Farming Scotland Magazine (Nov - December 2025 Edition)

Proud to support Scottish farming, and agriculture throughout the five nations

AgriScot 2025 Preview

ATV’s

Diet Feeders

Look Ahead to LAMMA ‘26

In Focus (1)

Polycrub: Designed in Shetland for all seasons

In Focus (2)

Shear power from Albutt

Topic

Fire & Security Solutions

fom Russelll Fire & Security

magazine

Articles

Making the highlands business friendly Modern technology meets tradition

Social Media and the Law Schaffer strengthens its coverage in Scotland

Fighting Rural Crime

First in a new series

Scottish Country Life with Jake Swindells

Travel Scotland

Monachyle Mhor plus

Beatha an Eilean • Ffermio Cymru

Northern Isles • Farmhouse Kitchen

Women in Agriculture • Book Serialisation including our regular news areas and columns

Tuathanachas Alba

editor's bit

Are all politicians’ stupid?

Probably not, but I ask this question because it is inside my head, and as I get older, I get less tolerant of them and their ilk.

With a recent record of seriously duff Prime Ministers, my patience is wearing thin.

How many times have these people announced big new policy plans for us to then find out that they never consulted those effected or who work in the targeted sector? – Almost all the time is the answer.

When running a business, it is essential to know what you are doing, and when making an important decision, make sure it is the right one – do your research in other words!

Does the incumbent in Downing Street do that? –Doesn’t look like it to me.

Starmer is a ‘sound bite’ man, saying what he thinks you want to hear, then backtracks as soon as the fan gets hit with something, or just openly lies (WASPI women for example), despite the evidence being on camera.

But also nagging in my head is this one thought about the last few years – May, Johnson, Truss, Sunak now Starmer, is this treally the best we can do?

Why are we voting for useless self-serving idiots?

With the ongoing ‘success story’ of Brexit (Aye right!), sorry ‘total disaster’ – As least in Scotland we voted against this nonsense.

Now we have the right-wing shadow of Farage looming over us and apparently leading the polls in England, so that’s the rest of the UK outnumbered and screwed then?

My wee rant over, I will say this – be very careful what you wish for!

Merry Xmas when it comes, before they tax it!

Slàinte, Athole.

arable

SFI silicon confusion explained

The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme offers £45 per hectare to those willing to adopt its rules for three years. Among the rules are strict restrictions on the use of chemical insecticides, seed dressings, nemacides, acaricides and silica insecticides. However, this has caused some confusion with farms using silicon biostimulants.

“The SFI guidelines clearly state that the use of silica insecticides is prohibited. However, silicon biostimulants are allowed under the scheme and are fundamentally different in the way they work,” says agronomist Mike Stoker, from silicon specialist Orion Future Technologies.

He suggests greater clarity is needed to help farmers differentiate between silica insecticides and products that make silicon plant-available using monosilicic acid.

“Silica is a common alternative to chemical insecticides. However, it is not permitted under the SFI scheme. However, the use of silicon biostimulants that make silicon plant-available and have the potential to alleviate abiotic

stresses such as drought, salinity and heavy metal toxicity can still be used,” says Mr Stoker.

The use of silicon biostimulants also has the potential to increase yield by improving the plant’s ability to absorb not just silicon, but other nutrients from the soil.

“Helping plants to absorb more silicon strengthens the cell walls of the plant and helps root growth which can lead to higher yields. However, the plant is also able to absorb other nutrients such as boron, calcium and iron, which also help improve resilience against common stresses,” he adds.

With the drought conditions experienced this year, and the threat of pests increased by a mild autumn, SFI land is likely to be under greater pressure.

“Aphids and CSFB are a threat this autumn, so using silicon products will help establishing plants to thicken cells walls and increase leaf hair density to discourage biting pests. With the ground still very dry in some parts, the use of silicon can help plants to grow deeper- seeking roots faster, which will help the plant find moisture,” says Mr Stoker. However, he stresses the need to find products that are permitted under SFI regulations.

“There is confusion over the use of silica pesticides and silicon biostimulants. Silica must not be used on SFI, but silicon biostimulants can be used as a biological way to strengthen plants against environmental pressures,” he concludes.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

ORONDIS Vip gives red carpet protection for brassica, alliums and salads

Exciting Orondis Vip brings powerful new fungicide active for brassica growers.

Advanced replacement for Orondis Plus + Amistar for use in allium & salad disease control programmes

Complementary two-component fungicide, with exceptional downy mildew control

New Orondis Vip from Syngenta now gives brassica, allium and leafy salad growers the exceptional disease protection powers of Oxathiapiprolin (OXTP), in combination with the highly systemic and well-proven Metalaxyl-M.

Orondis Vip will also supersede the existing use of Orondis Plus + Amistar that

has been an industry-standard fungicide for allium and leafy salad growers.

Welcoming the full approval for Orondis Vip, Syngenta Field Technical Manager, Simon Jackson, highlighted the new fungicide provides consistent protection even in the most challenging conditions. “The two complementary active ingredients work synergistically within a single easy-to-use product, to provide internal and external leaf protection.

“The powerful control of OXTP is especially valuable in delivering dependable highperformance control of downy mildew – where damaging infections will significantly

reduce marketable yield in brassicas, alliums and salad crops.”

Trials results with Orondis Vip in brassica and leafy salad

fungicide programmes was on show for growers to see and discuss at the Syngenta Vegetable Innovation Site in Lincolnshire last week (8-9 October).

Effective disease protection is achieved by OXTP rapidly binding into the waxy leaf surface, and then working through the leaf structure to give extended periods of control before disease spreads.

“That’s particularly effective for downy mildew spores spread by wind and rain splash; giving the highest level of protection in the very conditions most conducive to infection and when other fungicides may struggle,” Simon points out.

OXTP disrupts critical processes within the disease spore cells and breaks down lipid movement between plasma walls, which renders the spore unviable. Furthermore, Metalaxyl-M inhibits rRNA synthesis within the disease cells to stop protein production and growth. Together, the two actions assure maximum efficacy, while effectively managing fungicide resistance.

“The combination of actives and outstanding potency enables effective control at low rates of use that is beneficial for fresh vegetable producers,” adds Simon. The application rate is the same 0.5 l/ha for all crops on the label, with two applications permitted for brassicas and alliums.

In addition to leafy salad crops, Orondis Vip is also approved on the label for herb crops and edible flowers that are important high-

value niche markets for some growers.

“Orondis Vip offers superior downy mildew control through its novel and proven modes of action, protecting both new growth and mature plants under high disease pressure,” advises Simon. “It gives reliable season-long protection, with better disease control, compared to standard treatments, for improved crop quality and yields.”

New era at Burgess Farms

Burgess Farms, one of the UK’s longest-established vegetable growers and processors, has announced a leadership transition and new investment partnership that marks a significant milestone in its 127year history.

The business, which is a key supplier to all major UK supermarkets, has been under the stewardship of the Burgess family since 1898. It will now move into its next phase of growth under the existing senior management team, with support from private investment firm Chiltern Capital.

The management team, led by CEO James Barker, will continue to run the company across its sites, including Isleham in Cambridgeshire, Sutton Bridge in Lincolnshire, Houghton Estate in Norfolk, and Dalcross near Inverness. Following the transaction, they will now be supported by the introduction of industry veteran

Clive Sharpe as Non-Executive Director. Chiltern Capital’s

investment is expected to support the business as it looks to grow

its market position, develop its sustainability credentials, and further invest in its supply chain and processing capabilities.

“This is a proud and important moment in the history of Burgess Farms,” said James Barker. “We are grateful to the Burgess family for their stewardship and legacy, and excited about the next phase as we move away from a familyowned business model. With the backing of Chiltern Capital, we will continue to build on our strength supplying top-quality produce to the UK market and supporting long-term customer partnerships.”

Speaking on behalf of the Burgess family, William, one of the three brothers who helped grow the family business to what it is now, said, “After decades of dedication to the family business, we feel the time is right to pass the baton. We are incredibly proud of what we’ve built and deeply grateful to our loyal staff, customers, and suppliers. With the current, highly experienced management team, we know that the business will continue to flourish and innovate, whilst staying true to its values.

We selected Chiltern Capital as the right backers to take the business forward, as they have a strong knowledge of, and passion for, UK sustainable agriculture and the financial firepower to invest in the business to take it to the next level.”

Chiltern Capital Partner David Butler commented:

“Burgess Farms is a rare example of a company with deep

heritage, technical expertise, and a commitment to sustainable agriculture. We are delighted to support

James and the management team in their ambitions to grow the business while upholding its core values.”

The company has confirmed that there are no planned personnel or operational changes.

Unlocking the fresh market potential of blackcurrants

Researchers at James Hutton Scientific Services have received funding for a further five years to develop blackcurrants for the fresh fruit aisle, thanks to a partnership with Winterwood Farms Ltd.

Despite having health benefits of high levels of vitamin C, other essential vitamins and antioxidants, fresh blackcurrants are generally destined for the processing market and are rarely seen on supermarket shelves in the UK.

By reshaping the genetics of blackcurrants, Hutton researchers are developing blackcurrants that not only taste better and last longer but are also easier to harvest and more attractive for fresh fruit retail. Their ultimate goal is to make blackcurrants a more regular feature in the fruit aisles, so consumers can enjoy their favourite fruit fresh, not just in drinks or preserves.

They will target key traits such as fruit size, sugar content, shelf life, and attractive long fruit clusters (strigs) suitable for retail display. Alongside improving flavour and fruit

quality, the project is also focused on building resilience. Breeding for traits such as lower winter chilling requirements and improved resistance to pests and diseases, will make blackcurrants more adaptable to climate change, while reducing reliance on chemical inputs.

Specialist blackcurrant breeder at the Hutton, Dr Amanda Moura, said, “We want shoppers to find blackcurrants on supermarket shelves as a fresh and healthy choice, while

ensuring the crop remains resilient for future farming.

“This is ambitious work, as we are almost completely redefining the genetics of blackcurrants. It demands dedication, time, and perhaps a touch of luck. This project began nearly 20 years ago, and we all feel we are finally getting closer now.”

Winterwood Farms Ltd’s Managing Director, Steve Taylor, said, “Although many blackcurrant varieties exist

around the world, none of them are sweet enough to be consumed in the same way as, say, raspberries and blueberries.

“Purely from a health perspective, blackcurrants have the potential to be a superfood, particularly if they were sweet enough to snack on, rather than restricted to cooking with, or mixing with other fruits.”

No blackcurrrant has yet been developed with this level of professionalism or commercial value. Close collaboration with Winterwood Farms Ltd, including trial plantings on their farms, will ensure that new selections align with commercial priorities and meet consumer expectations.

The Hutton is an internationally renowned research centre whose breeding programme supports the entire Scottish fruit supply chain from growers to marketing organisations and retailers. The soft fruit group works extensively with stakeholders to carry out research proposals to address the specific and targeted needs of the sector, using markerassisted breeding to reduce the time it takes to produce cultivars with the key traits of interest.

It addresses challenges facing the industry, including improved means for pest and disease control that are in line with increasing demand for reduced pesticide use in agriculture, resistance to climate change and new cultivars that enable growers to respond quickly to a changing marketplace.

Its pioneering research combines field selection at different stages with modern genetic tools, such as molecular markers, to identify the best candidate plants and achieve greater progress.

FARMING

New research to unlock potential of underutilised crops to combat food insecurity

Two major new research projects have been launched to harness the latest advances in crop science and expertise to unlock the potential of underutilised crops to combat food insecurity and climate change.

Scientists from the University of Nottingham are part of two UK-CGIAR Centre funded projects. The first, led by Nottingham, focuses on studying root-soil interactions in pigeon pea. The second project, in which Nottingham is a key partner, aims to establish genomic and breeding resources and technologies for Bambara groundnut. Both crops are drought tolerant crops with the ability to thrive in poor soils, making them valuable for improving food security in climate-vulnerable regions.

Pigeon pea, a grain legume also known as toor dal, is an important crop for smallholder farmers in regions such as South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The legume plays a key role in supporting food security, enhancing soil fertility, and sustaining the household incomes of smallholder farmers. Its drought tolerance, nutritional qualities, and soil improvement potential make it an ideal crop for sustainable agriculture in many climate-challenged regions. However, the crop is sensitive to high temperature events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. These rising temperatures could reduce pigeon pea yields, worsening food and nutrition insecurity and further exposing vulnerable populations to hunger and poverty.

The UK research teamsincluding scientists from the University of Nottingham and the University of Warwick - will study how temperature affects

root growth directly in soil, using the latest scanning technology at the Hounsfield Facility at the University of Nottingham.

These studies will be complimented by field research led by international partners* who will examine changes in root architecture and anatomy, rhizosphere signalling and their interplay in microbial recruitment, nodule formation, nitrogen fixation, and overall plant performance. The findings will inform strategies improving pigeon pea production through collaboration through existing networks of national institutes, farmers, breeders, grain and seed value chain stakeholders, and policymakers.

Dr Rahul Bhosale, Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham and

lead researcher on the pigeon pea project, said: “Resolving this scientific challenge could have far-reaching implications. In the long term, this work could contribute significantly to safeguarding food security, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, particularly for vulnerable populations in lowand middle-income countries.”

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is another underutilised crop with huge potential to address global food and nutrition security challenges. It also thrives in poor soils, supports soil health through nitrogen fixation, and provides a highly nutritious food source – especially valuable in areas affected by poverty, malnutrition, and water scarcity.

Major new research project will take cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB) control to next level

An important new collaboration between some of the finest applied research organisations in England (where CSFB is most problematic) was announced recently by AHDB. CSFB Research+ will be worked on together by ADAS, Niab and Rothamsted Research.

CSFB Research+ represents AHDB’s largest single

investment in CSFB research, with a total project value nudging £750,000. A third of this investment is from cash and in-kind contributions from an extensive network of project partners.

The project will evaluate the field performance of novel control products, improve guidance on cultural control measures,

New potato leafroll virus may alter disease spread

Agriculture (SASA), https:// www.sasa.gov.uk,have revealed that a new

fine-tune understanding of CSFB development, generate data on natural enemies and prime innovation in CSFB management.

Running for nearly five years, the work builds on a long-term series of AHDBand Defra-funded projects that has dramatically improved understanding of the pest’s life cycle, crop risk factors and effective cultural control strategies. It also underpinned the release of a top 10 list of CSFB management strategies earlier this year.

Sacha White, AHDB Lead Crop Protection Scientist, said:

“Faced with a lack of chemistry and insecticide resistance challenges, confidence and commitment to OSR has waned, with the UK shifting from a net exporter to a net importer in recent years.

“This new research partnership project brings together passionate and knowledgeable people from across the industry – spanning farmer cooperatives, input specialists, grain merchants, food producers and applied researchers – to co-design activity that puts CSFB control firmly back into the hands of farmers.”

Researchers from The James Hutton Institute and the Science and Advice for Scottish

variant of potato

leafroll virus (PLRV) is rapidly replacing the historic strain that has circulated in Scotland since at least 1989.

Over the past five years, PLRV incidence has risen sharply in Scottish seed potatoes. Since 2018, the number of seed potato fields reporting PLRV infection has increased nearly tenfold, reaching record levels in 2024.

This year alone, 17.5% of Scottish seed potato crops were downgraded or failed due to PLRV infection. With 78% of the UK’s potato crop originating from Scottish seed tubers, the spread of this virus poses a significant threat to production and supply chains.

A team led by the Hutton’s Dr Eugene Ryabov carried out a large-scale genetic analysis of PLRV samples collected from across Scotland in 2023 – 2024 to determine whether this increase could be linked to the spread of a novel variant and found that an emerging PLRV variant had become prevalent.

Speaking about this research, Dr Ryabov said, “Results of our recent PLRV project showed that there is a need to regularly monitor the diversity and strain identity of viral pathogens, since emerging virus variants would be more harmful and would require different control strategies to safeguard the UK’s potato industry.”

He pointed out that while the study, published in the journal, Viruses, does not prove that the new variant is the primary cause of the increase in PLRV, the possibility makes it worth further investigations.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Next issue out January 2026

£400 ‘Help for Heating’ Grants available through RSABI

As temperatures begin to drop RSABI is reminding the agricultural community about its Help for Heating grants, providing a minimum of £400 to help heat your home.

Working to help alleviate fuel poverty within the agricultural community, the charity - which provides emotional, practical and financial support to those working in the agriculture industry in Scotland - is encouraging people working in, or retired from, agriculture who are struggling with costs to contact them to request the grant via 0808 1234 555.

An online assessment tool is available via RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk to check if you qualify, and RSABI’s case officers will support applicants through the process.

“As the temperature drops, it’s important to make sure that you and your home are kept warm,” said Chris McVey, Welfare Manager, RSABI.

“Our Help for Heating grants are simple and quick to apply for, with funding typically £400 per household, they are available to those spending more than 10% of their household income on heating.” he added.

RSABI is urging people who are struggling to pay to heat their homes to get in touch to find out more about this initiative and the other

support services on offer.

RSABI also offers ongoing financial support through an Annual Beneficiary scheme, where anyone in need who meets the support criteria can receive regular payments to help top-up their income. Visit the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk to find out more. To chat to a member of the team please call RSABI’s freephone Helpline on 0808 1234 555 which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and calls won’t show up on phone bills. All enquiries are completely confidential.

“Rural properties can often be older and more challenging to heat and with the on-going cost-ofliving crisis, many are facing mounting financial pressure. You can also contact RSABI via live webchat on our website – www. rsabi.org.uk – or send us an email via helpline@rsabi.org.uk (monitored during office hours).

Mart community lunches to celebrate 15 years of Lamb for St Andrew’s Day

At the end of November, Scotland’s livestock marts will be celebrating Lamb for St Andrew’s Day with lunches in the mart - marking 15 years of the initiative set up by an auctioneer and a farmer to encourage people to eat lamb for St Andrew’s Day (30 November) in the same way that we traditionally celebrate with turkey for Christmas and haggis on Burns’ night.

Statistics show that in recent years there has been a boost to lamb sales in both the marts and in retail. This is a credit to this campaign, says Neil Wilson, Executive Director of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), which is run in conjunction with Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).

“It’s excellent to see the positive impact Lamb for St Andrew’s Day has had for the sector, bringing to the fore the natural goodness of lamb produced here in Scotland and encouraging greater uptake.

“This is down to the generous support and championing of the campaign from farmers, the marts, QMS, schools and local communities. We look forward to the buzz of lunches around the country for this year’s Lamb for St Andrew’s Day and seeing farmers and marts coming together to make this happen as they have done so successfully over the years.”

Since 2010, Lamb for St Andrew’s Day has grown over the years from an inspired idea to widespread activity including locally organised St Andrew’s Day events across the country; restaurants and pubs serving lamb for St Andrew’s Day; and during Covid times and beyond, the marts delivered nearly 3.1 tonnes of lamb into 600 schools for Home Economics classes and school lunches, reaching 65,000 pupils.

QMS and IAAS have also arranged visits to Scottish

Parliament to speak to MPs about the industry, which will take place again in November, and have hosted delegations to the EU and beyond including a St Andrew’s Day lamb dinner in Paris and at COP28 in Dubai.

Last year lamb prices increased in the marts by 13% between 1 and 30 November, and Worldpanel by Numerator statistics indicate greater consumer engagement: in November 2024, the volume of lamb bought by shopping trip also increased by 13%.

While the campaign has achieved significant growth, Mr Wilson highlighted the ongoing opportunity within the market.

“Only 9.2% of households bought primary lamb last November which means there is

still huge potential for growth. As a whole industry, we need to tell our story and make it a compelling choice for them to pick up in the butcher, supermarket or when eating out.”

QMS is supporting this drive with a multi-channel consumer campaign through social media, advertising and chef collaborations reaching millions of consumers, alongside providing resources to schools to illustrate the farming, environmental and health benefits of lamb produced in Scotland.

This year’s focus for the marts is to have a community lunch around St Andrew’s Day in each of the 27 marts across Scotland.

“This reflects what the marts are all about - community and promoting the value of what

farmers are producing,” said Mr Wilson. “These events may be for customers, a local school or group, or a fundraising occasion. The main aim is to bring people together to celebrate with one of Scotland’s finest homegrown products.”

To support these events and keep them accessible, marts are seeking donations to the Lamb Bank, which has received the equivalent of 850 lambs since it was set up five years ago. Donations are welcomed from across the farming and professional sector, either as the value of a lamb at the next sale or as a financial contribution.

Young Farmers have offered their support again this year and will be bringing a different dimension to events across the country.

Royal seal of approval for Mackie’s sky-to-scoop sustainability

Princess Royal tours pioneering farm behind UK’s fastest-growing premium ice cream

A ROYAL visit to a renowned Aberdeenshire farm has placed a spotlight on Scottish innovation, sustainability, and premium food production.

Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal was welcomed to Westertown Farm near Inverurie, home to Mackie’s of Scotland, where she was shown the company’s pioneering dairy, ice cream, and chocolate operations.

The visit highlighted how a fifth-generation farm has evolved into a leader in sustainable food manufacturing, with a fully integrated process producing everything from renewable energy to ice cream on site.

Mac Mackie, Chairman of Mackie’s, said: “It was an honour to welcome Princess Anne and share how Mackie’s has grown from a traditional dairy farm into a household name known for quality, sustainability and innovation.”

The tour began at the factory where the princess met Doreen Harper and Lesley Skene, Mackie’s longest-serving team members –each of whom have been working at the family business for more than 40 years.

Her Royal Highness was then given a tour of the ice cream and chocolate production areas, including processing where the mix is made and packing where the tubs are filled and stacked for shipment around the world.

Visiting Mackie’s New Product Development kitchen, The Princess Royal sampled ice cream and chocolate made with fresh milk and cream from Mackie’s own dairy herd, before visiting its 350 strong herd of cows and meeting the farm personnel who oversee their robotic milking.

Stuart Common, Managing Director of Mackie’s, said: “It was a real privilege to meet Her

Royal Highness and showcase the dedication that goes into every scoop we make.”

The tour concluded at the chocolate factory, where The Princess Royal unveiled a commemorative plaque. She also received a Mackie’s gift bag and flowers from a staff member’s daughter.

Mackie’s produces its award-winning ice cream using renewable energy generated on site via four wind turbines and a ten-acre solar farm, with every element of production, from milking to packaging, happening right here on the farm, underlining its commitment to quality.

Stuart added: “Our sky-toscoop philosophy is at the core of everything we do – generating our own power, using milk from our own cows, and crafting every product on site. It allows us to guarantee the freshness, quality and sustainability that define the Mackie’s name.”

With its ice cream stocked in more than a quarter of Scottish

The Scottish growers using robots for a sweeter, greener harvest

Following one of the hottest summers on record, awardwinning berry producer Angus Soft Fruits has been harnessing cutting-edge technology to protect Scotland’s beloved berry harvest. By incorporating robotics into the growing process, the business is ensuring

top-quality fruit reaches consumers while championing sustainable farming.

This commitment to rethinking modern farming was recently recognised on the national stage when Angus Soft Fruits won the prestigious Business Innovation Award

at the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards 2025.

A key part of this innovation is its work with robotics. For the past two years, its grower cooperative, Angus Growers, has partnered with Saga Robotics to deploy ‘Thorvald’ robots across local farms.

households and one in ten across the UK, Mackie’s continues to expand from its Aberdeenshire roots.

When the sun goes down, these robots deliver targeted ultraviolet-C (UVC) light treatment to the berry plants.

The UVC light disrupts the DNA of powdery mildew spores, effectively controlling the disease without the use of traditional fungicides.

This summer, with Scotland experiencing unusually hot and dry weather followed by humid conditions, growers faced increased pressure from powdery mildew – a fungal disease that thrives in warm, damp environments. The robots provided an effective, sustainable solution, helping to protect fruit quality and boost yields.

Angela Porchez, General Manager at Angus Growers, explained: “Scotland’s climate is always a challenge for growers, and this year the hot, dry days followed by humidity meant mildew became a serious threat. By using robots to deliver UV treatment, we’ve been able to manage this without relying solely on chemicals. It not only protects crop quality, but it also helps reduce input costs and supports our longterm sustainability goals. Importantly, the technology has also improved plant health and yields, which is vital for grower returns in such a competitive marketplace.”

The partnership with Saga Robotics is a multi-year commitment and part of a wider push by Angus Soft Fruits and its growers to integrate innovative solutions across production. The cooperative is also exploring new

technology for smaller tunnel systems and trialling drones for a suite of applications, including precision pollination to improve yields, logistics, and cleaning polytunnels to maximise vital light levels. This sits alongside long-standing work on carbon audits, renewable energy, and developing 100% recyclable packaging.

Angela added: “Robotics, drones, and data are all becoming part of how we think about the future of berry production. We see these technologies not as replacements for people, but as tools that can help us farm more sustainably, improve forecasting, and tackle challenges that are only going to increase with climate change.”

Amanda Brown, Programme Director of Scotland Food & Drink said: “Scottish Food & Drink September is all about shining a light on the creativity and ingenuity that define our industry. With our sector valued at £15 billion and supporting 120,000 jobs across the country, its future success depends on meeting challenges like climate change head-on.

“That’s why Angus Soft Fruits is such a fantastic example. They show how innovation in practice – from robotics to drones – can help secure the future of one of Scotland’s most important and iconic sectors. It’s exactly how technology and tradition can come together to not only keep our food and drink world-class but also ensure that it’s sustainable and resilient for generations to come.”

Scotland The Brand

Putting Real Food on the Menu

By Ruth Watson

When I was wee, lunch time at school was heralded by increasingly delicious smells permeating the hallways until I found myself before a row of dinner ladies scooping and ladling hot meals which were the high point of my school day. Now, this was several decades ago, and in a time my youngsters consider practically Dickensian, but the food was almost always local and seasonal, was freshly prepared from scratch, and the closest the meals came to chemicals was a shoogle of baking powder in the steaming puddings.

Changed times, indeed.

The rise of ultra-processed food on school menus is now so prevalent, there are days when there are no ‘real food’ options available in some schools. One concerned mum has started a petition calling on the Scottish Government to ‘Ban ultra-processed foods in school meals’ (Petition PE2173). Lauren Houston runs the Glenkilrie Larder in Glenshee along with her husband, Andrew, a livestock farmer. A former nurse who worked in critical care units, she has seen first-hand the

impacts of poor diet on people’s health.

“For some children, the school dinner might be the only hot cooked meal of the day. Schools help set food trends that children may well use as adults. It is really important that children get healthy cooked options,” Lauren says.

The Food for Life Served Here scheme provides a template for local authorities to follow and supports Scottish farmers too, with many examples of good practice across Scotland. I find it shocking that so many councils, especially those with large agricultural communities, still resist signing up to the scheme.

As part of the Good Food Nation Act, local authorities are obliged to come up with a Good Food Nation Plan. If we want to see healthy freshly cooked food on the menus of our schools and hospitals, we need to get involved. It starts with a conversation, a letter to your councillor, your local director of Public Health, or signing a petition. Change happens when enough people demand it.

Ruth Watson is the founder of the Keep Scotland the Brand campaign

food & drink

Hungry Land, Hungry People: Can We Feed the Future?

As pressure mounts on British farmers to deliver both food and environmental outcomes, Harrison & Hetherington hosted a high-profile panel discussion asking one of the most urgent questions of our time: “Hungry Land, Hungry People – Can We Feed the Future?”, at this year’s Borderway Agri Expo.

Bringing together leading politicians, land managers, and farmers, the session explored how UK agriculture can balance sustainable production with environmental stewardship in a rapidly changing world.

The panel was chaired by Scott Donaldson, Group Director of H&H, and featured a notable line-up of speakers representing diverse perspectives across agriculture, politics, and land management. These included Robbie Moore, Shadow Minister for the Environment; Daniel Zeichner, Member of Parliament for Cambridge; Regenerative Farmer Nicola Renison of Cannerheugh Farm near Penrith; Julia Aglionby, Executive Director of the Foundation for Common Land and Consultant Land Agent and Sion Williams, Director and Farms Manager at Bowhill Farming, Buccleuch Estate.

Scott Donaldson, who chaired the debate, said, “Borderway Agri Expo has always been about celebrating the strength, innovation, and resilience of British farming. But it’s also about tackling the tough questions that will define our industry’s future. This discussion brought together voices from across the sector to explore how we can feed a growing population while safeguarding the land that sustains us. It’s a challenge that unites everyone with a stake in farming’s future.”

This panel engaged in a vital discussion that goes beyond the future of the traditional British

Scott Donaldson

farm and into the heart of one of agriculture’s greatest challenges: how to strike the right balance between producing high-quality, affordable food and safeguarding the natural environment. With increasing pressure on land use and the decoupling of government support from production, the debate around environment versus food security has never been more timely, or more consequential.

This session challenged current thinking and advocated for a reframing of agricultural policy that recognises the value of sustainable food production as a national priority. Nicola Renison shared her experience in moving from a traditional upland livestock system to a regenerative model that integrates agroforestry, mixed grazing, and free-range poultry, showing

that environmental goals and productivity are not mutually exclusive. Sion Williams offered insight into the practical integration of environmental standards within large-scale farm management, drawing on Buccleuch’s involvement with LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming).

Robbie Moore and Daniel Zeichner provided political context and insight into the future policy direction and its implications for farmers across the UK. Julia Aglionby spoke to the challenges and opportunities facing upland farmers and landowners under current support schemes.

The message of this discussion was clear: British farming can, and must, play a dual role in securing both food and the environment. Livestock

farming, if managed properly, enhances soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience. It is not a barrier to environmental progress but a vital part of it.

As food inflation persists and global protein demand rises, the UK must not find itself in a position where it outsources food production while incentivising land abandonment at home. If environmental schemes are to succeed, they must support farmers, reward best practices, and mandate minimum production levels to protect the UK’s food sovereignty.

This Borderway Agri Expo panel brought these vital issues to the fore, with contributions from some of the most respected voices in the sector. It is a conversation the agricultural community, policymakers, and the wider public cannot afford to ignore.

Quality Meat Scotland highlights health, environment, and social benefits of the Scottish red meat supply chain following Eat-Lancet Commission report

Following the publication of the second Eat-Lancet Commission report, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) Chair, Kate Rowell, highlights Scotland’s farmer progress and potential in providing healthy, sustainable food for our growing population:

“Our responsible agricultural sector is a critical enabler in achieving a healthy population and planet and will continue to play its part in addressing our climate and nature challenges.

“Food production and food security are inseparable and, as global demand for nutritious protein is rising year-on-year from a growing population, there is great opportunity for the Scottish farming sector. People will continue to eat red meat as part of a healthy balanced diet, so building producer confidence and support in countries such as Scotland which has high-efficiency and loweremissions is critical.

“The Scottish agriculture sector has reduced emissions by 13% since 1990 and is committed to efficiencies and productivity supporting lower emissions. This includes data capturing and emission reduction projects such as the Environmental Baseline pilot in partnership with Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

“We agree with many of the opportunities identified for a livestock sector transition such as gains through efficiency and technology, responsible land management, better farming practices, animal welfare and management of food waste. For example, ruminants supporting a circular economy by upcycling food waste and byproducts not

fit for the consumer market in feeds.

“We are pleased that the full carbon balance of agriculture –coupling emissions reductions with soil sequestration – has been acknowledged in the report. Farming delivers multiple environmental goods from its carbon removal potential to grazing animals promoting soil health and biodiversity.

“Another welcomed addition is the focus on social justice and everyone having the right to food, a healthy environment, and decent work. Our red meat sector adds £2.8 billion to the Scottish economy, supporting around 50,000 jobs across the supply chain in some of our most rural areas. The reality is that the vast majority

(85%) of Scotland’s land cannot be used for cereal, fruit or vegetable production, making livestock grazing the principle viable and secure option for our society and economy. The high welfare and standards behind our Scotch brands directly drive more efficient red meat production, helping to keep our red meat available, affordable and lower-emission.

“Our earlier statement makes clear that we do not find one-sizefits-all messaging to cut back red meat helpful at a country-level. Scotland does not consume excessive amounts of red meat – in fact, average intakes are already below the 70g UK NHS daily intake guideline in all groups. As recognised in Food Standards Scotland’s recent

modelling (2024), girls, many of whom already struggle to meet dietary recommendations. More information on the powerful contribution of red meat to our health is available in our red meat nutrition topic sheet.

“The vast majority of our population eats meat and there has been no real recorded shift in consumption of red meat since the 2019 report. However, more public discourse on red meat reduction is confusing and detracts attention away from more damaging environmental and health factors.

“By working together and recognising efficient producers at a country-level, we can progress towards healthy, sustainable and just food systems.”

WORLD FARMING

Cows, coffee and climate change - farmers from Wales and Uganda discuss common challenges

“Climate change is a threat we live with on a daily basis,” said Jenipher Sambazi, a coffee farmer in Uganda and face of the Welsh coffee brand ‘Jenipher’s Coffi’ while meeting Teleri Fielden, who farms in the Snowdonia National Park in north Wales.

Teleri, who also works as a Policy Officer for the Farmers’ Union of Wales reflected, “As two farmers from mountainous areas, despite producing very different products, we face many common challenges - and there’s a lot that we can learn from one another. Unpredictable incomes and changing weather, including new and more severe threats of pests are shared challenges for farmers from Wales to Uganda.”

Teleri and her husband Ned are tenant farmers producing “Biodiversity Beef and Lamb” from their stock of native cattle and sheep, which graze diverse pastures and landscapes to conserve and strengthen local biodiversity. They sell directly to customers through a subscription box scheme.

Jenipher, the vice-Chair of the Mt Elgon Agroforestry Communities Co-operative Enterprise (MEACCE) explained how the 3,000 Fairtrade and Organic farmers in her cooperative use techniques including agroforestry to grow specialty coffee, hand in hand with nature. Tree planting brings a multitude of benefits, including anchoring the soil, which, with increasingly heavy rains, gets washed away with crops, homes and, also, human lives.

Ffion Storer Jones, Jenipher’s Coffi Co-Founder who coordinated the exchange said, “Farming faces

enormous pressures globally, but by standing together and acting boldly to support farmers, we can build a fairer future. A fair price changes everything - I know this from growing up in a farming family - and that’s why Jenipher’s Coffi always carries the Fairtrade mark”.

Emma Jones, one of the facilitators of Wales’ Climate Farm Demo Project - a pan

European network of pilot demo farmers - who joined the exchange added: “It was very interesting, and devastating to learn from Jenipher about how vulnerable farmers in Uganda are to climate change. It highlighted how important it is to support farmers in the face of an increasingly hostile climate to adapt sustainable practices to ensure food security for all”.

LEAF expands global reach with first overseas Demonstration Farm

LEAF (Linking Environment

And Farming) has launched of its first international Demonstration Farm in Limpopo, South Africa – extending the organisation’s impact while driving the adoption of more sustainable farming practices worldwide.

Through its inclusion in the LEAF Demonstration Farm network, Springfield Farms will serve as a flagship model for sustainable farming in Africa, sharing knowledge and expertise with farmers across the continent and beyond.

Run by Valerie and Graeme Whyte, Springfield Farm has introduced a range of measures to conserve and protect local wildlife and vegetation, with a central focus on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Already LEAF Marque certified, the farm exports avocados and macadamia nuts to the UK via Tesco.

Rooted in a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, the Whytes have transformed the farm into a thriving example of innovation on their journey to net zero.

With over 50% of LEAF members now outside the UK, this development signals the organisation’s growth into a truly international force, connecting more farmers, through shared values of

sustainable, regenerative agriculture.

LEAF’s chief executive, David Webster, believes this milestone is a major step in LEAF’s mission to transform farming practices globally.

“The expansion of LEAF’s Demonstration Farm Network internationally marks a significant milestone for LEAF as an organisation,” says Mr Webster.

Scottish Organic Gathering seeks to put organic farming front and centre

Soil Association Scotland, in partnership with Soil Association Certification, will be hosting the inaugural Scottish Organic Gathering on November 20th at Balcaskie Estate in Fife.

The event comes against a backdrop of booming support for organic farming by the Scottish government, leading to a surge in Scottish farmers converting to organic.

The event will bring established organic businesses together with farmers, supply chain stakeholders and policy voices to shape the next chapter for Scottish organic.

The organic market is growing UK wide. The Organic Market Report published earlier this year showed continued strong growth of 7.3% for the market in 2024, with organic unit sales growing four times more than non-organic in major retail settings. This growth has continued throughout 2025, with the latest just-released figures showing that organic food and drink sales have grown by 8.8% in value and 4.4% in units, outperforming non-organic at 3.7% and 0.9% respectively (Nielsen IQ June 20251).

Despite this, the percentage of land farmed organically has remained stagnant at 3%.

Yet in Scotland there has been an upsurge in land converted to organic, helped by the Scottish Government’s clear backing of organic farming through the forthcoming Scottish Organic Action Plan. The latest figures from Defra have revealed that Scotland is now markedly outperforming England, Wales and Northern Ireland in the growth of organic land area with 2025 being the sixth consecutive

year of growth. Scotland saw a 13% increase in organic farmland (including land in conversion) in 2024, bringing its total to 131,500 hectares.

In contrast, England recorded a marginal 1% rise to 502,800 hectares, while Wales saw an 11% decline, falling to 68,300 hectares.

There has also been an increase in land used for growing organic oats and wheat. The latest figures show the area used for growing organic cereals in 2024 was nearly 5000ha, up 34% from 2018. Organic dairy cattle numbers are also up 18% since 2018 and organic sheep numbers upby 10%2.

Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands said:

“The significant increase in organic land managed under the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) is a testament to Scotland’s commitment to sustainable farming and environmental stewardship. As at the end of 2024, we’ve seen over 49,000 additional hectares of converted and maintained organic land under AECS management, representing a

remarkable 69% increase since 2021.

“This progress brings us closer to meeting our ambitious Programme for Government target of seeking to double the area of land used for organic farming by 2026. Scotland’s farmers and land managers are playing a vital role in enhancing biodiversity, tackling the climate crisis, and building a sustainable future for our rural communities and islands.”

David McKay, Co-Director of Soil Association Scotland and Head of Policy in Scotland says “The recent growth in organic land area has been driven by Scottish Government policy - with consistent support for conversion and maintenance through the Agri Environment Climate Scheme, and the removal of the area caps on conversion.

“This has been backed up by a clear political commitment to doubling the organic land area, and delivery of a new Organic Action Plan.

“We know from international experience that action plans can be effective in helping to develop markets for organic produce.”

While organic sales in Scotland make up a smaller share of the market than the UK as a whole (less that 1% according to Kantar Worldpanel take home purchasing 52 week ending April 2025), it has nevertheless seen the strongest growth in organic engagement according to Kantar Worldpanel.

As Scottish organic agriculture grows, Soil Association and Soil Association Certification believe its time to get more Scottish grown, organic products onto retailer’s shelves and UK dinner plates and find new routes for organic produce.

Various panels at the Scottish Organic Gathering will set out ways to do this, including getting organic into catering with Stuart Aitken, Head of Food Scotland at catering giants BaxterStorey and successful marketing interventions for positioning organic on the shelf with Alexandra Sadler of Edinburgh University.

Adrian Steele, organic farmer and Organic Sector Development Advisor at Soil Association will also lead panels on making the “whole organic farm” pay and discussing organic impact at a farm-level.

The dynamic event- which is free to attend- will include a Farm tour of Balcaskie Estate, a farm currently in organic conversion to showcase organic systems. There will also be a locally sourced organic lunch, demonstrating first-hand the amazing organic produce coming from Scotland’s fields.

Whether you’re new to organic, a seasoned grower, a processor, buyer or advisor — this is your chance to be part of a growing movement and help scale organic in Scotland.

LAMMA Show 2026: The Ultimate Showcase for Agricultural Innovation

Get Your Free Ticket Today!

Attention all farmers, farm managers, and agricultural professionals! The UK’s largest and most influential exhibition for agricultural machinery, technology, and equipment innovation is returning for another exciting edition. The LAMMA Show 2026 is set to take place on 14-15 January 2026 at the NEC Birmingham, co-locating with CropTec and Low Carbon Agriculture to create a one-stopshop for the agricultural industry.

This event promises to be bigger and better than ever by joining forces with the nation’s leading knowledge hub for arable farmers, and the UK’s only event dedicated to sustainable carbon reduction practices. The 2026 show will feature exclusive machinery launches, cuttingedge technologies, and expert seminars that will help shape the farming industry and provide an inclusive future-focused exhibition experience in 2026.

Why Attend LAMMA 2026?

LAMMA is not just an exhibition; it’s the ultimate destination for those looking to stay ahead in the agricultural industry, network with industry leaders, key suppliers and fellow farmers. With over 40,000 visitors and 600+ exhibitors expected to attend, LAMMA 2026 offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest developments in farming. Here’s why you simply can’t afford to miss it:

1. Discover Innovation

Agricultural machinery is evolving faster than ever, and LAMMA 2026 will be at the forefront of showcasing these innovations. From tractors and combines to arable machinery and grassland equipment, this year’s event will feature the best in agricultural advancements from both global brands and niche manufacturers. Expect to see exclusive machinery launches, UK debuts, and the latest tech designed to improve efficiency, productivity, and sustainability on your farm.

Notable brands like JCB, Fendt, Massey Ferguson, and New Holland will be present, offering a first-hand look at their newest products and innovations. These aren’t just static displays either, at LAMMA, you can watch live demonstrations and engage directly with the experts who created these groundbreaking machines.

2. Network with Industry Leaders

LAMMA 2026 isn’t just about machines; it’s about people. This is a key networking event for the agricultural sector, offering the opportunity to meet industry leaders, suppliers, consultants, and fellow farmers. Whether you’re looking to strike up partnerships, share insights, or just have a chat with like-minded professionals, LAMMA is the place to be.

With the launch of LAMMA’s new Dairy and Beef Hub for the 2026 exhibition, this show offers content and exhibitors encompassing the entirety of the agriculture sector. Brands such as Dairy Spares, Herdwatch

and Shearwell Data will be in attendance, broadening the show’s offering to highlight livestock innovation.

Connecting with exhibitors and attendees from across the UK and beyond will give you a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. It’s not only a chance to exchange ideas but also a valuable opportunity to learn from the experiences of others and bring fresh inspiration back to your business.

3. Gain Knowledge from Industry Experts

One of the highlights of LAMMA 2026 will be its comprehensive seminar and workshop programme. Thought leaders from across the agricultural sector will share their expertise on emerging trends, future technologies, and market conditions, helping you futureproof your farming operations. From sustainability in agriculture to the adoption of AI and automation, these sessions will arm you with the tools and knowledge you need to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

4. The Return of the Demo Arena

The much-loved LAMMA Demo Arena is back and better than ever in 2026! Here, you’ll have the chance to see the latest equipment in action, with live demonstrations of cutting-edge machinery. Manufacturers like JCB and Valtra will talk you through their newest developments and demonstrate how their equipment can transform your farming operations. If you

want to see the future of farming machinery in action, the Demo Arena is where you need to be.

5. Exclusive Product Launches

LAMMA is renowned for being the launchpad of industrychanging innovations. In previous years, we’ve seen major brands introduce game-changing equipment such as Krone’s GX Wagon in 2023 and McCormick’s X6 Tractor in 2022. For LAMMA 2026, even more exciting product debuts are expected, making it the epicentre of new releases that could transform the way you work on your farm.

Whether you’re interested in machinery, smart technology, or new farm management systems, LAMMA is the perfect place to get a sneak peek at what’s coming next.

Who Should Attend?

LAMMA 2026 is designed for anyone involved in agriculture, from farm owners to industry professionals. Here’s a breakdown of why different attendees should be at LAMMA:

• Farm Owners and Managers: Stay informed about the latest market trends and technologies to help keep your operations competitive. Learn about emerging methods, tools, and equipment that can improve productivity and profitability.

• Industry Professionals and Consultants: Get the insights you need to offer better recommendations and guidance to your clients. Attending LAMMA will ensure you’re equipped with the most up-

to-date knowledge about new innovations in the field.

• Researchers and Students: Dive deep into the latest technologies and innovations that are shaping the agricultural industry. The seminars and workshops offer a unique chance to understand the practical applications of cuttingedge research and technology.

Explore Job Opportunities at the LAMMA Careers Zone

If you’re looking for career opportunities in the agricultural sector, don’t miss the Farmers Guardian Careers Zone. This area is dedicated to showcasing a wide range of job opportunities and offering career guidance. Whether you’re a recruiter looking for talent or a job seeker eager to find your next role, the Careers Zone will have something for you.

Event Details:

• Dates: Wednesday, 14 January 2026: 8.00am-6.00pm Thursday, 15 January 2026: 8.00am-4.30pm

• Location: NEC, Birmingham

• Free Ticket Registration: Head to lammashow.com or use the QR code to register for your free ticket now!

Don’t Miss Out, Register Today!

LAMMA 2026 is the mustattend event for anyone serious about staying at the cutting edge of agriculture. With exclusive product launches, live demonstrations, networking opportunities, and expert-led seminars, this is your chance to explore the future of farming in one place.

Secure your free ticket today and mark your calendar for January 14-15, 2026. Join the agricultural community at LAMMA 2026 and drive the future of your farm forward!

Polycrub

Designed in Shetland for all seasons

With the best of the weather behind us, cooler days and shorter evenings signal the windier, wetter days to come. For growers –whether seasoned or just starting out - it’s the perfect time to take stock, prepare for winter, and start planning for the year ahead.

No matter the scale—whether you’re growing in a small garden or managing a croft or small farm—growers share many of the same goals: making the most of their space, increasing self-

sufficiency, extending the season and increasing the yield and variety of crops. The main desire is to undertake all this in a space that won’t disappear in a storm!

That’s exactly what inspired the people of Northmavine, a remote community in the far north of Shetland, to create the very first Polycrub.

Nearly 20 years ago, locals wanted to grow fresh produce undercover but couldn’t find a storm strength structure that could

withstand Shetland’s famously wild weather. So, they built their own—using repurposed materials from the aquaculture industry. Twelve growing spaces were created, each shared by three or four people. That was meant to be the end of the project.

But word spread. Others saw these super-strength structures and wanted one too. A social enterprise was born—and so was ‘Polycrub’. The name Polycrub is a nod to the companies’ Shetland heritage.

Historically, Shetlanders needed a sheltered space to grow-on young kale (cabbage) plants. Stone was their building material of choice, and they built round, stonewalled shelters to nurture plants through the toughest conditions. Locally, this structure is known as a ‘planticrub’. The building material of choice for the Polycrub is polycarbonate, so the company merged the name of their chosen 21st century material with a name from Shetland’s history.

Today, Polycrub reinvests profits back into the Northmavine community and supports growers across Shetland and beyond.

Whether you’re an experienced grower or just starting to think about growing your own, a Polycrub could be the perfect addition to your setup.

Polycrubs are:

• Accredited for crofting grants

• Ideal for small-scale growing and livestock

• Built to extend the growing season

• Designed to protect against the wildest of weather

And when the Polycrub company use the words, “storm strength,” they mean it. Certified by structural engineers to withstand wind speeds up to 120mph, Polycrubs are built to last. In fact, those original 12 community Polycrubs are still standing strong nearly two decades later.

Polycrubs are more than growing spaces—they’re also

sheds, lambie hooses, hen hooses community hubs and social spaces.

One community woodland installed a Polycrub for shelter, but it quickly became a multiuse social space. It hosts toddler groups, birthday parties, and even music nights (with surprisingly great acoustics!).

Polycrubs also support crofting diversification. Many crofters have accessed grants to grow fresh produce to sell in local shops and hotels or to start veg box schemes.

The Polycrub Opyl, with its opaque polycarbonate sheeting, is perfect for housing poultry, small livestock, or even as a storage shed. Crofters have reported improved animal health and productivity.

Polycrubs are permanent structures, so it’s wise for folk to check with their local planning authority before they settle on a purchase. In many cases, the builds come in under permitted development rights. If planning permission is needed, the Polycrub company can provide leaflets, ground plans, and

elevations to help with a planning application.

Whatever the Polycrub is used for, one thing’s certain: there’ll come a day when the wind is howling and the rain is lashing down—and you’ll be

inside your Polycrub, safe and dry, thinking just how glad you are to have it.

Join hundreds of happy ‘Polycrubbers’ and discover how a Polycrub can transform your growing space.

Making the Highlands More Business-Friendly: A Call to Action

By Malcolm Morrison

My heart and passion lie in the Highlands. I live and work here, and I want nothing more than to see this region thrive. I see opportunities everywhere – across tourism, hospitality, renewables, space, construction, and more.

Yet, despite the potential, we need to do far better in making the Highlands as business friendly as possible.

Encouragingly, recent research by Highlands and Islands Enterprise shows business confidence is on the rise. More than half of businesses surveyed expressed optimism, up from 44% at the end of last year, and nearly half are actively pursuing growth. That’s a positive sign that ambition is alive and well.

But optimism alone isn’t enough. The same survey also found that 80% of businesses are being held back by economic conditions, and 78% are struggling with the rising cost of doing business. These are not small challenges, and they are magnified in rural and island areas.

I know this firsthand. I run two businesses here: Melvich Bay Caravan Park, 17 miles west of Thurso, and GMG Energy, a sawmill in Caithness. Setting up

and running both ventures has brought rewards, but also plenty of hurdles.

Bureaucracy and red tape are part and parcel of the journey. My team and I have succeeded because we’ve been tenacious and hard-working. But if experienced operators like us find it difficult, how can we expect first-time entrepreneurs to navigate the same obstacles?

One of the biggest issues I believe is mindset. Too often, commercial thinking is lacking, and that makes it harder to move projects forward. This is not about cutting corners, but about creating a culture where business growth is encouraged.

Connectivity remains another major barrier. In today’s world, customers expect 24/7 access to services and communication. Yet broadband and mobile coverage across the Highlands still fall short.

At our sawmill, we’ve invested in Starlink to make sure we can compete, and while it’s excellent, it’s expensive and has capacity limits. With advances in technology, there’s no reason rural businesses should be left behind but we need investment now, not in five or ten years.

The HIE survey also highlights the importance of workforce, wellbeing, and premises as development priorities, alongside new domestic market opportunities. That matches my experience. Recruiting skilled people remains a real challenge, and when labour costs are rising and housing is scarce, it becomes even harder. If we don’t address this, we risk losing out on the very growth that is within reach.

And yet, there is so much potential here. Tourism continues to show promise, renewables are booming, and industries like construction and space are emerging as major opportunities. We shouldn’t ignore the fact that 65% of businesses see opportunities in tourism and 53% in renewables. That aligns with what I see every day: people want to invest here, they want to build here, they want to live here.

Access to funding is critical. If a business can demonstrate longterm benefits to the community and economy, then support should follow.

At Melvich Bay Caravan Park, for instance, we want to install a blue-water disposal site for motorhomes. It’s the right thing to

do – environmentally, socially, and economically. It would help keep the North Coast 500 clean, and while it may boost our bookings, the wider gain is far greater.

Without it, there’s little chance of such a facility being installed in the area any time soon. This is where Scottish Water, local authorities, and politicians must step up. Projects like these should not fall between the cracks.

The Highlands is not short of ambition, ideas, or opportunities. But if we want confidence to translate into growth, we must make it easier to do business here. That means cutting unnecessary bureaucracy, investing in infrastructure, supporting innovation, and working together, public sector, private sector, and communities.

The latest survey shows we are moving in the right direction, but optimism must be matched with action. If we can achieve that, then the Highlands won’t just be a beautiful place to live; it will be one of the most dynamic and businessfriendly regions in Scotland.

Malcolm Morrison is Director of GMG Energy and joint owner of Melvich Bay Caravan Park

Malcolm Morrison , GMG Energy

Melvich Bay Caravan Park - L to R - Malcolm Morrison and Angus Forbes on site

environment

AFBI appoints Agricarbon to undertake deep soil carbon stock assessment

The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), based in Northern Ireland, has appointed soil carbon measurement supplier Agricarbon as a delivery agent to support their ongoing research on farm soil carbon stock assessment. This work represents an intrinsic part of the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme (SNHS) and will contribute to a better understanding of soil carbon stocks in NI’s farmland.

Funded by Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and led by AFBI, SNHS aims to soil sample every active agricultural field in Northern Ireland and is one of the most comprehensive programmes in the world focusing on the measured nutrient status of soils. It enables farmers to optimise the application of crop nutrients to their soils to maximise yields and help increase farm profitability.

Alongside this, the scheme aims to provide a baseline assessment of farm carbon stocks in soils and under hedgerows, contributing to the research which will support lower carbon farming practices in Northern Ireland. By understanding soil carbon stocks, and potentially the ability of NI’s soils to sequester carbon, the research will support NI in achieving its national climate targets such as reaching net-zero carbon by 2050.

Agricarbon will lead the deep soil carbon sampling, to one metre in depth, and subsequent analysis within the carbon research element of SNHS on approximately 250 field sites across Northern Ireland. Agricarbon’s expertise in soil carbon stock assessment is wellknown in supporting farming

practices which enhance soil health as well as soil carbon sequestration across the agricultural system.

Dr Selva Dhandapani, AFBI Carbon lead on SNHS said: “Working together with Agricarbon will enable the AFBI team to attain a detailed assessment of belowground carbon stocks in grasslands. Their work in this project will reveal the amount of carbon stored in different soil depths, which helps with our modelling work in estimating total carbon storage in all of Northern Ireland’s grasslands and in predicting ideal management strategies for maximising soil carbon storage in these grasslands.”

Annie Leeson, CEO and CoFounder of Agricarbon said: “This partnership marks a critical step in empowering farmers with data that both unlocks environmental gains and long-term sustainability. Redefining how soil health and carbon are measured across agricultural landscapes is a vital climate tool. We’re increasingly contributing our expertise to projects like these looking for

robust carbon baselining that produces high-integrity soil data to help meet climate goals, in Europe and beyond.”

The deep soil carbon work that Agricarbon is conducting fills an important knowledge gap for farmers and policymakers in Northern Ireland. Sampling to a greater depth of one metre, combined with innovative laboratory analysis, will provide soil carbon data that would otherwise have been unaccounted for. This data will build an important picture to aid decision making on management practices for farms, and inform low carbon farming policies in NI, where agriculture remains one of the most defining features of rural identity and land use.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir MLA recently announced that 18,600 farm businesses are already benefitting from taking part in the Scheme overall. The final datasets from Agricarbon’s deep soil carbon sampling work will be combined together with the wider carbon research work

programme carried out by AFBI, arming researchers and educators with knowledge and vital insights to support the future resilience of the NI farming community and agri-food industry.

The work further builds on the foundations of the pioneering ArcZero NI project led by Professor John Gilliland, of which Agricarbon was a partner, which also measured soil carbon stocks across a network of predominantly grassland farms in NI. Its DAERA funded work found, for the first time, that farmers manage huge carbon stocks totalling tens of thousands of tonnes stored in soil, pasture, crops, trees and livestock, showing the significant capacity that agriculture has to capture, manage and store carbon.

This latest investment by DAERA into the SNHS Scheme shows how valuable soil carbon stock assessments are proving to be in contributing to the knowledge bank needed for a successful transition to sustainable farming in the country.

We must win the fight against illegal meat imports

Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture

Animal disease threats are escalating at home and abroad, we are experiencing the spread of infectious diseases to new areas and species and we are seeing rising antimicrobial resistance. That’s according to the recent report ‘Biosecurity at the border: Britain’s illegal meat crisis recently published by the EFRA Committee.

Additional action must be taken to tackle these growing problems and prevent any further escalation. That is why this government has written to the UK Government at least five times requesting urgent measures to improve biosecurity at our borders to stop preventable diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and African Swine Fever entering the country and devastating our industry.

The single confirmed case of FMD is estimated to have cost the German economy one billion euro and while the source of the outbreak is unknown German authorities believe the cause was likely accidental exposure to illegally imported food of animal origin.

Here in Scotland, we fund our own detector dog service and in 2024 they accounted for more than a quarter of all the seizures made by Border Force in Scotland - preventing

more than 1000kg - or one tonne - of restricted Products of Animal Origin (PoAO) from entering the country out of the 22 tonnes seized at Scottish airports, ports and parcel hubs.

But just last month Dover Port Health Authority seized over 10 tonnes of illegal meat across a two-week period, up a staggering 324% compared to the previous year. They are also calling on the UK Government to take action due to ‘a growing crisis at this critical border’.

We are working hard to protect our farmers and our iconic Scottish livestock sector but we need the UK Government to recognise the scale of the crisis the industry is facing, and more importantly take real action towards a solution.

That means increased resources and investment to improve biosecurity standards at border posts and a commitment to true inter-governmental collaboration with Scottish and Welsh Ministers to ensure we are taking targeted action to secure all of Britain’s borders against illegal meat imports.

We cannot be complacent, which is why I will continue to push the UK Government to finally take the necessary action to tackle this issue once and for all.

environment

Farming’s environmental footprint shrinks — but progress uneven across England, study finds

England’s farms have significantly reduced their environmental footprint over the past decade, according to new modelling that suggests greenhouse gas emissions and other forms of pollution are on a downward trend.

The study, which assessed intensive farming systems between 2010 and 2021 over 72,000 km² of farmland, found median reductions of 18% in both shortand long-term global warming potential, alongside a 21% drop in acidification potential. Eutrophication potential — the nutrient run-off that can pollute rivers and lakes — fell by 13%.

The changes reflect a marked restructuring of English agriculture. The area of land devoted to general cropping rose by nearly 4%, while land used for dairy contracted by 2%. Registered cattle numbers fell sharply, down by almost a quarter by 2016 and by 30% by 2021 compared with 2010 levels. Sheep and lamb numbers dropped even more dramatically, by more than 40%.

However, the improvements are uneven. While some water management catchments recorded reductions of up to 76% in certain environmental indicators, others saw little progress, with less than 5% improvement.

There were some significant changes between 2016 to 2021 for some crops and land use, including an increase for rotational grass, spring barley, peas and fodder crops and a substantial decrease in the area under permanent grass. There were also more minority crops being introduced as the area of land used for the ‘Other crops’ category expanded dramatically. There was also evidence for increased specialisation and intensification

as, relatively speaking, more arable crops were in cereal farms, more cattle on dairy farms and more sheep and lambs on lowland grazing farms by 2021.

The findings underline both the potential and the limitations of current farming practices in meeting climate and environmental targets. Researchers caution that it remains difficult to link modelled trends directly with on-the-ground monitoring data and stress the need for regular strategic assessments to inform national agricultural policy.

With climate change, energy insecurity and resource depletion creating mounting pressure on food systems, the authors argue that policy makers must combine regulation, financial incentives and practical advice to help farmers and land managers continue to cut their environmental impact.

“Farming is indispensable to feeding a growing population, but it must also become more sustainable,” according to Dr Yusheng Zhang who led the study. “Routine assessment of environmental footprints will be critical to building a climateresilient and economically viable agricultural industry.”

Study co-author Professor Adie Collins added, “Farm structure changes such as reductions in livestock and of embedded emissions in agrochemicals and fuels have contributed to the modelled results. Whilst spatial variations in the magnitude of change were inevitably predicted across the country, the findings clearly demonstrate, in the context of the current policy debate surrounding a potential Land Use Framework for England, how structural change in farms can deliver appreciable environmental benefits.”

science & technology

Vaderstad launches E-Connect –a cutting edge telematics tool

Väderstad has launched E-Connect, a cutting edge digital telematics tool, designed to help farmers monitor and manage their machinery operations more efficiently in real time.

E-Connect allows operators to track field work progress, analyse operational efficiency, and make informed decisions based on accurate, up-to-date data. With seamless integration it can connect with major Farm

Management Systems (FMS), ensuring that machine data can be integrated as a valuable part of the broader farm planning and analysis ecosystem.

“E-Connect turns machine data into decisions,” says Väderstad UK managing director Andy Gamble. “This will help farmers optimise performance, reduce downtime, and maximise field efficiency. We have designed E-Connect

with an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, allowing quick access to, and interpretation of data. It features an intuitive interface, giving farmers the flexibility to manage their operations on the go.”

E-Connect will be available for Väderstad seed drills, planters and tillage equipment machines fitted with a connected gateway, and it will start to roll-out during the beginning of 2026. Väderstad E-Connect will premiere at Agritechnica 2025.

The future of growing crops in Africa and Asia

The answer to how farmers in Africa and Asia could one day grow crops that are both resistant to a changing climate as well as being able to reduce methane emissions in cattle could be found in a laboratory in Scotland.

Using sophisticated screening equipment, scientists at SRUC in Edinburgh have been able to vastly accelerate the process of testing different genotypes of Napier grass, a popular forage in sub-Saharan Africa.

Their research showed that some grass samples were likely to generate three times as much methane following digestion than others. This suggests, say the scientists, that “it will be possible to select for low methane accessions that promote animal production”.

The UK-CGIAR Centre project – Defining new phenotypes for forage improvement based on rumen function and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions – is a partnership between SRUC and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and the

Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR).

The project is funded by UK International Development.

“Climate change has a significant impact on millions of livestock farmers, herders and their families across Africa and Asia,” explained Professor Jamie Newbold, who is leading the research.

“They face the double burden of needing to decrease environmental and climate footprints while producing more milk and meat and being negatively impacted by climate change impacts, such as heat stress, and increasing frequency and intensity of droughts and floods. There is an urgent need for modern approaches for transitioning low- and middleincome countries to climate smart and sustainable food systems.

“The variations we have found mean that it should be possible to identify plant accessions that are resilient to climate effects in terms of both biomass production

and lower methanogenic capacity. Future research will estimate the genetic correlation between traits and optimise methods to harness this novel source of variability for deployment in modern breeding and gene editing programmes to drive a step change in the productivity and resilience of livestock production in SubSaharan Africa and Asia.”

Dr Chris Jones, Principal Scientist, Livestock Genetics,

Nutrition and Feed Resources at ILRI, said: “Our initial thoughts were that variation in methane emissions would be closely correlated with forage digestibility. However, this is not necessarily the case, suggesting that other characteristics of the forage have an impact and making the ability to directly measure emissions from individual genotypes all the more important.”

Modern technology meets traditional crofting to boost island biodiversity

Crofters across Shetland, Ulva and the Outer Hebrides are adopting GPS technology to revolutionise how they manage their livestock, delivering benefits for themselves, their livestock, and local wildlife

Virtual fence collars are GPSenabled devices worn by cattle that allow farmers to control where their animals graze without the need for fences. The land manager draws virtual paddocks on a smartphone app and when the cattle approach these invisible boundaries, the collars emit warning sounds. If the animal continues forward, it receives a mild electric pulse (one-third the strength of traditional electric fencing). Within days, cattle learn to respond to the audio warning alone, rarely receiving any shocks.

This technology opens up previously inaccessible grazing areas without the expense and maintenance of traditional fencing. The collars are also beneficial for cattle welfare, allowing landowners to track and monitor their cattle, and the app will send an alert when an animal has been unusually inactive. Crofters can also exclude cattle from unsafe areas, for example boggy areas where the cattle might get stuck.

Cattle grazing is a key tool in conserving important wildlife habitats. As cattle graze, they remove coarse vegetation that competes with wildflowers, whilst spreading seeds and creating bare patches where new plants can establish. This allows a variety of plant species to flourish, which provides nectar sources for pollinators, which in turn attracts birdlife.

Traditional, low-intensity land management has benefitted Scotland’s biodiversity for centuries. Scotland’s coasts and islands, where traditional crofting is still practiced, provide a last

refuge for some of the country’s rarest and most vulnerable species, pushed to the edges by the agricultural intensification seen across much of the mainland. Species on the Edge, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, is a programme working with landowners and communities across Scotland to help ensure a future for these species on our shores. The programme has funded a total of 106 collars across Ulva, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides, to support the biodiversity-friendly land management practices that have sustained Scotland’s island communities, and wildlife, for generations.

Species on the Edge Programme Manager, Fiona Strachan, said: ‘It’s great to see this new technology being used across three of Species on the Edge’s areas to help several of our priority species in a way that works for landowners and their livestock too. These collars have great potential for managing habitat that can otherwise be really challenging and we’re pleased to have been able to provide these through Species on the Edge.’

Supporting rare moths in Ulva Ulva is home to the rare Transparent Burnet moth and the majority of the UK’s even rarer Slender Scotch Burnet moths.

However, encroaching bracken is threatening their habitat. Almost nothing eats bracken as it is packed with harmful chemical compounds that grazers and insects mostly avoid. Unchecked, it can grow dense and tall, damaging and crowding-out the species-rich grassland habitats these moths rely on.

Phil Bertin, a farmer on the Isle of Ulva, is using ten virtual fence collars funded through Species on the Edge. The collars have enabled Phil to graze his cattle on the south side of the island where the moths are found, in a vast area of land which he had previously been unable to graze due to a lack of fencing.

Modern tech

Anthony McCluskey from Butterfly Conservation, said: “This technology promises to be a real game-changer for managing sites like these. We have been able to work with Phil to draw up some maps of areas where grazing will be of benefit both to him and his local burnet moths.”

Working with crofters in the Outer Hebrides

Murdanie is a crofter on the Isle of Lewis who, thanks to funding from Species on the Edge, now has a virtual fence collar for each of his cattle. He said: “We out-winter our cows which is tough with the winters we get: lots of mud, loads of silage and concentrate feed. We started using NoFence collars to monitor our cattle and allow them to use unfenced areas, common grazings, and exclude boggy ground. And there is an additional benefit: environmental improvement.

Many people criticise cows as damaging, but by clearing unused crofts and chocked grassland, they allow grass and flowers to come through which is good for a range of species, including bees. More insects attracts birdlife and, by grazing the land, the deer do not want to encroach as near. In the old days when there was a lot of sheep and cows grazing, the deer rarely ventured off the moor. It also means the cows have a much more natural life by rotating round grasslands (we walk them between fields).

There is also visible improvement of the ground after cows have been there. Last year we had them grazing on Airidhantuim Common over part of the winter and the impact in the spring was vast: a great abundance of green grass and flowers.

All in all, the No Fence Collars are beneficial for all! Less feed, more used crofts, more wildlife, no mechanical topping, healthier cattle, and healthier land. We are hoping to identify and graze more areas around where we live over this coming winter.”

Protecting the ‘Shetland Bumblebee’ Shetland is home to one of the UK’s rarest bumblebees: Bombus muscorum agricolae, nicknamed the ‘Shetland Bumblebee’. A subspecies of the moss carder bee, the ‘Shetland Bumblebee’ can be found in Shetland, Orkney, some of the Scottish Western Isles and nowhere else in the world. To thrive, these bees need an abundant supply of nectar-rich wildflowers such as red clover and bird’s-foot trefoil throughout the summer.

Species on the Edge has distributed 46 Monil virtual fence collars among four crofters in Shetland to help with grazing, particularly of sandy dune and grassland sites. There are only a handful of these habitats in Shetland, and, when wellmanaged, they can provide an abundance of pollinator-friendly plants. The mobile dunes make fencing impractical, and as a result no livestock have grazed these areas for many years.

In the South Mainland of Shetland, four of local crofter Laura Sinclair’s cows have been fitted with collars and have recently started to graze on the sand dunes. This autumn, they will break down a matted layer of plant litter and will open ground for diverse wildflowers to grow next summer.

Laura said: “We are really excited about the collars and are hoping they will allow us to graze areas that don’t have suitable fencing for cattle. It’s also been useful for tracking the cattle and their whereabouts, particularly during calving.”

The collars also enable strategic grazing to help groundnesting birds like Curlew and Lapwing in Shetland’s wet grasslands. Each species has preferences; Lapwings look for short vegetation that allow them to keep a good view of their surroundings, whereas Curlews need more tussocky ground to hide their nests. The virtual fence collars allow cattle to be enclosed in areas where short vegetation is required for Lapwings and excluded from areas where nests need to be protected.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

crofting

By Donna Smith

In recent visits to the Western Isles, one hot topic has been that of increasing deer numbers and how this has changed over the years. There undoubtedly needs to be more active management of deer numbers and so as the first stage of the Natural Environment Bill reform process was drawing to a close, the SCF alongside the Scottish Tenant Farmers Association and on behalf of several other organisations, recently wrote to the Cabinet Secretary, Minister for Agriculture and the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee members proposing an amendment to the Bill which would allow for the killing or taking of deer on common grazings and in particular moorland by an authorised person which would significantly broaden the scope over current arrangements. We wait now for their response.

We also hosted a visit by members of the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee to some crofts on Skye. The purpose of the trip was to explore how the proposed

changes in the Crofting Bill might impact everyday life and to consider how far the Bill goes in addressing the key challenges facing crofting today.

It was a day of open and positive conversations, with lots of thoughtful questions from the Committee members, who told us they found the visit very valuable in deepening their understanding. Away from policy, the coming weeks for us will be focussed on our upcoming Gathering in mid November in Inverness. Entitled “From Croft to Kitchen: Eadar Croit it is Cidsin”, it will be both a celebration of how crofting is contributing to local food production, as well as exploring the challenges and barriers that still exist. With the Scottish Food Commission now established and more details about how the Good Food Nation Plan will look coming soon, the conversation about how we improve our food resilience as a nation is an important one and we feel crofting has a part to play.

The Loncin X-Wolf range

Loncin Are thrilled to announce that the Loncin X-Wolf range has been making waves in the Irish and UK markets for over five years now, with sales reaching impressive numbers month after month over the last two years. They have introduced a new parts website with a full inventory based in Ireland and the UK, ensuring top-class backup for our top-class products.

Loncin’s extensive range includes models from the Xwolf

200 all the way up to the Loncin Xwolf 1000, and they are excited to announce the launch of their new 550 UTV and 1000 UTV by the end of 2025. Additionally, they have plans for a thrilling new electric ATV!

The feedback from dealers and customers has been overwhelmingly positive, which reinforces their confidence in heavily investing in Loncin for 2026. Loncin’s new webshop, www.loncinorvparts.com, offers

detailed parts diagrams and pricing, enabling fast delivery and independence for customers and dealers to order parts online at any time. The competitive prices are just a click away!

Warranties can also be registered online, and any issues can be reported conveniently. All Loncin’s machines come with a full two-year warranty and are road legal for both UK and Irish roads.

With over 12 dealers in Ireland and 15 in the UK, Loncin is rapidly becoming a household name among dealers, farmers, and adventure riders.

If you haven’t already, you can speak to your local Loncin dealer and join the growing Loncin family.

For more information: www.loncinorv.co.uk

Kawasaki’s Brute Force 450 T-cat

The Brute Force 450 T-cat is Kawasaki’s first ATV to receive European WTVA approval for road-going certification, allowing it to be registered for both on-road and off-road use in applicable countries. This 443 cm³ CVT transmission-equipped machine falls within the T3b category, with a maximum legal road speed of 60 km/h.

Featuring a 24.4 kW (33.4 PS) single-cylinder, four-stroke engine that offers smooth and controllable power delivery, the vehicle’s drivetrain includes electrically selectable 2WD/4WD and a differential lock for maximum traction, making it versatile for various terrains.

The Brute Force 450 T-cat is designed with durability and functionality in mind. It offers a front rack capacity of 34 kg and a rear rack capacity of 68 kg. The vehicle also boasts a towing capacity of 476 kg, making it suitable for a wide range of work situations. Its compact body ensures easy manoeuvrability, while the independent suspension provides a comfortable ride. Take on any terrain with the Brute Force 450 – Built for What Drives You.

With the Brute Force 450 T-cat’s road-going certification, it opens up new possibilities for ATV users in the UK. Its powerful engine and advanced drivetrain systems make it suitable for both work and leisure activities.

Tough, reliable and versatile Suzuki ATVs

Nestled on the rugged north coast of Scotland, Joyce Bannerman Campbell and her husband Ian manage their sprawling 5,500-acre family-run farm, Armadale Farm, home to a flock of North Country Cheviot Hill ewes, cattle, and two holiday cottages. Since taking over from her grandparents, Joyce has embraced modern, sustainable farming methods, with her Suzuki ATVs now essential to daily life. Joyce owns three limited-edition Suzuki quads – two 500XPZ True Timber Kanati models and a 750XPZ Matt Rocky Grey. “These are the only machines we use every day on our farm,” she says. “From shepherding and cattle feeding to fencing and repairs, the ATVs handle it all. The 750 is a powerhouse – with a tipping trailer we carry heavy

equipment and feed, or logs and supplies to the farm’s holiday cottages and even the farm’s eight sheepdogs.”The ATVs are also vital to the farm’s 990-hectare peatland restoration project within the UNESCO-recognised Flow Country. “Restoring the peatland helps prevent flooding, reduce carbon emissions and improve biodiversity,” Joyce explains. “The Suzukis can cover sensitive terrain without causing damage. Their low ground pressure avoids imprints, helping protect the ecosystem.”Facing harsh winters and rough terrain, Joyce values the quads’ stability and comfort. “They feel really stable whatever the state of the ground. The T-shaped seat gives a smooth ride, and the power steering makes them easy to manoeuvre even on rocky or

boggy areas.”Joyce also praises her local dealer, W & A Geddes, for “excellent support and servicing,” and values Suzuki’s Datatag and Datatool security systems for added peace of mind.“We’re future-proofing our business through sustainable land management and diversification,”

she says. “My Suzuki ATVs are playing a massive part in achieving all of this.”Visit atv. suzuki.co.uk/find-a-dealer to find your nearest Authorised Suzuki ATV dealer, and while stocks last, receive a premium care package with every new KingQuad purchased.

The Kodiak 700 EPS from Yamaha

Yamaha ATVs are renowned for their durability, performance, and versatility, especially in demanding environments. Among their standout models is the Kodiak 700 EPS, a true workhorse designed for farmers, foresters, and industrial users who require a reliable off-road quad bike. Built to handle extreme conditions, this ATV combines rugged utility with rider comfort, making it ideal for long days on tough terrain.

At the heart of the Kodiak 700 EPS is the powerful 686cc high-torque engine, engineered to deliver consistent performance whether you’re hauling gear or navigating rough trails. Its compact chassis and plush seat ensure day-long riding comfort, while its impressive towing capability of up to 600kg make it a practical choice for heavy-duty tasks, along with the carrying

capacity of 140kg on the durable front and rear racks.

One of the key features that sets Yamaha ATVs apart is Electric Power Steering, which enhances manoeuvrability and reduces rider fatigue, especially during extended use. The industry leading Ultramatic® CVT transmission offers smooth, automatic gear changes, and the 2WD/4WD and Full 4WD with Diff Lock provides flexibility for different terrains and workloads, making it ideal for towing and continuous operation.

For added peace of mind the Kodiak 700, comes with the front mounted WARN winch as standard and a 10 year belt warranty, so you can have faith that your ATV will not only get you to where you need to go, but it will always get you back as well.

Whether you’re managing livestock, transporting supplies, or

maintaining remote property, the Kodiak 700 EPS is built to perform. It’s not just a machine—it’s an extraordinary work companion that transforms daily tasks into efficient, comfortable experiences.

Yamaha’s commitment to quality and innovation ensures that their ATVs remain a top choice for professionals who demand reliability and strength in their utility vehicles.

Ffermio Cymru

Gall technoleg wella effeithlonrwydd llafur fferm laeth a lleihau costau cynhyrchu, ond mae astudiaeth i Cyswllt Ffermio wedi dangos na fydd arbedion ac enillion ar fuddsoddiad bob amser yn mantoli ym mhob busnes.

Mae Rhodri a Siwan Jones yn cynhyrchu llaeth o fuches o 197 o wartheg sy’n lloia yn y gwanwyn ar fferm Penparc ger Llanerfyl, ar ôl trawsnewid fferm teulu Siwan o fferm bîff a defaid a buddsoddi mewn isadeiledd pori da.

Mae’r system wedi’i chynllunio i fod yn syml gyda chyfleusterau modern ac effeithlon â gosodiad da, ond a allai technoleg fel coleri canfod pryd mae buwch yn gofyn tarw a phorthwyr lloi awtomatig wella effeithlonrwydd a phroffidioldeb ymhellach?

Mae ymchwil Ein Ffermydd Cyswllt Ffermio wedi dangos manteision cyfyngedig coleri i fusnes y teulu Jones ei hun, ond enillion uwch ar fuddsoddiad (ROI) a chyfnod ad-dalu cyflymach gyda phorthwyr lloi awtomatig.

Roedd porthwyr yn cynnig ROI o 14%, gan dalu amdanynt eu hunain o fewn saith mlynedd, tra bod y cyfnod ad-dalu yn dyblu ar gyfer coleri gwartheg a gwnaeth yr ROI haneru, ar 7.2%.

Fodd bynnag, cynghorir defnyddio pwyll wrth ddehongli enillion ar goleri, meddai Conor Hogan, Rheolwr Rhaglen Llaeth yn Teagasc Moorepark, Iwerddon, a gynhaliodd yr astudiaeth ar ran Cyswllt Ffermio.

“Os gwireddir gwelliannau yn iechyd a ffrwythlondeb buches, byddai’r ROI yn gwella’n sylweddol o’i gymharu â’r amcangyfrifon hyn,” meddai Conor, a gynhaliodd yr astudiaeth yng nghyd-destun gwella perfformiad, effeithlonrwydd llafur, a chydbwysedd rhwng bywyd a gwaith ar ffermydd, a hynny trwy ddefnyddio technolegau.

Astudiaeth yn dangos pam mae’n rhaid ystyried gwario arian ar dechnoleg fesul fferm

Roedd ei gyfrifiadau ar gyfer porthwyr lloi yn seiliedig ar system dwy orsaf gyda chost gyfalaf o £11,000 i fwydo o leiaf 45 o loi benyw.

Er iddo ddarganfod na fyddai’r rhain yn cael unrhyw effaith sylweddol ar berfformiad nac iechyd lloi ar fferm Penparc, byddai’r arbedion llafur yn dod i gyfanswm o £1,525 y flwyddyn, a byddai hyblygrwydd ychwanegol yn y system am na fyddai angen bwydo lloi yn syth ar ôl i wartheg gael eu godro.

Ond i’r teulu Jones, byddai anfantais bosib i hyn. “Efallai y byddai angen cadw lloi dan do ac ar laeth am gyfnod hirach gan y gall porthwyr ymestyn y cyfnod magu lloi,” nododd Conor.

Ar gyfer coleri gwartheg, seiliodd ei ffigurau ar ddarparu’r rhain ar gyfer 185 o wartheg @ £110 y coler a buddsoddiad untro o £3,500 mewn uned ddarllen, a fyddai’n rhoi cyfanswm o £23,850.

Amcangyfrifwyd mai cyfanswm arbedion llafur blynyddol ar gyfer y cyfnod bridio 12 wythnos presennol fyddai £1,680, gan gynnig cyfnod ad-dalu o 14 mlynedd, er bod Conor wedi cyfrifo y gellid cynyddu arbedion llafur pe bai llafur yn y parlwr godro yn cael ei leihau o ddau unigolyn i un yn ystod y tymor bridio.

Dywedodd na fyddai coleri yn rhoi’r manteision sylweddol i’r teulu Jones y byddai systemau eraill eu rhoi iddynt o bosib, oherwydd, ar 81%, roedd eu cyfradd lloia chwe wythnos eisoes yn gymharol uchel tra mai 13% yw cyfradd buchod gwag y fuches.

“Mae’r perfformiad presennol yn awgrymu y byddai gwelliant ffrwythlondeb cyfyngedig yn cael ei gyflawni trwy fuddsoddi mewn coleri,” dywedodd Conor.

Er bod gan goleri fanteision o ran monitro iechyd hefyd,

gan fod data ar statws iechyd y fuches yn gyfyngedig ar hyn o bryd, dywedodd nad oedd modd iddo roi ystyriaeth i’r rhain wrth iddo ddadansoddi’r ROI.

Ond nododd: “Lle gellid cyflawni gwelliannau iechyd trwy ddefnyddio coleri, yn ogystal â’r manteision posib o ran gwelliant genetig trwy ddefnyddio semen yn ôl ei ryw yn fwy effeithlon, byddai’r ROI yn gwella’n gyflym.

“Mae’r data i ategu’r buddion o ddefnyddio coleri yn gyfyngedig ar hyn o bryd, a byddai angen cyfrifo’r buddion posib hyn fesul fferm.”

Fodd bynnag, byddai coleri yn lleddfu’r baich llafur adeg bridio i Rhodri a’i hwsmon, gan na fyddai angen iddynt arsylwi gwartheg yn barhaus –byddent hefyd yn ychwanegu hyblygrwydd yn ystod y tymor bridio.

Dywedodd Conor fod cynllun a chyfleusterau Penparc yn dda, ac roedd hynny’n dileu’r angen am fuddsoddiad brys mewn technolegau, a ddylai fod yn nod hirdymor yn ei farn ef.

Nododd y gallai grantiau, pan fyddant ar gael, gael effaith sylweddol ar leihau’r gost gyfalaf, gan wella’r buddion ariannol y mae wedi’u cyfrifo ar gyfer y gwahanol dechnolegau.

Er mwyn gwneud y mwyaf o’r enillion o unrhyw wariant, mae Conor yn argymell dilyniant buddsoddi wedi’i gynllunio, gan roi blaenoriaeth i’r hyn a all ddarparu’r budd mwyaf.

Ar gyfer Penparc, mae’n awgrymu y dylid rhoi technoleg awtomeiddio yn drydydd ar y rhestr, islaw gwelliannau yn yr isadeiledd pori a datblygu’r cyfleusterau.

Ei gyngor yw y dylid rhoi blaenoriaeth i wella ffrwythlondeb y pridd, ailhadu, a buddsoddi mewn traciau gwartheg, gan y gall y rhain ddarparu enillion economaidd cyflym a sylweddol o fuddsoddiad ac iddo gost gymharol isel.

Buddsoddi mewn cyfleusterau yw’r nesaf ar y rhestr, er mwyn lleihau’r amser godro, i wella dulliau trin anifeiliaid, ac i wneud y trefniadau ar gyfer storio slyri’n fwy effeithlon.

Yna gellir ystyried arloesiadau y profwyd eu bod yn lleihau’r llwyth gwaith ac arbed amser, fel porthwyr lloi awtomatig, ffyrdd awtomataidd o ganfod a yw buwch yn gofyn tarw, gatiau didoli, offer tynnu clystyrau awtomatig, offer golchi awtomatig ac unedau rhyddhau batt-latch, meddai Conor.

Gwasanaeth Mentora Cyswllt Ffermio yn

cefnogi entrepreneur ifanc o Bowys i dyfu busnes llwyddiannus yn dilyn heriau

Mae Charlie Cooper Harding yn unigolyn dynamig llawn cymhelliant o Bowys. Ac yntau ond yn 26 mlwydd oed, mae angerdd Charlie dros y diwydiant amaeth yn ddiamheuaeth, hyd yn oed heb gefndir ffermio. Mae Charlie wedi elwa o weithio gyda mentor Cyswllt Ffermio yn ddiweddar.

Mae’r Gwasanaeth Mentora ar gael i ffermwyr a thyfwyr o bob oedran ac o bob math o fusnes er mwyn elwa o arweiniad, profiad a gwybodaeth eu cymheiriaid yn y diwydiant amaeth. Mae’n arbennig o ddefnyddiol i fusnesau sy’n ystyried newid megis arallgyfeirio, ychwanegu gwerth, ehangu, neu ddechrau mentrau newydd. Mae hefyd yn fuddiol i newydd ddyfodiaid a’r rhai sy’n bwriadu gadael y diwydiant.

Er bod llwyddiant Charlie i’w weld yn rhwydd erbyn hyn, nid yw ei siwrnai wedi bod heb ei heriau. Mae’n rhannu cyngor gwych a buddion mentora gydag eraill a allai fod yn teimlo’r un fath.

Bwriad Charlie oedd dilyn ôl traed ei rieni yn Llundain, ond newidiodd trywydd ei yrfa wedi iddo weithio gyda chontractwr ffensio lleol ac ar fferm bîff yng Nghanolbarth Cymru. Sbardunodd y profiad hwnnw ddiddordeb sydd wedi tyfu’n angerdd dros y sector amaethyddol, lle mae bellach yn anelu at lwyddo ym mhopeth y mae’n ei wneud.

‘Y nod i mi erioed oedd dod o hyd i rywbeth yr wyf yn ei fwynhau ac i wneud gwahaniaeth.’

Bu Charlie yn gweithio fel Arbenigwr Gwerthiant Rhanbarthol ar ran Wynnstay Group PLC. Fe wnaeth ei rôl fel Llysgennad Myfyrwyr a Ffermwyr Ifanc gyda’r NFU gynnig cyfleoedd rhwydweithio gwerthfawr. Mae’n dweud ei fod yn credu’n gryf mewn dysgu gan bawb mae’n eu cyfarfod, a bod hynny’n allweddol

i’w lwyddiant. Yn 2022, enillodd Charlie ysgoloriaeth HCC, gan ei alluogi i deithio i Chile.

Wedi iddo gymhwyso i ymaelodi â Cyswllt Ffermio o dan y categori newydd ddyfodiaid, mae Charlie wedi defnyddio nifer o’r gwasanaethau a gynigir gan y rhaglen sydd wedi cefnogi ei fentrau a’i ddatblygiad personol. Mae’r rhain yn cynnwys modiwlau e-ddysgu gan ganolbwyntio ar ddatblygu busnes, ffrwythloni artiffisial, rhagori ar bori ac yn fwyaf diweddar, y Gwasanaeth Mentora.

Gyda sgiliau busnes cryf ac agwedd agored tuag at syniadau newydd, mae Charlie yn dymuno tyfu nifer o fusnesau, ond mae’n cyfaddef nad yw’r daith wedi bod yn hawdd bob amser. Mae wedi wynebu heriau ac anawsterau ar hyd y ffordd, a dyna pryd y cysylltodd gyda Lilwen Joynson o’r tîm mentora. Mae hi wedi bod yn rhan o’i daith, gan ddarparu cymorth i’w helpu i gyflawni ei nodau.

Mae Lilwen Joynson, sydd â chefndir mewn ffermio bîff, defaid a llaeth, wedi bod yn gweithio fel mentor ers 2017. Mae Lilwen yn helpu entrepreneuriaid gwledig i ddatblygu busnesau newydd. Mae’n angerddol dros gynorthwyo pobl ym myd amaeth i gyflawni eu potensial ac i fod yn fwy cynhyrchiol fel pobl fusnes. Mae hi’n gwneud hyn drwy eu dysgu i archwilio eu busnesau eu hunain mewn modd gwrthrychol.

Mae Lilwen hefyd yn Arweinydd Agrisgôp gyda Cyswllt Ffermio, sy’n defnyddio dulliau cymell mewn sefyllfa grŵp trwy ‘ddysgu gweithredol’.

Bydd ei phrofiad fel hwylusydd yn eich annog i osod nodau clir a’u cyflawni. Pan fyddwch yn gadael y cyfarfodydd, byddwch chi’n teimlo’n bwerus ac yn atebol, gydag amserlenni a chamau

gweithredu penodol wedi’u hamlinellu gan fod y cymorth yn amrywiol ac wedi’i deilwra ar eich cyfer chi.

‘Ni allwch ganolbwyntio’n gyfan gwbl ar eich busnes ac anwybyddu eich calon. Rydych chi’n dod yn fwy ymwybodol gyda mentor neu hyfforddwr, a gallwch symud oddi wrth sefyllfaoedd anodd i agwedd mwy cytbwys,” meddai Lilwen, sydd hefyd yn rhedeg rhaglen i ymdrin â straen, sef ‘Stress to Success’, a ddarperir yng nghategori Grŵp Gweithredu Busnes Gwasanaeth Cynghori Cyswllt Ffermio. Nod y gweithdy deuddydd yw eich helpu i feistroli eich meddylfryd ac i reoli’r teimladau cyfnewidiol. Gydag opsiynau wyneb yn wyneb ac ar-lein, y nod yw lleihau straen a magu meddylfryd llwyddiannus. Trwy ddysgu i dawelu’r sŵn allanol a chanolbwyntio ar eich meddyliau, gallwch ddatblygu agwedd dawelach a dull mwy cynhyrchiol o fyw a gweithio.

Mae Lilwen yn disgrifio Charlie fel un sydd â meddwl penderfynol a ffyniannus, sy’n llawn syniadau newydd. Er bod hyn yn ased sylweddol er mwyn cyflawni, mae Charlie yn cyfaddef bod ei feddwl yn gallu bod yn un o’i rwystrau pennaf ar adegau. Mae’r gallu i siarad gyda rhywun fel Lilwen wedi bod yn brofiad positif iawn i Charlie. Mae’n dweud bod yn well ganddo, fel llawer o bobl eraill, godi’r ffôn, ac mae hi bob amser ar gael i ateb ei alwadau gydag arddull fentora sy’n seiliedig ar gymell.

Roedd Charlie wedi cyrraedd sefyllfa o ‘orlwytho personol’, sy’n deimlad cyffredin wrth sefydlu busnes newydd a mentro ar hyd llwybrau newydd. Roedd Lilwen yno i wrando, gan ei gynorthwyo i brosesu ei deimladau. Mae pobl yn ymdrin ag argyfyngau mewn gwahanol ffyrdd, a dewisodd

Charlie droi at fentor. Mae cael gwasanaeth mentora gan Lilwen wedi rhoi cyfle i Charlie siarad gydag arbenigwr a oedd yn gwrando er mwyn cael gwell dealltwriaeth o’r hyn yr oedd yn ei brofi. Buont yn cydweithio i ddod o hyd i ateb.

‘Mae gofyn am help yn arwydd o gryfder. I mi, mae’n amlwg - rydych chi’n gofyn i bobl am atebion i gwestiynau nad oes gennych atebion ar eu cyfer. Mae’n gyfle i ddysgu.’

Rhannodd Charlie mai un o’r strategaethau newydd y mae wedi’i datblygu o ganlyniad i weithio gyda Lilwen yw sut i ymdrin â straen yn well, a sut i adnabod pan mae ei feddwl yn llawn a’i bod hi’n amser cymryd seibiant. Mae ei ddulliau o leihau straen yn amrywiol, ac yn dibynnu’n helaeth ar y diwrnod.

Trwy ei agwedd benderfynol a gwell dealltwriaeth ohono’i hun, mae Charlie wedi cyrraedd lle positif yn ei fywyd personol a phroffesiynol. Mae’n gweithio fel maethegydd ar gyfer ffermwyr bîff a llaeth ledled Cymru fel rhan o raglen ‘Dairy Diagnosis.’ Mae’n ymdrin ag adroddiadau ffrwythlondeb a chostau fferm, yn darparu’r hyn sydd ei angen ar ffermwr gan ganolbwyntio ar faeth.

Shear Power from Albutt

As winter approaches Albutt have been busy building stocks of their market leading Shear Grabs to feed every farm from small stock units to the largest Anaerobic digesters.

The farm based family firm based in Gloucestershire, England have been producing materials handling attachments for over 50 years and have become the market leader known for producing products up to a quality rather than down to a price.

The standard capacity shear grab range has proven heritage with over 20 years of production and almost 6000 units being sold, used and trusted in the UK, USA, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and beyond.

This range starts with the 1.3m wide, 0.7m3 ideal for skid steers and small tractor loaders and runs to the 2.5m wide, 1.3m3 S251HX ideal for modern telehandlers by being wide enough to get tight to a clamp wall even when the machine is 8ft wide. Either bolt in forged tines or Hardox tines are available with Hardox now being by far the preferred option due to their strength, wear properties, improved silage retention and one piece construction. Over the years the range has been tweaked and improved with the latest version having an impressive opening of 850mm, 90mm bore rams for superior cutting force and Hardox blades as standard for impressive cutting and low maintenance. The 3 ram versions feature a superior centre cutting action, inherently reducing silage entrapment, created by pushing the centre tines closer together and lowering the blade to give an improved scissor action.

The range has also received many subtle but vital improvements to improve life on the farm. Ported cylinders and improved hose routing to prevent damage from silage, increased covering plates over the towers to prevent build up around pivots and improve strength, and more gussets around pivot pins to increase support and increase the life of the product.

For the larger livestock farms and Anaerobic Digesters, Albutt produce the Shear King and Shear King Mini Ranges from 1.6m3

up to the mighty 2.5m3 ideal for loading shovels.

These ranges were developed to meet customer requirements to cut out and move large volumes of silage to feed large quantities of animals and hungry digesters. The Albutt design team took this project in their stride and developed a product now trusted worldwide, even feeding large feed lots across Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Japan. Using high tensile Hardox and Strenx steels the team produced a Shear Grab

that works efficiently with these increased duty cycles.

With the advent of robotic dairy farming came the necessity of a way of cutting and placing blocks for robot feeders to self fill. The design team once again stepped up to produce a push off system which allowed clean blocks to be simply placed.

When it comes to Maize and Wholecrop, Albutt have got it covered with either the range of Shear Buckets or defacers. The Hardox tined defacers allow

large quantities of silage to be removed quickly from a silage clamp, which lands loosened on the floor, ideal for scooping up and loading straight into a digester. The Shear Bucket range also allows for improved silage containment over the forks. By having a reinforced bucket with a sharp Hardox blade on each front edge in place of the fork, the

bucket can cut in fully, cut out a clean block and the carry it to its destination without spillages.

Whether you are trying to load your diet feeder or anaerobic digester Albutt have the right Shear Grab for you.

For the right Shear Grab with strength, longevity and superior cutting performance, choose Albutt.

Law and Social Media –Perils and Opportunities

By David McKie Partner, Levy McRae Solicitors LLP

Some of you may have had the misfortune of reading my previous article within the shooting section of the magazine in the last edition. You may have thought you were going to get a break from me, but I’m afraid I am back to talk about another area of practice which is of considerable interest to me.

As well as looking after many landowners, farmers and gamekeepers for over 20 years, I also have an extensive media law practice. I have represented (and continue to represent) newspapers, radio stations, TV stations, social media outlets and private citizens who have either wanted to keep stories out of the press or to find a way of telling their story in a positive way. Social media has changed the way media works and indeed the way people think these days. I am in no doubt that the recent trend towards polarised politics is largely a function of the new world we live in. Every person who has an iPhone or computer is either an amateur journalist or commentator.

With that comes some risk for everyone, but this is designed to give some practical advice to farmers and landowners or indeed anyone else interested in rural pursuits who might want to think about how one should approach social media content.

The first thing to say about social media content is that, however many privacy settings one has, anything can be screenshotted, saved and used. I have dealt with many cases through the courts where screenshots are retained for years, and sometimes over a decade before being reproduced and used in prosecutions or civil cases against clients. The first thing, therefore, always to remember before you post anything on social media, or even send anything through WhatsApp, Snapchat or text, is that, once it leaves your phone, you lose control of it. In 99.9% of cases, that is absolutely fine and these devices are now essential means of communication, but I would stress the importance of not sending text or WhatsApp in anger, especially if it is on a controversial subject or something involving acrimony in your personal life. I would also pause before sending on what you might consider to be humorous material which turns out to be offensive. Please remember also

that trends in comedy change too and that what might have been deemed amusing 10 years ago, has now been cancelled. I’m afraid this is the new world we are living in.

That message is increased all the more when I give advice on social media content. Much social media content is in the public domain and if you don’t have privacy settings (or indeed those on whose page you are posting don’t), either a post or a comment suddenly can become public property. A vast amount of material in mainstream media is lifted from social media. Anything you say in a public setting is more or less fair game. Please think carefully about the impact it might have, not only on your reputation, but on your family and on your business before commenting.

Finally, without wanting to create too much panic among the readership, there are criminal implications in certain things that people say. We have seen the arrests of people from all walks of

political life for what might until recently have been considered to be free speech.

I promise now to be a little more positive.

Social media can also be an opportunity for you to promote your business, to stay in contact with friends and business associates and to reconnect with people. There are many social media sites where promoting your business can be achieved through social media networks. As a general rule, most farmers are too busy to be posting material online, but social media networks can be used as an opportunity to send positive messages, as well as making important political statements. Despite what I have said above, I am not discouraging anyone from either having or expressing an opinion. It always needs to be carefully managed.

As a lawyer, I have seen a growth in court actions arising from disputes in social media. Defamation laws used to be almost inclusive to newspaper articles or television programmes, but no longer.

My message to you is not to stay off social media, but to use it in a careful and considered way which can get your message across, can promote your business, but in a way which avoids trouble.

David McKie

Gilmour Lawrie, Chairman AgriScot

Welcome to this years’ Preview of AgriScot 2025

By AgriScot Chairman, Gilmour Lawrie

For over twenty years, AgriScot has played a key role in my farming business and that of the agricultural sector. Having attended since it first launched, I have seen it grow and become a key date in the diary, where thousands come together to do business, find out about the latest innovations, see first-hand some of the new machinery and services available, and as importantly, catch-up over a coffee or two.

Working with the brilliant team who deliver the event and speaking to many of the exhibitors who are joining us, it is clear AgriScot continues to be a place that offers solutions and positive thinking, supporting our sector to navigate some of the challenges that we face – many out with our control.

Once again, our exhibition halls are full, with over 240 trade stands from renewable energy, nutrition and feeding equipment to data, consultancy and financial services. Following the successful demonstrations last year, both Te Pari with their sheep handling system, and the beef demonstration delivered by SRUC and the Aberdeen Angus Society will be offering some live interactivity. Our dairy classes, which have received the highest number of entries in a decade, will be running, with the new addition of a Youngstock class, ensuring we continue to empower the next generation of Agricultural leaders. And we will be celebrating the winners of our awards including Silage and Product Innovation.

2025 also marks 15 years since the launch of the AgriScot Business Skills Award, which has played a key role in developing skills and networking of all those who have participated, as well as the finalists and winners. There will be a special celebration of the competition, in the main ring, along with the announcement of this year’s winner, who takes home a £1000 to put towards their future progression.

I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to our sponsors, exhibitors, and the many businesses whose support AgriScot, making the event possible.

See you all on Wednesday 19th November at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston as we connect, learn, and discover all that AgriScot has to offer.

Gilmour Lawrie AgriScot Chairman

General event information

AgriScot takes place on Wednesday 19th November at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, with exhibition doors opening at 9.00am and closing at 5.00pm. It is located within walking distance of Edinburgh airport, and just a short distance by tram from Edinburgh City Centre and mainline rail networks. If travelling by road, car parking is free.

For those wishing to make the most of their visit to Edinburgh, a range of budget and premium hotels are located next to the venue, including a Moxy, Travelodge, Holiday Inn Express, Premier Inn, Hilton by Hampton, Hilton Doubletree and Norton House Hotel.

To find out more about AgriScot visit www.agriscot.com.

Register for express, free entry and be in with a chance of winning a box of Wagyu steak

Supported by Warrendale Wagyu, one of the UK’s leading beef supply chains, producing the highest quality British Wagyu beef, visitors will have the chance to secure their ticket ahead of AgriScot on Wednesday 19th November 2025, ensuring they receive express entry.

In addition, any preregistrations will be invited to enter a competition to win a box of Wagyu steaks, kindly donated by Warrendale Wagyu.

With over 240 trade stands, seminars, workshops, demonstrations and competitions, AgriScot Chairman Gilmour Lawrie emphasised the importance of joint collaborations and why the event is so relevant for UK farm businesses:

“This new partnership reflects the collaborative growth

that is at the heart of AgriScot and, thanks to our partners including Warrendale Wagyu, ensures we can continue to deliver the event free of charge for our visitors.

“Many of our exhibitors return year after year, and over the last two decades, we have seen our visitor numbers grow, with many seeing the event as their annual business networking opportunity. We know from our visitor surveys that it has become an invaluable day for developing partnerships, establishing industry insights and supporting businesses, as they plan for the year ahead.

“I would encourage anyone who is planning to attend to preregister so they make the most of the day, and they may even win some delicious meat!”

Jamie Brownrigg, Production Director for Warrendale Wagyu shared why AgriScot is a key event for their team:

“We are really excited to be sponsoring Visitor Registration for AgriScot. The event is one of the highlights in our events calendar and it is such a wellorganised and great quality event, that we always get a lot out of and we know farmers and industry professionals do too.

“For us, Scotland is a strategic priority in terms of our plans. Not only does it offer amazing grazing opportunities for farming, but the UK also has some of the highest welfare and quality standards, combined with a landscape that is enhanced by cattle. That makes it a really convincing opportunity for not just the domestic market, but also the export market.

“At Warrendale, we have cattle with a superb temperament, that are robust and produce great quality meat. Our supply chain is based on fairness and transparency from producing through to rearing, growing and finishing. Our farming community really appreciate the assured cash flow, long-term contracts and support from the family-owned company. We are really looking forward to talking to farmers and exploring how we can work together. Find us located on stand 98 in the Highland Hall on 19 November at AgriScot.”

To secure your ticket with complimentary parking, preregister today at www.agriscot. co.uk.com.

AgriScot Timetable

Time Event

9.00am Exhibition Doors Open

9.00am Farmstrong Breakfast: Blether Together

2

9.100am Silage Competition Results – Sponsored by Watson Seeds Show Ring

9.15am Dairy Competition – Inaugural Youngstock Classes start in the judging ring Show Ring

10.00am Seminar : NFUS Seminar – NFU Scotland head-to-head debate and Q&A Seminar

10.30am Demonstration : Automated Sheep Handling Demo with Upland Hall The Sheep Game’s Cammy Wilson and Sponsored by Te Pari

11.00am Heifer Championships – SuperHeifer Announced Show Ring

11.00am Seminar : Scottish Land LiDAR Programme (Scottish Government)

Foyer

2

11.30am Demonstration : Beef Demonstration – Beef from the Dairy: Looking at efficiency, Show Ring emissions and markets for these cattle

11.30am Seminar : Start Planning Now for Changes to Inheritance Tax (with Turcan Connell)

1

Time Event

12.00pm AgriScot Scottish Farm of the Year Presentations Show Ring

Scottish Arable Farm of the Year – Sponsored by SoilEssentials and Supported by AHDB

Scotch Beef Farm of the Year – Sponsored by ABP and Supported by QMS

Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year – Sponsored by GEA

Scottish Diversified Farm of the Year – Sponsored by EQ Accountants and Supported by Scottish Agritourism

Scottish Mixed Farm of the Year – Sponsored by Thorntons and Supported by NFUS

Scottish Sheep Farm of the Year – Sponsored by Rumenco and Supported by QMS

Scottish Sustainable Farm of the Year – Sponsored by Virgin Money and Supported by Scottish Land & Estates

Business Skills Competition Results Announced – Sponsored by Virgin Money and organised by SRUC

Best Stall Award Presentation – Sponsored by Fullwoodhead Dairy Supplies

12.15pm Seminar : Grain Market Outlook (with AHDB)

12.30pm RSABI Annual General Meeting

1.00pm Dairy Competition – Judging of the country’s top dairy cattle continues. Show Ring

1.00pm Scottish Dairy Hub Question Time Event

Time Event Location

1.30pm Seminar : The Future of Scottish Renewables and Upper Foyer Electricity Infrastructure Post-Grid Reform (Gate 2) (with Davidson & Robertson) Room 2

2.00pm Demonstration: Automated Sheep Handling Demo with Upland Hall The Sheep Game’s Cammy Wilson and Sponsored by Te Pari

2.15pm Seminar: Proteins in Perspective: Is this the End of the Road for Soya? (with Norvite)

2.45pm Seminar : Reducing Antibiotic Use on Farm: Practical Tools and Future Solutions (with Moredun)

Upper Foyer Room 1

Upper Foyer Room 2

3.15pm Dairy Classes Prize Presentations – SuperCow announced. Show Ring

3.30pm Seminar : Turning Policy into Practice (with SAC / SRUC)

5.30pm Doors Close

Upper Foyer Room 1

AgriScot 2025 Seminar Sessions: Actively preparing for change in the future of farming

The AgriScot 2025 seminar programme is a cornerstone of the farm business event in November, offering a platform for knowledge exchange, technical updates, and innovative solutions. Alongside the main ring demonstrations, competitions and extensive trade exhibition - featuring over 230 stands – the seminars exist to provide farmers and stakeholders with useful insights to help navigate the future of Scottish farming.

Held across two rooms, the topics have been curated to

provide insight and innovation in a broad spectrum of topics and bring together some of the key voices in Scottish agriculture. These discussions are practical guidance and solution-led approaches, ensuring those in attendance, or watching the live streams online, benefit from the seminars.

NFU Scotland’s head-tohead debate and Q&A session with Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie and President NFU Scotland, Andrew Connon will set the tone

- providing political context and insight from farming leaders and encouraging attendees to raise their concerns and voice their questions.

All the seminars are free to attend and can be found in the Upper Foyer of the Highland Hall at the Royal Highland Centre.

Read on to find out more about the full seminar programme.

Seminar Room 1

NFU Scotland: NFU Scotland head-to-head debate and Q&A seminar - 10:00am to 11:00am

Chaired by AgriScot’s Chairman Gilmour Lawrie, the annual seminar returns and will be joined by the Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie MSP and NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon. This important and timely debate will be limited on space due to popularity, therefore early arrival is advised to secure a seat and participate in a debate that will cover the biggest issues facing the industry.

Turcan Connell: Start Planning Now for Changes to Inheritance Tax - 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

Farmers have been grappling in recent years with political uncertainty in the form of land reform and other issues, and the 2024 Autumn Budget brought further challenges for farmers across the UK. The proposed reforms to inheritance tax from April 2026 mean that there are tax and succession challenges for all scales and sizes of farming businesses. This session will discuss a summary of the inheritance tax proposals announced in the Autumn 2024 Budget, where we are now, and what can be done before the changes come into force in April 2026.

Session speakers include Turcan Connell Partners Grierson Dunlop, Land and Property and Richard DouglasHome, Tax and Succession who says,

“AgriScot is a fantastic platform for those shaping the future of Scottish agriculture. I’m delighted to be hosting a

seminar on recent inheritance tax changes, and the steps that farming families can take now to mitigate the impact of those changes.”

Scottish Dairy Hub: Driving Dairy to a Sustainable and Profitable Future - 1:00 pm to 2.00 pm

Becki Reay, account and relationship manager for Kite Consulting will chair this year’s Scottish Dairy Hub annual seminar, putting sustainability and profitability at the centre of the debate.

Agricultural journalist and milk market analyst Chris Walkland will continue to set the scene before three industry leaders outline their visions for a profitable and sustainable future for the dairy sector.

Speakers for this panel are:

• Tim Lock, Dairy Sector Chair for Red Tractor

• Lyndon Edwards, chair of the AHDB Dairy Council 2025

• Mark Brooking, Chief Impact Officer at First Mik

Norvite: Proteins in Perspective: Is this the End of the Road for Soya? - 2.15 pm to 3.15 pm

With political forces everting pressure on protein feed materials, this session will explore such supplies from a variety of perspectives along the supply chain and investigate how EU Deforestation Regulations (EUDR), trade tariffs, market volatility and customer specifications will affect winter feeding decisions. The following industry leaders will address responsible sourcing and discuss potential feed supplies for the future, followed by a Q&A session:

• George Eddell, UK Head of Feeds, ADM.

• Dr Matt Palmer, Technical

Manager, Norvite.

• Tom Neill, Thornington Farm (ARLA Farmer)

• Retail Industry Representative, TBC.

SAC Consulting: Turning Policy into Practice - 3.30 pm to 4:30 pm

This interactive seminar will provide a practical discussion on how current agricultural policy, livestock nutrition strategies, and data-driven tools can be applied effectively on-farm. There will be an opportunity for the audience to ask questions and explore what real-world implementation looks like in 2025 and beyond.

Hosted by Jennifer Struthers from SAC Consulting, this year’s list of speakers include:

• Steven Thomson, Professor in Agricultural Economics and Policy at SRUC

• Lorna Shaw, Ruminant Nutritionist at SAC Consulting

“Lovol P5130 Quality Tractor, Affordable Price!”

• Julian Bell and Rachel Ramsey, Agrecalc

Seminar Room 2

Farmstrong Scotland: Blether Together - 9:00 am to 10:00 am Farmstrong Scotland will bring to the session, a ‘Blether Together Live’. These series of events are designed to bring farmers and crofters together in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Delivered in partnership with SAYFC, the session will feature a Farmstrong chat around what guest speakers do to help them function well and feel good. In addition, they will discuss the positive impacts of being part of SAYFC.

This event will be hosted by Blether Together Live host, Sarah Stephen, who will be speaking with guests:

Catriona Gemmell, member of SAYFC

Jack Young, AgriScot Business Skills Winner 2022 and member of SAYFC

Schoolbrae Garage, Methlick, Ellon AB41 7DS Tel. 01651 806911 www.marrsofmethlick.com

We have become the Scottish importers for Lovol Tractors who have a range of quality tractors from 25-420hp. These tractors have all the specifications required for the demanding Scottish market. Our compact Utility “M” range is from 25-90hp, with our “P4000 & 5000 ranges from 110-160hp, and 7000 range at 240hp CVT being the flagship of the tractors available for our UK market at this time.

Scottish Government: Scottish Land LiDAR Programme11:00am to 12:00pm

The Scottish Government seminar will introduce the new Scottish Land LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) Programme. Announced by the First Minister in February 2025, this programme will deliver the first national LiDAR map for Scotland and work with research institutes in Scotland to deliver mapping and information products to support our environment and climate resilience.

LiDAR provides highly accurate, detailed threedimensional maps of our farmland, peatlands, forests and built environment. By using laser pulses to measure distances, it precisely captures topography, vegetation structure and subtle variations in elevation that affect water flow and soil health.

AHDB: Grain Market Outlook12:15 pm to 1:15 pm

Followed by a Q&A session, AHDB’s seminar will focus on sustainability with a Scottish cereals and oilseeds market outlook

– bringing together insights and data to help you understand the latest market developments and requirements. The session will question what sustainability means to Baird’s malt and what the NFUS views are on the Scottish Agricultural policy and will be answered by:

Victoria Buxton, Baird’s Malt Sustainability manager.

David Mickie NFUS cereals policy advisor.

Davidson & Robertson: The Future of Scottish Renewables and Electricity Infrastructure Post-Grid Reform (Gate 2)1:30 pm to 2:30 pm

Davidson & Robertson’s seminar will provide an update on the progress to achieve the 2030 plan, transmission and distribution Grid rollout, developments in energy and renewables opportunities, including:

• The pitfalls and opportunities in the “Electrical Revolution” to achieve net zero

• The grid challenge: transmission and distribution and what these mean for farmers and landowners

• The grid reform review: how this affects farmers’ and landowners’

renewable and energy projects, and the impact of Gate 2

• How developments in renewables technology opens opportunities

“We’re looking forward to returning to AgriScot – it’s always a great opportunity to meet with our clients and discuss the challenges and opportunities they’re facing. We’ll be hosting a seminar this year to share our insights into the future of Scottish renewables and how grid reform and rollout will likely impact the farming community.” Ian Austin, Director Davidson & Robertson.

Moredun Research Institute: Reducing Antibiotic Use on Farm: Practical Tools and Future Solutions - 2:45 pm to 3:45 pm

Moredun will close the seminar sessions, this year focusing on understanding and managing antibiotic use on your farm.

The seminar will begin by explaining what AMU and AMR are, and why they matter for animal health and farm businesses. Attendees will learn about the AMU Pilot scheme currently running in Scotland—a

partnership between SOAS, ScotEID, Farmvet Systems, and QMS—and how farmers can use data to make informed decisions about antimicrobial use on their farms.

The panel will showcase alternatives to antimicrobials, including emerging research on microbiome management, and discuss the industry’s priority to reduce antimicrobial use. The session is designed to be accessible and practical, with real-life examples and no assumed prior knowledge.

The seminar will include presentations from farming, veterinary, research, and industry perspectives, followed by an open panel discussion and audience Q&A.

Panel speakers:

• Robert Neill, Vice President, NFUS

• Mike Denholm, Clyde Vets

• Nuno Silva, Moredun Research Institute

• Kate Rowell, QMS and farmer

To view the seminars via the live stream, or watch back after the event, visit www.agriscot.com

Silage Competition – longest running silage competition in Scotland

Now in its 25th year, the AgriScot Silage Competition is the longest running silage competition in the UK. With entries from over 3,000 farmers since it began, it now receives hundreds of applications each year.

Silage will be judged across the following four categories: Young Farmer (for those aged 30 years and under), Beef Clamp, Dairy Clamp and the Big Bale. The competition will be judged in two stages, one on paper from a silage analysis, and one physical assessment.

“The sponsors and judges always look forward to receiving the entries”, says Andrew Best, Seed Specialist at

Watson Seeds, and organiser of the AgriScot Silage Competition and prize sponsors.

“I’m expecting to see some variation in silage quality depending on cutting date. Every growing year is different but the weather through this silage season is a complete contrast to last year. With an unusually dry spring and summer it’s been a challenging season. We’ve been faced with a long drought period which has led to a rapid reduction in grass growth.

“I expect those who sacrificed some yield and took an early cut in May will have had better quality silage and it will have helped to reset the field for subsequent cuts. Those who

held off until later in the year ran into drought issues leading to a reduction in quality, so it will be interesting to see the results from the later cuts.

“The competition is great to be part of, and it also highlights the value in knowing your silage so you can supplement according

to the fluctuating weather conditions. It is a competition that recognises the input and hard work that goes into making silage and why it matters.”

The finalists will be announced in the weeks before the live judging at AgriScot on Wednesday 19th November 2025.

What makes AgriScot unmissable?

We asked some of the exhibitors who know best

Space at AgriScot doesn’t come easy. Every year, a waiting list forms of exhibitors hoping to secure a stand, while those already committed, guard their spots fiercely. That kind of demand speaks volumes. So, what makes AgriScot so unmissable?

These long-term exhibitors reveal the business, the stories and the relationships that keep them coming back – and why they’ll never give up their space.

The event that keeps on giving When Trioliet first decided to exhibit at AgriScot, the pitch was simple. An indoor show, at the right time of year, with

guaranteed access to the country’s farming community. Years later, the results demonstrate it made the right call.

Trioliet is a total supplier of premium feeding technology. Every day thousands of cows all over the world are fed with its machines. With a 75-year history and family legacy, the Dutch company understands the value of long-term relationships, which is exactly why AgriScot has earned its place as their most productive event in the UK.

“As shows go, we generate more enquiries per day at AgriScot than we do at any other show UK-wide,” reveals Jamie Brett, Area Manager for UK North. It’s

a bold claim, but one backed by meticulous record-keeping that tracks every enquiry from initial conversation to final sale.

The results speak for themselves. “Usually, we will receive an order for a machine at the show which in itself makes it worthwhile going but it’s what happens after that continues to surprise us about AgriScot,” Jamie explains. “Every time we receive an order, we check the list to see if the enquiry was taken at an event. We find, sometimes, it may be from an AgriScot event two or even three years previous.”

This is testament to the quality of connections made at

the one-day event at Ingliston. The relationships built on the stand, the detailed conversations about farm-specific needs, the trust established face-to-face –these are investments that pay dividends long after the show halls empty.

“Location has played its part too. Securing the same stand position year after year means our past, current and future customers know where to find us and make a point of stopping to speak. In a busy show environment, that familiarity is gold dust. Farmers plan their route, know where to find us, and the conversation picks up where it left off last year.

“It has grown through the years from an event to see and show livestock and machinery to now also being a business focused show,” Jamie observes. “This evolution means the footfall arriving at your stand is well informed, focused, and ready to talk business. It’s such a good opportunity to display our products to potential customers and build that relationship face to face. These aren’t casual browsers killing time – they’re serious buyers who’ve carved out precious hours from their working week.”

Trioliet’s strategy is practical and built on experience: “We keep our stand design simple but effective and make sure we have sufficient staff for the busy periods, and they must know their product inside out.” The intensity of those core hours demands preparation, but the rewards justify it.

“We have become more efficient, knowing the busiest

times and what customers want to know, so we are better set up to make sure we can give attendees the best experience,” Jamie reflects.

It’s this combination of immediate results and long-term relationship building that keeps Trioliet returning year after year – and why AgriScot remains unmatched in their exhibition calendar.

Investing in an event that delivers

Warrendale Wagyu has been exhibiting at AgriScot for years, but it wanted to demonstrate further commitment to the event. As a result, the business became the event’s official registration sponsor this year.

It’s a strategic investment and not just about visibility. Warrendale is a fully integrated supply chain, which encompasses dairy producers through to finishers. That is what makes AgriScot, with its dairy origins

and the renewed focus on beef, a really important place to be.

Warrendale is recruiting partners in a global supply chain and choosing to do so at AgriScot, knowing that’s where it will find the progressive, topquality farmers its model needs.

Established in 2017, Warrendale Wagyu is a beef business working in partnership with producers, rearers, growers, finishers and processors to supply great tasting, quality beef direct to consumers, as well as to retailers and restaurants.

“AgriScot is one of the highlights in our calendar, it’s a tremendous event, so well organised and very highly attended. We always get a lot out of it, but more importantly we know that farmers and other industry professionals do too,” explains Jamie Brownrigg, Production Director at Warrendale.

“There is an atmosphere at AgriScot that you don’t

experience at other events. It might be the time of year that gives its appeal to farmers looking to do business, or a combination of different factors, but it certainly provides a buzz to the day and makes it enjoyable for visitors and exhibitors alike.”

With recent success including becoming the exclusive supplier of meat for Burger King’s new Wagyu Burger, Warrendale doesn’t underestimate the importance of building new connections and fostering existing ones through exhibiting at events like AgriScot.

“We have over 1,000 farmers across the UK producing our Wagyu beef, but to continue growing our network and telling our story it’s important that we get in front of people and explain what makes Warrendale revolutionary.

“It’s difficult to fully demonstrate our integrated model through digital marketing, but coming along to AgriScot

offers us the opportunity to take some cattle along and showcase the breed and brand to farmers, in person.”

As well as sponsoring the registration process which helps to keep tickets and parking free for attendees, Warrendale is also donating a steak box as part of a giveaway for those who register early. One lucky AgriScot registrant will receive a large Wagyu steak box worth £180. For Warrendale, AgriScot isn’t just another event in the calendar, it’s where meaningful partnerships begin.

Feeding success through conversations

For East Coast Viners, customer relationships have been decades in the making when it comes to AgriScot.

The family-owned livestock nutrition company based near Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire has been attending for the 10 years Ruminant Nutritionist

Joanne Hay has worked there, and longer.

“It’s a show that we’ve always really enjoyed as a team. We started coming back when it was predominantly a dairy show but as its expanded over the years to attract farmers from all livestock sectors, it’s amazing how many people you see in one day. We see such a wide variety of customers with it being Edinburgh-based; they come from the Central Belt, across from the West, as well as down from the North-East, and there’s many we’ll welcome onto the stand year on year. That’s what makes it so brilliant. Our business is built on relationships and being able to catch up with so many customers in person makes AgriScot a special event. There’s always such a buzz.”

East Coast Viners has been providing beef, sheep, dairy and poultry feed from its mill at Drumlithie for over 40 years. It sources most of its grain from farms within 30 miles of the

mill, producing compound feeds tailored to the different needs of farms across Scotland. The advisory team are all qualified livestock nutritionists as well as being largely farmers themselves.

The nutrition team also enjoy AgriScot as a chance to catch up with many of their suppliers, including those of minerals, molasses and feed bins, as it is one of the few times in the year they meet socially. As well as getting the latest updates from their suppliers, each of the team are encouraged to attend at least one of the seminars over the course of the day to see different industry points of view, whether it’s innovation, politics or business developments.

“It’s definitely the most business-orientated show we go to, and we get a huge amount from it on many levels,” says Joanne. “It’s the conversations you have around the stands, hearing what’s going on across the sector; all while meeting so many interesting people and making contacts from different

parts of the industry, not just our customers and suppliers.”

With forage shortages this year, the East Coast Viners team anticipate most conversations will centre on maximising winter feeding with home-grown products already on farm, including treating straw and grain.

“At this time of year customers are looking at winter feeding, and the weeks after AgriScot are always busy with requests for silage analysis, making up rations and looking at costings for feed plans. With silage stocks low this year, many farmers are looking to see how they can make the make the most of utilising on-farm grain or straw by balancing these with mineral and protein supplements to get the best nutrition over the winter months and keep silage for when it’s most needed in the spring. We have already been busy focusing on this in recent weeks so it will certainly be a hot topic of conversation.”

More than 230 exhibitors will be at AgriScot on Wednesday 19 November 2025.

“We are really looking forward to another packed event at AgriScot in November,” said John MacInnes, who manages the exhibitor applications and trade stands. “The mix of exhibitors is what makes AgriScot such a success and seeing so many return year on year is testament to the importance of this event to the sector.”

With a broad range of exhibitors, from health care to machinery, ag tech to advisory, sheep and beef demonstrations in the ring, and a lively programme of seminars including AHDB’s Grain Market Outlook, the event has plenty to offer every type of farming enterprise, adds John.

“It’s a chance to meet faceto-face and take advantage of the huge range of expertise on offer as well as to network and build relationships, all under one roof.”

Raising the (milk) bar –AgriScot Dairy Classes

The show halters are being checked and grooming kits assembled as the countdown begins for one of the dairy competition highlights of the year.

The AgriScot Dairy Competition has strengthened its position as one of the country’s leading dairy showcases, with exciting new developments for 2025 delivering more classes whilst continuing to offer the largest prize fund within the sector, of £25,000.

The dairy competition holds special significance in AgriScot’s evolution, starting life as a specialist dairy event before expanding into the comprehensive farm business show it is today. This dairy

heritage is still an integral part of AgriScot, with the competition continuing to attract top-tier exhibitors year after year.

The most significant development for 2025 is the introduction of Youngstock Classes, giving talented handlers under 30 years of age, a chance to shine. This progressive move provides young handlers with a prestigious platform to demonstrate their skills alongside seasoned competitors.

The competition features 14 classes across a range of categories including Ayrshire, British Red and White, Holstein, and Jersey, alongside the popular ‘Any Other Dairy Breeds’ class, which has welcomed impressive Brown Swiss and British Friesian

entries. The addition of the new Youngstock Classes brings the total to 16 competitive classes.

The crown jewels remain the SuperHeifer and SuperCow titles, each carrying prestigious £1,000 prizes. These interbreed championships represent the pinnacle of dairy excellence, drawing entries from the finest herds across the UK and Ireland.

The judging, this year carried out by Iwan Morgan from Carmarthen, takes place in AgriScot’s purpose-built show ring. The ringside atmosphere is electric, with packed audiences creating an unforgettable experience for both competitors and spectators.

Gilmour Lawrie, Chairman of AgriScot and dairy farmer

himself, reflects on the competition’s continuing appeal: “The combination of substantial prize money, diverse categories, and now youth-focused classes positions AgriScot’s dairy competition as more than just a showcase. It’s a celebration of dairy excellence that honours tradition while embracing the future.

“For dairy farmers seeking inspiration, networking

opportunities, or simply worldclass competition, AgriScot remains the unmissable annual appointment.”

For those not wishing to enter the competition, but looking to attend AgriScot, you can now register for free entry by visiting the AgriScot website. With over 240 exhibitors covering all sectors of agriculture, there is something for every farm business.

The future of agriculture is in capable hands

This year’s AgriScot Business Skills Award finalists - Rachel Baillie from South Lanarkshire, David Massie from Aberdeenshire and Erin McGuire from Caithness – have each impressed the judges with their business and financial minded responses to this year’s theme: ‘How should farm businesses adapt to take advantage of future opportunities?’

Now in its 15th year and with a record number of applications, the award continues to recognise outstanding agricultural professionals between 18 and 25 years old. Kindly sponsored by Virgin Money and organised by SRUC, the competition offers participants the chance to win £1000 alongside access to career and financial mentoring and networks.

Meet the finalists for the AgriScot Business Skills Awards 2025 David, who grew up on his family farm comprising of breeding sheep, dairy suckler cows and arable land, is pursuing agricultural studies at SRUC Craibstone near Aberdeen. He is currently on placement with Duncan Farmsa mixed farm and leading poultry business in Aberdeenshire. He entered the competition, seeing it an opportunity to sharpen the skills he’ll need when he returns home to help steer his family’s farm business. “There is a job for everyone in the agricultural industry,” he said. “For me, it’s about bringing new ideas to the family farm and driving the business forward.”

Rachel comes from a mixed dairy and sheep farm just outside Carstairs, South Lanarkshire and is now in her fourth year at Harper Adams University, studying Agriculture with Farm Business Management. Having recently completed her placement year with SAC Consulting as an Agricultural Technician, Rachel has deepened her understanding of the advisory side of the business and wishes to pursue a career in consultancy. She hopes her work experience will prove advantageous in the award process and is passionate about

helping businesses adapt early and make the most of changing support schemes.

Also interested in a consultancy career in agriculture, Erin, from Caithness is studying at SRUC Craibstone and unlike the other finalists, does not come from a traditional farming background. Five years ago, she took her first step into farming by purchasing her own small flock of Cheviot ewes to care for on her family croft and her interest grew following a lambing season.

Heather Kerr, Competition coordinator and former Business Skills Award winner from SRUC explains what set the finalists apart: “We’re looking for candidates who not only have a broad understanding of running a farming enterprise, but who also demonstrate a strong grasp of the economics behind production and can apply that financial knowledge to real-world business management.”

Stephen Buchan of Virgin Money, one of this year’s judges, said the calibre of 2025 candidates “genuinely exceeded all expectations”. He said: “For us, this competition is about giving young people a platform to express their ideas, build confidence, and prepare for leadership roles in the industry - and it’s clear that the future of agriculture is in very capable hands.

“This initiative plays a vital role in encouraging young people entering the agricultural industry to develop essential business and financial skills - challenging them in areas that are often overlooked, but critically important.”

Heather agreed, adding: “Beyond the prize money, the real value lies in the networking - from meeting farmers and bank representatives early on, to engaging with a wide range of industry professionals at the final.

With excitement building as we celebrate 15 years of the Business Skills Award and hitting a record number of entries, the finals will take place at AgriScot on Wednesday 19 November.

David Massie is a 20-yearold honours student at SRUC Craibstone in Aberdeen, currently undertaking a placement with Duncan Farms - a leading poultry enterprise. Although relatively new to poultry, David saw the placement as an opportunity to challenge himself and broaden his knowledge of the industry.

David grew up on his family farm in Aberdeenshire, where they manage breeding sheep, dairy beef suckler cows, and rear calves in a two-to-one system. The farm also has arable land growing forage crops and carries out some contracting work. His roots run deep in agriculture - with summer holidays spent at his grandfather’s arable and cattle farm in East Lothian, David has always been immersed in different farming systems from a young age.

Though still exploring his future direction, David hopes to return to the family farm one day and help drive the business forward - particularly through the integration of genetics and technology into their suckler herd, inspired by innovation seen in the dairy, poultry, and pig sectors.

McGuire, Caithness

Erin McGuire is from Caithness and, although not from a traditional farming background, her agricultural journey began through her family’s croft. Five years ago, she took her first step into farming by purchasing her own small flock of Cheviot cross ewes. Her interest

grew during a lambing season just after COVID, which led her to pursue an agriculture degree at SRUC Craibstone.

Now in her third year of the BSc (Hons) Agriculture course, Erin enjoys the contrast between farming systems in the north and those she encounters while studying in the north-east. The experience has allowed her to build new skills and apply them at home.

Rachel Ballie, South Lanarkshire

Rachel Baillie comes from a mixed dairy and sheep farm just outside Carstairs, South Lanarkshire. She is currently in her fourth year studying Agriculture with Farm Business Management at Harper Adams University near Newport. Having recently completed her placement year with SAC Consulting as an Agricultural Technician, Rachel gained invaluable experience shadowing consultants and deepening her understanding of the advisory side of the industry.

With aspirations to pursue a career in farm consultancy, Rachel chose a degree that balances technical agricultural knowledge with business acumen. Her placement year confirmed her interest in the consultancy field and allowed her to work hands-on with new policy developments, sustainability schemes, and farm business planning.

She believes the industry’s shift towards sustainability and net zero should not be seen as a “tick box” exercise but as a strategic opportunity for farms to improve long-term business performance. Rachel is passionate about helping businesses adapt early and make the most of changing support schemes.

David Massie, Aberdeenshire

Erin

And featuring some of this years’ exhibitors…

Agri-Linc

AgriScot 2025 is fast approaching, and Agri-Linc is proud to be returning with a showcase of feeding equipment designed to boost efficiency and save valuable time on livestock and mixed farms. On our stand this year, Mike Gibbs will be on hand to introduce two standout solutions making waves on UK farms: the Hustler Bale Unroller and the Proforge Auger Feed Bucket.

The Hustler Bale Unroller is redefining what efficient bale feeding looks like. Designed to reduce feed waste and save labour, it handles all types of round bales

with ease—silage, hay, or straw. Its low-maintenance, hydraulically driven design makes it a musthave for livestock farmers seeking quicker, cleaner feeding operations.

Alongside it, we’ll be featuring the Proforge Auger Feed Bucket—a powerful and versatile tool engineered for feeding out a wide variety of mixed rations. This bucket not only streamlines feeding but also eliminates the need for additional handling equipment. With its heavy-duty construction and efficient auger system, it’s a game-changer for time-conscious operations.

Both machines are built to handle demanding conditions, making them ideal choices for busy, progressive farms looking to reduce labour input while maximising performance.

Whether you’re running a mixed enterprise or focused on livestock, these tools are designed

to work as hard as you do—day in, day out.

At AgriScot, Amazone’s message is simple: precision where it counts, strength where it matters. On the crop protection side, AmaSelect Spot takes precision spraying to a new level. This system uses high resolution application maps pre-acquired by a drone, to only treat the weeds present, rather than applying chemicals across the entire field. By switching individual nozzles in 50 cm part widths, AmaSelect Spot delivers full rate accuracy exactly where it’s needed. The result is a significant reduction in chemical use – by up to 80% – while reducing environmental impact, resulting in huge chemical savings.

trip force of up to 2,000kg and a maximum stroke length of 40cm to avoid any large obstacles. An advantage of AMAZONE stone release is that as the plough body trips further back, the point force actually decreases, reducing the chance of point damage.

Visit the Amazone stand at AgriScot to see how precision spraying and next generation ploughing can help you achieve more with less this season.

BD Supplies

B D Supplies. Established in 2000 we are a leading supplier of Animal husbandry and Hoof trimming Equipment.

Visit our stand 134A

For soil preparation, the new Teres 200 plough combines strength, durability and ease of adjustment. A welcome addition to the Teres range the Teres 200 is rated for tractors up to 200 hp and available in 4 or 5 furrow versions, it features SpeedBlade bodies with an enlarged front shin to absorb the brunt of wear, extending mouldboard life even at higher working speeds. Available with hydraulic variable working width adjustment allows the adjustment of each body from 33 to 55cm and the AutoAdapt system automatically keeps the front furrow aligned as working width changes, ensuring straight pulling and improved fuel efficiency. A heavy duty 120×120×10 mm beam and a large hollow turnover shaft for hydraulics underline the plough’s robust build, while simple settings make it quick to optimise for different soils and conditions. Also available with hydraulic stone release ensures smooth operation even in stony conditions with a

We can supply anything hoof trimming from a basic knife right through to the hoof trimming chutes which won us Gold in the Royal Highland Technical Innovation Award. We also offer a comprehensive range of animal husbandry equipment, being a supplier of IAE, Portequip and Tru-Test Weigh Equipment.

With expansion into a thriving Biomass Wood Pellet delivery business, becoming fully BSL and Hetas registered and offering both bagged and bulk deliveries into the domestic and commercial market.

We took the wood pellets on with the same ethos as the agricultural side of the businessQuality products which we believe in and trust rather than just price.

Agriculture is still a huge part of our business and we are always looking at bringing new products to the UK market and promoting products which we feel have a benefit in the UK farming industry.

We pride ourselves on customer service and to us ‘the customer does come first’.

Once again we look forward to exhibiting at Agriscot meeting customers from both near and far.

Amazone

Biocell Agri are The Yeast Specialists.

Our unique strain of live, micro-encapsulated yeast has full EU approval across the species and is specially formulated for top dressing or TMR inclusion and is designed to help to maximise home produced forages and therefore increase feed intake and improve feed conversion, resulting in better liveweight gains, milk yields, carcass grades and quality.

Complementing this is a range of microbiological products to improve forage fermentation, handle the challenges of

mycotoxins in feed and manage slurry.

Completing our range is the highly popular Platinum range of mineral drenches which have seen faster finishing and significant improvements in health and fertility in both pedigree and commercial herds and flocks.

For more information, contact Alec on 07718 905625

Bunning returns to AgriScot this November showing its popular Lowlander 150 HBD, equipped with weigh cells running through Isobus helping operators to precisely apply and record every tonne of product.The Lowlander

150 on display is part of Bunning’s horizontal beater and spinning discs (HBD) range, from 8t up to 40t. The twin dynamicallybalanced horizontal beaters feature Boron shredding cutters to break down bulky material to an even consistency. The 1.1m large diameter spinning discs have five adjustable blade positions to apply the product evenly across widths up to 24m and beyond.

Ben Johnson, Bunning’s UK and Ireland sales manager, says: “Scotland is an important market with a broad mix of farmers, growers and contractors who all need to spread manure at the correct times, and with the required accuracy, to maximise applications.

“The Lowlander 150 HBD on stand is an ideal contractor machine but is also an option for larger dairy farms and arable producers requiring flexibility to control applications in-house.”

Bunning will highlight how its full spreader range can achieve an even and targeted application with

every tonne. Manure is a valuable input, rather than a waste product as it may have been considered in the past, so having the ability to apply it accurately, at consistent target rates, and at desired widths, is essential for all farmers.

Ben continues: “With weigh cells, operators can enter a target rate into the controller, which the spreader achieves by controlling the floor speed in relation to the tractor’s forward speed. Weigh cells are a factory fitted option on all Bunning spreaders and support with setting up and maintenance is handled by Bunning and its dealer network.”

Bunning will be on stand 221.

Dairymaster

Visit Dairymaster UK at AgriScot – Innovation for Your

Bunning

Dairy Future

Dairymaster UK is excited to announce our attendance at AgriScot, Scotland’s premier agricultural event, and we can’t wait to welcome you to our stand! This is your opportunity to discover how our cutting-edge technology can help you achieve greater efficiency, profitability, and animal welfare on your farm.

At Dairymaster, we understand the challenges dairy farmers face every day – from labour shortages to rising costs and the need for sustainable practices. That’s why we’ve developed solutions that make a real difference. Whether you’re looking to improve milking efficiency, enhance cow comfort, or streamline herd management, our team will be on hand to demonstrate the latest innovations designed to transform your dairy operation.

Come and discover our SwiftFlo Milking Parlour, MooMonitor+ health and fertility

system, and automatic feeding solutions in action. We’ll also be showcasing our manure scrapers for cleaner, safer housing and our high-performance milk tanks for superior cooling and energy efficiency – essential for maintaining milk quality and reducing running costs.

Feedlync

Improved feed efficiencies help boost margins and reduce carbon footprints.

Embracing new technologies and focusing on feed efficiencies and reduced wastage can not only support productivity and profitability, but can also

significantly help reduce farm carbon footprints on dairy units.

“New advances in digital feed management systems are having a transformative influence on production and feed efficiencies,” says Calum Macdonald of Feedlync.

With active monitoring and real-time data exchange, integrated seamlessly with external processor and herd management systems, Feedlync has been developed to meet farmer requests for a feed management system that is intuitive and easy to operate, providing an overview of feedintake, efficiency and costs.

“Connecting straight into the mixer’s weighing system, Feedlync ensures the feed is mixed consistently and accurately so that the correct ration is delivered every time, helping to save on feed costs, reduce wastage and ensure healthy cow performance ” continues Mr Macdonald.

Operated via the iOS or Android app and an online portal, the system is completely cloud based and can be accessed by any device, anywhere in the world.

“This enables farm nutritionists to manage the diets even when not on farm. They can change the rations, update ingredient analysis, and manage pens and groups on the go. This allows for great visibility of the cows, as well as a faster and more accurate way to increase milk production and savings on feed,” says Mr Macdonald.

Users can see production costs on a per cow or group basis, leading to better, accurate and informed decision making. The system also enables producers to analyse feed accuracy quickly and easily, allowing for instant overview of usage and consumption.

The Feedlync system increases feed accuracy on average by 4%. With less feed

used to produce a pint of milk, users can expect a return on investment within an average of just 94 days.

Hectare Trading

Grain prices can move quickly, and opportunities don’t always wait until you’re back in the farm office. With mobile trading, farmers can check on prices whether they’re in the yard, on the combine or at the kitchen table. The Hectare Trading difference

Over the past two years, farmers using Hectare Trading have beaten market prices over 77% of the time, compared to the AHDB Corn Returns. By listing their grain and comparing offers from the wide network of trusted UK buyers on Hectare

Trading, farmers have earned an average of £5.24 more per tonne for feed wheat – and even more on other crops. In tough market conditions, an extra pound per tonne can be vital.

More transparency and flexibility Mobile trading can’t remove all the risk and uncertainty from grain marketing. But it can give you more visibility and control, wherever you happen to be. The app helps farmers stay alert to short-lived rallies too. With exfarm and futures price alerts, you can react quickly to market movements.

Instead of waiting for a call or catching up at the end of the day, you can check local and national grain prices on your mobile anytime – even while walking the fields or loading a trailer. This can help you spot opportunities or see changes in the market sooner. Mobile trading keeps the grain market at your fingertips, giving you more confidence to act fast if the right deal comes along.

It all adds up to making sure your hard work pays off. By giving you more choice, quicker access and better prices wherever you are, mobile trading means you keep more value in your pocket – and get rewarded properly for every tonne you grow.

Get more for your harvest by signing up today! Farmers trade for free.

Search “Hectare Trading” or visit www.wearehectare.com

Going to Agriscot? Visit us at Stand 42 to find out more.

“When working days are long, nothing beats my Honda.” As we move into the 2026

season, the Honda Fourtrax and Foreman range remain the ATVs of choice. Built with the perfect balance of Performance, Ability and Durability each model features the quality and reliability you would expect from a HONDA ATV.

The TRX420 Fourtrax range is available with selectable 2/4WD, Power Steering, Manual gearshift, Electric Shift and Dual Clutch (DCT) Automatic models with your choice of straight axle or IRS suspension.

Our Heavy-Hitter, the Honda Foreman models are built for hard work and heavy loads, all day long. Featuring a wider stance with diff lock, Power Steering and IRS models, your choice of manual gearshift, Electric Shift or DCT automatic.

Complimenting the ATV range is Honda’s compact Side by Side, the Honda PIONEER 520. Lighter and more compact than a classic UTV, the Honda PIONEER 520 delivers the

JMT Honda

quality and refinement you would expect from a Honda in a versatile 2-seater, enabling you to go about your daily tasks in comfort and confidence. Selectable 2/4WD, 5 speed gearbox with paddle gearshift and fully automatic mode, independent handbrake and tipping bed. Ideal for farming and estate management duties, tough enough for challenging off-road terrain and slim enough to get through gates and trees. The Honda PIONEER is capable of going where larger UTVs can’t, including narrow trails, still with room for 2 people, and at a kerb weight of only 483kg it is one of the lightest and most fuel efficient UTVs on the market.

All Honda ATVs and PIONEER 520 models come with 2 years Warranty, peace of mind and Honda DNA as standard.

Visit us in the Upland Hall today, talk to your local HONDA

ATV dealer and discuss your requirements for the coming season.

Kawasaki

Whether it is working on the farm or transporting materials across construction sites, having the right equipment is essential. The Kawasaki Mule range of utility vehicles delivers the rugged, reliable and adaptable attributes that will help you take on any terrain.

Designed to work hard, the range features the popular and robust Mule Pro-MX. Powered by a torque-laden 700cc CVT

single-cylinder engine, the Pro MX offers 32.8 kW {45 PS} / 6,000 rpm, guaranteeing a funto-drive vehicle that can easily haul cargo for work or weekend fun. The spacious cargo bed is able to carry up to 700 lbs, making chores or hauling gear a breeze.

Measuring 110” long and 60” wide, with a wheelbase of 79”, the Mule Pro-MX is the perfect mid-sized vehicle, offering superb manoeuvrability and mobility that ensures it can negotiate the tightest of tracks. To maximise comfort, the allterrain vehicle features doublewishbone suspension at the front and rear, enabling the Kawasaki to easily traverse obstacles and elevations with minimum effect on the chassis.

Of course, these workhorses are designed to be used throughout the year in all conditions. That is why the Mule Pro-MX is equipped with 25” tyres on 12” rims, guaranteeing

fantastic off-road traction and ground clearance. Strong and reliable front and rear disc brakes provide effective braking, especially when combined with the Mule’s proven engine braking.

While its performance is unmatched, Kawasaki has also focused on making the flagship Mule model as accessible and user-friendly as possible. Coming equipped with doors as standard, users will be protected from mud and puddles, while a 5.3 litre storage bin underneath the passenger seat ensures that there is plenty of space to securely store all of your belongings.

Since its launch, the Kawasaki Mule range has established itself as one of the leaders in utility vehicles, used by farm workers, gamekeepers, construction workers and event workers across the globe. More information on the range can be found at www.kawasaki.co.uk.

KRONE is delighted to announce its return to AgriScot 2025, Scotland’s premier farm business event, bringing with it a showcase of innovative grassland machinery and, for the very first time, the launch of the KRONE merchandise and clothing shop at the show.

Visitors to the KRONE stand will have the opportunity to see some of the brand’s most popular and versatile machines up close. Headlining the display is the Swadro 760 rake, a robust, high-capacity rake designed to deliver clean, precise swaths and outstanding forage quality. Alongside it, the EasyCut B 880 Mower demonstrates KRONE’s commitment to efficient, large-scale mowing, offering an impressive working width combined with renowned reliability.

For baling operations, the VariPack 165 Plus will be on show, highlighting KRONE’s belt baler technology that produces consistently dense, well-shaped bales to meet the demands of modern farming. The line-up is completed by the EasyCut F 400 Fold, a front mower designed for flexibility, fast folding, and ease of transport – making it a perfect partner for large-scale grassland operations.

Adding to the excitement this year, KRONE’s merchandise and clothing shop will make its debut at AgriScot. From branded workwear and casual clothing to practical accessories, the shop offers farmers, contractors, and fans of the brand the chance to take home a piece of KRONE quality and style.

KRONE’s team of specialists will be on hand throughout the day to discuss machine features, answer questions, and provide advice tailored to individual farm needs.

Join KRONE in the Lowland Machinery Hall on Stand 186.

Kuhn

KUHN Farm Machinery will return to AgriScot showing a range of machines dedicated to arable and grassland farming, including the first UK showing of its TF 2300C split seed and fertiliser front tank.

Launched last year, KUHN’s TF 2300C sits alongside the TF 1512 front tank in the range. The pressurised front hopper has a 60/40 split to supply seed and fertiliser to a rear seeding unit or coulter bar, typically mounted on cultivators or power harrow drill combinations. The TF 2300C features KUHN’s OPTISEED metering unit, with interchangeable cassettes allowing distribution rates up to 500kg/ha at 15kph. The two hoppers are individually dosed and can be mixed into the same delivery tube, or kept separate, depending on the machine and crop.

The TF 2300C, on stand, features four central wheels to consolidate the ground across its width. It will be shown alongside a fixed chamber FB 3130 with TWIN-reel film binding, a Profile 15.1 CL mixer wagon, Optimer L 300 cultivator and an SH 402E small seed hopper.

Rhodri Jenkins, KUHN’s grassland product specialist, says: “AgriScot is an important show allowing our full range of product lines to be shown. Farmers, growers and contractors will all be facing particular challenges and our sales team will be on hand to show how KUHN machines can overcome these.”

KUHN’s latest FB 3130 baler now features the TWINreel film binding technology, using two 750mm stretch film rolls to bind bales as opposed to a single, wider unit. Each roll

is lighter and features a higher pre-stretch ratio compared to conventional films, offering the potential to reduce binding costs by up to 37%.

“The TWIN-reel system is proven throughout KUHN’s range of fixed, variable and combination balers, along with our range of static and trailed wrappers. Farmers are seeing greater benefits from using just one binding method as it protects the bale instantly and simplifies waste disposal during the winter,” concludes Rhodri. KUHN will be in the Lowland Hall on stand 177.

Kverneland UK

DryScan is the development of NIR (Near Infra-Red) sensing for Kverneland’s Siloking SelfLine self-propelled feeders, enabling real-time processing of dry matter content of silage, during the loading cycle.

Fitted to the milling head and integrated into Siloking’s feed management software, DryScan further improves the consistency of ration quality, by assessing and responding to variations in silage quality across the clamp face.

“Dry matter variations in silage can have quite an impact on ration stability,” explains Kverneland feeding specialist David Perry. “The ability to sense dry matter values at the milling head and adjust the fresh matter intake to compensate, is producing a much more consistent ration than solely relying on fresh weight. With this technology, there’s far less risk of upsetting a cow’s digestion, which means less variation in milk production.”

Additional developments can be found on TrailedLine models, and include the introduction of an electro-hydraulic control system called Basic Control, and greater advances in VarioSpeed’s functionality.

VarioSpeed uses a stepless gearbox that is said to require less

horsepower to drive, and need a lower start-up torque to engage. This innovative development allows larger capacity mixers to be operated without the need for increasingly more powerful tractors.

It uses three pre-defined auger speeds that can be selected to suit cutting, mixing and emptying. Push-button selection is available, along with remote activation from the telehandler or loader tractor.

Improved functionality now delivers an overlap on speed ranges along with auger speed selection, plus mixing time duration for individual feed components to boost feeding efficiency.

“During loading, the augers will automatically start and stop, and run for a pre-determined time and at different speeds to suit each ingredient’s need for mixing and chopping,” says David Perry, Kverneland’s feeding and bedding product manager. “This capability has been proved to reduce tractor fuel consumption by up to 15%.” Kverneland’s Siloking feeders will be on display at AgriScot, on stand 139.

KW Feeds

High energy liquid feed helps add value and enhance milk production

With the likelihood of significant variability in grass, wholecrop and maize forages across Scotland this coming winter, dairy producers should consider options to boost rumen energy, to help improve utilisation of these forages, advises Stephen Ball from KW Feeds.

“LactoBoost, a co-product from the processing of milk for cheese and whey protein product manufacture, is a highenergy, lactose-rich liquid feed supplement, proven to stimulate

Krone

rumen activity by providing bacteria with an instant energy source,” he explains.

Research at SRUC has shown LactoBoost can effectively replace cereal while maintaining milk and milk constituent yield, helping to reduce feed costs. It also helps drive better utilisation of home-produced feeds, making it a cost-effective source of ready to feed sugar.

Suitable for herd sizes of a minimum of 250 head in milk, the lactose sugar in LactoBoost supplies fermentable energy more quickly than some starches or more complex carbohydrates.

“This helps rumen microbes, especially those that digest fibre, to function better. This improved fibre digestion can lead to more energy being available overall,” continues Mr Ball.

With more readily available sugar, rumen microbes have the energy to break down fibre more efficiently, improving total dry matter digestibility. Better fibre digestion means cows can extract more nutrients from forages, particularly useful where forage quality or forage energy density is a limiting factor.

LactoBoost can be fed as part of a TMR, and as a low dry matter liquid, it helps reduce ration sorting, as it disperses through the whole of the mix.

“Because of its energy content and fermentability, LactoBoost can partially replace more expensive cereals in the ration while still maintaining milk yield and milk component yields, making it economically advantageous, while also helping to drive better utilisation of grass silage, or combinations of grass, wholecrop or maize silages,” concludes Mr Ball.

Marrs of Methlick are now the Scottish importers for LOVOL tractors, a quality brand of tractor with two main series’, from 25hp to 90hp, all 4 wd, mechanical versions, with or without cab,

and the P4000 and 5000 Series from 110hp up to 150hp with power shuttle, 3 speed splitter 40k gearbox and at the moment P 7000 series tractor at 240hp CVT, with bigger versions in the pipeline.

LOVOL’s parent company Weichai produce almost 1 million engines a year, supplying their own tractor range but also for the other products in the group, trucks, buses, generator sets and construction machines make up and impressive line up.

LOVOL are no.1 in China and produce 150,000 tractors a year which they distribute all over the world, with good success in Europe and Scandinavia over the last 10 to 15 years. The whole range comes with 3 year warranty and at a very affordable introductory price. Visit us on stand 213.

Major Equipment

Major Equipment Ltd, experts in grassland and slurry management, will return to AgriScot 2025 with an impressive line-up of machinery from their extensive agricultural range.

Among the highlights will be the Major MJ39143 Hedge Cutter head for excavators and power arms. Built for the toughest jobs, this innovative attachment features twin rotors with eight blades, delivering exceptional cutting and shredding performance on overgrown hedges and scrub areas. Available in two working widths, 0.80m and 1.43m, the gearbox driveline reduces power demand, eliminates rotor balancing issues and cuts fuel consumption by up to 3 litres per hour compared with flail head systems.

With fewer wearing parts, the Major MJ39 Hedge Cutter offers outstanding durability and reliability - making it an ideal choice for contractors,

councils and operators looking to minimise downtime and total cost of ownership. The body is designed to channel cut material back into the hedge, preventing debris from falling onto roads and improving site safety.

Also on display at the show will be the Major Cyclone Shredder - an award-winning machine that bridges the gap between a traditional grass topper and a flail mower. Capable of tackling the same demanding tasks as a flail while using a minimum 25% less power, the Major Cyclone Shredder delivers significant savings in both fuel and time. James Stewart, known for his high-quality agricultural trailers, also runs a sheep farm in Aberdeenshire. James purchased a Major 2.8m Cyclone to control the vegetation on the farm. James was impressed with the machines robust frame, heavyduty gearbox and long-term durability “There’s no substitute for quality engineering,” explained James, “and I have to say that the Major Cyclone is truly a fine piece of quality engineering. The Cyclone is without doubt ‘the’ solution to bracken and willow control and it has performed way beyond my expectations.”

Discover the Major range of machinery at stand 178 at AgriScot 2025 or learn more at www.major-equipment.com.

Mayo Farm Systems

The ‘Milk Maker’ Mayo Mattress

Completely different to anything else you have looked at. The Mayo Mattress: no layers, no rubber, no hardening, no perishing, no torn top-cover, no dishing, no problems! Only superlative service for a marketleading performing life.

If you are looking at a newbuild or refurbishing an existing unit, then you have not assessed

the market in its entirety without considering the Mayo Mattress. Made from a very durable closed-cell foam, the Mayo Mattress will hold its shape, its softness and its higher-class of hygiene performance for at least twice as long as a layered mattress system.

Its simplicity belies the enormous amount of science behind the Mayo Mattress’ globally unique formulation. Perfectly calibrated to cushion and support your cow whether housed full-time or otherwise. The bed scientifically cannot harden over time, unlike rubber which is scientifically guaranteed to. The bed will not perish over time allowing bacteria to breed in the structure, unlike rubber which is guaranteed to.

Softer materials under rubber top-covers do not have a high enough compression set and are therefore unable to cushion the cow for an acceptable period of time as they compress and lose their elasticity with use. The Mayo Mattress’ compression set is such that it will continue to cushion the cow for at least twice as long as the leading layered system. No reinvestment necessary within a 10-year period to return the system to an acceptable level of comfort.

We also believe in REAL customer service at Mayo. Get in touch today to discuss transformation of your existing unit or to get input into a lowstress, high performing new unit. Our decades of experience watching the cow in a housed environment makes us the perfect partner to you and your cows in achieving peak performance supported by world-class cow welfare products

McHale Engineering

McHale will be displaying a wide range of machinery at this year’s AgriScot show on November 19th. From new models to new features, McHale will be

Marrs of Methlick

displaying a number of new machines which will include the McHale R80-90 Centre Delivery Rake and the McHale V6-II & V8-II Variable Chamber Balers along with the new TerraDrive Axle feature which is now available on the McHale Fusion 4 Plus.

For the 2026 season, McHale is expanding this range to include the new McHale R80-90. This machine will be the largest machine in the range with a working width of 8m to 9m. Like the rest of the McHale rakes, the new R80-90 is equipped with a number of novel features as standard such as Rotor Height Adjustment, Tine Arm Cam Adjustment, Hydraulic Width Adjustment and Individual Rotor Lift.

McHale will also be launching the next generation of Variable Chamber Balers in the form of the V6-II & V8-II. These machines are now enhanced by the introduction of ISOBUS as

standard across the V6750-II & V8950-II models. These models also feature a new ISO-Play 6 console if required which enables the machine to operate using a non-ISOBUS tractor. Aside from the new control functionality, the next generation of V6 & V8 machines also feature Load Cell Bale Shape Indicators for more accurate and responsive measurement of the bale shape and and Active Density Control which varies the density pressure regulation at predetermined points of the process.

McHale are also proud to introduce the new TerraDrive Axle which is available as an optional extra on the McHale Fusion 4 Plus. The TerraDrive option enhances your baler’s performance in challenging terrain by upgrading the standard main axle to a hydraulic drive axle. This feature is particularly useful to assist the tractor when operating in soft, wet or hilly conditions.

Merlo returns to AgriScot 2025 with a line-up designed for the modern Scottish farm – where power, agility, and operator comfort make all the difference. Visitors to the Merlo stand can expect to see a range of compact and mediumcapacity telehandlers that blend Italian innovation with practical versatility for everyday agricultural work.

At the heart of the stand will be the TF42.7, a mediumcapacity powerhouse offering a 4.2-tonne lift capacity and 7 m lift height. Fitted with a powerful 136hp Perkins engine and a 139

l/min load-sensing hydraulic pump, this all-rounder is built for larger farms and demanding workloads, it delivers strength and stability for handling silage, loading grain, or stacking bales with precision. The TF42.7 is homologated for road speeds up to 40 kph and equipped with a hydraulic pick-up hitch, making it as efficient on the road as it is in the yard. With Cab Suspension (CS) and air conditioning options, it ensures fatigue-free operation through long days in the cab – whatever the weather.

For those seeking a balance of size, power, and manoeuvrability, the TF33.7 continues to impress. With a 3.3-tonne lift and 7 m reach, this popular model combines compact dimensions with serious performance, powered by a responsive 115 hp Deutz engine. It’s the ideal all-rounder for mixed and dairy farms needing a reliable, versatile handler that adapts to every season and task.

Merlo

Completing the line-up is the P27.6, Merlo’s compact workhorse with a 2.7-tonne lift and 6 m reach. Its low cab height and tight turning radius make it perfect for traditional farm buildings, narrow yards, and passageways, while still delivering the comfort, visibility, and build quality Merlo is renowned for.

From compact agility to medium-capacity muscle, every Merlo delivers full-size ROPS/ FOPS-certified comfort cabs, intuitive capacitive multifunction joysticks, and the smooth operation Merlo is known for. Visit Stand 144 at AgriScot 2025 to see telehandlers built to tackle the diverse demands of Scottish agriculture. The Merlo team will be delighted to showcase the latest innovations

Monil Virtual Fencing

Scotland’s hill and upland farmers are embracing a quiet revolution in livestock management - virtual fencing.

Monil, a Norwegian agritech specialist, is leading the transition toward smarter, more sustainable grazing through their solar-powered virtual fencing collars. The collars are already being tested in Scotland through the Monitor Farm Virtual Fencing Project, across farms in Argyllshire, South Ayrshire, Stirlingshire and Strathspey.

Using an intuitive app, farmers can view each animal’s location, set and move virtual boundaries, and receive alerts in real time, all without stepping into the field. The result is more efficient land use, better animal oversight, and fewer miles spent locating cattle in remote terrain.

Early feedback has been positive. Farmers report cattle adapting quickly to the technology and grazing in areas previously left untouched.

Others are using the system to tackle bracken or protect sensitive ground, improving both productivity and biodiversity.

By combining animal behaviour insight with precise, low-impact control, Monil’s collars are helping reshape extensive livestock systems for the modern era.

“Virtual fencing isn’t about replacing animal husbandry - it’s about empowering farmers to do more with less,” says a Monil UK spokesperson. “We’re seeing real progress in how technology supports resilience, welfare, and the environment.”

With new Scottish agricultural grants being allocated, Monil is offering custom packages for all Scottish farmers. To celebrate Agriscot 2025, farmers can use the code AGRISCOTT2025 for 50% off their first-year subscription. Learn more and request a tailored offer at www.monil. co.uk

Established in 1979, Murray Machinery Ltd operates from within Aberdeenshire, manufacturing material handling attachments to fit telescopic handlers, forklifts and tractor loaders. Murray Machinery has an extensive product range of over 30 machines with numerous variations which are specifically designed for the farming and agricultural sectors. This includes implements such as muck forks, stone forks, bale handling attachments, quick hitch adaptors, shear grabs, buckets and snow blades to name a few.

Murray Machinery, along with just one other, were the recipient of the Gold Award for continuous outstanding merit at the 2023 Royal Highland Show Technical Innovation Awards for their Gravel Road Grader.

The grader has various options available including bolt on hardox

edges, hydraulically operated ripper teeth, hydraulically operated tilting frame, marker boards and rear lights. With the addition of a rear compactor roller, the gravel road grader is now able to carry out four different functions in the same machine. With careful adjustment of the levelling beams the grader is able to leave the road surface high in the middle or the machine can also put a camber or a slope on the whole width of the roads therefore helping to take care of rain water management. In utilising stone from the existing road surface, great savings can be made on time, effort and money spent on maintaining your gravel road.

A version of our grader, as well other machinery such as a muck fork and grab, access platform, stone fork and bale handling equipment will be available to view on our stand.

Enquire about your next piece of agricultural machinery today on 01651 851636 or email sales@ murraymachinery.com

Perry of Oakley

Reliable, Automatic & Economic Grain Dryers

Fully automatic continuous flow grain dryers in a range of throughput capacities from 5 to 150tph and suitable for drying maize, soya bean, wheat and most combinable crops.

Fuel efficient as standard with advanced energy saving options available which can save up to an additional 35% on your direct dryer operating costs.

Utilising tried & tested technology designed & manufactured in Britain and used across the world over the last 70 years.

Why should you buy from Perry Engineering?

Perry have been drying the worlds grain since 1954. The advances in design and technology through

the decades has resulted in their Savannah Series dryer being one of the most energy efficient and reliable grain driers available on the market.

The fully galvanised construction makes it ideal for outdoor installations.

The Perry Engineering’s award-winning automated PLC moisture sampling & dryer control system, the Grain Sentry, uses moisture samples automatically obtained from the dryer filling & discharge equipment to adjust the speed of the dryer which optimises the dryer performance, driving up your profit margin.

How much would it save you?

For a 30tph dryer drying 6,000T per season it would save approximately £12,500 per season, going up to £40,000 per season for a 60tph drier drying 15,000T, in average ambient conditions.

Add to this our Hot Air Recirculation System and the saving increases to up to 34% of your operational dryer costs

Integration is key

Perry Engineering can supply all the key components for your grain processing facility including control panels, samplers, cleaners, colour sorters, the list goes on, which massively reduces the integration challenges

Contact us today

To discuss your next project or your individual machine needs please contact Perry Engineering today on 01404 890300 or email sales@perryofoakley.co.uk.

Pottinger

Pottinger will be showcasing the new Liquido F additive tank at this year’s Agriscot event. This will be the first UK event where the product will be displayed alongside machines from our grassland and arable range in the Highland Hall.

LIQUIDO F is the newly developed, versatile front silage additive tank from Pottinger. It

Murray Machinery

can be used easily and flexibly in combination with a wide variety of different brands of loader wagons and balers. The nozzle header is positioned between the pickup and the rotor, where it applies the lactic acid bacteria solution directly and homogeneously to the flow of forage to produce highquality silage.

The silage additive tank is available in two versions: LIQUIDO F 2000 and LIQUIDO F 3000 The LIQUIDO F 2000 has an application rate of 40 l/h to 245 l/h, while the premium LIQUIDO F 3000 can be expanded to achieve up to 470 l/h by adding two more nozzles.

The way the application rate is to be controlled is selected before each job: It can be switched on and off manually at the touch of a button, or automatically according to the position of the pick-up. An additional option on the premium LIQUIDO F 3000 model controls the application rate according to the driving speed: the higher the speed, the more silage additive is applied to the flow of forage.

The LIQUIDO F has three tanks for quick and easy handling. The main tank, the fresh water tank, and a hand washing tank. The main tank has a standard size of 200 litres, but is also available in a 400-litre version.

When used as a front bumper, the LIQUIDO F enhances safety on the road with its clearly visible lighting. Its width can be adjusted between 2.55 and 2.85 m, and it can also be used as front ballast. Fulfilling a versatile range of applications, the multi-purpose LIQUIDO F from Pottinger is perfect for farms of all sizes.

Since 1983, PWS has been powering Scotland’s industries with top-tier cleaning, heating and workshop equipment. What began with dairyman Jack Whitecross and a deep understanding of agricultural needs has grown into a third-generation family business serving not only the farming and agricultural community, but also

sectors from Transport & Haulage, Oil, Gas & Marine to Engineering & Manufacturing and Food & Drink Factories.

We specialise in the sale, hire, service, and repair of equipment built to perform – Power Washers, Scrubber Dryers, Generators, Heaters, Vacuums, Compressors, Water Pumps, Sweepers, Cleaning Detergents and more. If it’s tough, technical, and essential, chances are we stock it, fix it, and know it inside out.

Our reputation isn’t just built on products – it’s built on backup. With 12 service vans and 2 dedicated sales reps covering Scotland daily, we deliver fast, reliable support with no false promises. Routine maintenance or urgent repairs? Our qualified engineers are ready to roll.

Each generation of the Whitecross family has brought fresh energy and expertise, ensuring our customers receive honest advice, rapid response, and long-term care. We outperform competitors by doing what they don’t; showing up, solving problems, and standing by our customers long after the sale.

Built from the ground up by real hands and hard graft, PWS is powered by family values, practical know-how, and a commitment to showing up when it matters most.

Need a demo? Want a trade-in? Looking for equipment that works and a crew that cares? At PWS, we combine technical excellence with practical support – and we do it with grit, heart, and the kind of expert advice you can count on.

Sales, service, hire or fix –We’ve got the equipment and all the tricks.

No blagging, no fluff, just backup that bites. That’s the PWS difference.

SellMyLivestock

For over 10 years, SellMyLivestock has served

the UK farming community and, as the UK’s largest online marketplace for cattle and sheep, provided farmers with a reliable way to buy and sell livestock online. As a livestock farmer myself, our mission has always been to make livestock trading easier with less hassle than the long, speculative journeys of the past.

Save time and reduce costs

For cattle and sheep farmers, SellMyLivestock removes the time and cost pressures of hauling stock to market. You can simply write a classified listing online and negotiate directly from your farm office – or make it an auction, setting a reserve and letting the market offer you the best available price.

Prospective buyers can make informed decisions before committing to a purchase, because the seller adds details like weight, health information and photos. This not only saves time and transport costs but also reduces disease risk and stress on animals, improving overall safety and welfare compared to the traditional market.

Full control and direct

By selling directly, farmers can choose when they are ready to sell. This means you can take hold of opportunities like holding on to stock a bit longer while grazing’s still decent – no need to rush along to a physical market.

Reach more buyers across the UK

With a nationwide network encompassing thousands of farms, SellMyLivestock helps farmers market their stock far beyond their local area. Whether you’re selling store cattle, finished lambs, breeding ewes or pedigree bulls, your listings can be seen by thousands of potential buyers who are actively looking for quality livestock. This wider reach helps ensure your animals find the right home at the right price.

Choose the best way to sell your livestock. Sign up for free. Search “SellMyLivestock” or visit sellmylivestock.com Going to Agriscot? Visit us at Stand 42 to find out more

Heading to AgriScot this year?

Be sure to stop by the Shearwell stand, where our dedicated representatives for Scotland will be on hand throughout the day: James Hickson - covering South Scotland, and Ellie Mann - covering North Scotland and the Isles. Whether you’re already using Shearwell equipment or just curious to find out more, it’s a great opportunity to see our latest products in action and get expert advice tailored to your farm’s needs.

From ear tags, EID readers, software and equipment, Shearwell’s tools are designed to make your job easier and more efficient. If you need support with your current equipment or want to learn how EID technology can help streamline your operations, James and Ellie will be happy to guide you through the options and answer any questions.

One of the highlights at the stand is MyFarmWorks, Shearwell’s powerful cloudbased software. Designed for cattle and sheep farmers, MyFarmWorks lets you:

* Manage statutory and management records with ease from any device

* Record data in the field without needing internet – it syncs automatically when back in range

* Seamlessly integrate with Shearwell’s EID equipment to record movements, treatments, breeding data and more

Want to try it for yourself?

Ask James or Ellie about our FREE one-month trial or visit www.myfarm.works to find out more and get started.

Whether you’re looking for technical support, advice on new kit, or simply want to find out more about how EID and software can benefit your operation, James and Ellie will

Shearwell

be happy to talk you through the options and answer any questions.

Can’t wait until AgriScot?

Visit shearwell.co.uk or call:

James: 07714 744 686 or Ellie: 07788 209 438

Terrington Machinery

2025 will see Terrington Machinery exhibiting for the first time at the Agriscot show. After over 30 years of selling Einbock products in Scotland through their dealer network the opportunity has been offered for Terrington Machinery to exhibit at Agriscot and they are grateful to get stand 229 at this year’s event.

Terrington Machinery are looking forward to seeing many existing and new customers and talking about any requirements they may have for 2026.

Although Terrington will only be exhibiting 1 or 2 pieces of Einbock equipment they will be on hand to answer any questions about the vast range of Einbock products available from the well-known Einbock Pneumaticstar seeder range including the Pneumaticstar ,Pneumaticstar SR and the impressive Pneumaticstar Pro, Cultivation equipment and the vast range of Mechanical weed control machinery that is on offer from Einbock that have been sold extensively around the UK in the last 33 years of Terrington Machinery being the sole importer for Einbock in the UK.

Terrington Machinery are a wholly family-owned company that has been in business from the mid 80’s so are able to control all aspects of their business from giving advise to customer so that they can purchase the correct machines , assembling the machines, carrying out pre delivery inspections and delivering over 95% of the machines with their own vehicles so quick and prompt deliveries

can be made to our dealers and customers.

Terrington Machinery wishes everyone a good show and look forward to seeing you there.

Tramspread

Tramspread pioneered remotecontrol systems for enginedriven pump units (EDPUs). The first units, introduced in 2010, allowed an entire umbilical slurry spreading system to be operated and monitored by just one person.

Today, Tramspread offers two options: SIL Vision IV is a radio remote control system whilst Teletram 2020 uses the GSM network. Both are suitable for fitting to the full range of Tramspread EDPUs which all offer many benefits when compared to PTO-driven pumps, including a significant saving in labour and machinery as well as typically using 35% less fuel.

Developed in-house by Tramspread, the latest Teletram 2020 system has been refined from the original which was launched over four years ago. It uses the GSM (3G, 4G or 5G) communication network, so

operating distance is simply not an issue.

The system allows the pump to be controlled at the push of a button from the cab of the applicator tractor and, when coupled with inlet and outlet pressure sensors and flow meters, can also warn of potential issues such as drag hose leaks.

When fitted with an optional 360-degree video camera the slurry store and surrounding area can be monitored from the tractor seat or elsewhere. The platform can be accessed via any smart phone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection, allowing monitoring by others from the office or whilst mobile, also making it ideal for management tasks and record keeping.

Basic Teletram 2020 features include engine protection, start/ stop, throttle and divert, fuellevel sensor, pump inlet and outlet pressure, pump flow monitoring, divert valve, recording of spread/ mix hours and slurry volume applied. Options include a 360-degree video camera, air compressor control (including pressure sensing), sponge ball (pig) launcher, transfer mode (monitored unmanned slurry transfer) and nurse tank level sensor.

The latest Teletram 2020 system will be displayed at AgriScot 2025 on the Tramspread stand (#207) where Sion Williams, area sales manager for Scotland and northern England, will be onhand to discuss the product range.

To find out more about AgriScot visit www.agriscot.com.

Vogelsang

Slurry specialist Vogelsang will have the full range of XSplit separators on show at AgriScot 2025, along with precision application trailing shoe technology.

Three models of the XSplit are being made available for visitors to the event including a fixed and trailer mounted separator and the latest Compact model, which has been designed to appeal to smaller farms.

“The Compact features much of the same technology as the full sized XSplit model but is better suited to farms with up to 200 cows. It is a fixed separator, and, due to its compact dimensions, it can be housed more easily in smaller farm buildings and moved between buildings if necessary,” says Vogelsang’s Andy Hayhurst. For contractors and farms with housing spread over a wider area, the trailer mounted XSplit could be an attractive option.

“It has been built to be a mobile unit, rather than a static unit that can be converted for mobile use. This means it retains all the benefits of the XSplit such as the rubber disc sealing system for the chamber and the sectional screen. The gearbox is positioned at the dry end of the separator and there is easy adjustment of the dry matter content,” adds Mr Hayhurst.

By separating slurry, farmers can reduce the volume being sent to storage and improve the nutrient value of the slurry that is stored. Dry matter can subsequently be used as a soil conditioner or a cost-effective and sustainable bedding material.

“The XSplit is designed and engineered to be both economical to run and easy to maintain. The drive is arranged on the solid matter outlet side, which gives the XSplit an excellent cost-benefit ratio with no need for an extra shaft seal. This reduces both the cost of spare parts and the time required for maintenance work,” explains Mr Hayhurst.

Schäffer Strengthens Coverage in Scotland

Schäffer — Now Playing It Safer in Scotland

As the official UK and Ireland distributor for Schäffer Loaders, H Fulton Tractors is pleased to announce key changes to the Schäffer dealer network in Scotland.

From 31st October 2025, James Gordon Ltd will no longer be supplying or servicing Schäffer machines as an authorised dealer. Following a mutual decision to part ways, Gordons have chosen to focus on other products.

To ensure better coverage, faster support, and more localised service, we’ve appointed three experienced and respected dealerships to represent the Schäffer brand across key areas of Lower Scotland:

New Official Schäffer Dealers

Bryson Tractors

Delivering sales and aftersales support in Lanarkshire, Lothians, Ayrshire and surrounding regions in the West.

Website: www.brysontractors. co.uk | Call: 01555 660888

Johnston Tractors

Providing full support across Dumfries & Galloway and the South West.

Website: www.johnstontractors. com | Call: 01387 255355

A L Agri

Servicing Forfar and surrounding regions with professional sales and aftercare.

Website: www.al-agri.co.uk | Call: 01307 496679

Support for Existing Customers

From 31st October 2025, all new and existing Schäffer customers

in the affected areas will be fully supported by our newly appointed authorised dealers. Whether you purchased your machine previously through James Gordon Ltd or are looking to invest in a new Schäffer loader, your local dealer is now your direct point of contact for sales, servicing, and genuine parts

Our new partners have been carefully chosen for their experience, resources, and commitment to customer care, ensuring you benefit from dedicated, factory-backed support for the long term. We encourage all existing Schäffer owners to connect with their nearest dealer as soon as possible

to establish direct support and take advantage of the full range of services available.

Existing Dealers Unchanged

This update applies only to selected areas in Scotland. Our long-standing Schäffer dealers remain fully authorised and unaffected. They include:

• Sellars – Aberdeenshire and North East Scotland (www. sellars.claas-dealer.co.uk)

• DM Forklifts – Stonehaven, and surrounding regions (Call: 01569 760210)

• Fife Tractors – Fife, and surrounding regions (www. fifetractors.com)

• Rickerby’s – The Borders and

South East Scotland (www. rickerby.claas-dealer.co.uk)

• Linklater Engineering –Orkney Islands (www. linklaterengineering.co.uk)

These trusted partners continue to provide full sales and aftersales support in their established regions.

Why These Changes Were Made

Over recent years, interest in Schäffer articulated loaders has grown significantly, in some regions even making Schäffer the market leader. Now, following the successful launch of the new T-3 models, we expect sales to grow even further. The livestock

sector, which is booming across Scotland, is particularly well-suited to the compact yet powerful Schäffer design — meaning this was the perfect time to strengthen dealer coverage in Lower Scotland.

With 26 models ranging from 25hp to 204hp, Schäffer offers the widest range of pivot-steer loaders on the market. From yard-friendly compacts to heavyduty farm loaders, every machine is engineered in Germany for maximum reliability, efficiency, and operator comfort.

It is no surprise that Schäffer has been awarded “World Market Leader for Articulated Loaders” by the Chambers of Industry and Commerce - a title that underlines Schäffer’s unmatched reputation for innovation and dependability worldwide.

Built Around Farmers’ Needs

What sets Schäffer apart is the focus on building machines that

are not only powerful but also practical for everyday farming:

• Compact design for working in tight livestock sheds and yards

• High lift capacity relative to machine size

• Fuel-efficient engines with the latest emission technology

• Ergonomic, comfortable cabs designed for long working days

• Strong resale values thanks to German build quality

These qualities have made Schäffer loaders a popular choice for livestock, arable, and mixed farms across the UK and Ireland.

Aftersales: The Schäffer Difference

We firmly believe that sales are just the beginning — it’s reliable aftersales support that builds long-term customer confidence. As we like to say: “Salesmen sell the first machine — the service team sell the second.”

Our strengthened dealer network means faster response

times, access to genuine Schäffer parts, and fully trained technicians who know the machines inside and out. This is a brand commitment that ensures every owner has the backup they need, whenever they need it.

Find Your Nearest Dealer

Whether you’re a long-standing Schäffer customer or new to the

brand, our growing dealer network is here to support you with:

• Sales advice to match the right machine to your needs

• Professional servicing and genuine Schäffer parts

• Long-term support from factory-trained teams

Visit: www.schafferuk.com

Call: 028 7774 1704

Diet Feeders

Meet the ‘Fab Four!’

BvL 18-2S V-Mix Plus mixer wagon

Consistency is the key to a good ration mix and no two farms are the same. Therefore it’s important that a wide range of specifications and options are available, so that machines can be tailored to meet those requirements.

It’s over 40 years since Bernard van Lengerich Maschinenfabrick (BvL) introduced the first vertical feed mixer wagon to the market, during which time the company has grown to become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of diet mixers.

Today, the BvL V-MIX range of trailed diet feeders covers a wide range of machines, available in single, twin and triple auger variants and in capacity from 3.5m3 up to 46m3.

At the heart of all BvL mixers are powerful mixing augers, with Hardox leading edges and adjustable knives, plus they also incorporate mixing wedges for a thorough and consistent mix that fully utilises the full volume of the mixer wagon. Magnets are a popular option to avoid any risk of any metal objects being included in the ration.

A unique feature of all BvL diet mixers is the patented EDS

(Exact Dosing System) discharge. This is designed to provide consistent, even forage discharge that is deposited in a loose swath. With the option of doors on both the left and right hand side, plus the front, rear and corners of the feeder, this provides complete feeding flexibility and EDS even allows for the mix to be deposited on both sides simultaneously. Other options include up/down chutes and elevators.

Another option that is becoming increasingly popular are stainless steel liners for the tub, especially on larger herds but also for those incorporating root crops, so as to reduce wear. All machines are also suitable for Compact TMR, where in place of the standard auger, Compact TMR augers are fitted, which are not as high, but are wider and have an additional auger blade. The augers are made from rustproof steel and incorporate a water tight seal to avoid water getting into the auger cone, plus the mixer body is also faced with rust-proof steel.

Weighing systems range from a straightforward weigh cell based system, up to full feed app and cloud based systems, including BvL’s V-Connect.

Seko Diet Feeders from Harry West

Harry West (Prees) Ltd are able to offer a full complement of diet feeding options for all your particular requirements.

In these ever changing times the demand to produce more for a lower cost has never been more prevalent in the dairy / beef

industry. This as always been a very topical issue. The range of Diet Feeders available from our North Shropshire base covers every requirement for the progressive breeder. As the sole importer of the Seko Industries products

we can offer the full range from the highly regarded Italian manufacture.

For customers who require chopped material we can offer the extensive range of Seko machines, these top quality horizontal and vertical designed models offer up to the minute in design and quality built machines.

The Seko Samurai 7 horizontal range give us capacities of 5 cu/m up to 30 cu/m in various configurations consisting of trailed, selfpropelled and stationary units. The simple design consisting of two augers with four convergent windings along with stationary and

Kuhn’s new range of trailed mixer wagons PROFILE 1.CM

As an addition to KUHN’s PROFILE 1.L series of trailed mixers with a single vertical auger, KUHN has launched the new PROFILE 1.CM range.

The new models feature a more compact design than the L series, with the five new M machines aimed at farmers compromised by significant width and height restrictions. The new feeders will enable efficient distribution of rations in any type of barn.

Available in 8, 9, 10, 12, and 13m3, the PROFILE 1.CM series can feed up to 100 dairy cows in a single pass (depending on the fibre content of the mixed ration). Featuring a single vertical auger, the 10m3 model is under 2.8m high and has a maximum width of 2.45m – these dimensions are suited to feed in the tightest barns and feed passages.

The PROFILE 1.CM’s integrated chassis delivers strength during transport, while

auger blades giving an excellent chopping and mixing action. Seko also have a complete range of vertical diet feeders

labelled the Tiger series with capacities of 9cu/m to 45cu/m also available in self-propelled, trailed and stationary version.

All machines are bespoke built with various discharge options, weighing systems and a variety of other build options.

DIET FEEDERs

the tank and chassis form a complete welded unit, improving longevity.

As standard, the DG 600 programmable weighing terminal can be paired with a remote Dina Tel 3 display for use in a loader or telescopic handler. The polygonal tank design, combined with counterknives articulated at their upper end, ensures fast and efficient chopping of the fibres. The continuous double-pitch auger enhances both filling and mixing efficiency across all models.

All PROFILE 1.CM models are standard with a wide crossconveyor positioned at the front

of the machine – with the option to place it at the rear – allowing easy, two-sided distribution of the mixed ration.

KUHN’s patented C-DRIVE system features a wide discharge hatch designed to ensure a consistent flow and high throughput for fibrous rations. K-NOX protected parts increase service life by up to six times compared with standard protection. The mixing augers and the inner tank liners are K-NOX treated to protect against chemical corrosion from silage and abrasion from fodder, improving longevity of components.

Improving ration quality with Kvereneland

At Knockrivoch Farm, Saltcoats, North Ayrshire, Dougie Hogarth aims to produce as much milk as possible, from grass. But when cows are housed, that emphasis changes to ration quality, relying on high-quality silage mixed with straights and fodder beet to maintain production.

“We get 55% of our milk from forage, so having a well-mixed, decent ration is really important if we’re to keep our Montbeliardes delivering 7,500-litres of highquality milk,” explains Dougie Hogarth.

Until recently, that ration has been under scrutiny, with poorly mixed ingredients responsible for such a reduction in milk yield, that the diet feeder has been replaced by a Siloking twin auger trailed machine.

“The difference is night and day,” explains Dougie, who believes that his previous machine’s poor mixing performance was responsible for a reduction of up to one litre per cow, per day. “You’ve only got to look into the top of the Siloking when it’s mixing to see how the entire contents are thoroughly mixed around the outer edge of the tub and between the two vertical augers, and it happens in fairly quick time. There’s no dead spots in this tub.”

The 28 cubic metre capacity, TrailedLine 4.0 Premium

model was supplied by J&S Montgomery, as was the farm’s ED 85/200 five-furrow plough.

“We’ve had good support from Montgomery’s for our Kverneland plough, so the diet feeder shouldn’t be any different,” he says.

The feeder specification includes a hydraulic front crossconveyor that enables feeding into bunkers and raised troughs, while a wide, HD door on the right-hand side affords rapid unloading along feed passages.

“It’s a few cubes bigger than our previous machine, which gives us a bit of spare capacity, and despite the extra height, there’s no problem accessing any of our buildings,” he says.

With 340 cows in milk at Knockrivoch, the herd is fed one standard ration, with in-parlour feeding used to differentiate high- and low-yielders. Young stock, dry cows and store cattle get different mixes, and the shorter mixing times combined with quicker unloading in

passageways have also brought an increase in operational efficiency.

“The HD door means we can feed much more quickly now, improving our efficiency,” he says. “From what we’ve done so far, it’s certainly an impressive machine and feeding throughout next winter should be a much more enjoyable task.”

“And if we can get an extra litre from feeding a much better ration, it won’t take long to pay for itself,” adds Dougie.

Campaign to Celebrate the Contribution of Older Farming People

A major initiative to celebrate the huge contribution of older people to Scottish agriculture is being launched by RSABI this week.

The aim of the Ploughing On campaign is to raise awareness of the remarkable service and dedication of senior people in farming and crofting, and to remind older people in agricultural communities just how valued they are.

The campaign, which is being backed by *organisations throughout Scottish agriculture, has been developed at a time when many older farmers are reporting feeling particularly anxious about the future, including concerns about the impact of proposed inheritance tax changes.

Running throughout the winter months, the aim is to highlight the experience and commitment shown by the men and women who have dedicated their lives to agriculture, sharing memories of the highs and lows of farming across many decades.

“Agriculture can be a lonely business at any age, but those in their more senior years can be particularly vulnerable to the impact of isolation especially during the winter months,” said Carol McLaren, CEO of RSABI.

“Inheritance tax changes, expected in April 2026, are putting unexpected additional pressure on farming families and very sadly some older farmers are describing feeling they are a liability or a burden on their farming business and family.

“So over the coming months, we’ll be celebrating the more senior people in our community and all they have contributed over the years. We’ll be sharing memories and encouraging friendships to rekindle and new friendships to be forged among our senior farming folk.”

RSABI will also be encouraging people more than ever to take time to look out for older individuals in their communities.

“This is particularly important over the winter months

when worries about heating bills increase as the temperatures fall and the days can feel very long and dark for someone living on their own.“A visit, a phone call, an offer of help or even just a smile can really lift the spirits of someone who is struggling and make a bigger difference than you can imagine,” said Carol.

In the coming weeks the initiative will see a call for volunteers to work with RSABI throughout Scotland to arrange festive lunches for senior people, with a view to developing a network of Plough On groups across the country in the longer term.

RSABI will also be releasing a series of videos highlighting the contributions made by farming folk who have dedicated their lives to working on the land and are sharing their love of farming to inspire and encourage younger people.

There will also be an opportunity to nominate senior people to receive an official

certificate from RSABI to recognise and acknowledge those who have given exceptional contributions through long service in farming and crofting.

Information about all these initiatives will be available on the RSABI website www.rsabi. org.uk and the charity’s social media feeds.

RSABI’s free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi. org.uk. The charity also offers emotional support calls to people who might be feeling low or lonely and these can be arranged by contacting our Helpline.

For further information about the Ploughing On Campaign or to volunteer to set up a festive lunch in your area, please emailploughon@rsabi.org.uk

fighting rural crime

This is the first of a series of articles intended to highlight wildlife crime in Scotland, the structures policing has put in place for preventing and investigating it and examples of some of the crime types

By PC Gavin Ross, Scottish Investigative Support Officer, UK

National Wildlife Crime Unit, seconded from Police Scotland.

Structures

Scotland has extensive and complex legislation that protects our environment and its flora and fauna. The police are the main agency that enforces the legislation but there are other specialist agencies who can also investigate and report to the Crown Office such as Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and Water Bailiffs. Most investigations require a partnership approach, and key partners are the Wildlife and Environmental Crime Unit of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Nature Scot, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Marine Scotland, Scotland’s Rural College and obviously our network of Countryside Rangers.

Police Scotland lead the way in UK policing with our structure:

Detective Sergeant David Lynn and Detective Constable

Daniel Crilley have a national coordination remit, and five of the thirteen divisions have dedicated full time wildlife officers: PC’s Dan Sutherland – Highlands and Islands, Ann Ashman – North East, Ben Pacholek – Fife, Ali Whitby –Lothians and Scottish Borders, and Laura Robertson – Forth Valley. These and the other divisions also have numerous officers trained in wildlife crime who conduct these duties on top of their existing duties.

The National Wildlife Crime Unit covers all the UK and provides strategic and tactical support to UK policing from its team of investigative support officers, detectives, analysts, intelligence officers and trainers. From Police Scotland PC Gavin Ross is the

Investigative Support Officer responsible for Scotland and DC Steven Irvine covers Scotland and Northern England for complex detective led investigations.

Priorities

All reports of wildlife crime are logged and proportionately investigated however there are six priorities that are given extra attention through strategic multi-agency priority delivery groups that meet quarterly and assess the wider issues through a 4P strategy: Prevent, Protect, Prepare and Pursue. These priority areas are: Badger Crime, Bat Crime, Poaching and Hare Coursing, Bird of Prey Crime, Freshwater Pearl Mussels and CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).

Eyes and Ears

Wildlife Crime is difficult to investigate, most of it occurs in rural areas where there are few eyewitnesses, no ring doorbell cameras and the weather can affect forensic opportunities. We therefore rely on all the help we can get from members of the public. If you see—or even suspect—a wildlife crime, report it. I won’t sugarcoat it: these cases can be difficult to prove. But without a report, we can’t even start. Sometimes, the very act of a police visit or an interview is enough to stop a would-be offender from trying it again.

You might be the only witness to that eagle’s disturbed nest or the only person who knows where a badger sett has been blocked. Your action could be the reason it doesn’t happen twice.

Poly criminality is prevalent amongst those who commit wildlife crime, for example the criminal involved in poaching

Gavin Ross

could also be involved in plant theft or drug dealing. Disruption is a key tactic in preventing crime. Make the police aware of a wildlife crime and you could be preventing other rural crimes from occurring.

What to do if you witness wildlife crime

If you suspect a wildlife crime is/ has taken place

Do:

• Take note of the date, time, and weather conditions

• If possible, identify a map reference using the My Three Words app, or ideally a GPS reading of both the incident scene and location from where you witnessed the incident

• Note a description of person/s involved including gender, age, height, clothing, etc

• Write down any vehicle registration numbers, make, model, and colour that may be involved

• Identify other witnesses and obtain their name and contact details

• If possible, video or photograph the scene, or make a rough sketch

• Cover up any suspected poisoned baits or victims to prevent any animal or person from coming into contact with them.

• Do report. Even if you are not sure - report the incident. The

Sheep Grazing Winter Crop – What You Need To Know

By Kirsten Williams, SAC Consulting

Do not:

• Do not disturb the scene by moving items or walking about unnecessarily

• Do not touch dead animals or birds, especially if you suspect that poison may have been used

• Do not interfere with legal countryside practices such as the legal use of traps and snares, hides, high seats, and shooting butts.

Never:

• Never approach suspects or intervene if you suspect someone is committing a wildlife crime – you may put yourself in danger.

How to report:

• If you witness something you consider a serious wildlife crime and it is ongoing phone 999.

• If you witness something that has taken place and can be investigated slow time phone 101 or report via email: Contactus@scotland.police.uk.

• If you have information or suspicions this may be a missing piece of an investigative jigsaw and you could be a witness or the information could be anonymised and used as intelligence, maybe as part of a search warrant or surveillance operation.

Use your local contacts, 101, Contact us or Crimestoppers (0800 555 111) to report this.

Grazing winter cereal crops or “the golden hoof” - is a method where sheep graze down winter-sown cereal crops such as barley, wheat and oats for short periods of time during tillering, providing the benefits of reducing fungicide use, removing diseased crop and increasing soil organic matter.

As well as known benefits to the crop, there are advantages for the sheep in that the crops offer good nutrition when resources can be limited and provide clean grazing with no worm burden. In addition, grazing sheep on cereal crops affords grass a period of rest.

This is typically done on a collaborative approach, where sheep, fencing and labour are supplied by the livestock keeper and a weekly rent is paid for the grazing.

When selecting crops to graze, the priority is to graze the most forward crops first, with barley typically being grazed before wheat or oats. Early maturing varieties are ideal for this system, provided they are not stressed; if this is the case, grazing should be avoided.

The crop should only be grazed while tillering

(growth stage 21-29) and not into stem extension (growth stage 30), at which point there is a risk of reducing the yield through ear damage. The crop should also have a strong root system to avoid being pulled out of the ground.

Crops are typically grazed either behind an electric fence or on a paddock-based system at a high stocking density to move across fields quickly. The aim is to graze the leaf to ground level, as these will recover, and by harvest time, the grazed areas will not be identifiable.

It is important to monitor the grazing and to move the sheep onto the next break when the required level of grazing has been carried out.

Top Tips for Getting Started

Start with grazing the most forward crops. Have a back-up plan for poor weather e.g., a rough, grass or catch crop area to move sheep to in snow, etc.

Set up 2-3 paddocks at a time to allow ability to move sheep quickly if required e.g., weather or lack of labour.

Graze over a short period of time e.g., 3-14 days depending on the crop biomass to keep uniformity.

evidence of wildlife crime is not always obvious.

Protecting What Matters Most: Fire & Security Solutions for Scottish Farms

In today’s farming landscape, security and safety are more important than ever. With rising equipment thefts, increased fire risks in grain stores, and the need to safeguard valuable livestock and machinery, Scottish farmers are turning to trusted specialists like Russell Fire & Security (Scotland) Ltd.

Based in the heart of Scotland, we provide comprehensive fire and

security solutions designed specifically for the agricultural sector. Our systems are tailored to meet the unique challenges of rural environments — from wide-spanning properties and outbuildings to remote grain stores and high-risk storage areas.

Our fire alarm systems are expertly designed to detect early signs of danger in highrisk areas such as workshops,

● Fire Alarm Systems: Tailored protection for high-risk areas such as grain stores, workshops, and machinery sheds.

● CCTV Surveillance: 24/7 monitoring and remote viewing to safeguard livestock, equipment, and property.

● Intruder Alarm Systems: Reliable wired and wireless solutions designed to deter theft and protect rural sites.

● Automatic Gates & Barriers: Secure, convenient access control for farmyards, driveways, and restricted zones.

● Electrical Services: Complete electrical installation, testing, and maintenance for farms and outbuildings.

● Maintenance & Monitoring: Affordable, ongoing support to ensure every system performs when it matters most.

01506 333304 | 07366 340104

Unit J, Burnhouse Industrial Estate , Whitburn EH47 0LQ www.russellfireandsecurity.com

machinery sheds, and grain dryers — helping to protect your livelihood and meet compliance requirements. Meanwhile, our CCTV and intruder alarm systems offer around-the-clock monitoring, acting as a powerful deterrent against theft and vandalism.

We also supply and install automatic gates and barriers, giving farmers convenient yet secure access control

for yards, driveways, and restricted areas. Combined with our professional electrical services, we offer a complete end-to-end solution — from design and installation to ongoing maintenance.

At Russell Fire & Security, we’re proud to support Scotland’s farming community by protecting what matters most — your family, your assets, and your future.

For a free consultation or site survey, contact 01506 333304, email sales@russellfireandsecurity.com, or visit www.russellfireandsecurity.com.

Do you have Q fever in your dairy herd?

Q fever is endemic in the UK and is an infectious zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii that has the potential to impact dairy herd productivity, including fertility.

A greater number of herds are being tested and vaccinated for the disease. Recent data from 900 Ceva Q Test bulk milk tank PCR samples has identified Q fever hot spots around the country with between 50% and 60% of tests carried out in herds with symptoms testing positive for Q fever in Dumfries & Galloway, Lancashire, Somerset, Cornwall and Derbyshire.

The Q test samples identified that symptoms reported in herds that tested positive for Q fever included infertility (51%), abortions (52%), metritis/ endometritis (20%), retained placenta (14%) and pregnancy loss/still borns/weak newborns (2%), however the pregnancy loss data may well be higher as these were only logged after Ceva started looking into the other options. Herds have also reported pneumonia type symptoms in sick cows that would mirror the disease in humans.

Infection is generally through inhalation of the bacterium from infected placentas and foetuses, as well as shedding animals through milk/faeces and vaginal mucous. The disease is particularly difficult to diagnose as sometimes symptoms are not obvious, so Q fever can be overlooked as other infertility causes are investigated first. This can lead to economic losses before testing for Q fever is even considered.

Vaccination is key to controlling the disease and the Q fever vaccination protocol involves a primary course of two injections three weeks apart, followed by a booster.

Ceva has introduced a new, free service to provide farmers with a snapshot of costs associated with fertility issues linked to Q fever in all year

round (AYR) calving herds.

Using robust data sources including the NMR 500 Herd Report and Kingshay Dairy Costings, the Q Review is available via vet practices and gives useful herd-specific information as a benchmark for the cost of infertility against industry targets.

For information contact your vet or visit www.qfever. co.uk.

Forage deficit demands accurate supplementation

Forage quality and quantity has been hit hard by this year’s drought conditions, and while many areas have been able to take multiple cuts the need for supplementation remains necessary to provide adequate nutrition this autumn and winter.

Supplementary sugars are ideal for growing, finishing and breeding cattle. With reduced forage, extending the grazing season will help make the most of forage over-winter, but this will require accurate supplementation, suggests Rumenco’s Dr Alison Bond.

“This is not a new problem, but there is a tendency to see forage as protein and rumen fill rather than the balance of nutrients cattle need to thrive. Providing supplementary sugars to the late grazing and overwinter diet can help mitigate the low sugar levels that many are seeing in this year’s forage,” she says.

Forage sugar content declines rapidly in autumn with fewer hours of sunlight to enable grass to make the sugars needed by cattle. There is a false sense of security created by looking to dry matter and protein content which is why balance is needed by using a supplement with a high level of readily available sugars.

“MAXX Cattle Booster Plus contains high levels of readily available sugars making it an ideal forage supplement for growing, finishing and breeding cattle. The feeding method facilitates controlled, frequent intakes, providing the rumen with the consistent sugar supply it requires whilst supporting the maintenance of rumen health and pH. It also contains high levels of energy and protein from both urea and natural sources to support performance as grass quality declines,” explains Dr Bond.

AgriScot will see Rumenco, Nettex and Progiene promoting the virtues of forage management and accurate supplementation, with advisors on hand to help visitors answer any questions relating to dietary requirements.

“Rarely do we see a year where supplementation is so important to over-wintering cattle. Making the most of the forage that is available while ensuring cattle are hitting target weights is an equation that we can help visitors with and we look forward to welcoming them to our stand,” concludes Dr Bond.

Data Highlights Ongoing Challenge of Calf Scour on UK Cattle Farms

More than 120 cattle farmers and livestock sector stakeholders have highlighted the ongoing challenge of calf scour in young calves on beef and dairy units, according to live poll results from a recent industry webinar1.

The Stopping Calf Scours in its Tracks webinar, organised by MSD Animal Health, found that when asked what percentage of calves show signs of diarrhoea before 21 days of age:

• 40% reported 3–5% of calves affected

• 40% reported 6–10% affected

• 20% said more than 20% of their calves are affected

Despite these figures, routine diagnostic sampling is not yet widespread, with only half of respondents saying they test for the pathogens causing scour, while 16.7% admitted they never test to identify the cause.

Positively, the poll highlighted responsible antibiotic use, with 80% saying they only use antibiotics under veterinary guidance and the remaining 20% saying they never use antibiotics to treat scour.

When it comes to hygiene, 80% of respondents said they manage to disinfect and rest pens between groups most of the time, showing strong awareness of the importance of hygiene in reducing disease pressure.

Economics

Scour is estimated to cost the UK cattle industry £11 million

annually2 and is responsible for around 50% of all calf deaths3. But the consequences don’t stop there — gut damage caused by scour can lead to poorer growth rates, reduced lifetime productivity, and increased antibiotic use4.

“Scour is still a major cause of losses on calf rearing units and the poll results highlight how widespread it is, and why it is important we manage it,” says Dr Kat Baxter-Smith, Veterinary Advisor at MSD Animal Health, who was one of the speakers during the webinar.

“It can be caused by multiple pathogens, but Cryptosporidium parvum is now the leading cause of infectious scour in UK calves3 — and one of the most challenging, due to its environmental resilience and the speed at which it spreads between calves.

“Due to the range of pathogens that can cause scour, it is vital farmers understand what the pathogen causing scour is for each outbreak and work with their vet to identify the best solution to control it. Sometimes it can be as simple as nutritional scour caused by changes in feed or incorrect milk feeding, but often infectious agents such as cryptosporidia or rotavirus are involved and can spread quickly between calves, requiring prompt action to stop the spread,” explained Dr Baxter-Smith.

Vaccination to boost antibodies in cow colostrum can also provide an effective

way to help manage the threat of infectious scour agents, using Bovilis Cryptium® for cryptosporidiosis and Bovilis® Rotavec® Corona for rotavirus, coronavirus, and E. coli F5 (K99) and F41.

Both vaccines are administered to the dam in the third trimester of pregnancy — with two doses for Bovilis Cryptium® in the first year — and provide passive immunity to the calf through the colostrum.

“Vaccination, alongside other management tools such as correct colostrum management and hygiene, can really make a difference in terms of calf health and productivity. It can also have a positive impact on staff morale when they’re not having to deal

with sick calves on a daily basis too,” added Dr Baxter-Smith.

Expert advice

MSD Animal Health’s webinar on effective scour management featured talks from Dr BaxterSmith, Dr Kat Hart from the George Veterinary Group, and vet and farmer Rob Drysdale.

A separate webinar, which drilled down into cryptosporidiosis, featured dairy farmer David Bradley and his vet Tiffany Horn, who discussed their success getting on top of the disease through vaccination and management changes. Dr Katie Denholm from the University of Glasgow also spoke about the benefits and practicalities of extended colostrum feeding.

Bolus technology on trial for suckler cows at Banff and Buchan Monitor Farm

Suckler cows at the Banff and Buchan Monitor Farm are trialling new electronic rumen bolus technology, hoping to give farmer Bruce Irvine more breeding, health and welfare information to better manage his herd.

The use of electronic boluses in the rumen in dairy cattle is well established, using movement and temperature sensors to measure rumination, body temperature and activity. For dairy farmers, data analysis, through apps, provides early detection and recording of bulling, calving, feeding issues and onset of illness. However, they are not currently widely used for sucklers.

Bruce is among the first beef producers to trial the system,

putting rumen boluses into 100 of his summer-calving Stabilisers. The two-year ‘proof of concept’ trial supported by Scottish Government Innovation Project funding, involves vets, a nutritionist and bolus supplier smaXtec, and is examining the efficacy, accuracy and cost-benefits of boluses. Bruce hopes the technology will offer improved detection of bulling, cattle illness and calving management.

So far, the boluses have generated plenty of information, which is available to Bruce via an app. It highlights cows with temperatures above their average who may be developing an infection; measures rumen pulses so tracking rumination; works out how much water cows have drunk (via her drop in temperature from drinking cold water and an algorithm); tracks her movement and whether she’s in heat or has been bulled.

However, the system is currently calibrated for dairy cows,

meaning there is some work to be done to make it accurate enough for sucklers whose daily life and eating patterns outdoors are more varied. Bruce and Ewan Jamieson, director at Meadows Vets, are working closely with smaXtec to address this.

Bruce says: “For the rumen pulses, the system expects cows to have 450-650 pulsations per minute, and when that drops, it’s usually a sign for dairy cows that they’re not getting enough forage or that the ration has changed. But our sucklers are not always eating the same ration – they might be eating grass or from a ring feeder, so rumen pulses in sucklers can

be different to dairy cows who are eating the same all the time. The lowest we have had is 300 per minute which has resulted in an alert.”

He adds: “We’ve also had some challenges with the signal between the boluses and base stations which pick up the data. It would be no problem in a shed or in a flat field, but we have lots of undulations, which makes it difficult for the base stations to always be in contact with the boluses. We’ve had to move them a few times and buy another one to have enough coverage.

“If the cows are out of range, the boluses will store five days of

data, but if there are 30-40 cows out of range, we have found it will take five to six days to ‘catch up’. Two of the base stations are solar powered, the other is run off a 12V car battery which lasts only five to six days on average, so we are planning to make that solar too.”

The boluses cost £30 each and are guaranteed for the life of the cow, with an expected battery life of five years, while the software/ app subscription is £30/head/year. Bruce is hopeful that the value will come when the bolus identifies cows in heat and their service date.

“I am trying to catch insemination dates so we can see how this works for the next calving cycle.”

livestock Streamlined QMS Cattle & Sheep Assurance Scheme Standards Published

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has completed the latest review of the Cattle & Sheep Assurance Scheme Standards, with the updated Standards now approved by both the Standards Setting Body and the QMS Board. These will come into effect from 1 January 2026.

The updated standards have been designed to be more userfriendly and seek to reduce the audit burden on our members, featuring a 15% reduction in the number of standards through streamlining and removal of duplication—without compromising the integrity and robustness of the scheme.

Greater transparency and member involvement were key features of the process, including a new consultation step introduced following a governance review in 2022. This allowed members to review proposed changes well before final approval, enabling QMS to refine the standards based on first hand feedback from those who are assessed to the standards.

Kathryn Kerr, Head of Brands Integrity at QMS, said:

“Listening to members and stakeholders throughout the review has been critical. Their insights have helped us make the standards

Virtual Fencing Brings Early Benefits to Scotland’s Monitor Farms

Four of Scotland’s Monitor Farms are trialling an innovative virtual fencing system this summer, with early signs of environmental and management benefits. The farms – in Argyllshire, South Ayrshire, Stirlingshire, and Strathspey – each have 25 solar-powered collars from Norwegian company Monil, fitted to their cattle as part of a two-year costbenefit assessment.

Cattle are trained to respond to the collars’ signals, allowing farmers to manage hill and upland grazing via an app. Virtual boundaries can be moved remotely, with notifications if cattle remain stationary for too long. The system has enabled more efficient grazing, reducing overgrazing and allowing cattle to access areas they would not normally visit.

On the South Ayrshire Monitor Farm, David Andrew reports that locating cattle has become far quicker, particularly when animals calve away from the main herd. Virtual fencing has also successfully protected reseeded areas of in-bye land. Similarly, Strathspey’s Calum and Hamish Smith have rotated heifers through ‘virtual paddocks’, improving hill grazing management, though some breakouts have occurred due to disturbances and collar adjustments.

Challenges remain at Stirlingshire and Argyll farms, where patchy

connectivity has limited full use of the collars. Despite this, the technology has allowed grazing of rougher grass and made livestock handling easier, including when gathering sheep alongside cattle.

Grass analysis this summer indicated a need for limited supplementary feeding, but improved pasture utilisation suggests this may reduce in future. Body condition scores show cattle maintaining condition, offering the potential for outwintering and freeing up indoor space.

Christine Cuthbertson, Monitor Farm regional adviser, notes the project has highlighted both benefits and challenges.

“Connectivity issues have been a challenge, but early results show real promise in how farms can manage grazing more efficiently,” she says.

As the two-year trial continues, the Monitor Farms aim to further refine virtual fencing use and explore its potential to enhance both farm productivity and environmental stewardship.

simpler and easier to use, without compromising the high levels of quality and integrity consumers expect from our brands.

“The QMS Assurance Scheme – which celebrates 35 years of continued excellence in 2025plays a vital role in underpinning the integrity of the Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb brands. Consumers care more than ever how their food is produced, and these standards provide the assurance of provenance, high standards of animal welfare and responsible production.”

The revised standards include:

• New formatting for clarity and ease of use

• Consolidation of animal medicine and food chain standards to reduce duplication

• A revised approach to health planning, with clearer distinction between farmer and vet responsibilities

• Updates to traceability requirements (Standards 1.3 and 1.4) to reduce confusion and ensure robust recording

• Continued emphasis on biosecurity, animal health and welfare, and responsible medicine use

Niall Jeffrey, Chair of the QMS Cattle & Sheep Standards Setting Committee, said:

“As a farmer, I understand

the pressures we face balancing production, welfare, and sustainability under growing scrutiny. I’m proud of the latest update, which protects the integrity of the renowned Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb brands both locally and internationally.

“We listened closely to farmers and streamlined the standards by 15%, removing duplication and making them easier to follow—without losing rigour. Working with vets and supply chain partners, we’ve improved clarity on health planning and traceability. These standards reflect our farming values and commitment

to quality, and I encourage all members to familiarise themselves with the updates to help maintain consumer trust.””

Members will receive a hard copy of the updated standards by post in the coming days, along with a detailed summary of the key changes and the rationale behind them. The documents are also available to view online at: www.qmscotland.co.uk/cattlesheep-standards

For any questions, support with assessment preparation, or more information on workshops and training, members can contact Brandsintegrity@ qmscotland.co.uk

Plan ahead for winter to avoid feed shortfalls after warmest summer on record

Beef and dairy farmers are being encouraged to do their winter forage budgets now and prioritise feeding their best quality forage to the animals who need it the most in the months ahead.

Jimmy Goldie, chief technical officer at Carr’s Billington, says some farmers face silage shortages – as well as problems with quality – following the dry growing season experienced in many parts of the country.

His comments come after provisional data from the Met Office confirmed summer 2025 as the warmest on record for the UK with a mean temperature of 16.1°C between 1 June and 31 August – 1.51°C above the long-term meteorological average.

“Some farms have plenty of good quality forage, while many farms are going to be seriously short this year,” says Mr Goldie.

“It’s important to start planning now – measure up silage clamps and count bales, so you know where you’re starting from, and analyse forage to assess quality.”

He recommends utilising a forage budgeting tool to estimate daily feed-out rates with support from Carr’s Billington, to help work out forage stocks and requirements.

“It’s a lot easier to make a small adjustment now to ensure you get through the winter, rather than reaching February and realising you’ve run out of feed.”

Once forage stocks have been counted and analysed, Mr Goldie says farmers need to compare this to the number of livestock on the farm – and be prepared to adapt their plans if necessary.

“On beef farms, for example, farmers who finish calves may choose to take advantage of higher store cattle prices and sell them early or feed them a bit harder and finish them quicker, so they’re not on the farm as long and don’t need as much forage,”

adds Mr Goldie.

“Feeding high barley diets to finish cattle quicker may also be an attractive option to reduce reliance

on forage, because the on-farm price of barley is reasonably low at the moment due to many crops not meeting malting specifications this year.

“However, high barley diets put cattle at risk of acidosis so take care to balance the diet to ensure optimal rumen function and the best feed conversion possible.”

Meanwhile, for dairy herds, Mr Goldie says the current

milk price to feed ratio means buying in concentrates to make up energy shortfalls from forage could be a cost-effective option, however farmers need to ensure diets are balanced to match milk quality requirements.

In all instances, Mr Goldie says farmers should ensure their best quality forage is given to the animals who need it the most – including in-calf suckler cows, transition dairy cows and milking cows.

“Assess the body condition of spring-calving suckler cows now and ensure they have sufficient energy and protein through the winter to make sure they’re sustained for calving next spring,” he explains.

“Likewise, ensure you maintain body condition and performance in dairy cows and prioritise that when planning your winter feeding.”

He says although there is no one-size-fits-all approach to winter feeding in 2025, the key to a successful season will be careful forward planning in collaboration with nutritionists and feed advisers.

“You almost need to start with a blank sheet of paper, work out what you want to achieve and what feed you’ve got available to do that,” adds Mr Goldie.

“It’s important to ensure any bought-in feed is both nutritionally efficient and makes economic sense.”

‘Prepare now’ advice as Monitor Farm reveals true cost of pneumonia in young cattle

Farmers are being reminded to talk to their vet and to vaccinate young cattle and calves for pneumonia this autumn after a Strathspey Monitor Farm study showed an outbreak led to a multi-thousand-pound loss for the business.

Treating an outbreak is often regarded as a big expense in terms of vet and med costsbut it was the consequent poor performance which contributed most to losses.

Enduring the ‘horrible’ outbreak of pneumonia at Auchernack near Grantown on Spey was tough for Monitor Farmer Malcolm Smith. He and his family aim to produce topquality, growthy store cattle from their 150 sucklers, calving from mid-November to early January and from late March to May. Back-end calves are weaned and

housed in October, with springborn calves weaned and housed in November. Cattle are sold at 12-14 months.

The run-up to housing generally always sees young cattle and calves vaccinated for pneumonia. In January 2023 the farm had a few clinical cases in calves and young cattle, and these were treated on-farm. In the October, a few more clinical cases were treated, and 40 of the back-end calves were vaccinated with Bovilis Intranasal RSP.

However, a sudden turn in the weather and the need to get cattle in quickly, coupled with pressure of other work, meant spring-born calves weren’t vaccinated before coming inside in November. All seemed fine initially, but by December these calves had pneumonia, says Jane Harley, clinical director of the farm’s

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veterinary practice, Strathspey Vets. “They were treated and we took samples, which confirmed this was RSV.”

She explains that most vets offer subsidised testing via the vet pharmaceutical companies. “The tests will confirm you are treating for the right thing.”

The vet and med costs for tackling the outbreak came to £800, with lab fees and investigations costing a further £300. However, Malcolm says this was only a small part of the cost of the outbreak; the financial implication of lost performance in the cattle was dramatic.

The farm was feeding for 1kg/head daily liveweight gain (dlwg), but from the start of the outbreak until the end of January, average dlwg fell to 0.6kg/head/ day. “Over the two months of the outbreak, cattle averaged only 36kg/head growth, where we had been expecting 60kg/head.”

After the outbreak, although most cattle recovered and growth efficiency returned, some continued to under-perform due to permanent lung damage, he says.

With the diet to achieve 1kg/head dlwg costed at £1.35/ head/day, or £116/day for the

group of 86 calves, the drop in performance saw the equivalent diet cost almost doubling to £2.25/head/day, or £193.50/day for the group.

“Although weight gain increased back to normal for most of the cattle, if you don’t recover the kilograms lost during the outbreak then the costs mount up,” he says.

With the farm’s usual store sale weight reduced by 24kg/ head at an average sale price of

£3.29/kg, the cost of reduced performance was almost £79/ head, with a group cost of £6,790.

Jane says: “To that we should add the cost of Malcolm’s time running calves through the handling system three times to examine them, take samples, treat them, check temperatures and record weights and treatments and so on. There’s also the stress involved and the mental health impact too.”

New study launched to understand prevalence of new coccidiosis-causing Eimeria species

Work is under way to understand the prevalence of three new species of Eimeria – the parasite which causes coccidiosis in poultry – in the UK and Europe.

Elanco Animal Health is assisting researchers from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) to assess how widespread the new species are.

It follows findings from an independent study, carried out by researchers at the RVC, which identified three new Eimeria species – Eimeria lata, Eimeria nagambie, and Eimeria zaria –circulating in chickens.

Professor Damer Blake from the RVC describes the three

new species as “hidden forms of coccidiosis” and says their presence could change the way the disease is managed on farms in the future.

“We’ve known about the main Eimeria species for decades and we understand how to control them, however in 2008, a paper was published describing what seemed to be new genotypes of Eimeria in Australia,” says Prof Blake.

“They were first detected on a farm that was using anticoccidial vaccines, and they broke through the vaccine and caused increased morbidity and mortality.”

He adds: “Five years later, we did a molecular survey of Eimeria around the world, and we found these new genotypes were really common across the southern hemisphere, and when we looked in the northern hemisphere, they were there as well.”

He says the latest study confirmed that the genotypes being reported across the world were new, standalone species, and that the current phase of work is designed to ascertain how widespread they are.

“We are working with Elanco to pick up samples from birds across Europe and the UK to see how common these new Eimeria species parasites are and help us assess what level of risk they pose,” explains Prof Blake.

He says the new species appear to be associated with a malabsorptive type of coccidiosis, which is less likely to cause death than some other species, but they can still have a significant impact on performance.

“These strains create a lot of mucus in the intestine which results in poor feed conversion and the birds not growing very well,” adds Prof Blake.

Most significantly, he says research has shown that these new species appear to escape anticoccidial vaccines, posing questions over future control programmes in some parts of the world.

“This research may question this approach and make us reassess how we look at coccidiosis control programmes in the future.”

The VET Pneumonia in Youngstock

By Balfour S Hay BVMS MRCVS

Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex (BRDC), more commonly known as pneumonia, is perhaps the most common ailment of housed bovine youngstockresulting in significant losses to the farming sector due to mortalities, treatment costs, and its ongoing impacts on performance. Importantly, it also has a significant impact on the welfare of the animals affected by the illness.

A ‘complex’ rather than a singular disease process, there is no one cause and therefore no one solution to the problem.

The bugs that may be involved include viruses (e.g. RSV, Pi3, IBR, BVD), bacteria (Pasteurella family, Mycoplasma), and even underlying lungworm (husk).

However, the presence of these pathogens on farm does not always mean that pneumonia will run rampant through the youngstock. Susceptibility to the disease is hugely influenced by a variety of both animal and environmental factors.

The most significant animal factor to increase pneumonia risk is stress, as this weakens the immune system. Stress can come from a variety of sources - for example: weaning, housing, mixing stock, transport, dehorning, and castrating. Whilst many of these ‘events’ are unavoidable, the negative impact on the calves can be mitigated by spreading them out over time and improving the practices of each (e.g. using nose paddles to reduce the stress of weaning). Other important animal factors include suboptimal nutrition, poor colostrum management (young calves), trace element deficiencies (especially selenium), and underlying diseases (e.g. parasite burdens, BVD).

Environmental factors play an equally important role in determining pneumonia risk. These include poor building ventilation, low air quality (e.g. from lack of clean bedding), overstocking, and

(unhelpfully) variable weather conditions.

Control, therefore, must always take a multifaceted approach to address all of these potential components. Testing by your vet, either in the face of an outbreak or with blood samples afterwards, can identify the bugs present, and therefore help to establish the best control methods. On farm, your vet can also assess the animal and environmental factors which may be contributing to pneumonia problems.

Pneumonia can also be prevented by avoiding buying in youngstock from multiple different sources (especially those of different ages). Where this is not possible, bought-in stock should be quarantined for 3-4 weeks before entering the herd. Knowing the signs of pneumonia allows cases to be promptly identified, isolated, and treated as advised by your vet for the best outcomes.

Automated health management systems can help dairy farmers address labour shortages

Dairy farmers struggling to find skilled staff are being encouraged to consider the use of automated health management systems to make best use of their limited time.

Robert Kirk, UK country sales manager at smaXtec, says although technology will never replace good stockmanship skills, automated health management systems can provide a valuable extra set of eyes for farmers – enabling them to plan their workloads and prioritise tasks more efficiently.

His comments come following publication of Arla’s annual survey of its 1,900 UK farmer suppliers which found more than 80% who have had vacancies have had very few or no applicants with the right skills to fill them.

As a result of this shortage of skilled labour, the survey reported that 6% of farmers have already cut output, and 13% have said they will leave the industry in the next 12 months if the situation does not improve.

Mr Kirk says automated health management systems, such as smaXtec’s ruminal bolus technology, could be part of the solution.

“A key benefit of these systems is the ability to manage your time better,” he explains.

“By providing very early health alerts for challenges such as mastitis, for example, the system allows you to administer a quick and easy treatment in a proactive manner, instead of time being spent looking after a sick cow – time that farmers don’t have.”

In addition, he says heat detection and calving alerts free up time a farmer would previously have spent having to physically look for signs of bulling or calving.

“For a lot of farmers, this type of technology has very much become a day-to-day tool that they use to plan how they will spend the rest of their day,” adds Mr Kirk.

“And on family farms in particular, the system enables them to look for any alerts –such as cows that need AId – and then plan who in the family is required in the milking yard, and

who is free to do other work on the farm.”

Lastly, Mr Kirk says the use of technology on farms can not only help farmers better manage their limited time resources but also act as a recruitment tool for youngsters coming into the industry.

“We’re trying to bring a lot more youth into the industry and they really love technology;

while we don’t want them to only farm because of this, it can bring them another interest to the business,” he adds.

“Technology, such as automated health management systems, can help address skills shortages and hopefully reverse the worrying results from the Arla survey – keeping farmers milking cows for many years to come.”

Upgrade shed lighting systems to mitigate winter milk yield drops

With winter approaching, farmers are being encouraged to upgrade lighting systems to help prevent the natural dip in milk production that occurs as daylight hours shorten.

Dr Torjus Baalack, director of DairyLight, says: “UK herds often experience a drop in milk yields throughout the autumn and winter as a result of reduced daylight.

“This can be avoided through the use of innovative lighting systems to extend the photoperiod during the lactation period and manipulate the levels

of some key hormones that influence cow metabolism and productivity.”

Referencing the NFU Energy Dairy Lighting Technology Review, Mr Baalack says there are wide-ranging benefits of installing a Long Day Photoperiod (LDPP) system that provides 16 hours of light and eight hours of darkness or the use of red light.

“The LDPP system works by consistently exposing dairy cattle to a specific level and spectrum of light throughout the year,” he explains.

“Unlike industrial lighting, which is designed for human use, the DairyLight system uses blue-enriched white light to mimic daylight, followed by red light at night to ensure proper rest and recovery.”

By extending the photoperiod, it is possible to alter the levels of key hormones – melatonin, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and prolactin –which influence multiple aspects of cow activity, metabolism and production, explains Mr Baalack.

“During the hours of daylight, melatonin production is suppressed, optimising feed intake, rumination and feed efficiency.

This is followed by a period of darkness, where melatonin production is stimulated, allowing cows to rest and recover.

“By reducing the circulating levels of melatonin – a hormone that suppresses milk production because it lowers the productionenhancing hormones prolactin and IGF-1 – milk yield can be significantly improved.”

An audit conducted by agricultural sustainability experts Alltech E-CO2 found

that installing DairyLight luminaires led to a 9% increase in milk yields – equating to an approximate £263 increase in returns per cow.

Mr Baalack says: “Dairy cows are naturally influenced by day length and light intensity, which affects their biological rhythms and consequently their productivity, so altering this is an easy win for dairy farmers looking to naturally boost yields.

“Upgrading to LED lighting in itself reduces energy use and costs, but when you also use specific light spectrums and light intensity there’s benefits to cow productivity, and the return on investment becomes very quick.”

He adds: “While the lifetime of a light system will be 8-10 years, payback can be reduced to as little as six months with improved milk yield driven by the LDPP system.”

Innovative sensor to help tackle pneumonia in dairy calves

A new sensor developed through a UK-wide innovation programme led by SRUC is helping dairy farmers prevent pneumonia in calves by monitoring pen-level conditions before illness can take hold.

Created by Cumbria-based Isaac Orr and Clyne Albertelli, Pneumonitor, the in-pen device collects real-time data on the environmental conditions calves experience, measuring temperature, humidity, pressure, gusts, and relative volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

It sits at calf height within the pen, where conditions can differ significantly even one metre away.

Pneumonitor has been refined into a full-scale commercial product following early prototype testing with support from the Digital Dairy Chain Innovation Voucher Scheme, part of the £21 million Digital Dairy Chain initiative backed by UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Strength in Places Fund, in which SRUC is the lead partner. The initiative brings together research, industry, and innovation to support sustainable growth and productivity in the UK dairy sector.

Pneumonia is one of the most significant disease challenges in the dairy industry, often causing long-term lung damage and reduced lifetime productivity.

hold, Pneumonitor offers farmers and vets a proactive solution. The device sends targeted alerts to smartphones when environmental

Unlike traditional tools that rely on detecting elevated calf temperatures, a sign that pneumonia has already taken

dairy

conditions become risky, allowing preventative action to be taken before calves show symptoms, protecting yields.

Isaac said: “Farmers and vets know environmental conditions heavily influence calf health, but the challenges measuring them in-pen, where it really matters, mean farmers often aren’t able to make the specific changes to their pens to protect their animals. Pneumonitor provides a practical, effective solution for collecting this vital data right where it counts.

“For farmers, it’s upsetting to witness animals falling ill, and they’re eager to intervene early before things get worse.”

SRUC and partners are investing in a fully integrated, traceable Digital Dairy Chain, combining research, technology, and expertise to drive forward smart solutions like Pneumonitor. The Innovation Voucher Scheme has already supported over 67 projects and 75 businesses, unlocking more than £1.3 million in combined funding and coinvestment.

The system benefits veterinary professionals, who can monitor devices across multiple farms, review live and historical data, and work collaboratively with farmers to mitigate health risks and optimise care.

Pauline Murray, Programme Director said: “Since the inception of the Digital Dairy Chain in 2023, we’ve had the privilege of supporting ambitious small and medium-sized businesses working to shape a more productive and sustainable future for dairy. The success of Pneumonitor shows just how transformative even modest funding can be when combined with innovative thinking and entrepreneurial drive.”

For more information visit: Pneumonitor

A new funding round for the Innovation Voucher Scheme is currently open, offering up to £100,000 to support further innovation in the dairy sector.

To find out more about the Digital Dairy Chain Innovation Voucher Scheme, visit www. digitaldairychain.co.uk

Looking to the future

By Andrew Connon, President, NFU Scotland

The past few weeks have taken me from the corridors of the EU in Brussels to the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool and to pig farm in Moray - three very different settings, but all crucial in the fight for a sustainable and profitable future for Scottish farming.

This was my first time attending the Labour Party Conference. Over the actionpacked couple of days – our mission was clear: speak to as many Labour MPs as possible and ensure our key messages were heard. Our message was simple: the need to rethink the Inheritance Tax (IHT) and Business Property Relief (BPR) proposals. The consequences of a no-shift approach from government would have unthinkable outcomes, and thus we will never give up or back down.

Before Liverpool, I was in Brussels at Copa- Cogecathe EU farm co-operatives and farming unions meeting. Topics included points on future CAP support, water use, animal diseases, animal transportation and nature finance. Discussions with UK Union colleagues also highlighted the plight of many farmers south of the border, with an example of a 6,000-acre Lincolnshire Farm, not in the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme receiving £7,200the maximum BPS support payment in England - and the equivalent of £1.20 per acre. A far cry from the current £80 per acre for Region 1 land in Scotland. NFUS is determined that, in Scotland, we achieve a long term, multi-annual commitment which avoids a cliff edge, and delivers a direct support

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system that drives active farming and crofting – which, in turn, produces so much more than food.

From Brussels to Liverpool and then onto a MINS (Moray, Inverness Nairn and Strathspey) Branch Meeting at Muiryhall Farm hosted by Neil Wright. We had an amazing tour of the outdoor pig herd, the freerange egg unit, and a detailed video tour of the indoor pig herd which highlighted how efficient these sectors have become and the high welfare approach. It was inspiring to also see the enthusiasm of the young staff who talked of their departments with great knowledge and passion. There are tremendous opportunities for youth in our fantastic agricultural industry - but as farmers, we need to talk the job up and sell our industry better to young folk.

Andrew Connon, President, NFU Scotland

Partnership brings popular hand shears to UK

Heiniger has partnered with Showtime Supplies to distribute Trafalgar hand shears in the UK. The long trusted range features both handcrafted and machine engineered double bow pattern shears with 5 inch bent and 6.5 inch bent and straight sizes available.

“Trafalgar has been the go-to brand for hand shears for decades and we are proud to be working with the team at Showtime Supplies to distribute the range in the UK,” says Heiniger managing director Ashley Musgrave.

Trafalgar shears are made to a traditional double bow pattern and are hand forged from high carbon steel. The blades are hardened and tempered to hold a sharp edge for longer, and work through all wool types.

“When shearing by hand it is important to have the right tool,

and the Trafalgar range has been proven to provide a comfortable combination for both shearer and animal. Trafalgar shears are perfect for preparing animals for show or carrying out regular on farm tasks like dagging,” says Mr Musgrave.

Whilst a shearing handpiece has become the norm for many larger farms and contractors, he suggests there is still a valid place for hand shears, especially for smaller farms.

“Trafalgar shears are precise, gentle and can be used in any situation. These shears a are a cost effective and versatile tool. For those clipping in colder temperatures, hand shears also offer the ability to leave a little more fleece on the sheep which can also be good in sunny weather like we have

experienced this year,” he adds.

Using hand shears also enables the shearer to look more closely at the skin of the animal to see if there are any signs of irritation, infection or parasites.

“Technology moves on, but there are still plenty of examples

of when a well manufactured hand tool is the perfect fit for the job at hand. While Heiniger manufactures a range of class leading electric shears, we are proud to also offer farmers the option of the Trafalgar brand,” he concludes.

Consider alternative grazing options for ewes and lambs this autumn

Sheep farmers may need to consider alternative grazing strategies this autumn following a dry summer and limited grass availability.

Matt Colston, ruminant technical consultant at Elanco Animal Health, says: “For large parts of the UK, grass availability remains low as we head into the critical tupping period.

“This presents a conundrum –do you prioritise the grass that is available for the remaining lambs to get them finished and away, or will the ewes make better use of it?”

In instances where farmers are faced with limited grazing, Mr Colston says it is better to direct grass towards ewes and consider alternative options for any remaining lambs on the farm.

“Getting ewes in the right body condition score (BCS) ahead of tupping is really crucial to support their fertility and therefore next year’s lamb crop, so providing

ewes with optimal nutrition at tupping should be the priority,” he adds.

“Due to the exceptionally dry conditions many farms have faced this year, this may well mean having to take lambs off grass.”

Mr Colston explains that taking lambs off grass, especially permanent pasture, in the autumn can have a number of benefits.

“Fields that have already held lambs earlier in the year are likely to have a relatively high worm burden which will prevent the lambs from converting that grass to lamb efficiently,” he says.

“The lambs will also produce a large number of worm eggs which means that field will be high risk next spring, whereas ewes will cope much better with the worm challenges and use that grass more efficiently meaning less grass is wasted on worms.”

If grass availability is a worry this autumn, Mr Colston says

there are several alternatives worth considering now and when planning ahead for next year, including:

• Grazing brassicas or root crops if available

• Topping up outdoor grazing with forage

• Bringing lambs inside and finishing them on a concentratebased diet

• Selling lambs as stores where winter forage stocks are very low

“Whether finishing lambs indoors or outside, taking care to manage worm burdens effectively is worthwhile,” he adds.

“It’s unlikely lambs will pick up new worms when coming indoors but there’s a good possibility lambs may already have pre-existing worm burdens.”If lambs enter sheds with medium or high worm burdens, they will not grow

sheep

efficiently and will take more feed to finish.

“Rather than lambs utilising the feed for growth, you’ll just

be feeding the worms, and that’s not cost-effective, especially given the cost of concentrate feed,” adds Mr Colston.

NSA Next Generation programme delivers practical training for aspiring sheep farmers

Recent workshops delivered to aspiring sheep farmers from the National Sheep Association (NSA) have given valuable insights and hands-on experience, offering an encouraging glimpse into the future of the UK sheep industry.

Topics covered have included sustainable parasite control and shearing and wool processing, and have been led by leading names from the UK sheep industry including independent sheep adviser Nerys Wright who delivered an engaging and interactive session. Participants at the workshop led by Nerys had the opportunity to discuss parasite challenges faced on their own farms, while gaining specialist knowledge from a respected expert.

NSA then joined forces with British Wool to deliver two practical shearing workshops. These training sessions began with an overview of the importance of shearing, industry guidance on welfare standards and biosecurity. Attendees also had the chance to try their hand at shearing

themselves before being guided through the wool grading process. Attendees rounded off the day with a tour of on-site processing facilities, offering a rare insight into how fleece is transformed into yarn.

The sessions, organised and funded as part of NSA Next Generation – a programme dedicated to encouraging and supporting the sheep farmers and service providers of the future, have been well received by the young farmers benefitting from them.

Lucy Bywaters from Holmfirth, West Yorkshire attended an ‘Introduction to shearing’ day and says: “The workshop was really informative and was perfectly tailored to our group. It was excellent how practical and hands on it was.”

Further workshops will soon be announced that will deliver best practice advice for lambing time, with locations in Scotland and Northern Ireland ensuring the useful workshops reach budding young sheep farmers in all corners of the UK.

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Different generations have more in common that you think

By Peter Myles

My local show will be celebrating their 200th anniversary next year, and from the archives, I saw a show catalogue from 1937 nearly 90 years ago, and what amazed me, was the organisers names are pretty much the same as the names in this year’s catalogue. We must pay tribute to all the families around the country who have kept this continuity going. I have the privilege to be our show ring commentator; my dad did a bit of commentating in his time too. When announcing children’s races, the kids just can’t wait to get involved, run and fall over especially in the 3-legged and sack race. We had a new initiative this year, where we held a novelty kids tug of war competition, I felt like the “Pied Piper” as the show field drained of children all eager to take part, we were going to need to get a longer

rope! We divided them into age groups where they slid and tumbled and had the time of their lives.

Young handlers’ competitions are keenly fought over now too and the sincerity and professionalism of these often, wee ones should be admired, as they take pride in the showing of their animals. To celebrate this new found enthusiasm, NSA Scotland will be giving rosettes to the best of them next year, to Shows around the country.

I’d like to think that some of these young folk will take on the mantle of local shows in years to come, after all, kids will still need to let off steam, run, fall over, and animals will still need looking after and I very much hope the same names appear in another 90 years, as different generations have more in common that you think.

For further information, please visit https://www.nationalsheep.org.uk/webinars/

Horse training scheme ‘changing lives’

A scheme to encourage young people to take up horse riding is “helping kids who have fallen through the net”, British Horse Society (BHS) president Martin Clunes has said.

The actor and the Princess Royal were visiting the British Horse Society’s inclusive riding centre in Bovington, Dorset.

The BHS Changing Lives Through Horses initiative is an alternative education programme designed for those with additional needs.

During her visit, the princess, who is vice-patron of the BHS, watched riding demonstrations before meeting students of the Royal Armoured Corps Saddle Club.

The scheme allows young people, aged from five to 25, to ride, groom or interact with horses, developing skills and helping with education and training.

The stables in Bovington in one of 600 riding centres around the country approved by the BHS.

Chief executive James Hicks said: “Of course, access to horses

British Horse Society –For Horses, For People, For Life

British Horse Society (BHS) is the UK’s largest equestrian charity, dedicated to championing horses, horse lovers and the communities that bring them together. At the heart of everything it does is a simple promise: that every horse is respected, protected and enjoyed by knowledgeable, caring people..

and off the roads and open up riding routes by protecting vital bridleways across the country. Since 2018, our efforts have saved over 2,600 miles of routes - the equivalent of riding from Land’s End to John O’Groats and back.

is not something everyone can do throughout the whole country very easily.

“What we’re here to do is to help as many young people, and people of all different backgrounds, have the opportunity to be involved with horses.”

The Princess Royal spoke to some of the students and handed out certificates.

Among those taking part, Olivia,15 said: “In my middle school I was having quite a rough time after Covid - so it ended up helping me getting back to how I was before.”

Layla, 15, said: “They have a great personality. They’re lovely creatures.”

Doc Martin star, Clunes said those taking part in BHS programme were finding it was “just changing their lives”.

“It’s improving the conditions of young people who have slipped through other nets and haven’t been picked up on other radars.

“It gives them so much - I see it all the time.”

Founded in 1947, BHS has grown into a thriving network of more than 140,000 members, 600 Approved Centres and 2,600 qualified coaches. Our mission is clear - to make sure that every horse is well cared for, every rider is supported, and the future of equestrianism remains strong for generations to come.

Our work spans five key areas: welfare, safety, education, access, and community. Each year we support thousands of horses and owners, campaign to improve equestrian safety on

Education sits at the core of our mission. Through worldclass training and qualifications, we empower riders, grooms and coaches to achieve their potential, while initiatives like Changing Lives Through Horses provide life-changing opportunities for young people facing barriers in education and employment.

But beyond statistics and programmes, BHS is about a feeling – the exhilaration of a gallop, the calm of a quiet hack, the pride in a well-caredfor horse. Whatever that feeling means to you, BHS is here to protect it, share it and keep it going for future generations.

estate

RHUG ESTATE is reshaping its portfolio –creating new opportunities for the future of farming

Owner Lord Newborough has taken the decision to sell part of the Estate’s site at Glynllifon, near Caernarfon, opening the door for others - particularly the next generation of farmers - to bring fresh energy, skills, and investment.

By passing on stewardship of around 1,000 acres of productive grassland in instalments, Rhug Estate is ensuring this historic land can continue to thrive under new hands while freeing up resources and focus for its core assets.

The farmland represents the jewel of the Glynllifon Estate and is being brought to the open market by the North Wales office of national property consultancy Carter Jonas, for the first time in centuries.

The move allows the awardwinning organic Estate to dedicate even more attention to the main 12,500-acre base near Corwen, where exciting growth and development continue to unfold.

With more than 100 staff employed across the farm shop, café, drive thru, takeaway, cutting plant, and the Rhug Wild Beauty range, the business remains in a strong position and is busier than ever.

Lord Newborough is determined to ensure the brand goes from strength to strength, despite wider challenges facing the agricultural sector, and sees diversification and innovation as the path forward.

As one of just seven businesses in Wales to hold a Royal Warrant of Appointment from His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen, Rhug Estate continues to set an example for the industry.

Looking ahead, Lord Newborough believes new collaborations, both at home and internationally, will be key to driving future success and unlocking even greater potential at Corwen.

“We have received a lot of interest in the site, and

strategically it makes sense to pass on around 1,000 acres at Glynllifon,” he said.

“This decision is about more than reshaping the Estate, it’s about opening-up opportunities for others to farm, supporting the next generation in north west Wales, and ensuring the land continues to play a vital role in the agricultural community.

“At the same time, it gives us the focus to build even further on the exciting growth at Corwen and continue our long-term vision for Rhug.”

The sale will be phased, beginning with an initial block of approximately 265 acres available immediately via informal tender, with the remaining land released in stages into next Spring.

Hugh O’Donnell, partner at Carter Jonas, said: “This is undoubtedly one of the most important farmland sales we have seen in North Wales in recent years. Productive grassland of this quality and scale is rarely offered to the open market, and we anticipate strong interest from across the farming community.”

Scotland needs an Integrated Fire Management Strategy

By Ross Ewing Director of Moorland at Scottish Land & Estates

The past year has been a stark reminder of the increasing threat that wildfire poses to Scotland’s rural landscape. The Carrbridge and Dava wildfires, which burned through almost 12,000 hectares of moorland and woodland, left a deep scar - both on the land itself and on those who fought to contain it.

For farmers and crofters, wildfire is not an abstract risk. It is a real and growing danger to grazing land, infrastructure, livestock and livelihoods. The heat from uncontrolled fires can destroy soil structure, burn valuable organic matter, and sterilise ground that may take years to recover. At a time when every acre counts, this is not damage our sector can afford to absorb.

That’s why the ability to manage vegetation — to reduce the available “fuel load” before fire takes hold — is so vital. Controlled muirburn, when carried out responsibly and in accordance with the Muirburn Code, is one of the most effective and sustainable tools we have. It creates natural firebreaks, promotes a mosaic of habitats for wildlife and livestock, and ensures that, when wildfires do occur, their spread and intensity are limited.

Those who took part in tackling the CarrbridgeDava fire — many of them gamekeepers, farmers and estate staff — brought invaluable skills honed through their experience of muirburn. Their practical knowledge of fire behaviour, coupled with the specialist equipment used in moorland management, played a crucial role in helping to suppress the flames.

Scottish Land & Estates has called for the creation of a Scotland-wide Integrated Fire Management Strategy to strengthen preparedness, prevention and response. This should include investment in aerial firefighting capacity, improved access to specialist vehicles, and closer integration between the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service and rural responders.

The recent Wildfire Summit in Grantownon-Spey - attended by ministers, emergency services and land managers - was an encouraging first step. Collaboration, not confrontation, must define how we move forward. With the right tools, training and trust, we can protect not just our hills and habitats, but also the farmland and communities that lie at their heart.

Scottish Land & Estates welcomes ban on campfires and barbecues in the Cairngorms

Rural business organisation

Scottish Land & Estates welcomes the new bylaw banning campfires and disposable barbecues between 1 April and 30 September every year in the Cairngorms National Park.

The by-law has been approved by Scottish ministers for the Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the UK.

Stephen Young, Director of Policy for Scottish Land & Estates said: “Uncontrolled wildfires can rage across vast areas in a matter of hours, posing a threat to people, property and the rare native species for which the Cairngorms is renowned. Wildfires also generate very high temperatures which can set light to the underlying peat, a vital carbon store.

“The recent wildfires in the Cairngorms were brought under control largely due to the skill and willingness of gamekeepers and estates’ staff, who put themselves in harm’s way to protect the environment.

“We very much welcome this proactive step being taken by the National Park and Scottish Ministers. We understand that other areas are, rightly, looking to introduce similar measures, which would protect even more of Scotland’s treasured landscapes.”

Earlier this year wildfires at Carrbridge and Dava burned for four days, devastating nearly 12,000 hectares of moorland and woodland and resulting in vast carbon emissions.

These were among more than a dozen significant wildfires recorded in Scotland this year alone.

The recent wildfire at Glen Finglas in the Trossachs is known to have been caused by a disposable barbecue.

Scottish Land & Estates, the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service and the regional moorland groups have warned for many years of the threat posed by campfires and disposable barbecues, particularly on the moors, which are home to rare species of ground-nesting birds, mammals and reptiles.

Evidence-based postponement of muirburn licensing following record wildfires welcomed by Scottish Land and Estates

The rural business organisation commented after the Scottish Government announced that it was suspending the start date of the

scheme until the start of the next muirburn season in autumn 2026.

The Scottish Government said that the delay will “provide us

with the time and opportunity to carefully consider the upcoming changes to muirburn and how these changes can be brought forward in a way which does not adversely affect our ability to prevent and respond to wildfires.”

Muirburn licensing –introduced under the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act – had originally been due to take effect at the start of the 2025 muirburn season on September 15.

However, following recognition of the significant logistical challenges involved, particularly around the measurement of deep peat, the implementation was pushed back to January 1, 2026.

Now, in the aftermath of the devastating Carrbridge and Dava wildfires – Scotland’s largest ever wildfire, which is estimated to have released 590,000 tons of CO2 equivalent over just four days – the Scottish Government Minister for

Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie MSP, has opted to delay the scheme further. The move acknowledges the crucial role that controlled muirburn plays in reducing fuel load to mitigate risk and support containment efforts by land managers and firefighters.

The announcement also comes ahead of next week’s ‘wildfire summit’ to be led by Jim Fairlie and Siobhan Brown (Minister for Community Safety), in Grantownon-Spey.

Ross Ewing, Director of Moorland at Scottish Land & Estates, said:

“Muirburn, as carried out by estates, gamekeepers and land managers across Scotland, remains an essential tool in mitigating the growing threat of wildfires. Its importance to effective upland and moorland management cannot be overstated, and we welcome Jim Fairlie’s decision to listen to stakeholders and pause the introduction of licensing.

“Without this delay, the ability to undertake controlled muirburn would have been significantly constrained, increasing the buildup of vegetation and, in turn, the risk of wildfire.

“As we revealed in our report to the Scottish Government, extensive resources, manpower and expertise was contributed by at least 36 businesses, including 30 estates, in fighting the Carrbridge

and Dava wildfires. The collective value of specialist firefighting equipment deployed by private land managers is conservatively estimated at nearly £4 million, with at least 110 employees and contractors engaged in the containment effort.

“If we make it harder for skilled land managers to carry out preventative muirburn, not only will we see fuel loads increase, but we also risk losing the very infrastructure and expertise that helped contain these recent fires. That would be catastrophic for rural Scotland.

“The Wildlife Management and Muirburn Act sets a stringent ‘necessity’ test for muirburn licences to be granted on peatland, with a presumption in favour of alternative vegetation control methods. Repealing these provisions would provide a more practical framework, ensuring muirburn can be used where it is the most effective management tool, while retaining full regulatory oversight through the licensing system.

“We look forward to continuing constructive dialogue with the Scottish Government in the months ahead, particularly at next week’s wildfire summit, and we welcome the government’s recognition of the importance of evidence-based decision-making on muirburn.”

Scottish Land & Estates’ report on the Carrbridge and Dava wildfires, prepared at the request of Scottish Government officials, also led to several key recommendations on tackling wildfires from SLE, including:

• Investment in a bespoke SFRS aerial capability and enhanced authority for SFRS commanders to mobilise private helicopter assets. [Helicopters were deployed for 96 hours during Carrbridge-Dava at a cost of c. £240,000].

• Investment in bespoke SFRS ATVs with suppression and containment capabilities.

• Creation of a Scotland-wide Integrated Fire Management Strategy (IFMS) as an urgent priority, with leadership and input from the Scottish Government.

New report published on gamebird releases in Cairngorms National Park

Every year, pheasants and red-legged partridges are released on farms and estates in the Cairngorms National Park for game shooting. However, limited research has been done about the number of birds involved or their impact on native biodiversity. A new report from the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust provides the first detailed assessment of gamebird releasing densities in the National Park.

The survey draws on data from the National Gamebag Census between 2000 and 2023 and from interviews with shoot managers on ten estates in the Cairngorms National Park where gamebirds are released, representing 45% of shoots within the National Park boundary.

The new report shows that gamebird release densities in the Cairngorms National Park were lower than elsewhere. Across the ten estates surveyed, average release densities in recent seasons were 70 pheasants and 73 red-legged partridges per km² of estate area. Scotland-wide averages since 2000 have typically ranged from 181–369 pheasants per km² of estate area.

The numbers released varied, from a few thousand on small syndicate or farm shoots to more than 10,000. The interviews established

that the total number of birds released by the ten estates, averaged across the three most recent seasons (since 2022), were 53,966 pheasants and 24,413 red legged partridges. The study concludes that more research is needed to understand the positive and negative impacts of gamebird releasing in order to inform evidence-based management that reflects Scotland’s unique habitats, wildlife and culture.

The objective of this work has been to gain a better understanding of gamebird release numbers and release densities in Scotland and the Cairngorms National Park, so that future discussions are informed by evidence and not based on assumption or inaccurate extrapolation.

The Cairngorms National Park Authority has supported the project through its partnership plan which includes establishing a baseline for the number of gamebirds released in the National Park and the assessment of their impact on nature biodiversity.”

GWCT has previously undertaken work in England to assess positive, negative and neutral impacts on farms and estates where gamebirds are released, leading to the development of sciencebased sustainable releasing guidelines. This report is an important first step in creating the same kind of

robust approach for the Cairngorms.

The data from the National Gamebag Census, and from this study, suggests that releasing densities in Scotland are generally lower than those in England, with some shoots operating at considerably lower levels still. This, alongside management practices, may help to mitigate some of the environmental concerns associated with higher-density releases observed elsewhere, however, it is clear that more research is needed to inform evidence-based management that reflects the Scottish landscape and habitats to support both biodiversity and sustainable game management.

Andy Ford, Director of Nature and Climate Change at the Park Authority said: “Good practice guidance is based on the principle of minimising negative effects and maximising positive ones so the overall balance is a net gain for biodiversity.

“We need to understand what this means in the context of the Cairngorms, and how gamebirds interact with the unique and nationally significant mosaic of habitats and species. Pheasant and partridge shoots are an important part of the rural economy and land management. We want to ensure they are sustainable and do not negatively impact on local biodiversity. This report is the first step in that process.”

forestry Small but mighty!

BRYCE Suma may be best known for its award winning post knockers, but the founder of the Kelso-based family firm, Jock Bryce, has added a new string to his bow and it’s turning heads in woodlands and beyond.

He has now retired from the Bryce Suma Company, which is run by his sons Andrew and Stuart

The newest arrival at Jock’s Kelso base is the compact but highly capable Avestavagnen Ranger Pro micro forwarder, a Swedish-made machine designed to revolutionise work in private forestry and woodland, primarily for use behind ATVs.

Nicknamed ‘small but mighty’ by Jock, the Ranger Pro is his latest investment and Avestavagnen has granted him the sole UK distribution rights.

It’s Jock’s eye for quality and ingenuity that drew him to the Swedish made Ranger Pro, produced by Avestavagnen, pioneers of the ATV forwarder concept, with nearly three decades of experience behind them.

Jock explains: “ Seventy percent of Sweden is covered by forests, with 87 billion trees and 320,000 forest owners, and all this has helped create the demand over the last three decades for small but highly capable forwarders.

“Everyone that sees the Ranger Pro in action is very impressed. Typical comments have been, ‘It’s an incredible piece of kit’ and ‘I cannot get over the power that it has.’’

Jock adds: “ I had a use for an outfit like this for moving windblow, and after seeing something similar at APF 2024, I did extensive market research and Avestavagnen ticked all the boxes. I’ve moved a fair bit of timber with this outfit myself, and what it can do is quite remarkable. It punches well above its weight.”

It is an extremely clever and well-engineered design, and despite weighing just 790kg, crane included, the micro forwarder can carry up to two tonnes. Its reach extends to 5.45 metres, with a 1m telescopic jib extension and 240-degree crane rotation and a maximum lift capacity of 420kg. The bogie axle system offers impressive ground clearance, contact, and control – effectively creating an eight-wheel-drive setup when combined with a quad bike.

Built for rugged work, the Ranger Pro also features a steerable chassis and a sliding twin bogie axle system that can also be moved forwards and backwards by 60cm, allowing for even weight distribution when transporting long or short timber.

With the 14hp Honda Power Pack located up front, this added ballast results is an 8-wheel drive well-balanced unit for excellent traction and stability.

While it’s been designed primarily for private estate and

woodland management, Jock sees possible potential for fencing contractors looking to diversify or offer additional services.

Prices start at around £17,900 for the Ranger Pro, including electro-hydraulic dual controls and Power Pack. With easy-tooperate button controls mounted on the quad bike’s handlebars and minimal maintenance requirements – mainly regular greasing - the system is built for simplicity and durability.

Lower-cost ATV forwarders are available.

There’s also a wide array of optional extras, including:

• Tipping body and clamshell bucket for soil, gravel or manure handling

• Demountable body with optional high-sided forest brash insert

• 100mm or 150mm scissor grapple

• 25m radio-controlled winch

• Chainsaw and tool holders

• LED lighting kit

• ATV rear suspension lock-out kit

forestry

Call for Timber Industrial Strategy to boost industry in Scotland

Confor has called for a Timber Industrial Strategy and a partnership with a “supportive and active Scottish Government” to ensure the forestry and wood processing industry can deliver wide-ranging benefits for the economy and environment.

Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive of Confor, was speaking at Forestry and Wood Processing at the Crossroads, an event promoted by Confor and Scotland’s largest legal firm, Brodies LLP.

Mr Goodall backed the idea of a Timber Industrial Strategy for Scotland, similar to those already in place in England and Wales which have energised the industry there and provided much needed confidence to those businesses considering whether to invest and protect or create jobs.

There was enthusiastic cross-party political support for a Timber Industrial Strategy for Scotland, especially from Willie Rennie (Lib Dem), Daniel Johnson (Labour) and Finlay Carson (Conservative).

Mairi Gougeon MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, also welcomed the idea and sent out a hopeful message, saying the Scottish Government was looking very closely at Confor’s call for multi-annual budgets for woodland creation to help the forestry industry with longer-term planning.

She told the conference forestry was a “success story” in Scotland, adding over £1 billion annually in economic value and supporting 34,000 jobs. However, she recognised

“challenges” and a “significant impact on industry confidence, particularly the cut to the woodland creation budget [announced in December 2023]”.

However, she stressed that the budget had since been increased by 20% and that multi-annual budgets were very much under consideration.

Finlay Carson (Conservative) said that longterm certainty was the most crucial factor for the industry to thrive, while Ariane Burgess (Green) recognised commercial forestry would play a big part in planting, to provide the timber for future homes - part of a variety of planting to make Scotland a ‘Forest Nation’.

Mr Goodall opened the conference by highlighting the challenges the industry was facing - notably a decline in certainty and confidence.

He said: “Strong political leadership and support is crucial for the forestry industry in Scotland. The 21st century started with rising confidence in the industry and rising demand for timber and rising timber prices, leading to an increase in productivity. Climate change policy helped drive more planting and wood use, and wood processors invested hundreds of millions on the back of this confidence.

“But in recent years, there has been a chill. Planting targets have not been hit, and forestry removals have continued. The cut to the planting budget in December 2023 affected confidence.”

New tree species list aims to future-proof Scotland’s forests

If farmers are wondering what trees they should be planting in the future which will cope with climate change, then they need look no further.

Forestry experts have drawn up a list of 28 key productive tree species which will ensure future woodlands cope with climate change and continue to provide multiple economic, environmental and social benefits in the future.

The list has been developed through extensive collaboration between Scottish Forestry, Forest Research, and a wide range of partners from across the forestry, conservation, and rural sectors.

In the list it includes Oak, Alder, Birch, Sitka Spruce, Douglas Fir, Scots Pine and Beech to name a few.

Helen Sellars, Scottish Forestry’s Head of Sustainable Forest Management, said:

“By drawing on the best available science from Forest

Research and working in partnership with experts from across the sector, we’ve identified a range of species we can develop that offer resilience, productivity, wider benefits, and give options regionally across Scotland.”

Scottish Forestry commissioned experts from Forest Research to gather the scientific evidence to support the selection of trees.

In total, over 100 datasets were compiled and analysed in thorough detail and more than 100 experts and industry leaders were involved in pulling together the work.

The new tree species list will continue to evolve as evidence grows, ensuring that it remains a living tool to guide woodland managers well into the future.

The Future Productive Species List includes 14 conifers and 14 broadleaves and are not ranked in any order of importance.

Birch tree Credit Forest Research

land & property

Outstanding mixed farm in the Lee of the Lammermuir Hills with extensive stock accommodation and modernised farmhouse

• Modernised farmhouse (7 bedrooms); Detached cottage (4 bedrooms); Cattle accommodation for over 600 head; Well-equipped modern steading; Equestrian facilities; 215 acres arable;

• 197 acres permanent pasture; 33 acres rough grazing; 66 acres woodland;

• About 527 acres (213 hectares) in total; For sale as a whole

Pogbie Farm is situated in an attractive and unspoilt part of East Lothian, 1.7 miles south of the hamlet of Humbie and only 19 miles from Edinburgh city centre, enjoying outstanding views northwards towards the Firth of Forth. The surrounding countryside, nestled at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills, is renowned for its highly productive mixed arable and livestock farms.

Acquired by the current owners in 1987, Pogbie is a highly regarded mixed arable and livestock holding that has benefitted from considerable investment, especially in farm infrastructure. At its centre is a spacious modernised farmhouse with its own gated access. Arranged over two floors it includes three reception rooms, a sun room and a bright, contemporary kitchen along with seven bedrooms and four bathrooms. There is also a detached four bedroom cottage that is ideally positioned for a stockman.

Pogbie currently carries approximately 130 continental

cross Aberdeen Angus suckler cows plus followers, and, with its extensive cattle accommodation and high quality ancillary buildings, has housing capacity for over 600 cows and young stock, with all winter fodder produced on the farm. In addition, the farm supports a flock of approximately 500 breeding ewes. As well as its livestock credentials Pogbie boasts equestrian facilities including a manège and stabling.

The land, which totals around 527 acres, is well-suited to a beef and sheep enterprise, with a rotation of grass and arable cropping. Typically, around 120 acres are cropped

Savills invites offers over £3.75 million for Pogbie Farm. For further details and images, please contact: Beth Hocking on 0131 247 3739

and 200 acres are cut for silage each year. The highly productive arable land has until recently been let out, with a typical rotation including spring barley, winter barley and winter wheat. There is also approximately 66 acres of woodland, providing amenity, biodiversity and shelter for livestock.

Luke French for Savills comments: “This is an exciting opportunity to acquire a truly first-class mixed farm in one of Scotland’s most beautiful and accessible locations. The quality of the land and fixed equipment is exceptional, the farmhouse offers superb comfort and all of this is situated less than 20 miles from central Edinburgh. With very few well-equipped mixed farms coming to the market this year, we expect strong and competitive interest.”

Pogbie Farm, Humbie, East Lothian

Beatha an eilean Draghan mu Bile na Croitearachd

Chan eil fhios am do mhothaich cus dhaoine, ach tha Bile Croitearachd an dràsta fa chomhair Pàrlamaid na h-Alba. Cha chuirinn umhail sam bith air duine ged a chaidh e seachad orra, bhon cha mhòr a feum a th’ann.

Nuair a nochd e air beulaibh Comhairle nan Eilean Siar - an ùghdarras ionadail aig a bheil an àireamh as motha de chroitearan anns an sgìre aca, le mòran dhe na comhairlichean nan croitearean iad fhèin - thuirt iad gun robh e duilich beachd sam bith a thoirt air leis cho beag sa th’ann.

Tha “na molaidhean” (ma ghabhas sin a thoirt orra) air a bhith bliadhnachan san ullachaidh agus aig a’ cheann thall cha mhòr gu ‘s fhiach am pàipear air deach an sgrìobhadh.

Ceart gu leòr chan e rud furasta sam bith a th’ann dèiligeadh le laghan croitearan, ach an dèidh sin chan eil e mì-reusanta an dùil a bhith ri ruideigin a bharrachd, ruideigin nas susbaintiche a bheir dòchas a choireigin.

Chan eil e idir soilleir dè an amas a th’aig an Riaghaltas le seo, co-dhiù a thaobh croitearachd a chuideachadh. Ach ‘s dòcha nach eil ann ach gum faod iad dìreach a ràdh gun dhèilig iad leis a chuspair agus gu bheil Achd a-nis ann.

Agus nach e sin an seòrsa poileataigs a tha againn an duigh. Chan eil e mu dheidhinn an rud ceart a dhèanamh; chan eil e ach mu dheidhinn a bhith a’ faighinn na cinn neachdachd cheart ach am faigh thu air an èibheachd a dhèanamh.

Air eagal ‘s gun robh ceist sam bith mu dè feum a th’anns a’ Bhile, nochd luchd lagha air beulaibh comataidh nan cùisean dùthchail son am beachd a thoirt air bho chionn ghoirid.

Le Murray MacLeòid

Chan eil duine cho fiosrachail mu laghan croitearachd ri Brian Inkster agus Eilidh Rothach, dithis luchd lagha air leth cliùiteach. Agus dè am beachd a bh’aca air: cha robh ach suarach.

Am measg grunn de cheistean cudromach, thuirt Brian Inkster nach eil e idir gu diofar dè tha na riaghailtean ag ràdh is urrainn dhut a dhèanamh le do chroit, nuair nach eil duine dol ga riaghladh. Sin bunait na cuise.

Thuirt Eilidh Rothach: “Chan eil am Bile a tha seo idir a’ freagairt gin dhe na duilgheadasan a tha ann an dràsta ann an siostam a’ chroitearachd.”

Thuirt i gu bheil a’ Choimeisein stèidhichte an

Inbhir Nis agus gu bheil iad an urra ri oifigearan àiteachais an Riaghaltais son innse dhaibh dè tha tachairt air an fhearann.

“Ach chan eil gu leòr luchd obrachd aca son sin a dhèanamh agus ma tha sinn a’ dol a dh’iarraidh orra an tuilleadh a dhèanamh cha ghabh sin a bhith.”

Thuirt Brian Inkster: “Tha Coimeisein na Croitearachd an dràsta ag amas gu mòr air daoine nach eil a’ fuireachd faisg air an croit, mar a tha còir aca, bhon ‘s e rud furasta a tha sin dèiligeadh leis: chi iad air bileagan pàipear càite a bheil cuideigin a’ fuireachd agus gheibh iad air litir a chur thuca.

“Ach, cha deach a-riamh an sàs anns a’ chuspair mu dè thathas a’ dèanamh leis an fhearann, na mo bheachd-sa. Bhiodh sin a’ cur feum air sgrùdadh air na croitean agus bhiodh e nas duilghe a dheanamh. Ach, feumar smaoineachadh air an sin oir chan eil e gu feum sam bith a bhith ag ràdh dè bu chòir dhut a dhèanamh le croit mar eileas dol a chumail rian air.”

Cho fad ‘s a chì mise chan eil ach aon buidheann a tha toilichte leis a’ Bhile a tha seo: sin Coimisean na Croitearachd. ‘S dòcha g’eil sin ag innse a sgeulachd fhèin.

Tha a h-uile a seo a’ fàgail air an Riaghaltas nach eil fhios aca dè tha iad a’ deanamh nuair a thig e gu croitearachd agus iad dìreach a’ feuchainn ri toirt a chreid ‘s air daoine gu bheil.

Tha iad a’ cur nam chuimhne am bodach a chur molt gu ruda ‘s gun e an uairsin a’ tuigse carson nach robh uan a’ nochdadh.

Tha Eilidh Rothach na tè lagha a tha eòlach air obair croitearachd

NORTHERN ISLES News

Retiring after a great career with SAC Consulting, Graham Fraser will still be on hand to give out precious advice

He was joking of course, but it’s tempting to think Graham Fraser may have been serious when he said his first job interview put him off applying for any other post.

Mr Fraser was barely out of university in 1981 when he applied for a post as a trainee agricultural consultant, and the selection process that followed could hardly have been more intimidating.

Now aged 66, he is retiring from SAC Consulting, the commercial arm of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), after 44 years of service in helping farmers and crofters.

But the interview process might have been enough to deter him before even reaching the first hurdle.

“The interviews were up in the boardroom at the top of the old agricultural building in St Machar Drive in Aberdeen,” he said.

“It was a great big, long boardroom. There were at least 10 folk interviewing me. You were sat in a chair in the middle of the boardroom, no table in front of you, you’re just sat in a chair - and they went up the whole length, each asking a question in turn.

“It put me off ever changing my job, because I didn’t want to do another interview.”

Intimidating as it was, Mr Fraser was chosen for the role, and duly reported for duty on 3rd August 1981.

The young Highlander was given initial postings in or around Aberdeen, but it was a throw-away comment from regional manager Ian Lumsden that confirmed

rumours he would be handed a role in Shetland.

“I had heard a rumour during the summer, but it hadn’t been confirmed. But then Ian said, ‘we’re going to put you to Stonehaven for a month or two, and then we’ll maybe put you to Craibstone for a month or two, and Turriff for a month or two, but of course you know you’re going to Shetland…”

After a short stint in Craibstone he was ready for the off, and arrived in the isles in November. Conditions then were less than favourable, but it only took a couple of months for Mr Fraser to find his feet.

“I think we had four gales before the end of the month. It was pretty horrendous. But I remember a beautiful day in the January. It was January ‘82, and I remember going out that day and down to the South Mainland, and it was just glorious - and I thought, ‘it’s not so bad after all.”

Mr Fraser spent a number of years providing technical advice to crofters and farmers, advising

on grazing management, crops, disease control, and generally getting himself known around the agricultural community.

There followed a four-year stint in Orkney. But when Shetland’s office manager retired in 1992, Mr Fraser was drawn to return to the isles to take up the role.

Soon he was back to overseeing key roles undertaken on behalf of farmers and crofters - helping them navigate their way through the bureacratic minefield in order to gain support payments.

But his arrival came shortly before the Braer, and Mr Fraser found himself spending months at a time helping farmers and crofters deal with queries in the aftermath of the oil tanker disaster.

Also taking time and energy was the ESA scheme, or “Environmentally Sensitive Area”, which offered extra support to farmers and crofters who carrying out extra duties which could benefit the environment.

Over 800 people applied to take up ESA, making it one of the most popular schemes available to those working in agriculture.

“Subsequent schemes became more complicated to apply for and more competitive,” he said.

“The current schemes are very competitive and it’s very difficult for a small crofter to take the chance of drawing up an application, which can cost a fair bit of money, to actually apply when you have no guarantee of getting in.

Another highlight of Mr Fraser’s long and successful career

came in the form of a 10 year development plan for agriculture. It provided grants as well as lowinterest loans that could provide the bulk of investment in, for example, farm buildings.

But it has also highlighted the changes in working practices, and improvements in IT that have taken place over the decades.

To qualify for the support, crofters and farmers were required to submit a development plan with cashflows, and Mr Fraser’s team was called upon to help them get the cashflows done.

“When I came first there was a waiting list of about 50 or 60 which quickly grew to a hundred. Back then we were having to do hand-written cashflows. You had three years of quarters. You had 12 columns and you had to work your way down, and carry the total forward. It would just take forever.

“We submitted the first half a dozen or so to the council, with three years of cashflows. The council came back and said, ‘no, no, that’s not enough, we want five years.’

“So you then had to take the last column off one sheet, put it onto another sheet. It was just going to be a nightmare. We were never going to get through this. The Craibstone office in Aberdeenshire had just got a desktop computer. They were the first office in the north of Scotland to have a computer. So we pinched it.”

The episode has been brought back to mind as he has been clearing out his filing cabinet in preparation for retirement.

“The filing cabinet was our Google, back then. You had loads of technical information in a filing cabinet you would have to go to. And if you couldn’t find it there, you would have to phone a friend, I suppose - specialists in the centre down south. Now you tend to reach for Google.”

Initially based in Fort Road in Lerwick, the team later moved to new premises in Harbour Street.

That was “okay” - until the town started getting, in Mr Fraser’s eyes, a lot busier.

“You’d go out to get some soil samples, and then you’d be lugging a big box over from St Olaf Street.

In later years, SAC moved to the marts, providing a convenient stop-off point for farmers and crofters in need of their assistance.

As for retirement plans, Mr Fraser is keeping a down to

earth approach. His wife is still working as a teaching assistant at the Anderson High School , “so I won’t be going on round the world cruises or anything.”

Indeed, Mr Fraser has already faced calls to return to work, at least one day a week, to help out with difficult cases.

Recognised as a guru on crofting regulations, his services will be in high demand into the future.

But that’s not to say SAC isn’t best prepared for the future. Fellow consultant Osla JamwalFraser has already been office manager since 1st June, and recent graduate Katrina Coutts has been gaining valuable experience, and even challenging politicians over the weaknesses within the much maligned Whole Farm Plan, which has been slammed as a costly and bureacratic nightmare for producers.

MP scoops two agricultural awards

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, said he is “blown away” to have been awarded the Farmers Weekly’s Farming Champion of the Year Award, an award sponsored by the National Farming Union (NFU) last week.

The award was given in recognition of Mr Carmichael’s role as a vocal advocate for British farming, including challenging the Prime Minister and Treasury over changes to inheritance tax and criticising the government’s refusal to consult with the NFU and wider industry, as part of his work chairing the cross-party Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee.

Mr Carmichael, who has represented Orkney and Shetland for 24 years, also received Scottish Land and Estates’ (SLE) Outstanding Contribution to Rural Scotland Award.

Mr Carmichael, who was born into a hill farming family on Islay, said: “I’m absolutely blown away. To be recognised by the NFU and the SLE in this way means a great deal. Farming

has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember and it has shaped my work in Parliament making sure farmers’ voices are heard.

“I don’t do this job for awards — I do it because backing British farming is in the national interest. There’s no countryside without farming, and no farming without government policy that does not have food production at its heart, and that’s absolutely where we have to get back to.

“This is still a great industry with a great future, and I’m proud to play my part in supporting it.

The challenges facing our rural communities are significant, but that just means we have to get better at telling the story that we do in the countryside, and why it matters to the whole country. That is why the work of the farming unions and of Scottish Land and Estates is so important.

“These are some of the most effective organisations in the country at telling our rural story and that is why it is such an honour to have received these awards.”

NFU president Tom Bradshaw said: “Alistair Carmichael is a

www.shetlandtimes.co.uk

Tel: 01595 742000

truly deserving recipient of the Farming Champion of the Year Award.

“A standout campaigner and advocate for British farming, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, his strong political advocacy in what has been an incredibly challenging year for farmers is a testament to the values of resilience,

In association with

dedication and hard work that define our industry.

“We are incredibly proud to see him receive this welldeserved recognition.”

In awarding Mr Carmichael the Outstanding Contribution to Rural Scotland Award, SLE said he has been “a tireless advocate for rural and island communities throughout his political career”.

www.orcadian.co.uk Tel: 01856 879000

SCOTTISH COUNTRY LIFE

Labour strips the countryside bare

By Jake Swindells

Since July 2024, when Labour became the leading party in UK politics, and Sir Keir Starmer took up the reigns with Rachel Reeves by his side, the British countryside has suffered lash after lash during its public flogging.

First to hit was the introduction of the “Family Farm Tax” and Labour spokes personnel defended this to the hilt time after time. Farmers descended on Westminster, as well as the parliaments of the

devolved nations, yet this did absolutely nothing to reverse this absolutely catastrophic decision. Farming organisations hosted Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury James Murray MP and Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner MP to discuss alternatives, yet these were dismissed without discussion.

As Ministers know, the policy as it stands creates a death trap where those who die before 1 April 2026 will be able to pass on farms

without inheritance tax, as will those who gift them now and do not die within the next seven years. If they die between those dates, however, their estate will be liable for inheritance tax which may well force its sale. This is the cruellest element of the Treasury’s ill thoughtout family farm tax, and that at least must surely be addressed.

Analysis by the Countryside Alliance earlier this year found that working people across

Jake Swindells

Britain were also to be hit by a stealth tax buried deep in the Spring Budget that was delivered in March 2025. The new rule introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves classified double-cab pickups - often used by gamekeepers, builders, electricians and farmers - as company cars for tax purposes. This change came into effect in April 2025, was set to increase the tax burden on a typical doublecab pickup by as much as 211 per cent. This is because, for the purposes of capital allowances, benefits in kind (BIK) and some deductions from business profits, these vehicles will no longer be treated as essential tools of the trade.

Alliance research found that a typical Nissan Navara Tekna, priced at £33,265 and emitting 167g/km of CO2, saw its BIK rise from £3,960 to £12,308, and the BIK on private fuel benefits also soared from £757 to £10,286, leading to even higher costs for workers. But the argument is that it is selfemployed tradespeople who face the biggest blow, as they can only deduct 6 per cent of their vehicle’s cost in the first year, slashing potential tax savings from over £9,600 to just £578.84. In a statement at the time, Chief Executive of the Countryside Alliance Tim

Farmers unite

Bonner said: “Rachel Reeves’ pickup truck tax will hammer thousands of working people in the countryside and beyond. From farmers and gamekeepers to plumbers and builders the twin cab pickup has become the country’s favourite workhorse. The decision to reclassify them as cars will hit working people hard.”

As if Labour weren’t content with the devastation they have already caused, The Countryside Alliance again wrote to the Chancellor of the Exchequer in September, urging her to reject proposals for a new vehicle acquisition tax levied according to weight, warning that it would unfairly penalise

people living and working in rural areas. Reports surfaced that the UK office of the European Federation for Transport and Environment (T&E), a Brussels-based campaign group, has lobbied the Chancellor to introduce the levy in the forthcoming November Budget. The Alliance believes such a measure would have a disproportionate and damaging impact on countryside communities where larger vehicles are not a luxury, but a necessity.

In his letter, Countryside Alliance Parliament and Government Relations Manager, David Bean, stressed that people in rural areas already shoulder higher transport costs than those in towns

and cities. Citing the organisation’s 2022 research, later highlighted by an AllParty Parliamentary Group, Mr Bean noted that rural households spend almost £800 more each year on fuel than urban households and pay up to 6p more per litre at the pump. Official Defra statistics show rural residents also travel further, averaging 5,767 miles annually compared with 3,624 for urban dwellers.

The Alliance argues that taxing vehicle purchases by weight would intensify these disparities. Recreational deer stalkers, who play an increasingly important role in wildlife population management, would also be adversely affected but are

unlikely to benefit from any professional exemptions the government might seek to introduce.

The proposal, which T&E suggested could help reduce the UK’s £50 billion fiscal deficit, is estimated by the group itself to generate no more than £1.72 billion annually. The Alliance characterised this as a poor return given the hardship it would cause. Mr Bean concluded his letter by urging the Chancellor to recognise the unique needs of rural communities and to reject the tax outright.

As ever, The Countryside Alliance will continue to fight the corner of rural Britain, ahead of the November Budget and beyond.

Rachael Hamilton MSP shows support

Travel Scotland

Experiencing Monachyle Mhor –

How a ‘Farm B&B’ evolves into so much ‘mhor’…

By Janice Hopper

Up a winding single track road, beautifully situated next to two scenic lochs (Loch Doine and Loch Voil), those in the know book a night at the blush pink hotel, Monachyle Mhor. The pinkish hue of the farmhouse walls is said to convey, in secret code, that the property was once a Jacobite safehouse. Outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor is buried just up the road so this was certainly once a region of rebellion. Today, this working farm/hotel furnishes a flight of accommodation, ranging from luxurious comfort to imaginative forest dwellings, delightful food and a range of quirky outdoor activities.

The backbone of Monachyle Mhor is undoubtedly the farm. The hotel and restaurant sits in a 2000-acre that’s been in the family since 1983, when couple Rob and Jean moved from Wales. Monachyle Mhor started out as a typical farm diversification story, with Rob farming sheep and cattle, and Jean running a farmhouse B&B, as they raised three children, Tom, Dick and Melanie. Today, Dick and his son Angus currently run the farm, while Tom and his wife Lisa handle the hospitality side. The livestock ranges from blackface sheep and Highland Cattle to Large Blacks, Tamworth and

Landrace pigs. A good place to start, especially for families, is a farm tour. Children enjoy simple tasks such as gathering eggs from the Rhode Island Reds and Silkies. Next, pick tomatoes in the poly-tunnel, meet an adorable Highland calf, and feed a pet lamb who was orphaned at birth. Goats roam on the front lawn of the hotel, keeping the grass in check. Donkeys and strong Highland Shetland ponies complete the tour, all accompanied by the hotel’s lively dogs.

In terms of the hotel atmosphere, Tom and Lisa have retained the rural, laid back vibes of country life in the farmhouse

Monachyle Mhor

and courtyard accommodation. Each hotel room is stylish, considered and comfortable. Whitewashed walls are contrasted with artfully placed antiques, rustic curiosities and bold artwork. Four farmhouse rooms, where Tom, Dick and Melanie, grew up, seven courtyard rooms with names like Bothy and Butt & Ben, and six luxurious feature rooms are on offer. Even the luxury toiletries have an entrepreneurial flair. Instead of simply buying in products, Monachyle Mhor worked with Sedbergh Soap Company to create the organic Dr Osbourne’s range. Expect fresh zingy scents, such as rosemary, wild mint, lemon verbena and elderflower. The products are for sale in the hotel reception too.

Monachyle Mhor has also been clever in creating accommodation offerings that allow guests to wake up that little bit closer to nature. Step outwith the farmhouse/courtyard to discover the three-storey ‘In the Trees’ building, which offers a bunkbed room, double bedroom and sitting room stacked on top of one another, each with a vast window framing views over the landscape. The old waiting room from the Port Appin-Isle of Lismore ferry terminal has been reimagined as the ‘Ferry Cabin’ offering uninterrupted vistas up Balquhidder Glen. Or consider the restored 1950’s Pilot Panther showman’s wagon, the ‘Corr’ Cabin or intimate ‘Tiny House’.

The family continue to build on experiences that immerse people in the land. The activities generate income, and in a remote location it makes sense to entertain your guests onsite, but you get the sense that the owners genuinely love embracing new ideas and have a ‘what next?’ make-it-happen attitude. A lochside sauna encourages wild water swimming - £30 for one hour. A mirrored box, the ‘LookOut’, invites spectators to view the reflected landscape afresh. Wine Safaris combine vino with the great outdoors, with al fresco food demos along the way. Personally, I tried ‘apitherapy’ for the first time, lying in a specially constructed triangular ‘apipod’ with six beehives beneath it containing 60,000 bees. The bees have no access to the guests, but the noise, the gentle buzz, and the scents do. The benefits are mainly linked with stress relief and relaxation. I visited at the end of the season, when the bees were less busy than in the hectic buzzing months of summer, but I did find the white noise meditative, and zoning out left me feeling far more restful than when I’d initially marched in.

After the bee experience, a relaxing meal was booked. The cherry on the cake at Monachyle Mhor is its food. Owners, Tom and Lisa, both have backgrounds as professional chefs, and with farming in the blood, they were naturally tapping into all the right buzz words — ‘sustainable’, ‘low food miles’, ‘low waste’, ’local produce’, ‘provenance’, ‘field to fork’ — before such concepts were trends. With its daily changing menu, the restaurant leads with produce from the farm, venison from the hills, vegetables, fruit and herbs from their kitchen garden, and foraged treats such as mushrooms.

A set menu of £95 features four courses, served over a long, relaxed evening, starting with an amuse bouche of a haggis slider with a white crab tartlet. Sourdough and multigrain bread is made onsite with aerated butter - drop by the Mhor Bakery in

Callander if you wish to bring some home with you. Enjoy a light starter of scallop, celeriac, apple and truffle. Savour a rich main of foraged mushroom ravioli, hazelnut and roast garlic, or a more meaty beef dish with parsnip, pecan, plum and carrot flavours. And finish with a delicate dark chocolate and raspberry dessert, with tea and petit fours. Along with the wine menu, the Dr Osbourne brand makes a reappearance as it includes gin. No.46 is Tom’s gin, featuring botanicals anise, dill and fennel. Lisa’s No.99 gin has lighter notes of elderflower, lemon balm and rosemary.

For those who fancy any of the toiletries, art, gin, textiles or aesthetics of Monachle Mhor, head six miles to the Mhor Store to pick up mementoesit’s all very Mhor-ish

Stunning scenery

Tom Lewis

Crispy hen egg

Assynt’s great mountains command the views of the parish and attract many visitors. As I have indicated, there are some, Quinag, Suilven and the Munros, Conival and Ben More Assynt, which lure many walkers and climbers, but there are also rather less frequented hills where I have often wandered alone. The hinterland, which is for me such a special place, is also fairly quiet, although there are fishermen who explore, just as my father did, its innumerable lochs. The little coast road, now featuring on the over-publicised North Coast 500 route, is far busier than it used to be; this is a great shame, as it means that visitors now have a much less relaxed drive around

A Complex Coast

By Robin Noble

the long Assynt coastline. This in itself has a great deal of variety and interest; at least you can stop in numerous places and look around. But for a proper exploration of the frontier where land meets sea, you really need a boat.

We had used Periwinkle, our family-sized fibreglass dinghy, to explore the magnificent fjord country, the broad reaches of Loch a’ Chairn Bhain running inland under the bold peaks of Quinag to the narrows and islands of Kylesku, where the ferry used to run, and the curving concrete of the bold new bridge takes traffic northwards. Inland from here, the sea broadens out below Unapool, before dividing, two narrower

lochs reach- ing even further inland between higher, wilder hills. As we did in my childhood, you may take a boat to the inner reaches of the two lochs, land, and explore the deep, quiet glens, listening to the almost perpetual sound of water cascading down their steep sides. The only alternative is a long and rough walk; when I did it, I started from close by the sandy loch above the gorge near the road over Skiag, the high ground which leads over to Loch Assynt. Eventually you find yourself at the top of the escarpment over which a mediumsized burn falls to create the highest waterfall in Britain, Eas a’ Chuil Aluinn, wild and impressive after heavy rain. (Be careful, this ground

is eroded, rough, very slippy and vertiginous if you go too close to the edge.) From here, I would have to head further inland in order to be able to make a safe descent to the floor of the glen; I did some great, long and wild walks over this country, but there was always that steep ascent to be tackled again before taking the rough path back to the road and the car. This used to be sheep-farm country; there are houses down at the shore from which the shepherds ranged over this imposing territory.

I had discovered that Jockan had worked here in his long life as a shepherd, and here he had been hit by appendicitis; in great pain he was carried on a door to the boat, which took him slowly down the loch to Kylesku, and an ambulance which then tackled the long road –all slow and single-track in those days – to the nearest hospital which was on the far east coast. (I had some inkling of what that journey must have been like, as I had developed appendicitis myself and been taken by a more modern ambulance along the faster roads to Inverness; despite probably more effective painkillers, that twohour journey was more than just uncomfortable.) Since the sheep went, this now depopulated area has been deer forest; in the days when I was walking here, there had certainly been far too many beasts in the recent past. The peat hags, lots of them, were all still eroding, their steep edges cut by sharp cloven hooves.

The relatively sheltered shore from Kylesku north-westwards,

Above the Second Falls on the burn

via Torgawn, Reintraid and Kerracher (which lonely location had in my time an extraordinary and glorious garden) is, in many places, wooded down to the water’s edge. There are wet areas, too, of course, but much of the remainder is bracken-infested; it would make a natural area for the further regeneration of the nearby woods, if only the bracken could easily be controlled. One day as I explored it, I remembered old Angus telling me that he had been close to that shore one day during the Second World War, when a naval ship had come slowly in and anchored. A small boat put out, heading for the nearest beach, and Angus had walked to meet it. As he did so, he was greeted very carefully in halting Norwegian; the sailors on board had no clue where they actually were, and had assumed from the spectacular scenery that it must be Norway.

This section of the road is rather exciting, even when devoid of other traffic. There are steep hills and hairpin bends; it is true that some of it is a little bit wider than it was in the days when I learnt to drive here, and there are several more passing places, but it is still quite an experience. As you turn the corner, beginning to head along the southern shore of the wide Eddrachillis Bay, the ground is more open and there are fine views over the lovely enclosed bay of Ardvar, with its islet dun and fine lodge, northwards towards the many islands by Badcall. Then you proceed over open heights, through wooded glens, beside lochs and lochans; this is my home ground, from Glenleraig through Nedd and Drumbeg, via Culkein and Oldany. From this direction, you arrive rather suddenly at a little bridge over the mouth of the Oldany burn, where there is a hint of some rather nice territory, and not much space to park in, out of the way of other traffic, in order to explore. This is a shame, as it is well worth it. A track takes you down to the Dornie, the narrows between the mainland and Oldany Island, the place where Kenny had kept his big boat and lent me the dinghy to explore the various channels in this unusually shallow and sheltered section of the Assynt coastline. There are salt

flats, like the ones in Glenleraig, but these seem less grazed most years, and at times are covered with the pink blossom of thrift. There will be seals, far more than we ever saw in my youth, perhaps a few seabirds, maybe mergansers and some herons, all backed by a lovely mixed woodland of birch and oak, threaded by the lines of aspen, their round, loose leaves shimmering in the breeze.

As you head westwards, this outer section of the coast experiences more wind, and is progressively less wooded; the

wide bay of Clashnessie, with its background waterfall and shifting pink sands, is in some contrast to the wooded setting of Nedd, and the new houses stand out rather clearly. Across the neck of land to Stoer, you enter what has always been for me a very different and special section of the coast. Stop somewhere if you can in the township of Stoer and look southwards. The houses behind you are mostly traditional Highland – white, and nicely grouped. Real sweet grass falls away before you to a

low green between an attractive loch and the wide sweep of Stoer Bay, backed, beyond a chaos of sandstone boulders, by the tower of the broch. From the village, the view includes the sparkling sea and headlands further south, with a splendid backdrop, the wellspaced ‘signature’ mountains of Assynt and Coigach. Although the skyline is without parallel anywhere, the foreground view reminds me always of the Hebrides; there is a genuine island feel to this part of the coast.

Life on the Elphin croft

My immediate surroundings in late winter

Inspiring Change: A Recap of Women in Agriculture Scotland’s Latest Events

On Friday, July 18th, members of Women in Agriculture Scotland gathered at the impressive Teasses Estate for a memorable event. The day was hosted by the enthusiastic Craig, who shared insights into the significant changes the estate has undergone in recent years. He discussed their thriving organic beef and sheep enterprise, highlighting the innovative practices they have implemented to adapt to a future without subsidies. After an informative session, attendees enjoyed a lovely meal together, fostering connections and camaraderie among participants.

Following lunch, Alix Ritchie, the Programme Director at Farmstrong Scotland, took the stage to discuss the vital importance of well-being in our lives. Her engaging presentation focused on practical strategies that everyone can adopt to enhance their well-being “bank account.”

The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the valuable insights and actionable steps shared during her talk. A special mention goes to Carole Brunton of Women in Agriculture Scotland for organizing such a

By Iona Smith, Chairwoman.

fantastic event and to Farmstrong for their generous sponsorship.

On Thursday, July 24th, the organization hosted a fabulous floral twist event at the Coo Shed in Ayrshire. This unique evening featured a floral theme, with

the talented Aleisha from Blath Florist leading participants in a creative workshop. Attendees had the opportunity to paint their own vases and learn the art of bouquet arrangement, which allowed for personal expression and creativity.

The vision for this event was to create a welcoming space where participants could unwind from their hectic routines, make new connections, and explore their artistic side. Many attendees left feeling inspired and rejuvenated, expressing appreciation for the wonderful hospitality provided by the Coo Shed.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce our annual AGM and Autumn event scheduled for Wednesday, November 12th, at the Den in Culross, Dunfermline. This year’s theme is “Thrive: Empowering Your Health and Wellbeing,” and we have a full day of engaging activities and discussions planned. Be sure to keep an eye on our social media channels for ticket releases so you don’t miss out on this enriching experience.

Additionally, we are actively seeking new committee members who are passionate about increasing the confidence of our membership and helping to shape a more progressive, successful, and inclusive industry

If you are interested in being part of this dynamic team and making a difference, please reach out for more information at womeninagriculturescot@ gmail.com.

Aberdeenshire Farmer Shares Mental Health Message of Hope

An Aberdeenshire farmer is working with RSABI to share a mental health message of positivity and hope with fellow farmers throughout the country.

Kenny Elphinstone, who has battled with depression for much of his life, talks openly and positively about his mental health journey in a short film produced as part of the charity’s suicide prevention work.

In the video, filmed on his farm, Kenny shares his battle with his mental health which reached an all-time low a few years ago when he attempted to take his own life.

In the months running up to this, his mood fluctuated between a state of hyperactivity where he had to be flying on with work all the time, leaving him exhausted and not sleeping properly, to feeling so low he could barely function.

“I would say the best way to describe the way I felt was trapped. Every day was a struggle and one particular day I was home alone and I thought this is never going to get any better and I couldn’t see any way out,” he recalls.

After a hospital visit, Kenny was back home and, initially, he still really struggled with his mental health but things started to improve. A major part of his recovery has been the support he received from friends and his wife Jill in particular.

“The person who helped me most without a doubt was my wife, Jill. She got me out of bed in the morning and got me going and she kept me on the straight and narrow once I was back on my feet,” he added.

The importance of sharing how you are feeling with someone you trust – and not bottling things up - is a huge factor in making it through the really hard times, Kenny says.

He is encouraging farming folk who are feeling low or lonely to find someone they trust to talk to, or contact an organisation

like RSABI. And, he said, a little kindness and compassion can make an enormous difference to someone feeling low.

“On a scale of one to 10 I would say kindness is at least a nine. If you’re really struggling and you find someone who is kind and prepared to listen to what you’ve got to say, it will make you feel a lot better,” Kenny said.

He also urged farming families to prioritise and make time to discuss the future and to be prepared to make changes to their businesses to plan for the future before the mental health of family members starts to struggle as anxieties really start to creep in.

“If you are in business with others you really need to make time to get things sorted and cut and dried. Putting things off will only make the situation worse, especially in cases where you are not all singing from the same hymn sheet,” he said.

Kenny also emphasised that working regularly on your own can really impact farmers, highlighting just how vital it is to get off the farm and catch up with other people.

“The nature of farming means that you can spend time on your own and that really doesn’t help, so its important to meet up with others. Some people will say they

don’t have time to go to events but it is so important to get out and about and catch up with folk, especially if something is going round and round in your head,” he said.

Kenny has learned a great deal about how to keep his mental health good in recent years and the steps he needs to take if he starts to feel his mental health deteriorating, or starts losing sleep.

Listening to music is something he finds relaxing and a very valuable distraction and he is very aware of the importance of speaking to someone about how he is feeling.

For a while, when he was struggling, he lost all enjoyment in farming. Thankfully Kenny now has that back again, and says lambing and ploughing are his two favourite jobs to do on the farm, along with working with other people.

RSABI has recently recruited a full-time member of staff working on Suicide Prevention, thanks to funding from the Alistair and Margaret Miller Trust. Next month the charity starts a major research project with Glasgow University aimed at understanding and preventing suicide within Scotland’s farming and crofting communities.

RSABI is also supporting a major ongoing campaign which includes a website with a range of information, resources and a local services directory is available at suicideprevention.scot. This work is led by Suicide Prevention Scotland and RSABI is one of the community of organisations working to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together.

September is national Suicide Prevention Month and a key message is around changing the narrative around suicide, encouraging people to talk openly about, if they are worried about someone, to ask them directly if they are having thoughts of suicide.

RSABI’s free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org. uk. Counselling can be arranged by RSABI quickly and simply and it is available free of charge to people in Scottish agriculture. If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:

• Samaritans: 116 123 (Available 24/7)

• Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87 (Available Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am. At weekends, open between Friday 6pm and Monday 6am)

• NHS 24 mental health hub on: 111 (Available 24/7)

• If you don’t feel you can keep yourself safe right now, please seek immediate help by attending any Accident and Emergency (A&E) or contact 999 and request an ambulance.

RSABI Suicide Prevention Lead Josie Barclay, Kenny Elphinstone, and RSABI CEO Carol McLaren

Festive Mallard with bramble & elderberry

By Wendy Barrie

Mallard, the most common wild duck in the British Isles, is considerably leaner than domesticated duck so it is important not to let it dry out. If you prefer your duck “pink,” then I recommend pan-frying the breasts, skin side first, on a high heat for 2 minutes, turn and seal on the underside for a moment then transfer to a hot oven for 5-8 minutes, depending on size and preference. Remove from oven and rest. The legs are best slow-cooked and of course the remaining carcass makes excellent stock. It is a very sustainable, ethical and delicious poultry option; in season just now and can be successfully frozen for year-round dishes.

Ingredients:

2 wild mallards, oven ready will serve 4 persons

50g butter with a drizzle of Summer Harvest rapeseed oil

Isle of Skye Sea salt & milled black pepper

1 red onion, peeled & quartered

2 bayleaves

Half a dozen juniper berries, lightly bruised 100mls Larboard, vintage elderberry port style wine from Orkney Wine Co.

Method:

For sauce:

250mls of liquid from duck juices and more elderberry to top up if required

A dash of balsamic vinegar

1 dessertspoon muscovado sugar

Approx 75g brambles (fresh or frozen)

1 dessertspoon cornflour

• Melt butter with oil and pan fry the seasoned ducks quickly on all sides to seal and brown.

• Transfer ducks to an ovenware dish and deglaze pan with elderberry and the same again of water. Swirl and add these juices to the duck. Season again and add bayleaves, onion and juniper berries.

• Cook in a pre-heated oven to 220℃, lid on, for 40-45 minutes until juices run clear.

• When ready, drain off juices into a saucepan and set aside duck to rest.

• To make sauce: bring the liquid to the boil, adding vinegar and sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning. Blend in slaked cornflour and bring to boil again, stirring to create a smooth glaze. Lastly add in most of the brambles, retaining some for decoration.

Suggested accompaniments pictured: honey-roasted carrots & parsnips, dauphinoise potatoes, all from our kitchen garden, and pumpkin puree seasoned with wild cumin.

Wendy is a cook, food writer & campaigner for local sustainable produce & biodiversity. Founder Director of award-winning Scottish Food Guide, Scottish Cheese Trail & Scottish Farm Shops, Wendy is also Leader for Slow Food Ark of Taste & Cooks Alliance in Scotland, IGCAT Global Experts Network member, International Judge & co-founder of Scottish Bread Championship. She has co-written “Meadows: The Swedish Farmer & The Scottish Cook,” with her husband, on regenerative food production, available online & from selected farm shops.

Photograph © Wendy Barrie

FAST meets with Scottish Government to discuss new support payment model

The agriculture and supply chain stakeholder group, FAST, met again recently with the Scottish Government officials preparing the future operating model for agricultural support payments, which will replace the current system post-2027.

The focus of the meeting with the new Director of the Agricultural Reform Programme (ARP), Jo Gray, was the latest proposals for the new support payment model, to be presented to ministers for approval in December 2025.

Chair of FAST, Neil Wilson, on behalf of the whole group, welcomed the engagement from Ms Gray and officials involved in designing the model:

“One of the reasons FAST was set up was to offer Scottish

Government independent, grassroots insights into the impact of policy reform on agriculture in Scotland to avoid unintended consequences, but, even more so, to ensure that the reforms would be effective and a positive driver for the industry. The frustration has been the lack of communication and co-design on policy changes that will shape the future viability and success of agriculture in Scotland when there are parties willing to share their time and expertise.”

It was a constructive meeting, said Mr Wilson, encouraging candid feedback from both sides on eligibility criteria, fairness for all and viability, as well on more specific issues around legacy entitlements, defining rough

grazing and access for new entrants.

“It allowed officials to hear from FAST members at these critical development stages as well as build better understanding on both sides. They explained the need for a strong business case for ministers that supports farmers while also delivering on the Scottish Government’s environmental and budgetary goals, as well as the reasoning behind proposed changes. Ultimately, Scottish Government needs to recognise Scotland’s diverse farming systems; the support needs to get to right people in the right places and to ensure that policy does not hamper enterprise.”

FAST urged the Scottish Government officials to prioritise

clear communication about the new model with stakeholders across Scotland.

FAST represents members of 17 organisations from across food production, which includes thousands of tenant farmers, young farmers, landowners and those working in the meat supply chain and the arable sector. Many of the representatives of FAST are also farmers or closely linked to active farming.

Ms Gray expressed her appreciation of the value of the expertise in the room and constructive conversations, committing to ongoing engagement with FAST and meetings again ahead of the proposals being submitted to Scottish Parliament.

Next attack on family farms may be worse than the last … warning from rural consultancy Galbraith

Agricultural and rural property consultancy Galbraith is warning that the Autumn Budget may deal a hammer blow to family farms, already on a knife-edge due to the tax reforms coming into effect in April.

Growing speculation that the Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering making another round of inheritance tax (IHT) changes may force the sale of some farms.

Nick Ainscough, Senior Associate with the rural department at Galbraith, said: “If all the commentary is correct, there will be another round of IHT changes on top of those already announced, which really would spell the death knell for some farms. It is simply unaffordable for the next generation to be saddled with

IHT payments from the moment they take on the farm. From all its public statements, the government seems to have based its assessment of the sector on flawed data. It needs to look again.”

Galbraith points out that many farms have already cut back on planned investment, due to uncertainty in the sector, with some also considering sales of assets.

From 6th April 2026, only the first £1m of qualifying property (per individual or trust) will attract 100% Agricultural Property Relief (APR) or Business Property Relief (BPR) from inheritance tax. Anything above that threshold will be eligible for 50% relief, with any chargeable transfers made within seven years of death counting towards the £1m cap.

The implications of these changes for farming businesses are substantial and will affect an enormous number of working farms, far higher than the UK Government’s figures, according to Galbraith.

Commentators believe that another round of IHT changes may be announced in the Autumn Budget on 26th November, including amendments to Potentially Exempt Transfers and the lifetime gifting allowances.

Current gifting rules allow for ‘gifts’ to be exempt from inheritance tax if the donor survives for seven years after making the gift, with taper relief ensuring that the rate of tax gradually drops between three and seven years after the gift is made.

The proposed changes that are being considered supposedly include the introduction of a cap on total gifts allowed before death; the potential removal or reduction of taper relief; and possibly increasing the exemption period to 10 years.

If confirmed, these changes would be even more significant for land-based businesses than the measures introduced in the 2024 budget as they would effectively close the only remaining recourse for many family businesses to implement successful succession strategies that are not handicapped by inheritance tax liabilities, Galbraith reports.

Nick Ainscough continued: “Rural businesses operate on long-term considerations and investment has to be based on a

strategic evaluation of all the factors potentially affecting profitability, as far as these can be assessed. With all the volatility in the sector, pressures on consumer spending, fluctuations in farmgate prices and a rapidly changing legislative environment, a tax raid by the government is absolutely the final nail in the coffin.

We will see small farms being forced to sell up unless they have taken measures to mitigate their risk.”

Galbraith is one of the leading agricultural advisers in Scotland and the North of England, managing farm, forestry, land and estate interests across over 4.5 million acres.

The James Hutton Institute receives a £3 million investment from Scottish Enterprise

The James Hutton Institute has received a £3 million investment from Scottish Enterprise for its new high throughput phenotyping facility, part of the Advanced Plant Growth Centre (APGC), housed in its Crop Innovation Centre (CIC). The facility allows researchers to assess plants architecture and health using sensors and lasers to map the plant in detail and how this is then influenced by genetic make-up and changes in the environment. Together with automation and AI the facility will accelerate crop innovation. By discovering new traits more quickly it will provide a faster route to market for plant breeders serving the agriculture, horticulture, pharmaceutical and food and drink sectors.

The new investment comes in addition to the £62 million invested through the Tay Cities Region Deal (TCRD) by the UK and Scottish Governments, which funded two new innovations centres, the APGC and the International Barley Hub (IBH), both created in partnership with the University of Dundee Plant Sciences Division.

The cutting-edge plant phenotyping platform is designed to create controlled climate conditions that crops will experience in the future. It integrates automated plant handling, irrigation and climate control together with advanced imaging technologies to screen large populations of plants and select those best suited to the future climate conditions.

It will enable researchers to replicate current, and predicted,

global crop production conditions, thus accelerating the breeding and growing of climate resilient and low input crops, enhancing the APGC’s research on the issues facing global food, non-food and pharmaceutical crops.

The facility is part of a suite, combining advanced phenotyping, automation, AIdriven analytics and a highperformance computing cluster that supports pioneering research and industry collaboration. As an open platform it will enable national and international collaboration to attract projects that cross academia and industry and ensure a whole sector approach to a more sustainable future for agriculture.

Speaking of this funding, the Hutton’s Chief Executive, Professor Colin Campbell said, “This is a very welcome investment from Scottish Enterprise as this equipment is facilitating some of the most pioneering research into crop resilience being carried out anywhere in the world.

“In a recent economic impact report from BiGGAR into the Hutton, it was noted that for every £1 of funding received, we deliver £15 in economic value for the UK economy, of which £9 is retained in Scotland. It’s thanks to this type of investment that we continue to make the impact we do, using science to secure a more sustainable future, keeping food costs down, protecting livelihoods and making a positive contribution to our economy”.

What Making Tax Digital means for farmers

From 2026, some farmers will have to report income tax in a new way, moving from annual returns to quarterly digital updates. This is part of HMRC’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) programme, designed to modernise the tax system.

The first stage applies to sole traders and landlords. Those with income over £50,000, before expenses, will enter the scheme from April 2026, followed by those with income £30,000, before expenses, from April 2027. Partnerships are not yet included, though HMRC has indicated that rules for them will follow at a later date.

In practice, MTD means replacing the yearly tax return with quarterly digital updates and an end-ofyear statement. The change will take some adjustment, but digital systems can help make record-keeping more straightforward. Many accounting tools now allow information to update automatically, giving you a

clearer view of your business throughout the year.

Cloud accounting software can make the transition easier, offering automatic bank feeds, digital record-keeping and realtime reporting. For farming businesses, where cash flow often rises and falls with the seasons, the shift to quarterly reporting can offer a clearer picture of profitability throughout the year.

It’s important to not to leave preparation for MTD until the last minute. Exploring options early will give you time to find a system that works for your business and avoid the pressure of a rushed changeover.

At MMG, we are already helping farming clients get ready for MTD and choose the tools that best suit their needs. If you are unsure whether these changes affect you, now is a good time to ask. Our team is here to make the process straightforward and help you get the most out of the new system.

The Bean Counters

machinery Vaderstad unveils new front tool for Carrier XT and Carrier XL

Väderstad has launched a new front tool option for the disc cultivators Carrier XT 425–625 and Carrier XL 425–725 for ultrashallow tillage and mechanical weed control.

The new third disc axle configuration increases disc density from two rows to three, reducing the disc spacing to just 8.3cm. This results in 50% more tools in the ground, delivering highly intensive mixing, crumbling, and residue management.

“With three rows of CrossCutter Discs, we can improve cultivation performance and significantly improve the versatility of shallow tillage systems,” says Väderstad UK managing director Andy Gamble. “Key benefits include high weed-killing rates, preserve soil moisture, and reduce fuel consumption, making them a good option for both conventional and organic farming systems.”

Field tests have shown that the new front tool is able to create a stronger stale seedbed,

promote weed germination and more effective weed knockdown in a second pass. According to Mr Gamble, this approach supports sustainable farming practices by reducing the need for chemical herbicides, such as glyphosate.

“We have designed the third disc axle front tool to deliver higher intensity and better

mixing, which in turn encourages stronger emergence of weeds and leftover seeds,” he says.

The third disc axle holds the standard Carrier disc arms, and can be fitted with either the CrossCutter Disc, CrossCutter Disc Aggressive, 450mm disc or 470 TrueCut discs.

This significantly improves

cultivation versatility and to operate in a wide range of farming conditions.

The new third disc axle will be available as a front tool for Carrier XT 425-625 and Carrier XL 425-725 from October 2025, with deliveries starting in the spring 2026. The machines will premiere at Agritechnica 2025.

New separation technology at Agritechnica

Vogelsang is set to launch an even larger version of the XSplit screw press separator. The XSplit XS30-80 offers a throughput of up to 175 cubic metres per hour, making it the most powerful XSplit in the range.

“The new XS30-80 has been developed for larger farms and biogas operations to enable high volumes of slurry and digestate to be processed faster and more efficiently,” explains Vogelsang’s Andy Hayhurst.

The XS30-80 joins the existing range of XSplit separators which includes both fixed and trailer mounted models and the XSplit Compact.

“We now have an XSplit to fit all farm sizes. The Compact is firmly aimed at smaller farms and offers flexibility at an entry level price. The XSplit can be fixed or provided on a purpose-built trailer for contractors and farms with multiple sites and, with the addition of the XS30-80, we have a high output solution that will suit the largest UK farms,” says Mr Hayhurst.

The design of the XS30-80 features a modular, three-part sieve, making the new larger model easy to maintain because only the worn parts need to be replaced, rather than the whole separating unit.

Vogelsang’s VarioAdjust hydraulic adjustment system means the contact pressure can be easily adjusted during operation, enabling the operator to set the dry matter content more easily.

“The XSplit XS30-80 is the largest separator in this design and combines high performance with maintenance-friendly design. It therefore offers a powerful solution to users with very high volumes,” adds Mr Hayhurst.

To complement the new separators, Vogelsang is also launching the newly designed LoadMaster pump. The lightweight, compact design features a new, smoother running

pump that is ideal for transport vehicles.

Vogelsang is also extending its pump range with the VX high output rotary lobe pump. The VX has a 15,000 litres per minute capacity, making it ideal for selfpropelled machines. The integrated injection system reliably protects the pump against foreign bodies and ensures a service life that is up to 2.5 times longer than usual.

The Agritechnica stand will also show off new pump solutions and distributors from Vogelsang’s proven ExaCut, RotaCut 10000 M and RotaCut MXL ranges.

“This year we have an outdoor area (hall 23, position 2302),

where visitors can see our SyreN manure stabilisation technology, and for the first time we will be bringing VR to the stand with

headsets so visitors will be able to disassemble an XSplit and a rotary lobe pump to see how it works,” concludes Mr Hayhurst.

Merlo UK appoints Cotswold Farm Machinery

Merlo UK is delighted to announce the appointment of Cotswold Farm Machinery Ltd, effective immediately, (CFM) as an authorised Merlo agricultural dealer. From its centrally base located base at Fosse Cross, near Cirencester CFM will cover a territory for Merlo from Mid Gloucestershire South and East Gloucestershire across to Burford.

Established in 2006 by Simon and Janet Carrington, CFM has grown to become a respected specialist in the supply and servicing of agricultural and horticultural machinery.

With a reputation built on quality service, technical

expertise, and a commitment to customers, CFM is ideally placed to represent Merlo’s innovative range of telehandlers. The company’s team of highly skilled engineers underlines its dedication to service excellence and technical capability.

Owen Buttle, National Sales Manager at Merlo UK, commented: “We are very pleased to welcome Cotswold Farm Machinery to the Merlo dealer network. Their strong customer focus, technical expertise, and proven reputation make them an ideal partner. This appointment will ensure customers in the Cotswolds and

machinery

surrounding counties benefit from access to Merlo’s industryleading telehandlers, supported by first-class local service.”

Simon Carrington, Managing Director at Cotswold Farm Machinery Ltd, added: “At CFM, we believe that delivering outstanding service is fundamental to our customers’ success. Adding the Merlo telehandler range allows us to provide a key product that complements our existing portfolio and strengthens the solutions we can offer. We’re excited to work with Merlo and to introduce these innovative machines to farmers and businesses across our region.”

This latest appointment reflects Merlo UK’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its agricultural dealer network and ensuring customers nationwide have access to premium products, backed by trusted local support.

Additional model for KUHN’s four rotor rakes

A 13.7m model has been added to KUHN’s 10231 series of four rotor rakes, increasing the range to three machines, with working widths from 8.4m up to 14.7m.

The GA 14231 – with working widths from 9-13.7m –fills the gap between the smaller GA 13231, offering widths from 8.4m to 12.5m, and the larger

GA 15231 – working from 9.5m to 14.7m. It builds on the popular features of the two existing machines, including using four hydraulically driven rotors from a single transmission to reduce daily greasing.

Rhodri Jenkins, KUHN’s grassland product specialist, says the additional model increases

KATTRAK INTERNATIONAL LTD

Distribution, Sales, Hire Fleet, Service, Spares, Training

Wheeled dumpers, tracked dumpers, excavators, telehandlers, special machinery

Kattrak International Ltd is proud to be an official Scottish dealer & distributor for Sunward, Hidromek, Messeri and Holp Rototop Attachments

Kattrak offers a broad range of wheeled & tracked dumpers as well as other machinery for hire at competitive rates

KUHN’s high-output four-rotor rake options.

“Our existing GA four-rotor rakes are popular with large farmers and contractors, but we had requests from some users who said the current models were too far apart in size and they required something in the middle. The GA 14231 retains all the proven features from the existing rakes whilst offering additional versatility for working widths.”

KUHN’s well-known and maintenance-free MASTERDRIVE GIII gearbox, as fitted to all KUHN 31 series single-, twin-, and fourrotor rakes, includes a double reduction system allowing larger gears to be used for improved power transfer.

Section control, introduced on the GA 10231 series in 2024, is also an option on the new model to preserve forage quality and avoid moving crop multiple times.

Production of the new GA 14231 is already underway. Prices start from £94,885.

Trac-Con Forward Control Multi-Purpose Load Carrier

Trac-Con specialises in oneoff or small batch conversions of the Fastrac for off-highway use to various sectors including

agriculture, forestry, utility, etc. With a specialist engineering

team Trac-Con prides itself in the design and development of each bespoke project, losing none of the benefits and features of the Fastrac’s great British design.

The Trac-Con conversion opens up an array of opportunities for mounting large capacity spreaders and sprayers for agriculture or de-icing airport runways, forestry log carrying equipment, utility mobile workshops and generators for working in remote areas with difficult access, and fire fighting in challenging off-road conditions.

The Fastrac 4000 Icon has all the credentials to meet the needs of ever increasing demands to scale up output and performance:-

• High speed

• 4 wheel steering for greater manoeuvrability

• 9 metre turning circle

• Efficient ABS disc braking

• Operator comfort

• All-round performance on and off road

• Engines up to 218 hp/162 kW

• Copes with arduous in-field/ off-road conditions on steep undulating ground

Recognising the need to extend the Fastrac’s load carrying area for attaching spreaders, high capacity sprayers, and various other ongoing application considerations, Trac-Con set about the project.

Firstly the tractor chassis was lengthened forward to enable repositioning of the Fastrac’s cab to the front of the vehicle creating a load deck/platform in excess of 3 metres. Also re-worked were steering hydraulics, air conditioning, wiring harnesses, and the exhaust system.

The rear 3-point linkage is retained, capable of lifting 8 tonnes.

• Outstanding active suspension automatically adjusting each wheel to maintain traction and dampen any impact

A 20 tonne towing capacity pickup hook has a pneumatic latching system replacing the hand operated lever. A hitch camera proves a useful addition. Pneumatic brakes are supplied by the tractor’s twinline air system for towed unit such as a water bowser. The active suspension automatically adjusts to accommodate the equipment mounted on the 3 metre long load deck and quickly responds to any weight changes when loading or discharging the sprayer’s or spreaders’ contents.

The Fastrac Icon’s ISO terminal can be used to display all spray functions including liquid levels, application volumes, and auto boom section control, etc. when spraying, or application control of granular fertilisers when mounted with a spreader. When linked to a machine’s IsoBus technology, the operator benefits from stateof-the-art Smart application and positioning solutions particularly useful for spraying, spreading, and de-icing.

Case IH Previews New Optum Series Tractors

Case IH is equipping farmers for their most productive and efficient runtime to date with

the new Optum® series tractors available in three models: 360, 390, and 440.

With an extended range of models, greater year-round productivity and increased comfort, the new Optum delivers exceptional value for a variety of applications. With the Optum, operators can enjoy faster transport speeds, increased service intervals and fuel autonomy. Integrated precision technology – with Technology Package options to suit individual needs –includes Connectivity Included, a Case IH feature that eliminates subscriptions for machine connectivity, along with telematics and ISOBUS compatibility with Tractor Implement Management (TIM). In addition, FieldOps™ unlocks the power of Connected Services and allows for simple management of the tractor’s machine and agronomic data.

“The Optum’s size and power are ideal for a wide range of applications, from tillage and seeding, to baling or transport,” said Franz Josef Silber, global product marketing medium

horsepower tractors at Case IH. “Paired with machinery, the tractor’s automation-driven features and configurable technology deliver great in-seat efficiency and ease of use.”

The Optum offers high horsepower performance – 360, 390 and 435 HP – as well as reliable precision and agility. With a 6.1 m (20 ft) turning radius and new Cursor 9 engine, operators can easily maneuver the Optum while covering more ground with the fastest road speeds yet, up to 60 kph (37 mph). It also features an extended 750-hour service interval and a fully integrated Central Tire Inflation System, which allows operators to quickly and easily change tire pressures when going from the road to the field. An all-new independent front axle suspension paired with upgraded braking, transmission and hydraulics delivers heightened control and power. Operators will also appreciate the upgraded cab

The Air Compressor and Pressure Washer Specialists

experience, featuring advanced vehicle suspension options and comfort enhancements such as walk-in entry steps, integrated toolbox storage, and a built-in water tank for convenient hand washing.

“Today’s operations need equipment to drive productivity more than ever,” added Silber. “The Optum gives operators that needed boost in horsepower and performance to complete any onfarm task in every season.”

BOSS ORV appoints new AODES dealer

BOSS Off-Road Vehicles has added another AODES dealer to their rapidly growing network across the UK. The latest dealer to sell and support the AODES range of quads and side-by-side utility vehicles is East Kent-based Agri Service. A family business, Agri Service was started in 2020 by Michael Lloyd-Yates, building on his thirty-five years in the agricultural industry, mostly with a John Deere main dealer. He founded the business as a ‘man with a van’ mobile servicing and repair, which is the foundation of the company today, with three vans permanently on the road.

Agri Service has expanded with Michael’s son, Alex, joining as a third-year apprentice together with apprentice Toby Walters, Service Engineer Peter Bates, and Michael’s wife, Nicky. While they have a workshop near Canterbury,

they continue to build on the good name they have for providing full support and repair services, attending customers’ farms and agricultural businesses.

Neil Everett, BOSS ORV National Sales Manager, says: ‘We were aware of the excellent reputation Agri Service enjoys and welcome Michael and his team as an AODES dealer. They will be covering the Kent and East Sussex area for us, and we look forward to developing the AODES sales and service together.’

AODES is the multinational All-Terrain Vehicle and UTV brand of the Shandong ODES industry company, established over thirty years ago in Shandong, China. ‘We have a strong demand for UTVs and ATVs in the area,’ says Michael, ‘and while customers can go down the main dealer route with better known brands, we can offer

AODES as a cheaper but equally high-quality alternative, with individual service and support. We have found dealing with BOSS

very positive and are very excited to become an AODES dealer, with all the UTVs and ATVs have to offer.’

New Holland T7.270 Methane Power tractor now available to order

New Holland unveils the evolution of its T7 tractor range and reinforces its leadership in alternative fuels with an expanded sustainable product portfolio.

With the launch edition bearing New Holland’s Blue Power livery, the T7.270 Methane Power CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) tractor, unveiled at Agritechnica 2023, now officially joins the New Holland range, taking the brand’s alternative fuel technology further up the power scale, to benefit a broader range of farmers. Initially the tractor can be ordered in Europe from the end of 2025, with the first deliveries in spring 2026.

“The T7.270 Methane Power is ideal for biodigester operators running haulage tractor fleets,” says Darragh Mullin, New Holland T7 Long Wheelbase Global Product Manager.

“It also meets the demands of larger-scale arable farms and

contractors conducting yearround varied applications with heavy-duty implements. The combination of methane power technology with proven New Holland T7 features is designed to offer customers a blend of low operating costs, autonomy, reliability and driver comfort.”

The T7 Methane Power tractor can run on biomethane derived from livestock manure, supporting on-farm sustainability. In partnership with Bennamann, New Holland enables farms to capture, process and refine fugitive methane for use as fuel. This closedloop system reduces emissions, cuts fertilizer use, and can even achieve a negative carbon footprint.

Underneath the hood design is the proven NEF 6.7-litre six-cylinder engine upgraded with a high-performance turbo, new engine dataset, specific fuel system and after-treatment layout. The engine’s peak torque

is 1,160Nm, and it produces a maximum 270hp under all conditions. With new engine mapping, the T7.270 Methane Power matches the performance levels expected by customers in this power sector, with uptime maximized by a 750hr service interval.

The New Holland design team has optimized the onboard gas storage thanks to the new T7’s larger chassis, with a standard capacity of 657 litres (117.9kg) and optional 480-litre (86.2kg) range extender, for a total capacity of 1,106 litres (204.1kg).

HORSCH partners with KP Agri Limited

HORSCH has partnered with KP Agri Ltd to supply its full range of cultivation, drilling and spraying equipment from its depot at Llandow, near Cowbridge. KP Agri will provide sales, service and support to customers throughout Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and South Wales, across to Newport.

“We have been providing high-quality machinery and support to our customers since we began in 2008. Several of our customers already operate HORSCH machinery, and we are delighted to be able to fully support them, and many others, with a complete range of market-leading machines,” said Paul Benton, owner and dealer

principal at KP Agri Ltd. “In addition to the cultivators and drills, the range of HORSCH Leeb sprayers will be of particular interest to farmers looking for precision spraying.”

Paul began the business as a service engineer and understands the needs of farmers. “From our beginnings as a ‘man in a van’, a high level of customer service was essential. That mindset has continued as we’ve grown, and we now have four service engineers, plus sales and support staff, all focused on keeping customers productive,” added Paul.

James Sinclair, Regional Sales Manager for HORSCH UK Ltd, emphasised the importance of working with highly professional dealerships. “Modern farming businesses need first-class customer service to ensure they can be as productive as possible. Partnering with KP Agri allows us to work together to meet the needs of customers in this area.”

Cemos auto knife condition

The world’s first knife sharpness monitoring system

The new CEMOS AUTO KNIFE

CONDITION from CLAAS for the JAGUAR 900 is the world’s first production-ready operator assistance system for monitoring the wear condition of the knives in the forage harvester, enabling on-demand grinding for optimum cutting quality and optimised wear and fuel consumption.

CEMOS AUTO KNIFE

CONDITION works using two reluctance sensors that detect the knife geometry across the entire knife width using a static magnetic field. The sensors are located above the crop channel and therefore outside the crop flow. In the field, the operator

machinery

uses the CEBIS terminal in the cab to set the desired degree of sharpening and the grinding strategy. The system then informs the operator via CEBIS as soon as the knives should be ground. In this way, grinding is no longer carried out at fixed

intervals, but when it is actually necessary - i.e. earlier in abrasive harvesting conditions and later in normal harvesting conditions with low wear. Cutting and forage quality as well as efficiency remain permanently high, while the service life of the

knives is significantly improved. The system also enables areaspecific documentation of knife wear in CLAAS connect. This allows contractors to document wear costs to their customers and improve the upstream process chain in a targeted manner.

NUTRIMETER also now available for the JAGUAR 900 and 800

Following its introduction on the new JAGUAR 1000, the NUTRIMETER NIR sensor is also now available for the JAGUAR 900 and 800 and being ISOBUS-compatible it can be swapped between machines. In addition to dry matter content, the NUTRIMETER also records ingredients such as starch, crude protein, crude fibre and sugar content. The mobile use of the NIR sensor as an ISOBUS device enables easy conversion from machine to machine. The data collected by the NUTRIMETER is stored, analysed and documented together with the machine data from the JAGUAR in CLAAS connect.

New GREEN EYE packages

For model year 2026, CLAAS is offering model seriesspecific GREEN EYE equipment packages with attractive price benefits for the JAGUAR 900 and JAGUAR 800 model series. GREEN EYE includes full cab equipment in both model series as well as a crop flow equipped with PREMIUM LINE wear parts with optimised service life - with a 5-year and 3,000-hour warranty.

Exclusively for the JAGUAR 900, the GREEN EYE package also includes the innovative V-FLEX chopping cylinder for maximum cutting length variability and a longer service life, as well as the variable, hydrostat front attachment drive. In addition, the two-stage front attachment drive can be ordered as an option to further increase performance in grass applications in conjunction with the PICK UP.

Claydon to highlight the cost saving, versatility and ecological benefits of its Opti-Till® system at

The cost saving and ecological benefits of establishing crops with the Claydon Opti-Till® System will be the focus of the company’s exhibit at LAMMA 2026 (NEC, 14-15 January 2026).

Claydon’s display in Hall 6 (Stand 6.600) will include its latest Evolution Drill Toolbar and Front Hopper, together with a 6m T6c Hybrid trailed drill with multiple hoppers, 3m M3F Evolution mounted grain and fertiliser drill, 7.5m Straw Harrow, NutriSeeder and Mole Drainer.

“As a commercial farming business, the Claydon family understand the significant

WINTER SPECIALS

LAMMA 2026

challenges from rising input costs, volatile markets, increasing environmental pressure and the need to remain profitable,” David Furber, Sales Manager UK and ROI for Claydon, states. “Never has it been more important to work smarter, not harder, which is why farming businesses all over

the world are moving away from traditional plough and min-till-based approaches to Claydon Opti-Till®, a holistic method of establishment which delivers consistent, high yielding crops at low cost for maximum profitability.”

Opti-Till® enables crops to be established quickly,

accurately, reliably and economically. These factors have become more important as farms are increasingly establishing cover crops immediately behind the combine to help prepare their soils for winter crops. A practical solution to today’s most pressing issues, Opti-Till® reduces fuel

usage, lowers input costs, saves time and improves soil health, without compromising yield. By enhancing soil biology and reducing erosion, it also helps farmers to meet environmental goals and stewardship requirements within a more sustainable, profitable business.

Stocks Ag Unveils Turbo Jet 10 HD to Global Market

The new Stocks Ag Turbo Jet 10 Hydraulic (HD) will be launched to the global market at Agritechnica this November. The Turbo Jet 10 HD provides users with maximum airflow for higher application rates at working widths from 10m up to 15m. It can also be run at faster forward speeds and can be set up to apply full-width, in bands or in rows as required with outlets either blanked-off or doubled up as necessary.

Renowned for airflow and output and built with industryleading high-capacity electric fans, the current range of Stocks Turbo Jet’s excel at applying product at up to 10m. However, the appetite to work at wider working widths globally continues, be that with rolls, drills, cultivators, comb harrows etc. This has led Stocks Ag to develop an applicator with even more air flow to apply small to medium sized seeds such as oilseed rape, clover, grass, mustard, etc... at high rates from 10m as well as micro and granular products at low to medium rates, all at up to 15m.

The Turbo Jet 10 HD’s hydraulic fan can be remotely mounted, making it simple to integrate with different host machines. Remote mounting also enables the fan to be sited away

from dusty areas. On Cambridge rolls, the hydraulic unit can be fixed to the main drawbar with the hopper positioned above the rollers, reducing the hydraulic pipework required.

“The global launch of the Turbo Jet 10 Hydraulic is driven by clear demand - growers, export customers and OEM partners have all asked for a high-accuracy, highcapacity applicator that can handle wider working widths. With its

upgraded fan and performance beyond 10 metres, we believe this will be a real game-changer in the market,” says Sean Stanfield, Sales Manager at Stocks Ag.

Product is metered by a rotary feed and delivered pneumatically, however instead of an electrically driven fan, the Turbo Jet 10 HD has a multi-blade, 1400cfm (cubic feet per metre), 4” hydraulic Crary fan. This fan offers a maximum operational RPM of 6,000 and a

4cc motor, which offers an output to match most drills. This allows the tractor’s oil flow requirement to be kept low (27L/min - 65L/ min).

Testing has been carried out on a range of product including slug pellets, wheat, barley, OSR and Avadex. Working at 15m and applying a precise, low-rate of Avadex granules, it produced a Coefficient of Variation of +/5%.

Line7 Storm Pro20: Built to Withstand the Toughest Days

Face the elements head-on with the Line7 Storm Pro20 jackets, now available at Wild & Moor. Designed for farmers who work through every season, these waterproof and windproof jackets offer uncompromising protection and comfort. With designs tailored to men and women, the Storm Pro20 combines advanced breathable fabric with a durable outer shell, keeping you dry without overheating during long, active days outdoors. Tested to 20,000mm water resistance and 20,000g/m²/24hr breathability, they offer a practical fit, reinforced seams, and smart features built for real-world use. Storm Pro20 is dependable gear for demanding conditions.

Storm Pro20 Jacket: £239.95

Available at www.wildandmoor.co.uk

A foodie’s Christmas wrapped in nostalgia with Baxters

Food and drink Christmas gifting from £40

A Christmas celebration wrapped in nostalgia with Baxters hampers.

Timeless pairings, bold flavours and locality at the heart of each product, the fourth-generation Scottish family-owned brand has a spectacular selection of gourmet gifting options this Christmas to suit any occasion.

Festive Treats, £40, ten items: Cream of Tomato Soup, Royal Game Soup, Figgy Pudding Jam, Christmas Chutney, Spiced Pear & Brandy Chutney, Lemon Curd, Cranberry Sauce, Cheese Oatcakes, Tablet and Speycast Gin Liqueur.

Christmas Cracker, £45, ten items: Milk Chocolate Bar, Lemon Shortbread, Christmas Chutney, Figgy Pudding Jam, Bloody Mary Relish, Lemon Curd, Piccachilli, Tablet, Vegan Fruit Jellies and Cheese Oatcakes.

Traditional Baxters, £50, 14 items: Cullen Skink, Cock-a-Leekie Soup, Cream of Tomato Soup, Royal Game Soup, Scotch Broth, Albert’s Victorian Chutney, Caramelised Onion Chutney, Classic Tomato Chutney, Classic Raspberry Extra Fruity Jam, Original Strawberry Jam, Mint Jelly, Tartare Sauce, Wooden Spoon and Wooden Spurtle.

Christmas Extravagance, £140, 22 items: Kinalba Cashmere Bed Socks, Esterlin Champagne Brut Eclat, Kinloch Anderson Baxters Tartan Cracker, Beef Consommé, Mushroom Consommé, Cullen Skink, Christmas Chutney, Figgy Pudding Jam, Spiced Pear & Brandy Chutney, Fig, Plum & Port Chutney, Whisky Marmalade, Blackcurrant & Cassis Conserve, Lemon Curd, Bloody Mary Relish, Silverskin Onions, Sliced Gherkins, Cranberry Sauce, Vegan Fruit Jellies, Lemon Shortbread, Cheese Oatcakes, Speycast Gin Liqueur and Milk Chocolate Bar.

Balmoral, £190, 25 items: Kinalba Cashmere Bed Socks, Esterlin Champagne Brut Eclat, Baxters Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Darach Stand and Whisky Tasting Glasses, Cullen Skink Soup, Beef Consomme, Blackcurrant & Cassis, Whisky Marmalade, Piccachilli, Ploughman’s Pickle, Lemon Curd, Peach & Apricot Conserve, Bloody Mary Relish, Fig, Plum & Port Chutney, Horseradish Sauce, Mint Jelly, Sliced Beetroot, Silverskin Onions, Sliced Gherkins, Mile Chocolate Bar, Lemon Shortbread, Coffee and Pyramid Tea Bags. Discover more at www.BaxtersOfScotland.com

Arable Scotland returns in a new format

Scotland’s leading event for knowledge exchange in arable farming, Arable Scotland, has launched a new initiative which will take place at The James Hutton Institute in Invergowrie, on Tuesday 24th February 2026.

‘Arable Futures’, Arable Scotland’s new in-person conference, will bring together people from across the arable sector to share insights, challenges and aspirations across the Scottish arable farming sector. The event aims to develop

a shared understanding of what the future holds, challenge us to question how the sector responds, and identify actions that could be taken to create future resilience.

The event is free and open to everyone interested in the arable sector, including those at early career stage, and will be invaluable for anyone involved in the industry supply chain.

Dr Alison Karley, Head of Ecological Sciences at the Hutton said, “After several years of a field-based event,

we’re excited to trial a new format for Arable Scotland. This conference-style event will bring together representatives from across the industry - and generations - to evaluate the challenges and opportunities for arable production. Our goal is to work collectively to identify actions that will future proof the sector.”

Four interactive sessions will bring together people involved in arable supply chains, farming and ‘value addition’. The first

three sessions will explore what the future holds for the arable industry, natural capital futures and benefit-risk sharing across the sector, and future crops for climate resilience. These discussions will lay the ground for the fourth session to identify the future skills required for the arable sector.

A final wrap up session will decide what actions can be taken by the sector, and assigned to interested parties, to secure future sustainability and confidence.

Exhibitor bookings now open for flagship

The flagship event of the National Sheep Association (NSA) returns next summer bringing together businesses and their sheep farming customers for what is sure to be another enormously successful event.

NSA Sheep Event 2026 will take place at its usual home, the Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire, on Tuesday 28th July 2026.

Bookings for trade exhibitors seeking their chance to have a presence at the event are now open with varied options to suit all farm businesses.

NSA Sheep Event is a highly commended event that has grown in strength over the years. It is a huge draw for sheep farmers from across the UK, pulling large numbers of visitors from the Midlands, South West England and Wales, as well as further afield. It is well established as a leading business-to-business trade event but with a friendly feel and community atmosphere making it an enjoyable day out for attendees to socialise at, as well as pick up new skills, increase their knowledge and make serious business decisions and purchases. Companies and organisations that take trade stand space frequently comment on this unique mix and how conducive it is for them to do business.

The Three Counties Showground is a great setting for the event, with indoor trade stands located over three, modern and spacious halls, and outdoor trade stands on the facing grassy area, all enjoying the backdrop of the iconic Malvern Hills.

A sheep industry dinner is also held the evening before the event, which is a celebratory occasion open to everyone within the sector, and offers an opportunity for trade exhibitors, breed societies or industry organisations to welcome and

socialise with loyal customers and supporters. Further enquiries about NSA Sheep Event, trade and breed society, and sponsorship opportunities please contact Event Organiser Helen Roberts at helen@nationalsheep.org.uk.

SCF Gathering 2025: From Croft to Kitchen / Eader Croit

is Cidsin

Saturday 15th November 2025 – Lochardil Hotel, Inverness

The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) will host its annual Gathering in Inverness this November, marking 40 years since the founding of the Scottish Crofters Union with a day dedicated to the future of local food.

Under the theme From Croft to Kitchen, the Gathering will explore how crofters can play a central role in feeding communities sustainably, what support they need, and the policy changes required to make smallscale food production viable.

The day will open with an address from Jim Fairlie MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, followed by a packed programme of workshops, discussions, and an exhibition space showcasing crofters and

partner organisations working across food, land, and climate.

Speakers include:

• Pam Brunton, chef and co-owner of the awardwinning Inver Restaurant, on sustainability, seasonality, supply chains, and the need for cultural change from the ground up.

• Sandy Granville, Lewis crofter and founder of Hebridean Mutton and Highland Beef, on creating viable futures for crofters through supplying meat direct to consumers.

• Sally Crowe, Caithness crofter and This Farming Life contributor, on her unique approach to regenerative crofting, creating a work-life balance and how she tells the

story of her crofting life to support her business.

• Helen O’Keefe, crofter and founder of The Green Bowl, on resilience, innovation, and how to set up local food networks.

• Jo Hunt, Knockfarrel Produce, on whether small-scale food production truly “adds up” in today’s economic and political climate.

• Beth Rose, Birchwood Croft, on the potential of crofting to offer food security and the barriers that make this so difficult.

• Glenys Maclean, Isle of Skye Free Range, on the specific challenges posed by a lack of abattoir provision in much of the Highlands and Islands.

The day closes with the Croft Gathering Dinner, a celebratory

meal made with croft-sourced produce, a drinks reception sponsored by Glen Wyvis, live music, and reflections on SCF’s 40-year journey. Historian Jim Hunter, author of The Making of the Crofting Community, will share memories of the movement’s beginnings and its legacy.

SCF Chief Executive Donna Smith said: “As we celebrate 40 years of crofters organising, this Gathering looks to the future and how small-scale producers can play their part in creating a resilient, sustainable food system for Scotland.”

The event is open to all and tickets for the day and evening activities are now available via www.crofting.org/ gathering-2025

Oxford Farming Conference 2026

The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) has announced the speaker line-up for its 2026 conference, taking place from 7 to 9 January, with the theme ‘Growing Resilience’. Opening and closing the programme will be global food systems expert Jack Bobo and conservation champion Dame Fiona Reynolds, who will be joined by more than 25 speakers from across the world as OFC celebrates its 90th anniversary.

Jack Bobo is Executive Director of the Rothman Family Institute for Food Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He previously led the Food Systems Institute at the University of Nottingham and has also served as Director of Global Food and Water Policy at The Nature Conservancy, CEO of Futurity, and a senior

advisor on food policy at the U.S. Department of State. A recognised expert on global food systems, Jack has delivered more than 500 keynote speeches in 50 countries and is the author of ‘Why Smart People Make Bad Food Choices’.

Dame Fiona Reynolds has been at the forefront of conservation and countryside policy for more than three decades. A former DirectorGeneral of the National Trust and later Master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, she now chairs the National Audit Office, the Council of the Royal Agricultural University, the Cathedrals Fabric Commission for England and the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission, while also serving as a trustee of the Grosvenor Estate.

Other keynote speakers will include Laura Lukasik, President of Numen Bio and Co-Founder of the Rural Women’s Network. Globally recognised for founding Latin America’s first agtech start-up in agricultural risk management, she is a former corporate leader and farmer advocate who now co-develops regenerative portfolios with farmers across Latin America and Africa, building ecosystems that restore natural balance, generate lasting wealth and unlock market value.

Chair of OFC26, Jude McCann, said: “Marking 90

years gives us the chance to reflect on how farming has adapted over generations, but also to recognise the risks and uncertainties we now face.

‘Growing Resilience’ is about how people, businesses and the environment can withstand future shocks while adapting to new opportunities.

“This year’s line-up brings together leading voices from farming, science, policy, academia and industry, with sessions designed to challenge assumptions and explore what resilience will demand of agriculture in the decades ahead.”

Tickets for the 2026 conference are already on sale. To view the full speaker list, apply for a bursary place or book your ticket, visit www.ofc.org.uk.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Richard Davies Greencrop is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Davis as their new UK Sales Manager for the company.

Richard brings a background in livestock and the meat trade, combined with a qualification in agricultural engineering. Based in Norfolk, Richard will be responsible for developing and nurturing our dealer network and supporting customers across the UK with irrigation, slurry handling, and effluent management solutions.

Richard’s practical experience, technical knowledge, and enthusiasm makes him a great fit for our business, and we are confident he will play an important role in supporting you and strengthening our relationships with farmers and food producers up and down and across the UK.

“Richard can be contacted directly on the details below. I hope you will join us in wishing Richard all the best for his future at Greencrop”, Said General Manager William Skea.

“I will still be on hand to support with sales and product information should this be required and our usual technical and parts support channels remain open as normal. Furthermore we have an excellent ongoing support from all of our franchises to deliver you the best possible service.”

Richard Davis | richard@greencrop.co.uk | 07881 787997

Joe Rees Jones NFU Cymru has recently appointed Joe Rees Jones as Policy Adviser to cover maternity leave in the Policy team.

Joe, previously a Graduate Adviser with the NFU’s External Affairs team in Westminster, has a Master’s degree in Political Communication from Cardiff University and an undergraduate degree in Politics from the University of Sheffield, both of which focused on devolved politics in Wales, as well as parliamentary procedure and electoral campaigns.

The third generation in his family to work for NFU Cymru, Joe’s family hail from Trawsfynydd and later Llanfairpwll on Anglesey – though he grew up in North Somerset. With his parents settling as close to the border as possible, Joe spent his childhood split between North Somerset and Ynys Môn, where travelling the length of Wales became second nature before he could walk. He continues to learn Welsh.

Since joining the NFU in 2024, Joe has supported the NFU’s lobbying strategy in Westminster, regularly attending stakeholder meetings as part of the Stop the Family Farm Tax campaign, and was responsible for monitoring the NFU’s political engagement across the UK.

A lifelong follower of the highs and lows of Welsh international rugby, Cardiff Blues and Bristol Bears, outside of work Joe enjoys rugby, motorsport and the occasional round of golf.

Speaking on his appointment, Joe said “I’m delighted to be joining NFU Cymru, having spent much of my life hearing about the fantastic work the organisation does. It’s a privilege to work with such an effective group of people and to contribute to the betterment of our membership.

“With the biggest Senedd election only a few months away, I look forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to help ensure our members’ voices are heard throughout the campaign period and every day thereafter.”.

Welcoming Joe to the team, NFU Cymru Director John Mercer said: “I am really pleased that we have been able to secure Joe as part of our Policy team. With his experience within the NFU’s External Affairs team in Westminster and his education focussed on devolved politics, I have no doubt that he will be a great asset to the team”.

THE BOOK SHELF

Feast: Recipes that Bring Joy

Sarah Rankin

This month, a new cookbook from cookery writer, broadcaster, and MasterChef finalist Sarah Rankin was published by Edinburghbased publisher Birlinn, and it has a specific focus on curating the perfect menus for all kinds of special events. In addition to well-presented, easy-to-follow recipes, Feast helps you prepare for all aspects of hosting a gathering with family and friends. This is a delightful follow-up to her celebrated first cookbook, Kith, which came out just last year. Both books emphasise the joy of food and the ways in which it brings people together.

Feast includes nearly 100 recipes across 15 thoughtfully curated menus. These menus will help you prepare for everything from elaborate festive holiday celebrations to relaxed family gatherings or intimate dinners with friends. There is a subtle but apparent seasonality to the recipes also, which is a nice callback to Kith, which was entirely divided into seasonal sections. It’s clear from her considerate attention to detail that Sarah Rankin excels at planning seasonally appropriate, sophisticated events centred on truly delicious and inventive dishes. There are also helpful tips on how to host sustainably, by looking to what grows best each season and supporting local vendors where possible.

Feast: Recipes that Bring Joy by Sarah Rankin was published by Birlinn in October 2025 (£25) https://birlinn.co.uk/product/feast/ by

The colour-coded seasonality calendar at the start of the book seems an especially useful tool when considering which produce to incorporate into meals each month.

Though the sections are divided into fully functional menus for special events, there’s nothing stopping creative home chefs from mixing and matching these to invent something entirely new. The author aptly describes the book as ‘a party planning pick ‘n’ mix.’ The recipe collections in the book include inspired ideas for drinks, nibbles, mains, sharing plates, sides, condiments and desserts. In her introduction to the book, Sarah Rankin acknowledges that, for her, hosting people she loves in her home is especially exciting and fulfilling, but she knows that for many it can feel overwhelming. Feast is aimed at those who are looking for a place to start and want to become more adept at planning gatherings and sharing with close friends and family in their lives.

Feast will help you plan anything from casual Sunday brunches and summer lunches to extravagant Christmas or Hogmanay celebrations. The book is beautifully illustrated with photographs from the talented Katie Pryde once again and would make a brilliant addition to any cookbook collection.