX.

Booking: https://prelambingandcalving.eventbrite. co.uk

U UK Agri-Tech Centre welcomes Government's backing for innovation and technology

K Agri-Tech Centre chief executive Phil Bicknell welcomed the positive emphasis Defra Secretary Steve Reed placed on the agri-tech sector at the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC).

Opening the conference on Thursday (January 9), Mr Reed told delegates that 'agri-tech and precision breeding are very important for the future of the sector' and would receive the backing of the Labour Government.

He added: "Our intention is to support these schemes because the future of the industry is dependent on getting them right."

Mr Bicknell said the Secretary of State's focus on food production and sustainable farming businesses was crucial.

Mr Bicknell said: "It was great to hear him talk about the importance of agri-tech and precision breeding and the complexity and circularity of agricultural production.

"As an evidence-based and science-led organisation, UK Agri-Tech Centre is ideally placed to play a key role given our range of academic expertise and our capabilities which enable onfarm test and trial."

Mr Reed also announced the imminent launch of ADOPT (Accelerating Development of Practices

and Technologies), the primary aim of which is to support on-farm trials of technology, systems and approaches that will improve the profitability, productivity and sustainability of farmers, growers and foresters in England.

Due to be rolled out this spring, Mr Reed said ADOPT would fund farmer-led trials to bridge the gap between new technologies and their real-world application.

For Mr Bicknell and the UK Agri-Tech Centre the announcement of ADOPT, which is part of the Farming Innovation Programme, was a hugely positive step.

"ADOPT is so important because unless you can place innovation in the hands of end users, in this case farmers, and accelerate the pace of adoption then we are missing out on the opportunities which are out there," said Mr Bicknell.

"There are so many great ideas and potential within the agri-tech sphere that it is vital we narrow the gap between research and innovation and farmers themselves."

Mr Reed also used the conference to announce that secondary legislation would be introduced to Parliament by the end of March this year to 'unlock new precision breeding technology', something which again prompted a positive response from the UK Agri-Tech Centre chief executive.

The OFC is one of the most prominent fixtures in the farming calendar and UK AgriTech Centre was yet again a high-profile backer of the event, being one of its gold partners and sponsoring the Thursday afternoon session entitled 'Adapting to a changing world'.

This session saw a host of engaging and thought-provoking presentations which set the scene about how agriculture was adapting to the myriad of challenges it faced.

A Focus on fat for improved profitability and sustainability

focus on fat – and placing merit on cows who gain condition while suckling a calf – could be the key to a sustainable and profitable beef system.

That was the message delivered by award-winning Shetland beef farmer Jamie Leslie and Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society CEO Robert Gilchrist at the British Cattle Breeders Conference in Telford.

Mr Leslie, who runs one of the most northerly beef herds in the UK, told the conference breeding for fat was key to the success of his 90-cow Aberdeen-Angus suckler herd.

The outwintered herd is run alongside a 900-ewe commercial sheep flock, and a leader follower grazing system is in place with the cattle used to reset pasture behind ewes and lambs all summer.

“Our cows must be able to thrive by grazing grass for nine months of the year,” said Mr Leslie.

“By selecting for cows that easily put on condition in our system, we can then use that energy reserve later in the season, when grass quality is low, to reduce our costs.”

calf, whilst getting nicely fat; this means they winter cheaply.”

Sharing data for last year, he said his cost of production – excluding a rent equivalent cost for owned land – was £1,017 for a 600kg finished steer. This is based on a suckler cow cost of £645, a cost of £279 for taking the weaned calf to turnout, and £93 for keeping the calf from a yearold in March until October.

He said a one-point drop in Body Condition Score (BCS) from weaning to a month pre-calving saved him 400kg DM of feed per cow –something which has transformed what cows he selects for and how they are managed.

“We aim for cows to have a BCS of at least 4 at weaning and averaged 4.3 last year,” added Mr Leslie.

“We want cows who produce a nicely suckled

Mr Gilchrist said Mr Leslie’s focus on breeding for fat could easily be mirrored by other farmers – and deliver multiple benefits.

He said the industry’s previous move towards breeding leaner cattle had led to unintended consequences, including higher finishing costs, increased cow costs due to higher feed requirements, and reduced fertility.

Mr Gilchrist told the conference: “Luckily, the perils of over selection for lean were recognised in the mid-2010s and fatter animals were moved to sit on the right-hand side of the Estimated Breeding Values (EBV) grid.

“We are now seeing a return to native breeds as farmers see the benefits of genetics that support higher intramuscular and back fat –namely lower finishing costs, less reliance on concentrate feeds, and a lower age at first calving.”

He added: “While margins are tight, sustainable models of suckler beef production are more important than ever.

“This can be achieved by choosing the right animal for your system and for most beef producers, selecting genetics that naturally offer higher fat, will align with sustainability and profitability goals.”

Merger of Hypor and Danish Genetics Officially Closed

Hendrix Genetics proudly announces the successful closing of the merger between Hypor, its swine genetics division, and Danish Genetics. This strategic combination unites two industry-leading swine genetics organizations under the Hendrix Genetics umbrella, creating a value proposition that sets a new benchmark for the swine industry. Together, Hypor and Danish Genetics, supported by Hendrix Genetics' multispecies expertise and cutting-edge R&D capabilities, are committed to delivering unmatched value and innovation to the pork value chain.

customers."

Jan Gerber, CEO of Danish Genetics, highlighted the shared commitment to the industry's future: "Joining forces with Hypor under Hendrix Genetics allows us to set new standards for innovation, animal welfare, and customer success. This partnership is a step forward in meeting the demands of pig producers of tomorrow."

The Strength of Collaboration

A Unified Value Proposition for the Swine Industry

The merger represents a powerful synergy of expertise, resources, and a shared vision for the future of swine genetics. By combining the strengths of Hypor and Danish Genetics, the new entity offers a differentiated and compelling value proposition for pig producers worldwide.Customers can expect:

To reflect the combined strengths of Hypor and Danish Genetics, the new entity will operate under the nameHendrix Genetics Swine. This name underscores the collective expertise and resources of the two organizations while highlighting Hendrix Genetics' commitment to empowering the swine industry. The headquarters for Hendrix Genetics Swine will be based in Denmark, further solidifying its proximity to key markets and customers.

• Innovative R&D: World-class research and development capabilities to stay ahead of genetic advancements.

• Comprehensive Genetics Portfolio: A range of solutions tailored to diverse customer needs in global markets.

• Global Reach with Local Proximity: Reliable partnerships and long-term support close to the customer.

Richard Maatman, CEO of Hendrix Genetics, stated: "This merger brings together the best of two world-class swine genetics organizations. Our combined expertise and scale enable us to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that drive progress and create real value for our

Raf Beeren, Managing Director of Hendrix Genetics Swine, emphasized: "Hendrix Genetics Swine is the culmination of years of collaboration and expertise. This merger is about leveraging our combined strengths to deliver higher performance, sustainability, and innovation for our customers and the industry as a whole."

Looking Ahead

The official closing of the merger marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Hypor, Danish Genetics, and Hendrix Genetics. This collaboration positions Hendrix Genetics Swine as a global leader dedicated to advancing sustainable performance and empowering the pork value chain through continuous improvement.

A Detail of Government commitment to boost farm incomes eagerly awaited, says NSA

strengthened approach to farming as announced by Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, at today's Oxford Farming Conference, has been welcomed by the National Sheep Association (NSA), but further detail will be required to ascertain the future impact any forthcoming reform could have on the UK sheep sector.

Speaking to farmers and landowners at the conference, Steve Reed set out the Government's long-term vision of how the Government is aiming to work with farmers to deliver a profitable farming sector and unlock rural growth.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: "Whilst NSA does not agree fully with recent Government decisions such as the changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR), inheritance tax and National Insurance payments, which I fear will stifle the growth the government claims to be looking for, I can sense this Government is now trying to create a fresh approach to put farming on a stronger footing. The Secretary of State speech today outlined a few reforms, all of which NSA supports but the detail of which is not clear enough to ascertain what impact it will have for sheep farming in Britain –one of our most sustainable, natural, and multi-functional farming sectors.

"For example, the intention to back British produce through public procurement contracts is a great step forward, but how this will impact sheepmeat we cannot be sure of. The most relevant likely planning reforms to benefit sheep farming would be measures to incentivise a more accessible network of abattoirs and markets to allow sheep farmers the

most convenient and competitive market access. We are currently seeing the issues created by not enough abattoirs and markets through livestock movement restrictions enforced due to the ongoing Bluetongue situation.

"My views on diversifying income streams through energy production and potentially private/blended finance are that there should be a national government controlled body to equitably share 'offsetting credits' such as carbon credits and biodiversity net gain, with these funds adding to the coffers to support our future farming schemes.

"NSA fully supports the intention to better protect farmers through future trade deals and welcomes the opening of the work on the new Trade Strategy.We desperately need to see some real action to improve the economic opportunities for Britain's farmers and this includes putting a real value on the wide range of public goods delivered by our upland and grassland farmers."

Secretary of State Steve Reed has previously stated that the industry will not always agree on howthe government aims to improve the economic situation of farmers, but NSA believes it is crucial that the sector soon starts to see the results of the measures the government is putting in place.

Mr stocker concludes: "The Farming Roadmap, the Land Use Strategy, and the Trade Strategy need fleshing out quickly and they need to align with and not contradict our commitments to nature, natural resources and the climate."

New research from the Royal Veterinary College reveals reasons for antibiotic usage in Indian chicken farming

New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), in collaboration with the West Bengal University of Animal & Fishery Sciences (WBUAFS), explored antibiotic use in chicken farming in eastern India, revealing how poultry companies play a significant role in influencing the way antibiotics are used during food production compared to chicken farmers. While further research is needed, the findings can be used to provide information to help reduce antibiotic use in chickens, an important step in combating antibiotic resistance in animals and humans.

meaning they experienced high temperatures, humidity, and potential exposure to infectious diseases. Consequently, antibiotics were used as a key risk mitigation strategy for poultry companies to protect birds during production.

Antibiotic resistance is a global challenge and if not controlled effectively, could have serious global social and economic impacts. More than half the world’s antibiotics are used in livestock production. With poultry now the main land-based livestock species being produced worldwide for meat, and a rapid rise in production in South East Asia, there are growing concerns about the overuse of antibiotics during chicken production and its contribution to antibiotic resistance.

As the first study of its kind to use agency theory to examine antibiotic usage in chickens, researchers at the RVC, in collaboration with the WBUAFS, set out to understand the decisions being made that lead to antibiotics being administered to chicks in India’s chicken farms.

The team, led by Dr Mat Hennessey, now a postdoctoral researcher in social science at the RVC, used an economic framework called ‘agency theory’ to look into antibiotic use decisions. The team interviewed 43 poultry stakeholders in Kolkata and the surrounding area of West Bengal, India, spanning farmers, poultry vets and specialists, government vets, poultry company employees, and poultry dealers, between March 2021 and March 2022.

The findings showed poultry production in West Bengal, India, occurs primarily through contract farming arrangements. This is typical of India where 80% of chicken production occurs under these contracts. Poultry companies supply small-scale farmers with inputs for production - chicks, feed, and medicines including antibiotics. Most antibiotic use decisions were made by the poultry companies, rather than farmers themselves and were based on factors including the standard of infrastructure on the farm, the weather, and previous experience of production on a farm.

The farming of chickens was also found to occur in settings which created risk for poultry companies. Birds were often raised in housing open to the environment,

Many poultry stakeholders shared concerns that poultry breeding companies were unable to prevent chicks from being infected with a bacteria calledMycoplasma.This meant antibiotics were used routinely at the start of production. These antibiotics, however, commonly belong to classes deemed critically important for human health (fluoroquinolone and macrolide antibiotics) and therefore should never routinely be used in livestock production.

Poultry companies reported using more antibiotic alternatives, such as probiotics, but said there are often situations where these are not sufficient to protect birds, and cited they are more expensive than antibiotics.

Mat Hennessey, post-doctoral researcher in social science at the RVC, said:

“Our study into contract chicken farming in West Bengal indicates that antibiotics remain a key strategy to reduce risk during production. While poultry companies reported an increased use of antibiotic alternatives there are many situations where this is not currently possible.

“Given the dominance of contract farming in chicken production in India, corporations are well positioned to coordinate a strategy towards lowering antibiotic use. However, these strategies should consider the wider infrastructural, institutional, and political environment within which chicken production occurs to promote antibiotic use in socially responsible ways.

“By working together, poultry companies, farmers and governments can play a key role in reducing antibiotic use in chicken and controlling resistance in humans and animals.”

Dr Indranil Samanta, Head of Department for Veterinary Microbiology at WBUAFS, said:

"The bio security of contract poultry farms in West Bengal is often compromised which results in antibiotic usage by contract companies. Instead, companies may invest in alternative methods to reduce antibiotic usage, such as different types of housing and management, and help to produce safe poultry products for society."

This research was supported by the One Health Poultry Hub, led by the RVC, and the OASIS project (One Health Antibiotic Stewardship in Society) led by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

A thrilling speed shear competition announced for NSA North Sheep 2025

Abrand new addition has been announced for the much-anticipated NSA North Sheep 2025 event.Farmers, shearers, shepherds, and industry professionals will gather at Greystoke Castle Farm, Penrith, for the North of England's premier sheep industry showcase. Among the exciting highlights of the event will be aSpeed Shear Competition,held in partnership with theNorthern Speed Shear Circuit.

Speed shear competitions are the ultimate test of skill, speed, and precision in sheep shearing, providing an electrifying atmosphere for competitors and audiences alike. This exciting competition will bring together top local and international shearers to compete for top honours while showcasing their expertise.

The contest requires competitors to shear a sheep in the shortest time possible while ensuring the animal's safety, welfare and the quality. Each participant must remove the fleece efficiently, avoiding long staples and ensuring a clean, safe finish. The timer starts with the first blow and stops with the last.

Competition details Classes

• Intermediate

• Open Class

Chris Adamson, Event Organiser for NSA North Sheep, shares his enthusiasm:"We are thrilled to partner with the Northern Speed Shear Circuit to host this competition at NSA North Sheep 2025. It's a fantastic showcase of the incredible skill, precision, and speed of our shearers, bringing an amazing buzz to the event."

The Speed Shear competition will take centre stage from 3.30 pm, concluding with the presentation of awards around 6.30 pm. Limited to 50 shearers across the Open and Senior competition categories, entries are now being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with additional entries potentially taken on the day, subject to availability.

• Veterans over 50 class

Timing: The Speed Shear begins at 3.30 pm and finishes around 6.30 pm.

Registration to be made by contacting Zoe Porter Watson on 07812 994525 or Richard Schofield on 07966 291618

Entry fee: £20 per competitor

Prize money will be awarded to the top competitors in each category.

Mark your calendars for NSA North Sheep 2025 on Wednesday, 4th June 2025, at Greystoke Castle Farm. It promises to be a packed day celebrating the best of sheep farming, with something for everyone to enjoy. Visitwww.northsheep.orgfor more information.

IVF calf could help accelerate dairy journey to net zero

Hilda may look like an ordinary calf, but the sprightly, Scotland-born animal represents an historic moment for the world's longest-running livestock genetics project and could help accelerate the dairy industry's journey to net zero.

The calf is the first of the 16th generation of the famous Dumfries-based Langhill Herd – a vital source of data for the UK dairy industry for more than half century – and, significantly, she is the first member of the herd to be born through IVF.

said: "With global consumption of dairy produce continuing to grow, breeding livestock for sustainability is extremely important. The birth of Hilda is potentially a hugely significant moment for the UK dairy industry.

"We will use a new genomic assessment alongside existing production and environmental efficiency indices to select elite, methane-efficient heifers for breeding. The Cool Cows project will produce a greater number of offspring from these donors, rapidly establishing a nucleus of highly methaneefficient calves."

Hilda is part of the Cool Cows project, which aims to establish a nucleus of highly methane-efficient animals.

Fertilising Hilda's mother's eggs in a lab means the next generation of the Langhill Herd has arrived eight months earlier than previously possible.

With the process set to be repeated, it means that researchers are doubling the rate of genetic gain and thereby accelerating the accumulation of data to breed more efficient dairy cows.

The partnership between Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Cumbria vets Paragon and Semex has received £335,000 from the Digital Dairy Chain's Collaborative Research & Development Grant Competition. The competition is managedand awarded independently by the UK's national innovation agency, Innovate UK.

SRUC's project lead Professor Richard Dewhurst

Project Lead Rob Simmons, Director and Lead Vet – Advanced Breeding at Paragon, said: "As the first veterinary practice to be awarded an RCVS Outstanding achievement in Environmental Sustainability, Paragon were delighted to help develop and deliver this important project to help support sustainability in the dairy sector. Genetic improvement in methane efficiency is going to be key to continuing to provide nutritious food to the public, while controlling the impact of methane emissions on the environmentin the future."

Stuart Martin, Programme Director of Digital Dairy Chain said: "We are very pleased to have supported this groundbreaking project. With the environmental impact of farming being a critical global issue, projects that look for innovative solutions to mitigate this impact are vital to the industry. The birth of the first Cool Cows calf marks a significant milestone, promising significant results for the future of sustainable farming."

First established in 1970, the Langhill Herd – which led to a Queen's Anniversary Prize for SRUC in 2017 – has contributed to the development of the Profitable Lifetime Index, which benefits all dairy farmers in the UK.

Over the last five years, the dairy feed intake records collected at Langhill have been used by EGENES to create national genomic breeding values for feed efficiency available to all farmers who genotype their cows.

To find out more about research at SRUC, visitwww.sruc.ac.uk

Nation's sheep farmers given chance to win every month of 2025 with NSA's latest prize draw

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is excited to announce the launch of its latest prize giveaway offering the nation's sheep farmers the opportunity to win throughout 2025 with a fantastic prize of a Lanati Astron cord free shearing handpiece to be given away each month this year.

The amazing prizes of thecord-free handpiece kits, each worth more than £450, are kindly provided by Rurtec Ltd.

The prize draw is open to any UK sheep farmer over the age of 16. Both NSA members and nonmembers can enter, but entries are limited to one per person/email address. One lucky winner per month will benefit from the prize, a quality cordless product that will no doubt ease all shearing tasks.

Rurtec began its journey in the animal husbandry field in 2001 and has been continuously enhancing the functionality and benefits of its expanding product range ever since. Product development is carried out in New Zealand, in collaboration with partners from around the world. From modest beginnings, Rurtec has established a strong reputation as a consistent and reliable supplier of premium products to the animal industry.

Entries for the NSA prize draw will be taken throughout 2025 with a winner announced at the end of each month. Entries can be made online

atwww.nationalsheep.org.uk/drawand in person atNSA eventsthis year that include the return of several popular NSA events this summer including NSA Welsh Sheep, NSA Highland Sheep, NSA North Sheep, NSA Sheep South West and NSA Northern Ireland.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: "NSA is delighted to be able to offer a brilliant prize each month of 2025 and is sincerely grateful to Rurtec Ltd for making this giveaway possible. The prize of a cordfree handpiece will no doubt be of use to any sheep farmer providing convenience for many shepherding shearing tasks."

The 2025 prize daw follows a collaboration between NSA and Nugent Engineering Ltd last year that will soon see the amazing prize of a new livestock trailer worth more than £9,500 presented to the very lucky winner in the coming weeks. News of this exciting win will be shared via NSA communications.

Fantastic prize draws are just one of the benefits NSA offers its members and other members of the UK's sheep farming community. NSA strives to act as a voice for the sector, therefore, every membership counts, strengtheningNSA's mandate to speak on behalf of the industry.

Information, full terms and conditions and NSA membership forms can be found atwww. nationalsheep.org.uk/draw

E Steve Birchall celebrates 40 years service and quality cleaning solutions

stablished in 1985, Steve Birchall Poultry Cleaning Services provides the ideal cleaning solution. All work is carried out by experienced poultry house operatives familiar with all types of buildings. Whether a farmer specialises in broilers, breeders or free range, the Company has the expertise to complete a job to a farmer’s satisfaction.

From a young age Steve was always on his grandad’s allotment and had a fascination with the fancy fowl he kept. In 1970, aged 15, he left high school and started his working life at Maple Leaf Hatcheries in Whittle le Woods, Lancashire where he attended Hutton Agricultural college on day release. He started work on one of their breeder sites and continued with the same Company for 15 years. He then went on to be the farm manager for the last eight years of his employment, until in 1985 Maple Leaf closed and he was made redundant.

A short while later a poultry farmer who he had met whilst working at Maple Leaf asked if Steve could wash his poultry house for him and his washing days basically started from there. His workload increased so he decided to employ more operators and as it continued to grow he became a Limited Company in 2001.

Their work takes then throughout the country and they retain customers because they understand the customer needs, respect them

Over many years, the practice has established a specialism dealing with the accounts and tax affairs for the farming and agriculture sector. We have many well-established clients in this area, having looked after more than one generation in most cases.

The taxation of farming and agriculture businesses is a complex area. We work closely with you to recognise your specific requirements, and are able to provide our expertise in the following areas:

• Preparation of business accounts and tax returns

• Specialist accounting and tax advice such as guidance on herd basis accounting; capital allowances claims; farmers averaging

• Bookkeeping services

• Succession planning and Inheritance tax advice

• Capital gains tax planning and advice

MANY FARMING AND AGRICULTURE BUSINESSES HAVE DIVERSIFIED IN RECENT YEARS IN ORDER TO EXPLORE OTHER PROFITABLE AREAS OF OPERATION AND/OR OBTAIN GRANT FUNDING.

This might include the opening of farm and craft shops; harnessing renewable energy; operating camping/caravanning sites; property development and storage facilities. We are well placed to advise on any ideas you have on diversifying your rural business in order to maximise its potential. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

years of delivering an excellent solutions to the Poultry sector

and offer them the relevant service which leads to recommendations.

The importance of disinfecting poultry houses is to control disease and maintain production. By killing germs on a surface after cleaning, disinfecting can further lower the risk of spreading disease.

All their disinfectants are DEFRA approved which is effective to control disease outbreaks.

Steve Birchall Poultry Cleaning Services are competitively priced and provide an excellent, quality product and an extremely efficient service. They also have a good relationship between the work force and customer.

Silage additives yield benefits

Using an additive on your grass, maize or wholecrop silage at harvest can yield many benefits, including helping to produce a better-quality feed and improved animal performance.

However, additives are not a one-sizefits-all solution, according to Dr Simon Pope, crop protection manager at Wynnstay. "There are a range of different types for different jobs, but generally they help to improve fermentation, reduce dry matter losses, ensure less protein breakdown and give you more palatable silage that is of a higher feed value," he says.

"Good quality silage helps everything fall into place with winter feeding. The costs of growing and ensiling forage arehigh and the use of an appropriate additive not only helps to protect theinvestment, but also produces good returns and an additive should be expected to pay for itself many times over," adds Dr Pope.

"We have a large number of customers who recognise the benefits of using additive on their silage and consider it to be an important part of their forage management. Using products like

Volac's Ecosyl and Ecocool at harvest can help a fast and efficient fermentation, which reduces losses and produces a high feed-value silage which improves animal performance.

"The main role of Ecosyl is to improve the efficiency of the fermentation by delivering one million highly effective lactic acid producing bacteria per gram of forage treated.," Dr Pope explains.

"Ecocool is slightly different in that it contains the same MTD/1 strain of lactic acid bacteria found in Ecosyl which dominates the fermentation, but it also contains a second species which improves aerobic stability of higher dry matter forages. There has been a lot of completely independent research into theseproducts and they consistently perform."

In 15 independent dairy trials, cows fed a range of silages treated with Ecosyl yielded an average of an additional 1.2 litres of milk per cow per day compared with untreated silage. Likewise, in beef trials, grass silage made with Ecosyl resulted in an average improvement in daily liveweight gain of 15.2%.

Wynnstay currently has an offer on Ecosyl and Ecocool; until 31stJanuary customers will get one bottle free with every 5 bottles ordered and the additive will not be delivered until the date specified on the order.

"If customers would like to order both their grass and maize additive at the same time before the end of January, the offer will apply to the entire order, the additive will be delivered on the dates requested and they will not be invoiced for the product until after delivery," he says.

• For more information visit www.wynnstay.co.uk

Value of maximising nutrient

Dairy farmers are urged to utilise the power of slurry additives to tackle rising input costs.

With the increasing challenge to maintain profitability while balancing the mounting pressure to meet environmental targets, soil health specialists are encouraging farms to look at the advantages of slurry additives.

The UK produces 48 million tonnes of slurry each year – 30 times more than the amount of fertiliser sold, so by improving its nutrient profile, there is a real business case to reduce the use of artificial fertilisers.

David Newton, technical product manager at Timac Agro, explains these solutions can play a vital role in turning a by-product into a highvalue nutrient source, offering both financial and soil health benefits.

When looking to manage the rising cost of inputs, the nutrient value of slurry can significantly reduce the amount of artificial fertiliser required to secure a strong crop and therefore make significant cost savings.

Mr Newton says: “When well-managed, slurry can contain over £5 per tonne in total nutrients, which soon adds up to a sizeable saving.

“Up to £4 worth of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium is readily available to the treated crop.

“If you’re spreading 20 to 30 tonnes per hectare, you could benefit from up to £120 per hectare saving in artificial fertiliser costs.”

He adds: “The financial benefits are escalated in the soil, with the addition of organic matter and its ability to slowly release nitrogen as it breaks down, along with all the micronutrients slurry brings.”

While improvements to infrastructure, such as covering slurry stores, is the most effective way of improving the value of readily available nutrients and organic matter, Mr Newton explains careful nutrient management does not have to require large capital investments.

“A well-rounded nutrient management plan should improve the performance of slurry, but also make its management easier, which is why we recommend a slurry additive to take full advantage of what’s available,” he says

“They’re a great way of maximising manure N, P and K availability and bringing them closer to what artificial fertiliser could provide.

nutrient profile of slurry

Mr Newton says Timac Agro’s solution, ActiPost 360, is a powder conditioner that can improve slurry’s nitrogen retention by as much as 27% and phosphorous by 33%.

Using a combination of microorganisms, brown algae, and specific adsorbent clays, ActiPost 360 activates the composting and mineralisation process in both solid manure and slurry, while actively capturing ammonium to reduce losses and eliminate odours, an important consideration in today’s farm scenarios.

Mr Newton says additives also improve the handleability of slurry by reducing the level of crusting on top of the store, reducing the need for stirring so saving time and diesel, making it easier to pump and increasing storage capacity by making sores easier to empty.

For more information about ActiPost 360, visit uk.timacagro.co.uk

STIGA Park Front Mowers – Cutting-Edge Innovation

For over 45 years, STIGA Park front mowers have set the standard for mowing innovation and excellence. Designed for both professionals and homeowners, these state-of-the-art machines deliver supreme cutting quality, unmatched versatility, and long-lasting performance.

Engineering Excellence

The new STIGA Park is the pinnacle of advanced engineering, featuring articulated steering for superior manoeuvrability, ergonomic controls for ease of use, and enhanced visibility thanks to front-mounted cutting decks. With four-wheel drive, power steering, and LED high-beam headlights, tackling tight spaces, slopes, and dim conditions has never been easier.

Comfort Meets Functionality

Designed for all-day comfort, the upgraded seat offers higher back support and improved accessibility, while intuitive control

panels and a re-shaped traction pedal make mowing effortless. A convenient storage pocket keeps belongings close at hand.

Perfect Results, Effortlessly

The patented Multiclip mulching technology ensures a healthier, greener lawn by finely cutting clippings to return nutrients to the soil. Post-mow cleanup is simplified with QuickFlip technology, allowing the cutting deck to be raised and cleaned in seconds.

Four-Season Versatility

STIGA accessories turn the Park into a yearround solution, from mowing to seasonal tasks. With the STIGA app, track sessions, get maintenance alerts, and connect with dealers at your fingertips.

STIGA Park—crafted for those who demand the best.

To find out more visit stiga.com/uk or visit your local STIGA dealership

•

Jim Price Machinery Ltd

Farmore Mills, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 9QG

Telephone: 01588 673746 www.jimpricemachinery.com

Day & Coles Agricultural

Newton Close, Town Centre, Wellingborough NN8 6UW 01933 673900

www.dayandcoles.co.uk

Readman Mowers

The Shed, Sand Lane,Wilberfoss, YO41 5PB 01759 380 231 or 07860 684 597 www.readmanmowers.co.uk

Veryard Machinery Sales

Blackworthy Road Castle Cary, Somerset 01963 351089 / 07860 479700 richardveryardmachinery.co.uk

Sharnford Horticultural Limited

Lodge Farm,Broughton Road Frolesworth, Lutterworth LE17 5EH

Telephone: 01455 202639 www.sharnfordhorticultural.co.uk

ABREY AND SON LTD

Pamphillions Farm

Debden, Saffron Walden CB11 3JT +44 (0)1799 543208 www.abreyagricultural.com

C&M Tractors Ltd

Station Approach

OAKHAM, Rutland LE15 6QT 01572 722355

rutlandfarmandgardenequipment.co.uk

Mowing head-on with ease

STIGA Park Front Mowers

The ultimate combination of raw power, versatility and precision.

Easy to manoeuvre, delivering best-in-class cutting performance, STIGA Park can handle large multi-level grass areas with ease. The position of the deck ensures control and visibility around every corner

LANDMARK START TO 2025 AS JCB'S HYDROGEN ENGINE APPROVED FOR USE

JCB has cleared significant hurdles in its development of the world's first hydrogen combustion engine after securing landmark rulings from licensing authorities allowing it to be used commercially in machines, the company announced today.

JCB is the first construction equipment company to develop a fully working combustion engine fuelled by hydrogen and a team of 150 engineers has been working on the exciting £100 million development for over three years.

Today JCB confirmed that 11 licensing authorities across Europe have now given permission for JCB's hydrogen engine to be sold across Europe –with authorities in other countries set to follow suit with certification in 2025.

JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who has led the company's hydrogen engine project, said: "This is a very significant moment for JCB. To start the New Year with certification in place in so many European countries bodes very well for the future of hydrogen combustion technology. JCB has proved in recent years that it is a proper zero emissions solution for construction and agricultural

equipment.

"This formal type approval/certification paves the way for the sale and use of hydrogen engines right across the UK and Europe. I couldn't have hoped for a better start to the year. Most of all, I am delighted for our team of British engineers who have worked tirelessly to reach this stage."

JCB confirmed that the Netherlands' Vehicle Authority RDW was the first licensing authority to issue official certification, giving permission for the engine to sold in The Netherlands. Other licensing bodies across Europe have followed RDW's lead by issuing the necessary certification, including Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Finland, Switzerland and Lichtenstein. Licensing authorities in other countries are set to follow with certification during 2025.

JCB has already produced more than 130 evaluation engines which are powering backhoe loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers and generator sets.Real-world testing of JCB's hydrogen equipment on customers' sites is now at an advanced stage and progressing well.

O Deutz-Fahr 6 Series RC Shift: the alternative option

pened just seven years ago, making it one of the world’s most modern tractor production plants, the Deutz-Fahr Land factory in Lauingen, Germany, builds models from 129hp to 336hp. The majority, though, are from the six models of the 161230hp 6 Series, in the prime UK average power sector that suits the needs of mid-large arable and livestock farms and contractors. And with a choice of transmissions including the innovative RCshift, as well as powershift and TTV continuously variable options, the 6 Series can be specified to precisely suit individual demands, budgets and workload requirements.

Powershift models come with five ranges and six powershift steps in each, while those specified with TTV offer stepless travel. The robotised RCshift transmission, though, is Deutz-Fahr’s innovative development that offers a hybrid of the two. With five robotised ranges and six powershift steps, it provides the full productivity, efficiency and

functionality of the Powershift transmission with the enhanced comfort of the TTV at a lower price point. By simply tapping the armrest-mounted MaxCom lever forwards or rearwards, the operator can make smooth range shifts throughout an RCshift tractor’s full speed range. An auto setting allows fully automated shifting through the Powershift steps and the transmission ranges, while with the Stop&Go function tractor motion can be stopped and started using only the footbrakes, ideal for loader work or precise manoeuvring. A powershuttle offers five levels of responsiveness to match applications.

RCshift can be operated in any of three driving modes. In Manual, the operator manually changes Powershift stages and ranges by tapping the armrest-mounted MaxCom lever forwards or rearwards. A Semi-Auto mode uses the Automatic Powershift (APS) function, to maximise field productivity. The Auto function is ideal for roadwork, combining automatic shifting of Powershift stages and ranges to select the ideal ratio that suits the engine load at the prevailing conditions, for maximum fuel economy and comfort.

Oneofourmostpopulartractorshasjustgotevenbetterthankstoahostofnew functionsdevelopedbyourengineersinconsultationwithARIONdrivers. Afterall,theyworkinthefieldeveryday,sotheyknowexactlywhattheywant. https://www.claas.co.uk

TheARION600and500range-thenewmid-rangestandard Assistingyou,whereveritisneeded.

Including the tractor’s creeper gears, RCshift provides 54 forward speeds and 27 reverse, with a high number of ratios in the typical 414 km/h field working range. With RCshift, a 6 Series tractor can attain 50 km/h at just 1,530 rpm, or 40 km/h at 1,158 rpm, depending on tyres and model. The result is considerable savings in fuel consumption and lower noise levels.

There’s much more to the 6 Series than the transmissions they offer, though. Six-cylinder Stage V Deutz engines power every model, all with 6.0-litre displacement and 1,000hr/ two-year oil change intervals. Hydraulic services are provided by a load-sensing system with up to 210 l/min oil flow supplying up to five rear remote valves. And there is currently a special edition Power 6 model available with cosmetic upgrades, a three year warranty and five years’ 0% finance. Add in the fact that Deutz-Fahr tractors are sold and supported through family dealerships focused on supporting family farms, and there are many reasons why it may pay to take a look beyond the dominant tractor brands to Deutz-Fahr and the 161230hp 6 Series.

+

*Finance for business purposes only. Subject to acceptance and affordability checks. Applicant must be 18+. UK only. Finance example is based on a Deutz-Fahr 6160 RC Shift with fixed specification. Promotion valid until 10.02.25. Available on new equipment in UK dealer stock only. Payment profile of 1+59 monthly payments @ 0%. Based on maximum balance to finance of 40% of RRP. The finance product offered under this promotion is Hire Purchase. 1st payment, full VAT and a doc fee of £100 are all due on signing. An option-to-purchase fee of £100 (+ VAT) will be collected with the final payment. You will own the equipment when all payments have been made. Alternative finance options are available. T&Cs apply. Annual admin fee of £40 (+VAT). Images are for illustrative purposes only. Finance provided by BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions Limited, Midpoint, Alençon Link, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 7PP. Registered in England No. 901225. As funder we may pay a commission, fee or other remuneration to credit brokers who introduce business to us, please contact them if you require more information. REF454 SDF Power 6 Finance Campaign.

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Will joins KUHN to support the dealer network across the East of England.

DEUTZ-FAHR is a brand of

A Celebrity farmer Gareth Wyn Jones gives thumbs up to new “big beast” trailer that’s an international hit

trailer firm’s new “big beast” is proving to be an international hit.

Orders are flooding in from Ifor Williams Trailers’ worldwide distributor network for the livestock trailer which at 16 feet long is the biggest in the popular range.

The new triaxle trailer includes several innovative upgrades, including LED lights as standard, footplates on the front of the trailer, an integrated sump tank for slurry making it easier to empty and a new spring loaded release mechanism for the second deck.

Among those who’ve been road testing it is celebrity farmer Gareth Wyn Jones, who farms near Llanfairfechan in the foothills of the Carneddau Range.

Gareth, a regular face on television who has three million subscribers on his YouTube channel, says he’s a big fan of the iconic company’s trailers He was taken on a tour of the company’s five sites in Denbighshire and Flintshire by production manager Jak Tyrer and saw the new model rolling off the production line.

According to Gareth, a partner in the family business which farms 2,000 acres, the visit was an

“incredible eye-opener”.

He said: “This company has blown my mind. It’s still family owned, it’s still growing but hasn’t lost touch with its roots.

“What they create here is very special, something that we all need to support into the future because it’s an integral part of keeping the language, keeping the economy and keeping people in work.

“What I’ve seen is the amount of people they’ve employed locally, the amount of people who work there, who’ve been there for 50, 40, 30, 20 years and are still there and still smiling.

“They’ve also invested a huge amount of money in the very best equipment and their attention to detail is mind blowing.

“We’ve always used Ifor Williams. We’ve never had another trailer for livestock and they’ve been integral to keeping us farming.

“They don’t take their foot off the accelerator. They look and they ask and they want the input from the farmer or the contractor. They’re looking for new ideas and they build the trailer for the customer and I think that’s very important.

“I love the new 16ft livestock trailer. It tows even better – and that’s saying something.

“I’m seriously over the moon with the trailer and my father, who’s 88, always says when he returns from the sale that this is a good trailer.

“That’s a massive compliment because he’s the hardest man in the world to please.

“I’ve gone for a 16 foot flat-bed too and that’s been a godsend because we have land on Anglesey and we used to go with a tractor and trailer and put hay in the trailer.

“It was a bit of a faff but with this new one, we can put two or four bales of hay to go to Anglesey where we have a tractor, so it saves us a lot of time and like I say, time is money.

“What they’ve done is a credit to North Wales and to the whole of Wales and also to the UK.”

As well as livestock trailers, the firm makes horseboxes and a wide range of other trailers for every conceivable use.

Its product ranges include everything from flatbeds and tippers to car transporters and box vans, from catering units to mobile business trailers and medical clinics.

They are sold through a network of more than 100 distributors across the UK, most of Europe and as far afield as Australia and New Zealand.

Jak Tyrer said: “We were delighted to welcome Gareth today because it was a great opportunity to showcase what we do, how much we have invested in the most modern equipment and the pride our workforce takes in ensuring we produce trailers of the highest quality.

“The launch of the new 16ft livestock trailer has been even better than we could have hoped for.

“The response from across the globe has been universally positive and that’s been translated into orders from distributors from near and far – and as far afield as Australia and New Zealand.

“We were responding to the needs of the market. Thanks to feedback from our customers and our brilliant distributor network, we have incorporated a number of design innovations that will make life easier for the people using the trailers to transport their livestock.

“There’s a new sump tank that’s easier and quicker to clean out, there’s an easy load release on the rear ramps, footplates on the front of the trailer and a new lighting system.

“The other advantage is that it is priced very competitively which is something that’s clearly appreciated by our canny customers and it’s given even more oomph to our distributor network.”

Caterpillar Kicks Off its Next 100 Years of Innovation and Industry Leadership

aterpillar Inc. marked its 100thanniversary with celebrations throughout the U.S. that commemorate a monumental moment in the company’s history. The iconic manufacturing company officially turns 100 on April 15, marking a century of customer-centric innovation and industry-leading transformation.

The Holt Manufacturing Company and the C.L. Best Tractor Co. merged to form what was then known as the Caterpillar Tractor Co. in 1925. From the company’s first track-type tractor designed to pull combine harvesters in Northern California to autonomous construction and mining equipment and engines that power the world today, Caterpillar products and services have helped its customers complete infrastructure projects that have shaped the modern world.

Chairman and CEO Jim Umpleby. “I am proud to lead such a strong team, and I’m confident Caterpillar will continue to help our customers build a better, more sustainable world over the next 100 years.”

Celebrations took place in Sanford, North Carolina and Peoria, Illinois. At the company’s global headquarters in Irving, Texas, the families of company founders C.L. Best and Benjamin Holt will gather with company leaders and employees to celebrate the first 100 years of innovation as Caterpillar begins its journey into the next century.

Today, the Centennial World Tour embarked on its journey to visit Caterpillar facilities around the world and provide an interactive and immersive experience for employees and visitors. The company is also commemorating the milestone with limited-edition “Centennial Grey” painted machines available for purchase in 2025.

“Our success over the last 100 years is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees, the continued trust of our customers and the support of our dealers and business partners,” said Caterpillar

Caterpillar invites its global employees, customers and stakeholders to join in its 100thanniversary celebrations all year long. To learn more about Caterpillar’s 100thanniversary, visitcaterpillar.com/100

J John Deere Reveals New Autonomous Machines and Technology at CES 2025

ohn Deere today revealed several new autonomous machines during a press conference at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, U.S.A, to support customers in agriculture, construction, and commercial landscaping. Building on John Deere autonomoustechnology first revealed at CES 2022, the company'ssecond-generation autonomy kit combines advanced computer vision, AI, and cameras to help the machines navigate their environments.

While each of these industries experiences their own set of challenges, a commonalityacross all is skilled labor availability. "Our agriculture, construction, and commerciallandscaping customers all have work that must get done at certain times of the day andyear, yet there is not enough available and skilled labor to do the work," said Jahmy Hindman, Chief Technology Officer at John Deere. "Autonomy can help address this challenge. That's why we're extending our technology stack to enable more machinesto operate safely and autonomously in unique and complex environments. This will not only benefit our customers, but all of us who rely on them to provide the food, fuel, fiber,infrastructure, and landscaping care that we depend on every day."

Autonomy expanding to more machines

• Autonomous 9RX tractor for large-scale agriculture: Tillage is one of the busiest times of the year for farmers. With the secondgeneration autonomy kit, featuring 16 individual cameras arranged in pods to enable a 360degree view of the field, farmers can step away from the machine and focus their time on other important jobs. The advanced autonomy kit also calculates depth more accurately at larger distances, allowing the tractor to pull more equipment and drive faster.

• Autonomous 5ML orchard tractor for air blast spraying: Protecting crops through air blast spraying is a challenging and repetitive job. The tractor features the latest autonomy kit with added Lidar sensors to address the dense canopies found in orchards.

• Battery electric tractor: For those seeking a sustainable solution for their farming operations, John Deere presents the E-Power prototype, an autonomy-ready, zero tailpipe emissions tractor. It is intended for those in specialty crop and dairy and livestock sectors. The tractor will deliver a continuous 130horsepower output, providing instant power and torque to meet demanding tasks.

• Autonomous battery electric mower for commercial landscaping: Commercial landscaping is a highly competitive industry and having the staff to support different bids is essential. The autonomous commercial mower leverages the same camera technology as other Deere autonomous machines, but on a reduced scale since the machine has a smaller footprint. With two cameras on the front, left, right, and rear, 360-degree coverage is achieved, and staff can focus on other aspects of the job.

• 460 P-Tier Autonomous Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) for quarry operations: Quarries supply the essential raw materials vital for building roads, buildings, andinfrastructure, and it's a complex process to mine, process, and transport materials.Using the secondgeneration kit, the ADT will handle the repetitive tasks of transporting material around the quarry to facilitate different steps in the cycle.

The John Deere autonomy kit will be available preinstalled on new machines and as retrofit kits for certain existing machines, providing customers with multiple paths to adoption based on where they are in their technology journey.

Autonomous machines are managed via John Deere Operations Center Mobile, thecompany's cloud-based platform. By swiping left to right to start, the machine can be started once placed in the appropriate spot. Through the app, users also have access to live video, images, data and metrics, and the ability to adjust various factors like speed. In the event of any job quality anomalies or machine health issues, users will be notified remotely so they can make necessary adjustments.

BRM Ltd.

Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd, East Cowton, Northallerton, DL7 0DX

Phone : 01325 378552

www.brianrobinson.co.uk

Cooks Midlands Ltd.

Unit 10 Horsepool Grange Elliotts Lane, Markfield

LE67 9TW

Phone : 01530 249191 www.cooksmidlands.co.uk

Stubbings Bros Ltd.

Ventnor PO38 2JN

Phone : 01983 551443

www.stubbings-bros.co.uk

Ramsay & Jackson Ltd

Knowehead Works, Mauchline

KA5 6EY

Phone : 01290 550329 www.ramjack.co.uk

Lister Wilder

Ashford 01233 619 290

Reading 01189 884 888

Bibury 01285 708 234

Bristol 01454 807 850 www.listerwilder.co.uk

RVW Pugh, Mellington, Churchstoke, Montgomery Powys. SY15 6TQ

Phone : 01588 620545 www.rvwpugh.co.uk

D.A. Forgie

Lisburn, BT27 5QB

Phone : 02892677736 www.forige.com

RVW Pugh, Oakwood Park, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire CW4 8AX

Phone : 01477 533560 www.rvwpugh.co.uk

CJ Leonard & Sons Ltd

Clevestone Works, Guisborough

TS14 6PX

Phone : 01287 633842

www.cjleonard.co.uk

D.A. Forgie

Co Londonderry, BT49 9DW

Phone : 02877722375 www.forgie.com

TR Machinery, Burnside Business Park, Market Drayton, Shropshire

TF9 3UX

Phone : 01630 653801

www.trmachinery.co.uk

Or scan below:

S SymAgri Appointed as an Authorised PTx Trimble Service Centre for the UK

ymAgri, powered by the Thurlow Nunn Group, is proud to announce its appointment as an authorised and approved Service Centre for PTx Trimble agricultural products across the UK. This milestone recognises SymAgri’s outstanding reputation for delivering exceptional support to farmers, farm machinery dealers and OEMs in East Anglia and beyond.

Since its formation in 2021, SymAgri has established itself as a trusted partner in guidance and precision agriculture solutions, offering PTx Trimble expertise for all seasons, all crops, all terrains and all vehicles. As a certified PTx Trimble Service Centre, SymAgri will provide specialised repair and maintenance services for PTx Trimble equipment, including preventive maintenance, adjustments, full calibration and cleaning. These services cover both warranty and out-of-warranty repairs, ensuring comprehensive support for PTx Trimble users nationwide.

To meet the demands of this new role, SymAgri has invested significantly in advanced diagnostic tools and rigorous training for its Engineers, solidifying its position as a leader in precision agricultural technology support.

Edward Miller, Technologies Manager at SymAgri, commented: "We are thrilled to become an authorised PTx Trimble Service Centre for the UK. This achievement reflects the dedication of our team to providing unparalleled service and support to our customers. Farmers and agricultural professionals can now rely on SymAgri for expert care and maintenance of their PTx Trimble equipment, helping them maximise productivity and efficiency."

For more information or to arrange PTx Trimble service or repairs, contact SymAgri by visiting www. symagri.co.uk

FOCUS ON YOUR STOCK

All orders received before 31/12/2024 will receive a FREE NUDGE

The TF350 Trailed Stock Feeder features fully galvanised allsteel construction & electronic operation with high visibility digital counter ensure the right amount of feed is dispensed, exactly where you want it with a large 300kg capacity.

Contact Your Dealer

Cornish Tractors

Timberlake, Week St Mary Devon. EX22 6XG

Phone: 01288 341326

www.cornishtractors.co.uk

The Tractor Shop

Bolingbroke Road, Louth Lincolnshire, LN11 0WA

Phone: 01507 600051

www.thetractorshop.org.uk

Yorkshire ATV

Unit 22 West Lane, Baildon Shipley, BD17 7QD

Phone: 07701 070 156

www.yorkshireatv.com

Trailed Feeder

Clwyd Agricultural

Terfyn Buildings, Caerwys Road, Rhyl, LL18 6HT

Phone: 01745 571018

www.clwydagri.co.uk

Halls of Bromyard

Tenbury Road, Bromyard HR7 4LL

Phone: 01885 489199

www.hallsofbromyard.com

J Bourne Tractors

Valley Farm, Thorncliffe Rd, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 8TG

Phone: 07915 242942

www.jbournetractors.co.uk

CJ Keitch

Dunkeswell Airfield, Honiton, EX14 4LH

Phone: 01404 891796

www.cjkeitch.co.uk

Mike Pryce & Son

Greenfields Farm, Four Crosses, Llanymynech, Powys, SY22 6RF

Phone: 01691 830308

www.mikeprycemachinery.com

West Coast Trailers

Lingfield Building, Hallywood Rd, Workington, CA14 4JR

Phone: 07725 653398

www.westcoasttrailers.co.uk

New Holland wins GOOD DESIGN award for advanced electric compact wheel loader

The W40X Electric Power, New Holland’s new compact wheel loader, has won a GOOD DESIGN®award, one of the world’s most significant design prizes, acknowledging the role played by styling in complementing the practical aspects of machine engineering.

Aimed at users operating in indoor or urban areas, the W40X Electric Power, which is just 1,650mm wide, produces zero emissions and low noise levels from an all-electric drive system powered by a23kWh battery that is supported by a three-year warranty. This provides 39kW rated power, with a 3-6 hour work time depending on application.

To match its advanced propulsion technology, the W40X Electric Power wasstyled in a special edition created exclusively for Agritechnica 2023 by CNH’s Industrial design team. Colored in the ‘Clean Blue’ that characterizes all New Holland electric products, the styling incorporates theiconic New Holland leaf symbol on the rear hood. Imitating the loader bucket shape, an interlocking geometric triangular motif is carried through the length of the machine from the engine hood at the rear to the see-through

driver’s door glass and on to the loader boom, unifying the machine’s design language.

Total operating weight is 3.9t and bucket payload 1.0t with a standard 0.5m3bucket size. Aninnovative attachment linkage has been designed specifically for battery electric vehicles, offering the same strength and durability as a standard design, but with reduced weight and a 5% advantage in required working energy. Automated functions, including return-to-dig, return-to-travel and return-to-height, ease boom and bucket control for the operator.Electro-proportional controls can be independently customized to suit job type and preference, and load-sensing hydraulics permit precise simultaneous movement for full safety and efficiency.

“ThisGOOD DESIGN awardis a great recognition of our design team’s role in producing theW40X Electric Power styling that matches the innovation within the machine,” says David Wilkie, CNH Head of Industrial Design.

“This is a machine that required a striking style to show it offers something different within, and we’re delighted this was recognised by the GOOD DESIGN judges.”

Taylors Tools (KL) Limited

Smithfield Tractors Builth Wells Ltd

The Tractor Shop Ramsay & Jackson Ltd

2025 MULE Pro-FX unveiled

Unleashing Power and Adventure: CFMOTO’s 2025

ATV and UTV Lineup Takes Centre Stage at LAMMA 25

We eagerly anticipate CFMOTO’s Lineup at LAMMA 2025 to discover the exciting new range of agricultural ATVs and UTVs that are taking the market by storm. Their quads and side-by-side machines offer top spec reliability at the best price on the market. Find them in Hall 6, stand 6.930.

Taking centre stage at the show is their latest UTV release - the U10 Pro. It features an allnew triple cylinder engine, fitted audio system and electronically operated hydraulic tipping bed. The smooth, quiet power of the 88 hp, 998cc three-cylinder engine combined with “push button” gear shifting lets you switch smoothly and efficiently.

The plush leather 3-person bench seat takes comfort to the next level, the electronic/ hydraulic tilting cargo box makes hauling and unloading effortless and the NFC key (push-button start), tilt steering, and a crystal-clear 8” CFMOTO RideSync™ touch screen make long days not only more productive, but also way more enjoyable.

The UFORCE 1000 features the powerful VTwin liquid-cooled engine and comes fully loaded as standard, boasting a 3-person bench seat, large capacity tipping cargo bed a brand-new Drive by Wire Electronic throttle for a smooth ride.

For 2025, CFMOTO have launched a factory cab kit featuring fully opening electric windows. These are factory recessed to fit and are a real game-changer. All UTVs include the option to include a certified windscreen glass, heaters and wipers from DFK cabs.

Now onto the latest in CFMOTO’s ATVs range. Last year CFMOTO launched the Generation 3 CFORCE 1000 Touring – the most technologically advanced machine featuring unrivalled new specs. This machine was proven to be very popular in 2024 and is paving the way for the future technology of CFMOTO’s agricultural models –the CFORCE 450, 520 and 625.

You won’t find technology like the U10 Pro boasts in any other machine in its price bracket. If you spend most of the day in your UTV, then this is the machine for you. With the launch of the U10 Pro early 2025, we’ll see another launch later in the year as we are set to expect the release of the U10 Pro XL to upgrade the current UFORCE 1000 XL.

Regarding the rest of the UTV range, CFMOTO will launch the 2025 colourways for the UFORCE 600, UFORCE 1000. Both models feature progressive EPS for lightweight handling, 4×4 capability and a gas-assisted cargo box.

CFMOTO have taken the global market by storm and are now Europe’s best-selling ATV brand. This is since farmers and landowners are realising that there’s no need to spend such vast sums on a product from the big brands when there is a tried and tested, often higher spec’d and very reliable product available for less.

The factory invests heavily in research and development to stay ahead of the competition and to continue to grow. They are constantly exploring new technologies and materials to improve the performance and reliability of their machines.

DAVMO QUADFACTORS LTD announces its appointment as LONCIN distributor

DAVMO QUADFACTORS LTD has announced its appointment as the distributor for LONCIN Off-Road Vehicles in the UK and Ireland.

LONCIN, established more than 30 years ago and headquartered in Chongqing, China, is a multi-national brand that sells in more than 100 countries.

In 2005. After decades of focusing on the Making of engines Loncin Partnered with Bmw to launch the 650cc engine , they now produce a full Range

of agri and on-Road Atv s And UTVs , all with Bosch Fuel Injection Systems

''We Are Extremely Excited to Launch the 2025 Range In Ireland & Uk , The Product is Of A Very High Standard , 24 month warranty And is very Competively Priced '' Explained Derek Weldon M.D Davmo Ltd. DEALERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Neaton

BKT's new tire for extreme winter challenges

The Indian multinational company's new product is designed to cope with transportation and municipal maintenance operations even in the harshest weather conditions, with no compromise in safety, comfort, and reliability

Agriculture never stops even when the weather turns severe. To face the harshest winter challenges, BKT, the leading Off-Highway tire manufacturer, comes up with RIDEMAX FROST. The latest novelty, providing optimum performance even during the toughest winter operations, has been specifically designed for transportation and urban maintenance applications on snow and ice.

"Winter brings a set of unique challenges that put both equipment and their drivers to the test.

RIDEMAX FROST is designed to overcome these obstacles, offering traction, control, and reliability even in the most extreme situations. No matter how harsh the weather, BKT is always by the operators' side to support their operations," states Dilip Vaidya, Sr. President & Director Technology at BKT.

RIDEMAX FROST is distinguished by its advanced tread design, which has been specifically conceived to provide superior traction on snowy and icy

surfaces. Multiple sipes on the tread blocks create additional contact points with the surface, ensuring consistent and safe grip, as well as significantly reducing the risk of skidding.

Another distinguishing feature is the tread's ability to entrap snow in the grooves. Trapped snow in the lugs further improves traction, providing a firmer grip.

In addition, RIDEMAX FROST is made with an advanced elastic compound that maintains its elasticity even at extremely low temperatures. Unlike standard compounds, which tend to stiffen and lose elasticity, RIDEMAX FROST preserves its elastic properties even below the freezing point. This feature enables the tire to better adapt to uneven terrain, providing optimum traction and reducing the risk of punctures or damage.

The compound consists of natural rubber enriched with polybutadiene and silica, polymers chosen for their strength and ability to maintain elasticity in severe cold conditions. Silica reinforcements increase the hardness of the rubber, improving resistance to cuts and tears on rough or icy terrain. Moreover, antioxidant and anti-zoning additives protect

the rubber from degradation caused by low temperatures, UV rays and ozone - thus extending the overall tire lifespan.

In addition to technical performance, RIDEMAX FROST’s unique design also improves operators’ riding experience. Its special design, indeed, reduces vibration and driver fatigue, ensuring hence driving comfort even during long working hours. This results in safer, smoother and more productive operations – vital for meeting the various challenges of the winter season without many worries.

Yet, this new product marks one more step by BKT towards continuous innovation. By combining advanced technologies and highquality materials, this tire is the answer to modern market needs, where extreme climatic conditions require specialized and reliable solutions.

With RIDEMAX FROST, BKT offers an ultimate solution to face the winter with peace of mind, ensuring safety, efficiency and durability in transport, municipal maintenance and agricultural operations.

THE AUDI Q6 E-TRON: QUIET, LOW-RESISTANCE

Tyres for electric and hybrid vehicles have to satisfy special requirements: they should offer low rolling resistance, guarantee optimum traction on all surfaces and be able handle heavy loads at the same time. The Falken tyres meet these requirements. Since May 2023 and November 2023, Falken Tyre Europe has been supplying its e. ZIEX AO model in the 235/65R18 H XL and 255/60R18 H XL sizes to the Audi plant in Ingolstadt, where the successful AUDI Q6 e-tron is currently leaving the production lines.

The e. ZIEX made its premiere in spring 2023, and is one of the most energy efficient tyres that the Sumitomo Rubber Group has ever developed and manufactured.

Its asymmetric tread, which was developed with Advanced 4D Nano Design technology, is characterised by the optimised edge sections. These prevent pressure peaks from occurring on the edges of the tread blocks, resulting in a uniform force distribution: for a superior grip on both wet and dry road surfaces and

LOW-RESISTANCE DRIVING WITH FALKEN TYRES

a longer tyre lifespan. The tread design is also optimised on the contour of the tyre shoulder, which reduces the rolling resistance and increases the vehicle’s range.

The low rolling resistance was also confirmed by AutoBild magazine in its 2024 summer tyre test: of the eight tyres that were tested, the Falken e. ZIEX impressed with the lowest rolling resistance and also set standards in terms of fuel consumption, measured in kWh per 100 kilometres.

“We are very proud to contribute to the quality and innovation for which Audi is

known worldwide with our tyres. We are very happy that our products fulfil the high aspirations of these vehicles in terms of innovative and safe solutions”, said Christian Stolting, OE Sales Director at Falken Tyre Europe, discussing the contract with enthusiasm.

The quality of the Falken tyre has also convinced Audi, whose tyres carry the additional A designation in their name, which signifies an OE product for Audi with Falken. For the retrofitting market, the tyre is available in 29 sizes from 15 – 21 inches in the 40 – 65 series and is approved for speed classes of H/V/W (210 – 240 km/h).

Isuzu UK is proud to announce that Isuzu D-Max has been awarded the prestigiousSustainability Awardin the4x4 of the Year Awards by Overlander 4x4 magazine. The award highlights D-Max's outstanding combination of durability, low emissions, and exceptional performance on and off-road, cementing its reputation as a reliable and sustainable choice for both work and adventure.

Isuzu D-Max’s strengthened ladder chassis, extensive underbody protection, and proven reliability have made it one of the longest-lasting vehicles on the market. Its turbo diesel engine delivers impressive fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Combined with Isuzu's unrivalled dealer network across the UK and Northern Ireland, this ensures customers receive exceptional aftersales support, contributing to the vehicle's longevity and environmental credentials.

Alan Kidd, Editor ofOverlander 4x4 magazine, praised D-Max for its comprehensive approach to sustainability: “The rationale for D-Max winning the Sustainability Award is that over time, it has proved to be among the longest-lived vehicles on the entire market – and longer life means a lower footprint. This is in part down to the vehicle itself and in part to the excellence of Isuzu's dealer network. Additionally, the use of a smaller engine

allows D-Max to produce lower emissions than the typical vehicle of its class and looking to the future Isuzu is readying an all-electric version. Also, by championing D-Max as a camping and expedition vehicle through its partnership with ARB, Isuzu is encouraging people not to jump on planes for their holidays!”

Isuzu D-Max continues to lead by example, offering unmatched versatility with its robust off-road capability, smooth on-road handling, and practical features that cater to a wide range of users, from tradespeople to outdoor adventurers.

George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK, expressed his delight with the award: "We’re thrilled to see the 4x4 Isuzu D-Max recognised for its long-standing sustainability credentials. With its tough build, efficient performance, reliability and forward-thinking appsroach, the D-Max has always been a very capable long-term partner for our customers. And with D-Max BEV on the horizon, we’re driving toward a greener future, proving that the Isuzu DMax is sustainably better for everyone.”

This award reflects Isuzu UK’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation, ensuring that Isuzu D-Max remains a benchmark for quality and capability in the 4x4 market.

The Dacia Duster has made history by being the first car to win twice in Overlander 4x4 magazine’s 4x4 of the Year Awards. This year, its off-roading talents, robust design and Dacia’s renowned value for money took the Duster to the top of the class in both the Best Small SUV and Best Budget SUV award categories.

Alan Kidd, Editor of Overlander 4x4 magazine, said the double win for the Duster’s was, “a landmark performance”, as no vehicle has ever won two of the main categories before. He added: “It was always likely that the new Duster would feature somewhere in our awards this year. The old model was a class winner, after all, and this one’s a quantum leap forward even from that.”

With 4x4 transmission available in Expression, Journey and Extreme trim levels, and prices from £23,550 on-the-road, it is easy to understand why the Duster won the Best Budget SUV award. Alan said: “The Budget SUV class is for vehicles which start at less than £30,000, and that lets in some pretty strong competition. But you’re at the top of the Duster range long before you hit that sort of money – and you’re getting a vehicle with genuine off-road credentials for that, as well as everything you need in a family wagon. It’s a no brainer.”

Like many other awards the Duster has received since its launch this year, Dacia’s great value and

no-nonsense practicality always shines through. Alan concluded: “As always, low price only equals high value if it’s a good vehicle in the first place. And the Duster certainly is – that’s why it’s going home with the Best Small SUV title too. You put it alongside its rivals and there are precious few telltales to suggest it’s the low-cost one. In fact, there are areas where you wonder why nobody else has thought of doing it that way. It’s unpretentious, allround capable and a cracking little 4x4 at any price.”

Luke Broad, Brand Director for Dacia UK commented: “I’ve experienced off-roading in the Duster and it’s a great experience, but it’s also nice to know that the professionals at Overlander 4x4 magazine also think it’s fantastic for its all-terrain skills. There are a lot of people who need all-wheel drive but don’t want or can’t justify the cost of a traditional large SUV, so Duster fits the bill perfectly. We’re especially proud that Duster has beaten so many other off roaders to win not one, but two titles!”

The off-roading skills of the Duster are enhanced not only by its robust design with generous approach angles but also some of the latest technology, including Hill Decent Control and 4x4 Terrain Control transmission that comes with five driving modes – Automatic, Snow, Mud/Sand and Eco.

BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new-energy vehicles, is delighted to introduce its most accessible SUV yet in Europe: the new ATTO 2. Blending compact dimensions and agile manoeuvrability, and featuring BYD’s iconic Blade Battery with state-of-the-art Cell-to-Body construction, cutting-edge smart technology in the cabin and generous levels of standard equipment, the ATTO 2 is the perfect urban EV for those who don’t want to compromise on a premium finish and ‘big-car’ features.

Introduced to the public at the Brussels Motor Show, Europe’s first major automotive exposition of 2025, the ATTO 2 is designed for customers who want the raised ride height of an SUV but in an affordable package that is tailored to urban streets and parking arrangements. It perfectly complements the larger ATTO 3 in BYD’s expanding European line-up.

BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li said, “We’re excited to start 2025 with another important model for our plans in Europe. The B-segment SUV class is incredibly popular here, and with the ATTO 2, we have an agile and versatile offering that will appeal to that large potential customer base. It takes all of BYD’s strengths in batteries, electric motors and Cell-to-Body construction and combines them in a compact package that brings new intelligent technologies to the urban SUV class.”

CHUNKY SUV DESIGN IN A COMPACT FOOTPRINT

The BYD ATTO 2 successfully mixes unmistakeable SUV design cues with compact dimensions. The ATTO 2 measures 4,310mm long, 1,830mm wide and 1,675mm tall – so it’s 145mm shorter and 45mm slimmer than the ATTO 3. It has a relatively long wheelbase of 2,620mm, designed to boost cabin space and ensure short front and rear overhangs, improving approach and departure angles to help reinforce the SUV image.

The front of the vehicle features neatly integrated full-LED headlights and slim daytime-running lights, which work with the bright trim of the front grille to give the ATTO 2 a strong visual presence. The front bumper has sharp angles for a dynamic look, along with bright highlights low down and efficiency-boosting vertical air curtains at the outer edges.

The sides of the ATTO 2 have lower cladding, broken up by highlights, to help accentuate the height of the car while maintaining a look of agility, and a ‘floating’ roofline that’s punctuated by a distinctive body-coloured element that meets glass at the C-pillar. The surfacing incorporates strong curves that, when combined with the dynamic alloy-wheel design, give the car a sense of energy.

At the rear, a distinctive roof spoiler sits above a full-width light bar that joins ‘Chinese knot’ tail-lights that look like the number 8 and a Mobius Infinity Ring, signifying endless good luck. A convex rear bumper and further bright highlights on the lower cladding complete a sporty look.

The ATTO 2 comes in Climbing Grey paint as standard, with three shades – Hiking Green, Skiing White and Cosmos Black – available as options.

CABIN BLENDS GEOMETRIC STYLE AND EASY-TO-USE SIMPLICITY

Inside the ATTO 2, the layout mixes sharp styling and premium materials with generous space and cleverly integrated technology. The front cabin design builds on the exterior treatment, with the fascia based on simple, clean lines.

The cabin features padded surfaces in all key areas, and integrated handles in the front and rear doors, as well as in the lower centre console –again, building on the car’s SUV image, and creating a sense of consistency.

The centre console contains a pair of cup-holders and an integrated arm rest, which opens up to reveal one of several storage areas. The drive selector itself has a sophisticated cut-diamond look, while the area surrounding it incorporates hard keys for some key functions, such as the windscreen demister, along with a volume knob for the sound system and a switch that flicks between the car’s driving modes.

The cabin ambiance is enhanced by a panoramic glass roof, which allows generous amounts of natural light for all occupants. Designed with EVs in mind, BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 has a completely flat floor, so the rear seats remain practical enough for family use.

Beyond the passenger compartment, the ATTO 2’s boot measures 400 litres – more than many conventionally powered C-segment family hatchbacks. And this capacity can be increased to 1,340 litres when the split folding rear seat is lowered.

BLADE BATTERY WITH CELL-TO-BODY CONSTRUCTION

The new ATTO 2 makes full use of BYD’s huge commitment to research and development, and harnesses the potential of the e-Platform 3.0 that sits at the heart of all of the company’s pureelectric vehicles. The car features a Blade Battery and, for the first time in a compact BYD model, it uses Cell-to-Body (CTB) construction. This process

integrates the battery completely into the vehicle chassis, with the top cover of the pack acting as the floor for the passenger compartment. The CTB installation, which is unique to BYD and a first in the compact SUV segment, delivers improved packaging and exceptional levels of body rigidity.

The Blade Battery itself is designed to deliver class-leading safety, durability and performance. The technology is also incredibly space efficient, with cells installed directly instead of being fitted in multiple modules. This allows more cells to be squeezed into the same area than with a conventional battery construction.

In addition, the Blade Battery uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) as a cathode material. LFP has higher levels of safety and durability compared with conventional lithium-ion batteries, while also being 100% free of cobalt and nickel.

LFP batteries are more resistant to extreme temperatures, less sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and can withstand more charge and discharge cycles with hardly any loss of capacity, making them particularly durable.

The Blade Battery construction also has an exceptional safety level, since it exceeds the requirements of the punishing Nail Penetration Test – a rigorous method of evaluating battery thermal runaway and simulating the consequences of a serious road accident.

130 KW MOTOR, PLUS A CHOICE OF BATTERY CAPACITIES

Highlighting BYD’s expertise in battery development and manufacturing, the ATTO 2 will be offered with a choice of two sizes of Blade Battery. At launch the standard range edition will have a rated capacity of 45.1 kWh, delivering a WLTP (combined) range of 312 kilometres. Its front-mounted motor produces 130 kW.

In the coming months, a larger-battery version of the ATTO 2 will arrive, offering even greater range at the top of the line-up. Full specifications on this model, along with details on the ATTO 2’s extensive standard-equipment lists and range structure, will be announced in the coming weeks, to coincide with the full European launch of the car in February.

THE DACIA SANDRIDERS ARE ALL SET FOR A DAKAR RALLY ADVENTURE

Last year, continuing its quest to redefine the essentials, Dacia, the brand with outdoor spirit, announced it would take part in the Dakar Rally and the World-Rally Raid Championship (W2RC) from 2025. The coming days mark the start of teams’ 2025 W2RC title bid and follow its impressive 1-2 finish at the Rallye du Maroc, a race which served primarily as a Dakar Rally dress rehearsal.

Tackling some of the world’s most demanding and ruthless terrains, Dacia’s contender, the Sandrider, is designed to win.

After months of testing, The Dacia Sandriders take on their next formidable challenge at the Dakar Rally, motorsport’s ultimate adventure. The opening round of the 2025 FIA World Rally-Raid Championship from 3 – 17 January is a brutal test of driver and machine.

Taking place over sand dunes and rocky passes from the west to the east of Saudi Arabia, the goal is not just speed but also navigation and endurance. Competitors must find their way using GPS while tackling tough obstacles and extreme conditions.

It’s a true test of adventure, skill and resilience in some of the world’s harshest environments.

After the Prologue stage on 3 January, the 2025 Dakar Rally consists of 5,145 timed kilometres across 12 days of intense competition.

Starting in Bisha, in the west of Saudi Arabia, the event ends in Shubaytah to the east, via a rest day in Hail and an overnight halt in the capital, Riyadh. Included in the itinerary is the 48h Chrono Stage which covers a punishing 971 competitive kilometres.

The Dacia Sandriders’ Team Principal, Tiphanie Isnard, is under no illusions in terms of the arduous challenge in store for the three-car squad.

She said: “We’re about to take on what we can only describe as an extraordinary human challenge, but it’s one we’re determined to tackle with courage and belief given how hard we have worked to prepare. While it’s an arduous event with little respite during almost three intense weeks, we’re excited for what’s in store and we can’t wait to get started.

“Of course, we go to the event as winners following our victory at the Rallye du Maroc, but that result will count for nothing if we underestimate the task we face or if we don’t stay focused throughout each stage.”

VALUABLE RALLYE DU MAROC LESSONS TO BE PUT INTO PRACTICE

Following the Rallye du Maroc, The Dacia Sandriders had less than one month to ready its BFGoodrich-equipped Ultimate category cars prior to their departure by sea to Saudi Arabia.

Technical Director Philip Dunabin

explained what changes have been made to the sustainable-fuelled Dacia Sandriders ahead of the 2025 Dakar Rally: “First and second places on Rallye du Maroc showed that the Dacia Sandrider has a good level of performance, but obviously with going from Morocco to the Dakar, the focus has been on the reliability to make sure we can do the two weeks without any problems. Since Morocco we’ve worked on improving potential reliability issues on the engine during a full day of running at Sweet Lamb in Wales.

“We also had another session which concentrated on optimising the cooling performance of the engine and other aspects of the car. This was done in a climatic wind tunnel at the MIRA facility in the UK. Through testing in Morocco and into the rally we had a certain number of issues with the electronics that controlled the fans for the engines. With the assistance of Alpine Racing, we’ve been able to do quite a deep dive into the electronics of the fans and we’ve put in place several measures together with the fan manufacturer to improve the reliability of those components.

I are like two little children, we feel that we have adapted very well to the Ultimate category and it has also brought out the best in us.

“We’ve also worked on items that have a limited life to make sure we have an adequate supply to get through the Dakar. We based this on an assessment of the performance of those components during Rallye du Maroc and throughout the testing, so we have a good understanding of the lifetime of each component to make sure we get to the end of the Dakar with a minimum number of problems. This will optimise our chances of getting the best result possible.”

DRIVER QUOTES

NASSER AL-ATTIYAH (QATAR)

“The target is victory, and I am very confident this can be possible. We showed in Morocco how strong our Dacia Sandrider was, but also how competitive we could be in tough conditions and how good our young team is. But with a tough route, particularly during the first week, we must be clever, avoid taking unnecessary risks and concentrate.

“Two of my five Dakar wins have come in Saudi Arabia so I have a good idea of what we can expect, but this is a rally where you must expect the unexpected each day for more than two weeks. It won’t be easy, but we will do everything we can to win.”

CRISTINA GUTIÉRREZ (SPAIN)

“My feelings before the Dakar are very strong. It has been an incredible year of learning, Pablo and

“I feel very happy to be part of The Dacia Sandriders because I feel like I am part of a complete family. The atmosphere among the entire team is incredible and I think that we are going with great enthusiasm to achieve a good result. We are aware that it is the first year we are all driving together, but we are also confident after the tests and Rallye du Maroc.”

SÉBASTIEN LOEB (FRANCE)

“I’m really excited to kick off the Dakar with The Dacia Sandriders. We’ve worked hard to prepare for this race and now the excitement is truly building. Our goal is always to win, but we know how many critical factors must align for that to happen. It will be a tough Dakar and maybe we will have to manage our position more than we push to be able to win it. We will assess how things evolve day by day, butI’m hopeful that our experience will be a key advantage. We’re ready to give it everything we’ve got, and I know the team will do the same.”

THE DACIA SANDRIDERS DAKAR RALLY 2025 LINE-UP

#200: Nasser Al-Attiyah (QAT) / Édouard Boulanger (FRA)

#212: Cristina Gutiérrez (ESP) / Pablo Moreno (ESP)

#219: Sébastien Loeb (FRA) / Fabian Lurquin (BEL)

DAKAR RALLY 2025: THE BIG NUMBER

7,726: The Dacia Sandriders will face a total distance of 7,726 kilometres when they contest the 2025 Dakar Rally, including 5,180 against the clock.

• KGM Motors UK announce £250 off when you test drive and buy a new KGM vehicle for Q1 2025.

• 0% APR* pay half now and half in 12 months available across the KGM range.

• Plus 7.9% APR Representative PCP & HP finance options.

KGM Motors UK, formerly SsangYong, is delighted to kick off 2025 with an exclusive Q1 offer for customers purchasing a new KGM vehicle and attractive rates on finance options across its awardwinning lineup. Offers run from 1 January until 31 March 2025 and are available across the KGM dealer network.

£250 Off When You Test Drive and Buy

Customers who book and complete a test drive via the official KGM website at a participating dealership will receive a £250 discount (including VAT) upon registering their new KGM vehicle. This promotion applies across the entire KGM lineup, offering customers the opportunity to experience the quality, comfort, and capability of KGM vehicles firsthand.

Combine this offer with KGM’s competitive

retail finance plans to make owning a new KGM vehicle easier and more rewarding than ever.

Book your test drive now at www.kgm-motors. co.uk/book-a-test-drive and start 2025 in style behind the wheel of a KGM.

0% APR – Pay Half Now, Half in 12 Months

Designed with customer flexibility in mind, 0% APR Advance Payment Plan finance option allows customers to pay 50% of the vehicle price upfront, with the remaining balance due after 12 months—offering a full year free from monthly payments.

For customers seeking alternative financing, KGM Financial Services also offers an attractive 7.9% APR Representative PCP or HP finance option.

Kia’s drive for success continues at the 4x4 of the Year Awards 2025, presented by Overlander 4x4 magazine, this year, taking home three titles overall: ‘Best Large SUV’ for the Sorento, ‘Best Electric SUV’ for the new EV6, and for the third year in a row, ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ for Kia.

This is the second time Kia has been named ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ in the past month*. With a wide variety of models to choose from, including several SUVs, Kia offers a strong line-up with one of the broadest powertrain options, including ICE, MHEV, HEV, PHEV and EV. Many of Kia’s fully electric cars are available with four-wheel drive, and so too is the brand’s bestselling SUV, the Sportage, and large SUV, the Sorento.

Taking home the 4x4 of the Year Awards’ ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ title for the third year in a row truly demonstrates how Kia continues to exceed in the everchanging motor industry with its strong product line-up, future vision and customer centric business approach. Currently ranking as the fourth most popular brand in the UK year-to-date, Kia UK has surpassed 100,000 new car sales for the third year in a row, with electrified models (EV, HEV and PHEV) accounting for 50% of sales.

‘Best Electric SUV’ is a new addition to the categories this year, making the new EV6 the inaugural winner of this important award.

The new EV6 features a larger battery pack over its predecessor, now with a capacity of 84.0kWh (up from 77.4kWh). In entry level ‘Air’ grade, the battery pack powers a single motor, producing 225bhp and 350Nm torque via the rear wheels delivering an impressive range of up to 361 miles** on a single charge. Featuring an improved battery charging curve over its predecessor, with cuttingedge 800V technology and a peak charging performance of 258kW (+8% compared to previous EV6 – 239kW), the new 84.0kWh battery can be recharged from 10-80% in 18 minutes and customers can gain up to 214 miles in just 15 minutes***.

Alan Kidd, Editor of Overlander 4x4 magazine, commented: “Nobody had ever won Manufacturer of the Year twice in a row, but now Kia’s got a hattrick. They’ve got an instinctive grasp of what an SUV should be and they put it into every model they make.

“The only thing they’ve not got in their range is a proper off-road machine. You wouldn’t actually put it past them, with the growth of so-called Rugged Utility Vehicles – and you just know that if they did do it, they’d do it well.”

The 4x4 of the Year Awards winners include vehicles that have been tested over the past 12 months and are then carefully judged by the Overlander 4x4 team to determine which is the worthy winner of each category. The category,

Kidd said: “There’s an old saying: ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ The EV6 was definitely not broke but Kia fixed it anyway and rather than messing it up, they’ve made a good vehicle great.

“It looks good, the cabin feels really special and the practicalities of having an EV have never been less hassle. Most of all, it’s beautifully driveable. Even the most hate-filled EV sceptic would struggle not to be won over.”

The Kia Sorento, winner of ‘Best Large SUV’, celebrates its 21st birthday this year. The fourthgeneration car first went on sale in August 2020 and now benefits from a refreshed exterior and interior, and an expanded specification line-up. The Kia Sorento is a consistently popular model for Kia in the UK, and abroad, and has helped transform perceptions of the brand in recent years.

Kidd added: “When we put people in the Sorento without them knowing what it is, they think it’s from a premium brand. Every time. It looks and feels so solid and sorted, and that’s how it drives as well.

“The Sorento has always been very good at being big. This one’s the best yet. Its new styling gives it real presence, and if you can’t fit all your family in it you need to start putting bromide in your tea.”

MG Motor UK rounds off the year with another award win as the new MG HS Petrol is crowned Best Family SUV at the cinch Car of The Year Awards 2024. Adding to the success, the new MG HS Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) was named runner-up in the Best Hybrid category, highlighting the range’s outstanding value and versatility.

The new MG HS Petrol, launched this summer, was recognised for its combination of practicality and affordability. Starting from just £24,995, the judges commended its refined design, spacious interior, and remarkable value. Sam Sheehan, Motoring Editor for cinch, noted: “Put simply, it represents arguably the best value for money of any car from any segment. At £25,000 from new, it offers proper SUV practicality, but for crossover money. It drives nicely too.”

The MG HS PHEV, starting from £31,495, was also praised as one of the best plug-in hybrid models on the market. Combining a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, it offers impressive acceleration (0-62mph in 6.8 seconds) and an electric-only range of up to 75 miles for efficient, low emission driving.

Both petrol and PHEV models offer enhanced connectivity, a premium cabin, and MG Pilot – an advanced suite of driver assistance features –alongside a spacious 507-litre boot and ample cabin storage, making it the ideal family car for everyday use.

The MG HS range has been a standout in the market, with total sales of 28,595 units for the brand’s flagship SUV in the past year, helping the model secure 7th place in the overall UK Total Industry Volume (TIV) rankings.

David Allison, Head of Product and Planning at MG Motor UK, commented: "The MG HS has evolved significantly to meet the ever-changing needs of modern families and drivers. We’re proud to provide cars that deliver on all fronts — from design and performance to comfort and safety — while remaining highly affordable. The strong demand for the new MG HS, reflected in its sales figures, speaks volumes about the appeal and trust that our customers have in the MG brand. This recognition from cinch is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team to provide cars that truly enhance the driving experience."

For more details about MG or to find your nearest dealer, visitwww.mg.co.uk

KGM Motors UK, formerly SsangYong, is delighted to announce that the KGM Torres range has won the ‘Best Value’ category in Overlander 4x4’s 4x4 of the Year 2024 special. The issue celebrates the finest 4x4 and all-wheel drive vehicles available on the market today.

The judges at Overlander 4x4 praised the Torres for its bold design, impressive performance, and extensive suite of comfort, safety, and convenience features. They also commended its spacious interior, cutting-edge technology, and outstanding value, making it a clear winner in this category.

Alan Kidd, Editor of Diesel & Eco Car, said: “The KGM Rexton has been winning the ‘Best Value’ award since dinosaurs roamed the Earth. But another vehicle was bound to get a look in eventually – and surprise surprise, it’s another KGM.

“The Torres feels really modern when you climb on board, really cool and exciting. And there’s some great practicality in there. It feels properly premium – and it drives really smoothly too.

“We do prefer it in its EV guise, but the petrol model is very refined too – and it costs not far off ten grand less, as well as being available with all-wheel drive. Either way, KGM has done it again – this is an unbelievable amount of SUV for your money.”

Kevin Griffin, Managing Director of KGM Motors UK, said; “We are thrilled that Torres has been recognised for its value by Overlander 4x4. We introduced the Torres K40 AWD variant to the UK market in July to build on the success of the Torres and Torres EVX earlier in 2024. This award is a testament to our legacy of off-road and allwheel drive excellence. It marks another significant step in our commitment to delivering innovative and valuable products to our customers.”

Designed to conquer any terrain, the Torres AWD offers exceptional off-road capability and allows drivers to tow trailers, boats, or caravans with confidence. The vehicle’s advanced active all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal distribution of power between the front and rear wheels, enhancing stability and traction in diverse driving conditions with 2WD, AWD, and AWD lock driving modes.

Built on KGM’s versatile new platform, the Torres offers a refined yet rugged experience for drivers who seek versatility and adventure. Its striking exterior embodies KGM’s “Powered by Toughness” design philosophy, while the interior delivers contemporary elegance with premium leather upholstery, metal accents, and ambient mood lighting.

The C+ segment SUV offers a choice between a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine or a 152.2 kW BYD electric power motor. It has a towing capacity of up to 1.5 tonnes for a braked trailer, making it capable of

handling even the most demanding tasks.

The Torres’ ergonomic cabin features a sleek, wide dashboard for clear road visibility, complemented by twin 12.3” digital displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Connectivity is seamless, with Apple CarPlay, Google Android Auto, Bluetooth, DAB radio, and multiple USB and AUX ports included as standard.

Practicality is another hallmark of the Torres. With an expansive luggage capacity ranging from 703 to 1,662 litres and a width of 1,890mm, it comfortably accommodates passengers and cargo, setting a new standard in the mid-size SUV segment.

To find out more about the KGM Torres range and discover our latest offers, visit: www.kgm-motors.co.uk

TRUCKING GREAT VALUE

The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER has picked up yet another best-in-class award for its uniquely innovative electrified powertrain.

cinch, the UK’s leading online used car retailer, has announced the winners of its 2024 Car of the Year awards, with Nissan’s e-POWER technology attracting praise from judges.

Already one of the nation’s favourite cars, this new award for Qashqai is further evidence of how Nissan is delivering innovative and class-leading technology to its customers.

publishers of some of the country’s biggest newspapers, including The Sun and The Sunday Times.

Michael Auliar, sales director at Nissan GB, said: “With eye-catching design, intuitive technology, the latest safety features and award-winning powertrains, it’s no wonder our customers love the Qashqai.

“Receiving this award is fantastic recognition for Nissan teams across the UK, all of which have contributed to Qashqai’s UK development and helped to maintain its position as a British automotive industry success.”

Sam Sheehan, motoring editor at cinch, said: "What makes the Qashqai e-POWER so good is how its hybrid system works – it shows that hybrid cars don’t need to be boring to look at or to drive.

“It feels like an electric car with zippy acceleration and one-pedal driving, and yet it’s as convenient as a petrol car because it doesn’t need to be plugged in."

Designed, engineered and built in Britain, the Qashqai has had a busy year in 2024, thanks to a comprehensive update and an award-winning marketing campaign, as well as being named bestin-class by motoring experts at News UK –

Since its launch in September 2022, Nissan has sold more than 140,000 Qashqai e-POWER –with customers loving the ‘electric drive’ feeling delivered by the technology.

The key to the unique and innovative ePOWER powertrain is that the wheels are only ever driven directly by an electric motor, unlike traditional hybrids, helping the car deliver the sensation of driving an EV with no need to plug in and charge. It’s a perfect solution for those customers seeking advanced and efficient technology but who are not quite ready to make the switch to a 100% electric car.

The sole role of the car’s turbocharged threecylinder engine is to generate electricity, which is sent via an inverter to either the 140kW electric motor or the 1.8kWh battery (or both, according to the driving scenario).

Working quietly in the background, it supplies the electricity in relation to the vehicle’s speed, thus avoiding any disconnect between background sound and vehicle progress.

The Farizon SV, the electric commercial van from Farizon Auto, received a Platinum safety award from Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Program) with a score of 85 points, placing it amongst the best options for safe and reliable commercial vehicles. The award also makes Farizon the top-ranked Chinese electric commercial vehicle brand in the Euro NCAP ratings.

As one of the most rigorous and authoritative car crash testing organizations in the world, Euro NCAP’s results provide crucial reference points for global consumers. Although the upgraded Euro NCAP rating standards present a tough challenge for vehicle manufacturers, they ensure that new vehicles deliver the best safety protection for consumers. Farizon SV comes with the latest safety technologies, which has helped the vehicle perform well in Euro NCAP’s tests and showcases Farizon’s consistency on its user-based brand philosophy.

Since 2021, when Euro NCAP extended its ratings to include commercial vans, the organization has assessed over 95% of the vans and commercial vehicles available in the European market to date. In the AEB active braking function test, one of the key ADAS safety domains, the Farizon SV achieved a single score rate of 95% for conditions such as stationary, low-speed driving and other related driving conditions. At the same time, the recognition and response to pedestrian and bicycle crossing and longitudinal driving conditions are also precise and swift, and the maximum longitudinal speed

reaches 80 km/h. In addition, the Farizon SV received perfect scores for both Lane Support Systems (LSS) and Occupant Status Monitoring (OSM), fully demonstrating its active safety performance.

The Farizon SV is being introduced to the UK by Jameel Motors, a leading provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands seeking a global platform for growth, after it joined forces with Farizon Auto, the commercial vehicle division of Geely Holding Group, to distribute new energy commercial vehicles in the United Kingdom.

“The Farizon SV was designed and engineered to meet or exceed European standards in every regard, including safety, and this result is testament to the rigorous testing and development process undertaken by the Farizon team,” explains Andy Carroll, Country Manager, Jameel Motors Farizon Auto.

“Van users and fleets of today and tomorrow can choose the Farizon SV with utmost confidence. Not only is it setting new benchmarks in safety, but several world-first advanced technologies, including its born-electric and drive-by-wire platform, means it offers more cargo space, greater range and a more convenient and comfortable driver experience.”

From its launch in the first half of 2025, three vehicle lengths and three heights will be offered in the UK, along with two battery sizes: 67 kWh and 83 kWh. A 106-kWh battery option will follow. Full UK specification and pricing will be announced in due course, along with a date for start of sales.

The all-new Volkswagen Tayron goes on sale in the UK on Thursday 9 January. Prices for the sophisticated all-rounder, with five or seven seats and superior levels of comfort, start from £39,850 (on-the-road recommended retail price including VAT) for the Tayron Life 1.5 eTSI. The top-of-the-range R-Line and R-Line Edition variants are available for just over £50,000.

The Tayron sits between the mid-sized Tiguan, Volkswagen’s best-selling model worldwide, and the Touareg, the brand’s flagship large SUV. It is seven centimetres longer (4,792 mm) than its forebear, the Tiguan Allspace, which translates into more space for passengers in the third row of seats (when fitted) and a cavernous 850-litre boot when the third row of seats is folded flat.

Built in Wolfsburg, Germany, the Tayron has family-friendly features such as sun-blinds in the rear doors and an optional electronic child safety lock that’s operated from the driver’s door; it also offers a useful towing capacity of 2,400 kg (braked, 12 per cent). Volkswagen’s Trailer Assist manoeuvring system comes as standard in conjunction with the optional folding towing bracket, helping to make even large horse boxes and trailers easy to handle. But it is perhaps the vehicle’s design, interior quality, comfort levels and equipment that really stand out.

Powerful exterior and a premium cabin

The Tayron is characterised by a clear, striking SUV design. At the front, LED headlights and the standard illuminated Volkswagen badge create an unmistakeable light signature as night falls. The same applies at the rear, with its full-length LED crossbar, 3D tail light clusters and illuminated Volkswagen logo. The Tayron is the first Volkswagen ICE (internal combustion engine) model in the European market with illuminated logos at the front and rear.

Sharply drawn lines emphasise the Tayron’s premium feel and elongated silhouette. This

approach is also reflected in the cabin, which is dominated by surfaces with a pleasant feel and, depending on equipment, elegant materials such as ArtVelours Eco (microfibre), authentic open-pore wood and an illuminated decorative trim.

Extensive equipment and assist systems

Five trim levels are available in the UK – Life, Match (eHybrid only), Elegance, R-Line and RLine Edition (eHybrid only) – all of which come with generous levels of equipment.

LED headlights with automatic main beam control (Light Assist) are included as standard, as are nine airbags and, on eHybrid and TSI variants, Volkswagen’s DCC Pro adaptive chassis control system. All trims also come with three-zone air conditioning, 10-colour background lighting, an infotainment system with 12.9-inch screen, and a multi-function driving experience switch for adjusting driving profiles, audio volume and cabin atmospheres using pre-programmed lighting and audio moods.

Standard assist systems include adaptive cruise control (ACC), the oncoming vehicle braking when turning function, lane change system (Side Assist), lane keeping system (Lane Assist), and an automatic emergency braking system with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring (Front Assist). Park Assist Plus, a rear-view camera, dynamic road sign display and a new exit warning system, which prevents doors being opened if another road user approaches from behind, also come as standard.

Optional highlights include a 15-inch infotainment display, head-up display, IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights with interactive lighting functions, and Travel Assist for longitudinal and lateral guidance. Also available are the IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT integration (in conjunction with the optional Discover infotainment package), a tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, a 700Watt Harman-Kardon sound system, plus leather upholstery on electrically adjustable

seats with massage and ventilation functions.

Take your pick: petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid

Six engines will be available for the Tayron in the UK – three from 9 January and the rest from 20 February 2025. Each is paired with a six- or seven-speed automatic direct-shift gearbox (DSG), and 2.0 TSI variants are combined with 4MOTION all-wheel drive:

• 1.5 eTSI 150 PS with seven-speed DSG (seven seats, from 9 January)

• 1.5 TSI eHybrid 204 PS with six-speed DSG (five seats, from 9 January)

• 1.5 TSI eHybrid 272 PS with six-speed DSG (five seats, from 9 January)

• 2.0 TDI 150 PS with seven-speed DSG (seven seats, from 20 February)

• 2.0 TSI 204 PS 4MOTION with sevenspeed DSG (seven seats, from 20 February)

• 2.0 TSI 265 PS 4MOTION with sevenspeed DSG (seven seats, from 20 February)

The 19.7 kWh (net) battery in eHybrid versions

opens the door to electric-only driving for the vast majority of motorists, thanks to a range of up to 75 miles (WLTP combined). It can be charged with up to 11 kW AC and 40 kW DC, the latter of which means the car can be topped up from 10 to 80 per cent in just 26 minutes.

“The Tayron is a bona fide Volkswagen; its quality is reflected in every detail,” said Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, when the model had its world premiere in October 2024. “It is comfortable and practical for everyday life, and it is available with a wide range of drive systems. With this new Volkswagen SUV, we are further expanding our range in a growing segment and closing the gap between our best-seller, the Tiguan, and our luxury SUV, the Touareg. I am convinced the Tayron will make its mark and be well received by customers.”

Rod McLeod, Director of Volkswagen UK, added: “The Tayron is the perfect addition to our range of SUVs, sitting between the topselling Tiguan and the luxurious Touareg. With up to seven seats and plenty of luggage space, it really is the ideal companion for families and adventurers alike. It is versatile, supremely comfortable, efficient and packed with new technology. In other words, it is a Volkswagen through-and-through.”

The Subaru Outback has been named ‘Best Crossover of the Year’ in the respected off-road publication Overlander 4x4’s 2025 awards. The win underlines the legendary Outback’s enduring ‘go-anywhere’ off-road capability, as well as its sector-leading practicality and dependability.

The latest victory marks half a decade of sustained dominance for Subaru at the Overlander 4x4 awards. The Outback took home the Crossover Award for both 2024 and 2023, while the XV triumphed in 2022 and 2021.

“The Outback’s a bit of an institution. It has been the definitive crossover since before they were called crossovers (and before it was called the Outback). And it’s seen off loads of rivals in that time – to the extent that there used to be an entire crossover estate class, and now there’s just the Outback again.

“When there was an army of pretenders to its throne, if you wanted a 4x4 estate to get you across Africa on dirt roads and sand trails, or up through the Yukon over hundreds of miles of snow-covered gravel highway, you just wouldn’t look at anything else. So, to give it some competition in 4x4 of the Year, we've put it up against some stellar opposition in the general Crossovers class –and it's still the one we'd turn to when we need a 4x4 worthy of the name. To put it simply, Subaru wrote the book on vehicles like this.”

Subaru UK & Ireland Managing Director, Lorraine Bishton, said: “We’re delighted that the Subaru Outback has again been recognised as ‘Best Crossover’ by the team at Overlander 4x4. This marks five years of Subaru dominance at these awards, a testament to the long-standing appeal and ability of our model range.

“The Outback has been a trailblazer since it was created in the mid-1990s. Nearly 30 years on, it still leads the way with its everpopular mix of practicality, safety and genuine go-anywhere ability.”

Alan Kidd, Editor, Overlander 4x4, added:

Since its launch in 1995, the Subaru Outback has built a history as the forerunner of a new car segment, the estate crossover SUV, combining the attributes of both passenger car and SUV.

The Outback has grown in popularity over the years, and is cherished by people around the world, for providing the values of an everyday companion: safety, comfort, practicality, capability and drivability. The 6th generation is the most technologically advanced, luxurious, and safest yet. Limited, Field and Touring Outback model variants, provide superior passenger protection alongside the latest driver assistance and collision avoidance technology.

BYD the world’s largest New Energy Vehicle (NEV) has delivered a brand new BYD DOLPHIN to one lucky winner, with an accompanying Shell Recharge card, just in time for Christmas.

The campaign – which ran from 1st September until 19th November – allowed entrants to win from a range of exclusive prizes simply by booking a test drive in any BYD model. Prizes included a BYD DOLPHIN; a BYD DOLPHIN for a weekend; JBL wireless speakers; and Tile Mate key trackers.

The winner, Mr. James Horan from Milton Keynes, expressed his excitement after winning a BYD DOLPHIN: “I’m absolutely thrilled! I had been driving electric vehicles since 2021, so I’m thrilled that I now have the opportunity to own a BYD. What an incredible Christmas present!”

Steve Beattie, Sales and Marketing Director at BYD UK, commented: “BYD is committed to making electric motoring accessible to everyone.

The BYD DOLPHIN is a fantastic car—wellequipped, stylish, and, most importantly, available at a price point that makes electric driving a reality for many. We’re delighted for Mr. Horan and wish him many happy miles in his brand-new BYD DOLPHIN.”

The BYD DOLPHIN hatchback blends distinctive, playful design with versatility, agility, and a wealth of standard features, all powered by BYD’s revolutionary EV technology.

Representing the perfect balance of safety, efficiency, and

practicality, the BYD DOLPHIN is attractively priced, starting at just £26,195 OTR, making cutting-edge electric mobility accessible to a wider audience.

In March 2023, BYD and Shell formed a partnership to further enhance accessibility to electric motoring. New BYD customers received a complimentary Shell Recharge card, providing access to 700,000 Shell Recharge charging points across Europe and 8,000 Ubitricity-operated charging points in the UK, often located on lampposts in residential city streets. Additionally, BYD customers can enjoy a £0.24p/kWh discount across Shell Recharge’s extensive rapid and ultrarapid charging network.

I INEOS AUTOMOTIVE UNVEILS CUSTOM GRENADIER QUARTERMASTER KAIJU

NEOS Automotive’s Australian operation has built a one-off special Grenadier Quartermaster Cab Chassis: the ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’. The name, meaning a mythical ‘giant creature’ or ‘monster’ in Japanese, was chosen to convey the powerful capabilities of the Grenadier, and acknowledges Australia’s love affair with modified Japanese 4x4 vehicles.

The striking all-black Kaiju Quartermaster is based on the strong foundation of the Quartermaster Cab Chassis ute, which is engineered to deliver a class-leading combination of off-road capability and loadcarrying versatility for work and adventure. The one-off ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ has been built in partnership with some of Australia’s most innovative and reputable third-party accessory suppliers, including Norweld, Rhino-Rack, Brown Davis, REDARC, JMACX, GME, BF Goodrich, MAXTRAX, and STEDI*.

Equipment on the special build includes premium fitment options such as the Norweld Elite Tray and Compact Deluxe Lite Canopy, engineered to handle extreme conditions while being lightweight and designed with a gutter system and rubber seals to ensure dust and water resistance on the most extreme overlanding adventures.

With a fully blacked-out exterior and commanding presence, the Kaiju project has resulted in a unique off-roader that epitomises an iconic heavily modified Aussie 4x4 overlander, while showcasing the infinite customisation possibilities available to Grenadier and Quartermaster customers.

Justin Hocevar, Regional Director, APAC at INEOS Automotive commented: “We wanted to create a truly unique Quartermaster together with some incredibly innovative local engineering & accessory partners. The Quartermaster Cab Chassis is a ‘blank canvas’ that allows for great versatility when it comes to customisation, so together with these project partners, we let our imagination run wild. Ultimately, the ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ expresses our Australian vision of Built For More.”

The ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ is also fitted with the Brown Davis long range fuel tank #IG23A2 - tucked neatly behind the rear bumper, giving explorers the ultimate option for remote travel with a total of 168 litres on top of the factory 90-litre tank.

To provide unparalleled performance and enhanced protection, REDARC’s range of RS3 Pure Sine Wave Inverters, Alpha150 150A lithium battery and Manager Alpha50 have also been fitted, giving the ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ a complete battery management system for the most demanding recreational and off-grid energy needs.

Unusually, INEOS Automotive extends the vehicle’s warranty to cover select aftermarket components from official accessories partners when ordered through retailers. This provides customers with cast-iron peace-of-mind even when customizing their Grenadier or Quartermaster to suit their own particular needs.

The ‘Kaiju Quartermaster’ will be seen utilised across events and for promotional purposes in Australia over the next few months.

To find out more about Grenadier range pricing, technical specifications and options, visit www. ineosgrenadier.com

INEOS GRENADIERS HELP SCOTTISH MOUNTAIN RESCUE VOLUNTEERS SCALE NEW HEIGHTS

INEOS Automotive partnered with Scottish Mountain Rescue (SMR) to help the charity deliver vital off-road vehicle training at its recent annual National Training Conference.

Held at Glenmore Lodge in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, this year’s Conference saw the introduction of a practical training element to SMR’s 4X4 workshop, in which INEOS Grenadier Station Wagon and Quartermaster 4X4s were put to the test on the Alvie Estate. Representatives of 10 volunteer mountain rescue teams tackled several real-world rescue and recovery scenarios designed to improve their offroad driving and recovery skills.

Ray Smith, 4X4 Lead at Scottish Mountain Rescue, said: "With the help of INEOS Automotive, we were able to provide our volunteers with crucial handson 4X4 coaching, training them to tackle tough terrain without the use of a vehicle-mounted winch. These skills are indispensable in many rescues where 4X4s are used not only to transport volunteers to remote locations, but also to move casualties, and act as a mobile centre of operations. Everyone was impressed by the

capability, comfort and characteristics of the Grenadiers.”

Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive, added: “Hooking up with Scottish Mountain Rescue is yet another example of how the versatility and capability of the Grenadier makes it a compelling proposition to emergency services and rescue organisations. It’s becoming the vehicle of choice for rigorous frontline work around the world.”

As well as forging ties with SMR, INEOS Automotive is in service with numerous other search and rescue organisations across Europe and beyond.

Earlier this year, INEOS Automotive became the official vehicle partner of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) charity, while fire and rescue services in several European countries are using Grenadiers in their daily lifesaving work. And further afield, Grenadiers are used by Search and Rescue Dogs Avalanche (SARDA), which operates search and rescue dog teams in alpine environments across most major ski areas and high mountains throughout New Zealand.

Isuzu UK is thrilled to announce an exciting partnership with Paramount Pictures UK for the muchanticipatedSonic the Hedgehog 3movie, now in cinemas from21st December 2024. This electrifying collaboration is the perfect pairing, as Sonic’s unmatched speed and agility mirror the unrivalled performance and off-road capabilities of TheNew Isuzu D-Max, set to launch in early 2025.

Under the partnership’s tagline,"Ready to Level Up,"both the film and The New Isuzu D-Max highlight the power of pushing boundaries. With itstough, reliable, and versatiledesign, the D-Max is built to tackle the toughest terrains with ease –just like Sonic when he’s outpacing foes or racing through loop-de-loops. Whether you’re conquering green lanes or country roads, The New Isuzu DMax ensures you’re always one step ahead.

To celebrate the release ofSonic the Hedgehog 3, Isuzu UK is offering fans the chance to win an unforgettable trip to Tokyo for four people. The prize includes a private Sonic 3-themed guided tour of Tokyo, where winners can immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture and gaming heritage. The adventure continues with a day exploring Tokyo’s gaming district, followed by evening access to the thrilling Tokyo Joypolis arcade.

Winners will also enjoy a high-speed ride on the iconic Thunder Dolphin rollercoaster and experience the renowned Shinkansen ‘Bullet Train’ on a round trip between Tokyo and Yokohama. The prize includes tickets to Planetaria Yokohama, featuring a unique VIP planet-shaped bed for an immersive stargazing experience. For food lovers, the prize covers a sushi lunch at a top Tokyo restaurant, valued at up to 25,000 YEN. The winners will also take in panoramic city views from the Tembo Deck at Tokyo Skytree and enjoy a charming 30-minute session at a hedgehog café, a nod to Sonic himself. This one-of-a-kind adventure is the perfect way to celebrate the excitement of both Sonic and The New Isuzu D-Max.

George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK, said: "Sonic and The New Isuzu D-Max are the perfect match – both built to push boundaries and go the distance. Whether it’s Sonic whooshing through his latest adventure or the D-Max tackling the toughest terrain, this partnership is all about unleashing power and performance."

To enter the competition and learn more about the partnership, visit https://www.isuzu.co.uk/sonic-thehedgehog-3/

Skywell UK has appointed Armstrong Vehicle (AVC) to represent the trailblazing EV brand in Cumbria, Dumfries and Glasgow. Located in Longtown (Carlisle) and Uddingston (Glasgow), AVC’s EV expertise and renowned customer service are critical to support Skywell’s ambitious growth plans for the UK.

Skywell’s first vehicle, the BE11, is a D-segment all electric family SUV that offers owners generous levels of equipment, affordability, style, and practicality, and is already available to test drive at both Armstrongs’ Carlisle and Glasgow showrooms.

Over the next 18 months, the BE11 will be joined by the all-electric Skywell Q (an all-new C-segment hatchback) and Skyhome saloon (an all-new Dsegment all electric executive saloon) will join Skywell’s expanding passenger car range; along with a new large panel van to introduce Skywell into the UK commercial vehicle market.

As pioneers in the field of electric mobility, Skywell shares Armstrong Vehicle Centre's vision for a greener, more sustainable future, making this partnership a natural fit.

Skywell UK General Manager, David Clark said:“There’s no better way to showcase our

innovative and great value all-electric vehicles than through trusted and well-established retail partners like Armstrongs. They join a network of growing Skywell Dealers across the UK, which we plan to expand further this year in line with our ambitious growth plans.”

Nicola Robinson, Business Manager at Armstrong Vehicle Centre, added: “We are delighted to be among the first dealers to introduce the Skywell brand to the UK market. Skywell represents the future of affordable electric mobility, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformative journey. With Skywell, we aim to revolutionise the way people think about electric vehicles and accelerate the transition towards a zero-emission future."

In addition to new vehicle sales, AVC will also serve as the Skywell Authorised Repairer for the area, offering servicing, MOTs, repairs, genuine Skywell parts.

All Skywell cars are backed by an industry-leading 7-year/ 100,000-mile vehicle warranty; an additional 8-year/155,000-mile warranty for the battery; and up to 10 years of Roadside Assistance in partnership with The AA.

GWM UK is pleased to announce that the Haval Jolion Pro Hybrid SUV will go on sale in February 2025, priced from £23,995 on the road. The GWM Haval Jolion Pro Hybrid will be available in three trim levels, Premium, Lux and Ultra, and four exterior colour options.

Globally, GWM has 5 model lines – ORA, Haval, Wey, Tank and Poer. Up until now, ORA was the only product line planned for sale in the UK, but from 2025, under the ‘one GWM’ platform, the brand will now extend its offering in the UK, starting with the Haval Jolion Pro Hybrid SUV.

This mid-sized SUV boasts a class-leading electric motor power output of 149ps, which is complemented by an efficient 1.5litre petrol engine, producing 189ps combined peak power. This delivers driving characteristics similar to those of an electric car but with a theoretical driving range of 620 miles. In Australia, the Haval Jolion Pro has earned a popular position as

the third best-selling vehicle in its class and has been awarded a maximum five-star safety rating in the ANCAP (Australian New Car Assessment Program) testing.

Measuring 4,470mm in length, 1,898mm in width and 1,625 in height, the Jolion Pro is one of the larger SUVs in its class. The vehicle embodies the ethos of form meeting function and brings together a mix of redefined space, comfort, sophistication and utility. Sporting 17” or 18” Diamond-cut alloy wheels (dependent on trim level), a strikingly bold front grille design, dynamic front LED lights and rear ‘single eyebrow’ LED taillights, this sleek SUV's exterior has been crafted to captivate and impress. It is finished with unique and distinctive aero sports elements, with Ultra trim level vehicles also benefiting from an electric panoramic sunroof.

On the interior, the GWM Haval Jolion Pro boasts a vast range of intuitive technology on display. Drivers will experience the seamless integration of a 7" full-colour

digital cluster alongside an LED multimedia touchscreen, up to 12.3-inches depending on specification, empowering connectivity and control. Users will also benefit from Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® capability, plus a Bluetooth® handsfree system, smart keyless entry, and push-button start, all designed to prioritise ease and efficiency. Vehicles finished in the top-spec Ultra trim add a Head-Up Display and wireless phone charger.

The tastefully minimalist layout includes a premium centre console with all controls within easy reach. Stylish and supple leatherette seats are equipped on Lux and Ultra models, with the design of the Haval Jolion Pro providing a surprisingly spacious second row, for rear passengers to stretch out and relax on every drive. Lux trim levels also add heated front seats, with Ultra trim vehicles additionally benefiting from ventilated front seating.

comprehensive combination of over 100 built-in active and passive cutting-edge safety features. These include Driver Drowsiness Protection, Brake Override System, Secondary Collision Mitigation and Automatic Rear Cross Traffic Braking. The vehicle’s safety systems also include Auto Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Detection. All ADAS functions are fitted as standard, even on the entry-level Premium specification.

When it comes to ultimate peace of mind, the 360-degree camera on Ultra trim level offers a panoramic view around the car so you can now see what's in front, behind and on either side of your vehicle. This top-spec trim is also equipped with Auto parking assist, for those moments when you need it most.

When the GWM Haval Jolion Pro Hybrid goes on sale in the UK in February 2025, all vehicles will benefit from GWM’s 5-year unlimited mileage warranty. All current GWM ORA retailers will re-align with the new GWM branding by mid-February and will be offering the Haval Jolion Pro sales and aftersales services from launch.

With rigorous testing and a strong focus on driver and passenger safety, the Haval Jolion Pro has been engineered to ensure the protection of everyone and the vehicle. This is thanks to its

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the remaining 50% paid in one payment after 12 months. Credit available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 and over. This credit offer is only available through Isuzu Finance provided by International Motors Finance Limited, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. We typically receive commission or other benefits for introducing you to International Motors Finance Ltd. This may be a flat fee or percentage of the amount you borrow. Vehicle shown is an Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, OTR price of £43,716. Model shown features optional special paint finish at £720. OTR price includes VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee. Prices correct at time of going to print. Offer available on the DL40, V-Cross and V-Cross Steel Special Edition only registered between 01.10.2024 - 31.12.2024. Stock subject to availability. Isuzu reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time without prior notice. Retail customers only, not available in conjunction with any other offers. Excludes Personal Contract Hire and Business Contract Hire. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time.