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Visit our website for all the latest farming news
The launch of a new Farming and Food Partnership Board should mark a turning point for British agriculture. But farmers will judge it by what it delivers, not its intent.
There is no shortage of initiatives. There is, however, a shortage of confidence. The board, recommended by Baroness Minette Batters, arrives at a moment of acute pressure.
Input costs are rising again. Red diesel prices have doubled. Fertiliser markets are tightening as geopolitical tensions hit energy supplies. Against that backdrop, NFU president Tom Bradshaw is right to say the board's first meeting (page 6) could not come at a more opportune time.
As the world outlook becomes more uncertain, Mr Bradshaw is also right to focus on the need for a resilient domestic food and farming industry. And he is right to focus on profitability. Without it, there is no resilience. And without resilience, there is no future for farming.
Defra secretary Emma Reynolds has framed the board as a “major moment” that brings together the whole supply chain. That too is welcome. Too often, policy has been designed in isolation from those it affects most.
But the challenge now is execution. Growth plans for horticulture and poultry may offer a starting point. Yet farmers will ask harder questions. Where is the long-term strategy for cereals? For livestock?
And crucially, where is the urgency?
The government has shown it can move quickly when the situation demands. Weekly fertiliser price reporting, introduced by AHDB following disrpution caused by the Middle East conflict, is a good example of practical support in volatile times. It gives farmers better information. It helps decision-making. It recognises reality. The same pragmatism must underpin the board’s work.
At the same time, policy risks pulling in different directions. Grants such as the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund offer investment support. But they are time-limited and competitive. Not all applicants will benefit.
Meanwhile, proposed changes to fertiliser regulation aim to encourage innovation and reduce reliance on imports. That is sensible. But supply must remain reliable. Farmers cannot plan without it. The thread running through all of this is confidence. Confidence in markets. Confidence in policy. Confidence that farming matters. At present, that confidence is fragile.
The new partnership board has an opportunity to rebuild it. But only if it moves beyond consultation and into delivery. Farmers do not need another forum. They need outcomes.
Johann Tasker Editor
•
Farm leaders and Defra ministers have held their first partnership meeting as they strive to secure a profitable future for the industry.
The Farming and Food Partnership Board was established on the recommendation of Baroness Minette Batters, whose independent Farming Profitability Review was published late last year following a six-month study.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said the meeting “could not come at a more opportune time” as ministers and industry leaders gathered to shape how the board will help drive farm productivity and profitability.
“As the geopolitical outlook becomes more uncertain with the conflict in the Middle East and ongoing war in Ukraine, it is essential we build a resilient domestic food and farming industry.
“We look forward to working with the board to ensure profitability and productivity are at the heart of farming and growing businesses, as this is key to building a stable, homegrown agriculture sector that is resilient for the long term.”
Chaired by Defra secretary Emma Reynolds, the board’s initial work will focus on the creation of sector growth plans, starting with the horticulture sector – followed by a growth plan for the poultry this summer.
Defra sees itself as a facilitator – explainingthat these plans will be led by industry and co-designed with government. It says the focus on horticulture and poultry reflects their potential to drive economic growth and increase domestic food production.
Ms Reynolds said: “The first Farming and Food Partnership Board meeting marks a ma jor moment for British farming, bringing the whole food chain together to deliver real change for farm and food businesses.”
She added: “We are working with industry to boost productivity and profitability, support innovation, drive growth and make it easier for the whole supply chain – from farm to fork –to succeed.”
Defra also reiterated that it is working closely with the industry to support farmers facing ris ing diesel and fertiliser costs linked to the Iran war. Red diesel prices have almost doubled – with warnings they could rise higher still.
Weekly fertiliser prices are being published to support the industry during the Middle East conflict.
Crisis in the Gulf has caused an energy price shock which is rippling through global markets and is driving uncertainty on its implications for the agriculture sector. Fertiliser is heavily impacted as gas makes up a significant cost in its production.
The the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board is now reporting fertiliser prices on a more regular basis. It follows requests from farm minister Angela Eagle, as well as industry representatives.
AHDB chief economist Rohit Kaushish said: “We take great pride in providing independent, transparent and reliable market information to help levy payers make informed business decisions.”
“Given its importance to agricultural cost of production and the decisions being made by farmers in the months ahead, greater visibility on the fertiliser market is critical to support the ability of the sector to respond to the impacts of the conflict.
The AHDB already publishes regular farmgate prices, production volumes, international trade flows – as well as monthly fertiliser prices provided by merchants and grower groups.
Mr Kaushish said: “Weekly reporting serves to provide a more granular view on the market impacts which will support the responsiveness of both industry and policy makers to events as they develop.”
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The Claydon family will open their Suffolk farm and machinery manufacturing facility to visitors for a series of open days this spring – offering farmers the chance to see the company’s crop establishment kit in operation.
Taking place on 28-29 April, the events will include field demonstrations and technical discussions – and tours of the Claydon factory, where the company designs and manufactures its direct drills and stubble management equipment.
Claydon founder Jeff Claydon and members of the team will guide visitors around the farm – including crops growing under the Claydon system.
Specialists from Claydon will explain how the company’s Opti-Till system works and how it can reduce establishment costs compared with conventional plough-based or minimum-tillage systems.
External speakers will also take part in the programme, says Claydon sales manager David Furber.
“Lacklustre grain prices are en couraging farming businesses to move away from traditional crop establish ment methods which are slow and ex pensive. The most important manage ment action in farming is to control the controllables.”
With machinery and labour account ing for up to 60% of fixed costs the need to adopt more efficient ways of working will accelerate, with direct drilling’s significant financial and ecological advantages becoming even more advantageous.
Jeff Claydon (on right wearing orange jacket) welcomes visitors to his farm during an open day
Contributors from Ceres Rural, Frontier and Soil Capital are expected to discuss farm profitability, the role of cover crops in soil health, opportunities from carbon markets and the reintroduced Sustainable Farming Incentive schemes.
Two sessions will run each day. The morning session runs from 8.15am to 1pm, including refreshments and lunch. The afternoon session runs from 12.30pm to 5.15pm, including lunch and closing refreshments. Places must be booked in advance by Wednesday 22 April. To register, contact Rachel on 01440 820327 or email marketing@claydondrill.com, specifying the preferred session and any dietary requirements.
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• Defra unveils consultation on fertiliser
• Warning over costs and supply chains
• Imports and volatility remain key risks
Fertiliser rules and regulations are set to be overhauled for the first time in two decades – making it easier for farmers to access a wider range of products.
The reforms aim to modernise what government ministers say is an outdated regulatory system. They want to grant more access to recycled nutrients and emerging technologies – amid increasingly volatile prices for bagged fertiliser.
A government consultation on the issue aims to help ease exposure to heightened volatility in global markets, with fertiliser prices under pressure following geopolitical disruption and ongoing reliance on imports (see panel).
The NFU has voiced concern about the UK fertiliser market. NFU deputy president Paul Tompkins said: “The consultation raises important questions about supply chain resilience, costs and regulatory burden for farm businesses.”
Access to reliable and affordable supplies of imported fertiliser is vital, particularly as domestic production has declined in recent years.
More than 60% of fertiliser is now imported –much of it via the Strait of Hormuz – leaving the
sector at the mercy of global price swings and supply disruption amid the Iran war.
Defra argues the new framework could support innovation and reduce environmental impact, including cutting pollution to land and water and encouraging the use of alternative nutrient sources.
Officials also highlighted developments such as green ammonia and recycled fertilisers as part of a broader shift towards a more circular economy. But industry leaders stress that any changes must work in practice on farm.
The NFU said the UK must remain aligned with international standards to ensure imports continue to flow and avoid tightening of supply.
The consultation will close at the end of April.Farmers, manufacturers and industry groups invited to submit evidence before a final framework is developed. Ministers will then take a view with an aim to putting crop nutrition on a more stable footing.
Input costs rise as conflict continues
Farmers heading into spring work face a familiar but unwelcome challenge: rising input costs driven by global events beyond their control.
The latest market updates suggest fertiliser remains available in the UK. But the direction of travel is clear. Prices are firming, supply chains are tightening and uncertainty is building. Most arable farmers have secured supplies for the current season – but securing fertiliser for next season looks set to be costly. Many livestock producers, who often buy fertiliser later, are still in the market for this coming year.
Meanwhile, conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt energy markets and key fertiliser trade routes. That is already feeding through into farm costs – with analysts suggesting more rises will be felt later.
The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) says the market is holding steady for now. But it warns of mounting pressure. “Fertiliser market remains stable, with no significant immediate disruption to UK supply anticipated.”
At the same time, it notes that competition for product is increasing and global factors are pushing prices higher.
The Middle East remains central to fertiliser production and shipping. Disruption to routes such as the Strait of Hormuz has reduced flows of key materials, including nitrogen fertilisers.
That has driven volatility across global markets. Energy prices have surged, with diesel up sharply. Fertiliser production depends heavily on gas, and higher energy costs quickly translate into higher fertiliser
The NFU says the impact is already being felt on farm. “A lack of transparency over the pricing of these essential agricultural inputs has become a key issue for British farmers,” it has warned.
“Global factors are pushing prices higher
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has appointed Anthony Hopkins as its new cereals and oilseeds director.
Mr Hopkins will join AHDB on 29 June, replacing Sarah Woolford, who is leaving the organisation. He has extensive experience in agriculture, policy and levy-funded organisations.
Raised on a mixed beef, sheep and arable farm in Worcestershire, Mr Hill holds a degree and doctorate from Birmingham University. He worked in academia before joining the NFU in 2018.
Initially working for NFU Sugar before moving into plant health and later becoming chief crops adviser, Mr Hopkins led the union’s work on urea, water pollution and digital grain passports.
More recently, Mr Hopkins has been joint head of policy and business development at the British Society of Plant Breeders, focusing on trade, seed movement, EU reset and precision breeding.
Me Hopkins said: “At a challenging time for the sector, the research, evidence and insight AHDB provides is more important than ever, and I’ll be focused on ensuring that we deliver for levy payers.”
Commenting on the appointment, AHDB chief executive Helen Herniman said: “I am delighted to welcome Anthony to AHDB. He brings a strong understanding of both farming and policy, and a clear focus on delivering practical value for levy payers.
“I would also like to thank Sarah for her leadership of the cereals and oilseeds sector and for the contribution she has made during her time in the role.”
Direct drills are among the items available under the latest round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF).
They include low maintenance, user-friendly UK-built Simtech drills, with the grants geared towards improve productivity and efficiency.
The Simtech range is eligible for 50% funding, with a maximum £15,067 contribution.
Multiple drills are eligible – including additional models when paired with a Front Hopper (FH 1800).
Designed for drilling crops direct into stubbles, these machines have a T-slot coulter, which places the seed in a moisture-rich micro-climate, designed to give emerging seedlings the perfect conditions to thrive.
FETF applications close on 28 April. For more details, see page 65.
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Anew online tool aims to help farmers maximise nutrient efficiency, reduce input costs and improve crop performance.
Launched by biologicals specialist Unium Bioscience, the suite of online nutrient decision-support tools, including Nitrogen Power and Potassium Power. It builds on the company’s existing Phosphate Power tool.
Together, the tools form an intuitive, free-to-use platform that allows farmers to assess the biological availability of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) in their soils.
With a simple postcode entry, growers can access tailored, field-specific recommendations, generated by combining soil, weather and environmental data with peer-reviewed science.
“Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium availability is often constrained by soil structure, pH, temperature, and moisture,” says John Haywood at Unium Bioscience. “Our tools help unlock those limitations by offering growers real-time, location-specific advice to make better-informed nutrition decisions.”
Each nutrient tool is designed to guide practical on-farm decisions, whether it’s choosing the right seed treatments, foliar applications, or biostimulants to enhance root growth, nutrient uptake, and overall plant resilience.
Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) has become central to farming as growers look to get more output from every unit of fertiliser applied. With input costs high and margins tight, crops must be able to convert nutrients into yield.
Real-time, postcodebased nutrient recommendations
Smarter, more efficient use of fertilisers and biostimulants
Improved early root development and nutrient uptake
Designed to support profitability and longterm soil health
Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) has become central to farming
Below: JohnHaywood: real-time data
Our tools help unlock limitations
Poor NUE means wasted fertiliser, higher costs and greater risk of losses to the environment through leaching or emissions. Improving NUE involves better timing, accurate rates, balanced nutrition and attention to soil health.
In practical terms, it allows farmers to maintain or even improve yields while reducing input spend and environmental impact — a combination that is increasingly important for both profitability and compliance.
“Farmers today face the dual pressure of sustainability and performance,” says Mr Haywood. “With our NPK tools, we’re giving them a simple but powerful way to improve decision-making and get more from every hectare,.”
Rising nitrogen costs mean understanding what’s already available in the soil can help to make crucial savings. This tool allows farmers and agronomists to simply enter a postcode and crop type to see nitrogen bioavailability and volatilisation risk.
Using up to 150 days of climatic data, including temperature and rainfall, alongside soil type and crop uptake, it provides a reliable picture of in-season nitrogen availability, as well as current volatilisation levels based on weather conditions
Phosphate is classed as being limiting where the soil temperature is too cold or soil moisture is too low.
Phosphate Power uses climatic and soil temperature information to calculate available soil phosphate.
The grower or agronomist enters their post code and will see a forecast of P bioavailability for the next seven days, with a simple traffic light system ranging from poor to good.
Potassium Power predicts available potassium in a similar way to Phosphate Power. By entering a postcode and previous soil management, such as straw incorporation, growers and agronomists receive a seven-day forecast of potassium bioavailability.
The tool uses climatic data, soil moisture and texture, along with Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), to assess potassium retention and availability to the crop.
“This suite of tools helps growers understand when and where nutrient limitations might occur, and how to act on them with the right product, at the right time. When conditions are suboptimal, early root establishment is everything.”
The newly launched Nitrogen Power and Potassium Power tools complement Phosphate Power, which was released in Autumn 2024 and widely adopted by farmers seeking a smarter approach to a nutrition strategy.
For full details about the suite of online nutrition tools, please visit www.uniumbioscience.com
• Wet soils increase risk of sulphur loss
• Product choice affects release timing
• Match supply to crop to boost yields
Growers are being urged to pay particular attention to get the most from sulphur applications this spring – following one of the wettest starts to any year on record for many UK regions.
Solubility, duration of nutrient release and accuracy of rates are of particular importance with many applications potentially going on to very wet soils, says Richard Ward, of ICL Growing Solutions.
"Sulphur fertilisation is essential to drive optimum levels of nitrogen utilisation efficiency (NUE), crop quality and yield," says Mr Ward.
"But with many different sulphur products on the market, un
fertiliser products – including ammonium sulphate (AS) and other nitrogen sulphur (NS) products – break down in the soil and release nutrients relatively rapidly.
"This is especially the case in wet conditions, with nutrients available more quickly and over a shorter period of time for crops to take them up. As a result, the likelihood of nutrient losses and potential environmental problems is increased."
Polysulphate (48% SO3, 14% K2O, 17% CaO and 6% MgO), in contrast, is a natural granule mined from under the North Sea off the coast of Yorkshire with minimal subsequent processing, says Mr Ward.
Below: A wider application window helps spread the workload
ing it ideal for the UK, particularly in the more challenging weather conditions we now face.
"Proven in the market over the last ten years, Nottingham University trials have shown about 50% of the sulphur contained in polysulphate is available in the first 12 days after application
A further benefit of this extended release is that Polysulphate has a wider application window and can be applied earlier than other products, usually ahead of the first nitrogen if being used as a straight, Mr Ward explains.
"An additional benefit of being a natural product is that polysulphate also has the lowest carbon footprint of all equivalent fertilisers at just 0.0029 kg per CO2e which is much lower than plant manufactured alternatives with high energy requirements.
"This makes it virtually carbon free and allows it to be used in many low carbon food production schemes."
There is also the flexibility of being able to de-couple nitrogen and sulphur applications if needed, which is not possible with traditional nitrogen sulphur products, he adds.
"This is particularly beneficial for legumes that fix their own Nitrogen and also in crops like oilseed rape, for example, where a different N:S ratio to a cereal crop is required.
"Whether applied as a straight product or as part of a blended fertiliser, polysulphate gives agronomists and farmers the flexibility to match the sulphur needs to those of the specific crop.
"At the same time, it provides valuable calcium, magnesium and potash and all in a low chloride form, making suitable across all crop types."
Oilseed rape growers are being asked to take part in a nationwide effort to better understand light leaf spot.
The farmer-led initiative, known as the ‘Spore Scout’ study, is seeking leaf samples from crops showing disease symptoms. The aim is to build a clearer picture of how light leaf spot is evolving across regions and seasons, and how it can be better controlled.
The study runs from 26 March to 30 April and will be repeated in 2027 and 2028. It forms part of the £2.5m LLS-Erased project, funded by Defra and led by the British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN).
Light leaf spot remains one of the most damaging diseases in oilseed rape, but its behaviour can be difficult to predict. Concerns are growing over its impact on yields – with control increasingly challenging.
Infections often occur in the autumn, but symptoms may not appear until spring, making early detection difficult, says plant pathology professor Yongju Huang, from Hertfordshire University.
Collecting samples from across the UK is key to understanding how the pathogen is changing – both locally and regionally. Up- dated guidance will then be issued to growers and agronomists.
“We are keen to receive samples from growers across the UK to help us understand variations in pathogen virulence towards cultivar resistance,” says Prof Huang. Samples will help refine control strategies and guide varietal choice.
Samples collected over the three-year project will feed into a decision support system designed to improve disease management. The system will combine field data with real-time risk forecasting.
Tom Allen-Stevens, Oxfordshire farmer and managing director of BOFIN, says the project comes at a critical time. “Yield losses from light leaf spot are increasing so this project couldn’t come soon enough.”
“By sending in samples growers are directly contributing to research that will improve how we understand and manage the disease. The more samples we receive the stronger the data and the more useful the results will be for all growers.”
To register for a sampling pack, including instructions and a pre-paid return envelope at tinyurl.com/SporeScout
Farmers with an eye for innovation are invited to attend an Inspiration Day to explore trial results and farmer-led innovation.
Organised by the British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN), the oneday event will focus on ways of boosting productivity with discussions on soil health and its role in resilient crop production systems.
It is part of a £1m three-year project called Thriving Roots Underpinning Total Soil Health (TRUTH). The Defra-funded initiative is led by BOFIN with the UK Agri-Tech Centre, John Innes Centre, Nottingham University and PES Technologies.
Now in their third year, some 20 Root Ranger farmer trialists undertaking trials to validate on-farm soil and root health testing tools, including a sensor that can detect more than 10 soil health indicators through a
“scent fingerprint”.
The Innovation Day on 8 May will include sessions where the farmers will share results from the TRUTH trials alongside a farm walk with farm manager Ted Allen-Stevens to see the trial sites at Thrales End Farm, Harpenden, Hertfordshire.
us some real evidence that soil health has improved since we brought in regenerative practices.”
“I hope the day will encourage other farmers to get involved with onfarm trials. It’s only when you drill down into the detail of your own farm that you can get that substance and reassurance of what you’re actually achieving.”
Other sessions include a talk from Hutchinsons Soil Services specialist Zara Northern, and a workshop by BOFIN founder Tom Allen-Stevens on peer-to-peer learning.
To register for a free place, visit tinyurl.com/eastinspiration26.
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• Key to protect profit margins
• Early pest control important
Pro-active pest management is helping a Lincolnshire nursery produce consistently healthy vegetable plants which yield uniform crops for customers.
Based at Fishtoft, near Boston, Lion Plants was established by John and Ann Woods, in the mid-1960s. Managed today by their son John, it produces about 100 million brassica transplant modules annually under 2.5ha of glass.
“Our job gets harder every year,” says Mr Woods. “We live in a completely different world now to when my parents started out, both structurally and economically.
“After Brexit, Covid and all the other major events that have happened over the last few years, everything has changed – from the labour we employ to the growing medium we use.”
Quality crops
Add in the more extremes in weather, and right now it seems that the industry is under attack from all angles, adds Mr Woods. “Quality and uniformity have been paramount ever since we started producing ‘modules’ for others to grow on.
“But as our customers have invest-
“We live in a completely different world now
which we supply have had to become more compatible and uniform for the machines to operate successfully.”
Mr Woods explains that achieving this uniformity depends on using precise, consistent growing techniques, including boom irrigation to apply water, nutrients and products to control pests and diseases.
“Cabbage root fly, aphids, caterpillars and other pests can severely damage brassica crops, resulting in replanting costs, along with patchy and rejected crops.
Pest control
“Although these issues do not affect us directly, the products we apply for post-planting pest control are an insurance policy for our customers.”
Mr Woods says that his customers are free to choose the product he applies prior to plants leaving the nursery. What they choose could be down to personal preference, what their agronomist advises, or because the land is double-cropped.
A popular option is Verimark, from FMC UK, to control cabbage root fly. A suspension concentrate containing 200/l cyantraniliprole – primarily controls cabbage root fly while tackling aphids and caterpillars, without harming beneficial insects.
“When we first used Verimark in 2016, a very experienced agronomist described it to me as the most excit-
posed to the elements, that conditions are consistent from year to year, but that is not the case.
“For example, in 2024 we had the wettest start to a year ever and plants were going out four to six weeks late because our customers could not get on the land, creating space issues for our following crops.
Customers provide Mr Woods with their planting programme a season ahead to enable the nursery to plan their planting schedule, which has to be extremely precise. “It’s up to us to work back from there to meet their specific requirements.”
Weather permitting and crop dependent, some customers want to start planting out by the end of February or early March. To meet those dates, Lion Plants seeds over-wintered crops from the end of September.
“We will apply our root drenches through our automated boom system just prior to plants starting to leave the glass. By timing the application just prior to planting it allows the grower to get the most out of the control.
“If we apply it too soon the period of activity in the field will be reduced. And with the margins on fresh vegetables being so tight now, even a small percentage gain makes a massive difference to profitability.”
Agreen pea variety first listed four years ago continues to attract interest thanks to high yields, strong agronomic characteristics and disease resistance.
NPZ UK Carrington combines strong yields with a range of agronomic traits valued by growers –remaining a top-performing variety on the Processors and Growers Research Organisation Descriptive List.
First listed in 2022, Carrington holds the highest possible rating of 9 for downy mildew resistance on the descriptive list, offering an important level of protection against one of the crop’s most damaging diseases.
It also offers early maturity, resistance to pea wilt and good standing ability, which helps improve harvestability. Growers report posi-
tive experiences in the field, highlighting the variety’s reliability and standing ability through to
The UK remains an important market for green peas, particularly for human consumption.
Carrington’s protein content and grain size meet key market requirements, while its colour retention suits higher-value mar-
NPZ UK currently has five green pea varieties listed on the PGRO Descriptive List, including Carrington, Pangea, Butterfly and Bluetime. These were joined on the latest list by Bullet,
NPZ pulse breeder Edina Kare said Carrington brings together several traits sought by growers. “This is a variety with a very good standing ability, tall plant length, late flowering day, early maturity and very high downy mildew resistance,” she says.
Farming families are being reminded to ensure their succession plans are able to withstand changes to inheritance tax.
With major changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) coming into force on 6 April, rural property experts say succession plans must be clear, up to date and able to withstand the impacts of the new regime.
For the first time, a £2.5 million cap will apply to qualifying agricultural and business assets eligible for 100% inheritance tax relief, with 50% relief available above that threshold.
Savills rural director Emma Stead says the financial implications of the reforms shouldn’t be underestimated for family farms.
Structured planning and early action will be essential for many farming families wanting to preserve the long-term viability of their businesses, says Ms Stead.
Conventional WOSR 2026
Highly recommended for all regions of the UK, this top-performing conventional variety boasts the highest yield. Featuring large pods and abundant seeds, it ranks as the No.1 choice. Developed in Britain specifically for British farmers, its superior yield, vigour, and establishment surpass even that of Campus.
ommended for all regions of the UK, this top-performing conventional variety boasts the highest yield. Featuring large pods and abundant seeds, it ranks as the No.1 choice. Developed in Britain specifically for British farmers, its superior yield, vigour, and establishment surpass even that of Campus.
ommended for all regions of the UK, this top-performing conventional variety boasts the highest yield. Featuring large pods and abundant seeds, it ranks as the No.1 choice. Developed in Britain specifically for British farmers, its superior yield, vigour, and establishment surpass even that of Campus.
• Later drilling raises virus risk
• Focus on good establishment
• High aphid pressure forecast
Sugar beet growers face a higher risk of virus yellows this season following a slow start to drilling across key regions.
Many crops have only recently gone in the ground – much later than last year when growers had prepared land by early March. Much heavier land remains untouched, with the delay increasing risk.
Rothamsted Research scientists suggest aphid migration could begin around 22 April – with up to 62% of eastern region beet crops infected without control measures from a 30 March drill date, increasing to 77% infection for crops drilled from 15 April.
The risk mirrors recent high-pressure seasons, sauy UPL head of technical services Stuart Jackson. “Virus yellows risk is comparable to 2022 and 2023 in the eastern region, with one important difference.”
“In those years, the risk was mitigated by over 50% of the crop being treated with neonicotinoid seed dressings, something that is not an option this season.”
Mr Jackson urges growers not to force drilling in poor conditions, despite the elevated risk. Drilling into poor seedbeds risks an uneven crop, reduced plant populations and higher harvesting losses.
“Those types of gappy, uneven beet crops ultimately end up with much higher levels of harvester losses,” says. Mr Jackson. “Don’t rush drilling. Wait for better conditions. Drilling later in favourable conditions is better than going too early.”
Growers can use higher soil moisture this spring to improve pre-emergence herbicide performance. Most fields will benefit. Black soils remain the main exception because residual activity performs poorly there.
Growers should use field history to
guide decisions. Fields with fat hen will benefit from metamitron. Heavier infestations may require ethofumesate in mixes to improve control and maintain flexibility later in the programme.
In Conviso Smart systems, growers can apply early herbicides to control weed size before applying Conviso One. This approach also helps manage resistance in species such as poppy,
A higher risk of virus yellows threatens crops this year
Above left: Patience is key when drilling, says Stuart Jackson
Sugar beet growers face a narrow window this spring. Decisions in the next few weeks will shape crop performance and margins.
Prioritise seedbed quality
Avoid drilling into poor conditions. Compaction, smearing and capping reduce establishment and increase variability across fields. Even crops improve management and harvesting.
Aphids will likely begin migrating from late April. Later-drilled crops will face greater exposure when plants remain small and vulnerable. Growers should monitor crops closely and act when thresholds are reached.
chickweed and mayweed, explains Mr Jackson, who says grassweed control remains a concern.
Trials by UPL show that poor timing and application often cause performance issues with clethodim. Formulation differences can also affect efficacy, he adds.
Small differences in control can create large problems. “Just a few percent difference in control of a weed like blackgrass can result in much higher weed seed return.”
With moist soils, pre-emergence herbicides should perform well this season. Tailor programmes to field history. Residual activity reduces early weed competition and eases pressure on post-emergence applications.
In Conviso systems, early intervention can help control weed size and limit resistance risks. In conventional crops, growers should focus on timing and product choice, especially for grassweeds. Finally, focus on margins. With high prices for fuel, it's important to remember that very pass must deliver value – and drive better returns.
Two new formulations of the popular acetamiprid containing insecticide Insyst have been introduced to enhance operator safety and convenience.
Marketed in the UK by Certis Belchim, Insyst is relied on by potato and sugar beet growers for the control of aphids and management of viruses.
Certis Belchim crop manager Caroline Williams said: “We’ve introduced two new, improved formulations – a liquid and a granule – to replace the previous powder formulation as part of our policy of continued product development.”
The new liquid formulation Insyst SL contains 120 g/L acetamiprid for the control of aphids on sugar beet, fodder beet, potatoes, wheat, rye, triticale and oats; and pollen beetle, cabbage seed weevil and brassica pod midge on oilseed rape.
It comes in an Easyconnect five-litre pack. The cap creates a Closed
Transfer System (CTS) when used with compatible couplers, which prevents spills, reduces operator exposure, and speeds up filling.
Ms Williams says: “Easyconnect is a big step forward in closed transfer systems. It’s an initiative we’re fully behind and Insyst SL is our first product to be made available for it.”
The alternative granule formulation Insyst SG contains 20% w/w acetamiprid for the control of aphids in sugar beet and potatoes; and pollen beetle on oilseed rape.
It has EAMUs (Extensions of Authorisation for Minor Use) for control of aphids on outdoor fodder beet and control of aphids, alfalfa mosaic virus and bruchid beetle on outdoor crops of vining peas and beans.
Praxim makes perfect
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The dose rate is flexible, making Praxim ideal for short and long-season potato crops. And you can use it on any variety, on any soil, in all conditions right up to ridge cracking.
Get the Praxim start. Talk to your advisor, call 0845 373 0305 or go to certisbelchim.co.uk/praxim
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Good crop management will be key to maximising output and profitability from sugar beet and fodder beet crops this season.
Both crops face several challenges – on top of a sugar beet price which is “not too exciting,” says Jim Nutting, technical manager for agronomy specialists ProCam. But agronomic tweaks will help improve margins, he adds.
“Potentially the biggest threat is virus yellows,” says Mr Nutting. “The forecast has put the risk as higher than last year – and with neonicotinoid seed treatment not available, the crop will be more exposed to the aphid-borne virus.”
Growers to be extra vigilant with beet crops planted after late-destroyed cover crops, or near to late-lifted beet crops, because both harbour overwintered aphids.
“Another key consideration is crop size,” says Mr Nutting. “Before 12 leaves, beet is more susceptible to virus yellows. So later-drilled crops that are still small when aphids arrive are at greater risk.
“If the technique of drilling beet into sacrificial rows of spring barley is used, this can buy some time as aphids seem to prefer the barley. But the barley must be removed at 2-3 leaves to avoid it outcompeting the beet.
Chemically, Mr Nutting says he tends not to use pyrethroid aphicides
because of resistance. But there are good, non-pyrethroid options, allowing varied modes of action, he adds.
“They’re not all approved in both sugar beet and fodder beet – and I save those that are kinder to beneficial organisms to when beneficials are about. So [my advice is to] seek guidance on which to use when.”
The number of aphicide sprays in programmes will depend on aphid thresholds being reached, with lower thresholds in younger crops. By 16 leaves, plants should be pretty much immune to the virus, but that stage might not be reached until June.
“Also, aphicides usually need dedicated application timings and higher water volumes than herbicides, which is crucial for spray coverage as young beet plants are a small target,” says Mr Nutting.
Correct nutrition is also impor tant for giving beet the best start and healthy growth. Macronutrient needs are well known, but growers should not neglect micronutrients and bi ostimulants.
“Beet tends to suffer from manga nese deficiency. So I typically apply manganese and magnesium early. If boron wasn’t in the base fertiliser, it’s usually also needed. Then I feed with magnesium through the season.
Lower beet prices make good crop management more important than ever
it through the season. Zodiac is my benchmark – it contains seaweed extract and amino acids for reducing crop stress.
“Beet can get stressed by cold spells, herbicides or drought. So I often suggest three spring applications, then another with the first fungicide, typically late July, when crops can be coming back under stress.”
“I also find beet responds well to a biostimulant. It helps to get the crop growing but also tends to improve
Besides mildew and rust, cercospora is an emerging risk to beet crops. A problem in Europe, there are concerns the UK has developed a strain adapted to our climate, he says, and concerns about fungicide resistance.
“Cercospora thrives in warm, humid conditions, including foggy weather or dews. Growers are advised to sign-up to the British Beet Research Organisation’s Cercospora Watch for text alerts on the disease.
“Fortunately, some fungicides active against powdery mildew and rust are also active on cercospora, but it’s important to choose the correct one and practice resistance management,” says Mr Nutting.
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Helping potato crops cope with the increasing pressures of both pests and weather extremes is becoming a key priority for growers.
Integrating biological products alongside conventional agronomy tools can help crops perform more consistently and reach their full potential, says agronomist Andrew Goodinson, a Potato Industry Award winner with Hutchinsons.
“Setting up the crop to withstand both biotic stresses such as pests and diseases, and abiotic stresses such as heat, drought or nutrient limitations, should be a central focus of crop management in the coming season,” he says.
Biostimulants are becoming increasingly valuable in achieving this, believes Mr Goodinson. “It’s similar to giving colostrum to a newborn lamb or calf – it provides an early boost that helps strengthen the system.”
The products work by stimulating or enhancing natural plant processes, says Mr Goodinson. They improve nutrient efficiency, support plant growth and strengthen tolerance to environmental stress.
A range of biological products is now available, including seaweed extracts, humic substances, amino acids and microbial formulations. Each has slightly different modes of action but broadly works to support plant health and crop performance.
“By influencing gene expression within the plant, biostimulants can trigger physiological responses that enhance nutrient uptake, improve root development and strengthen plant resilience,” says Mr Goodinson.
Hutchinsons has been evaluating several biostimulants in potato trials over a number of seasons. Results sug-
gest certain products can play a valuable supporting role alongside conventional fertiliser and crop protection programmes.
“Some products help activate plant defence responses, while others stimulate root development and nutrient uptake. Phosphite-based products, for example, can encourage root growth and stimulate plant metabolism by increasing nitrogen reductase activity.”
Effectiveness
“Combining biological products with nutrients can also improve their effectiveness. Adding zinc to a phosphite treatment, for instance, can enhance phosphate mobility within the plant.
“Root development is particularly important in potato crops, as it helps maximise nutrient uptake and supports tuber quality. Some biostimulants have been shown to enhance calcium uptake, which can reduce the risk of quality defects such as internal rust spot.
“Biostimulants can provide an early boost
cial when working with physiologically aged seed, which can sometimes lose vigour and senesce prematurely.
“We’ve seen situations where applying a biostimulant to planted seed improves emergence and helps crops maintain stronger growth throughout the season,” says Mr Goodinson.
Biostimulants can also be used strategically to help crops cope with periods of environmental stress, he suggests. Heat stress, for example, can affect photosynthesis and slow crop development, particularly in varieties sensitive to high temperatures.
“In our trials we’ve seen yield increases of up to 19% where the appropriate stress-reducing biostimulant was applied ahead of a heat event. Timing is crucial. Stress mitigation products are generally most effective when applied before the crop experiences adverse conditions.
“If hot weather is forecast and the canopy has not yet closed, applying a stress-reducing biostimulant ahead of the event can help protect the crop.”
Calcium deficiencies can be particularly problematic on light or sandy soils, says Mr Goodinson. Because calcium must be absorbed through the roots rather than the foliage, correcting deficiencies later in the season can be challenging.
Andrew Goodison:
Early boost
“Improving root development early in the season can make a significant difference to how effectively the plant accesses nutrients such as calcium,” he adds.
Biological products can also play a role later in the season when applied in-furrow, as seed treatments or during early canopy development.
“When used alongside nutritional programmes and applied around hook stage or tuber initiation, some products can help increase the number of viable tubers set.
Different biological products are most effective at specific stages of crop development. Applications may be targeted to support germination, root establishment, vegetative growth or tuber development.
Treating planted seed with a biostimulant can help promote uniform emergence and stronger early growth. This can be particularly benefi-
“Maintaining a healthy canopy for longer can also extend the bulking period, ultimately supporting yield.
“The use of biological products is not intended to replace conventional inputs but rather to complement them," says Mr Goodinson.
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Suppliers and Installers of Pumps and Water Treatment Equipment Start In nito® applications early in your programme to build strong foundations for foliar and tuber blight protection. We recommend 3-4 applications through the season, up to seven days before harvest. With no reported resistance, 70% of UK growers trust its two complementary active substances from di erent modes of action*. Early start. Season-long control.
An emergency application for permission to apply a key fungicide to potatoes has been deemed commercially unviable.
GB Potatoes explored the feasibility of progressing an Emergency Authorisation (EA) application to allow a continued use of mancozeb on potato crops following the withdrawal of the product at the end of the 2025 season.
would have delivered a significant resistance management benefit at a time of increasing pressure from blight resistance.
“With support from Horticulture Crop Protection, GB potatoes convened a small group of technical experts to develop an emergency application and to engage with the Health and Safety Executive on what would be required for approval.
Positive engagement with the authorisation holder, UPL, enabled productive pre-application discussions to take place, said Mr Walker.
But he added: “Through these discussions it became clear that, in order to meet HSE risk assessment requirements, any authorisation would be limited to a single application of mancozeb per crop.
“Such a restriction would not be commercially viable given the additional stewardship requirements that would need to be put in place.
“The agronomists involved advised
that a single application would deliver only very limited resistance management benefit.”
“As a result, and with great disappointment, the decision was taken not to proceed with an emergency authorisation application for mancozeb,” said Mr Scott. “All possible avenues were explored.”
Mr Scott said he was grateful for constructive liaison with the HSE and the time by HCP and by Eric Anderson (Scottish Agronomy), Ruairidh Bain (SRUC), Graham Tomalin (VCS Potatoes) and David Cooke (JHI).
Strube-RAGT are pleased to offer four varieties on the 2027 Recommended List (RL).
ST Rotterdam is our new high yielding variety for the UK market, already proven in other European countries. With an RL adjusted yield of 101.5% against control in combination with our ‘3D Plus’ prime and pellet, this puts it up with the very highest yielding varieties! Furthermore, it offers above average sugar content, very low total impurities and good foliar disease scores. It is not suitable for early sowing.
ST Tweed is the highest yielding virus yellows tolerant variety on the RL at 99.0% and is suitable for early sowing, with average sugar content and very low total impurities. Furthermore, ST Tweed shows low susceptibility to all three of the major foliar diseases is offered at a highly competitive price for this valuable virus yellows yield protection.
In the 2024 BBRO ‘Goliath’ virus yellows trial ST Tweed retained c.95% of its uninoculated yield when exposed to 100% beet mild yellows virus infection and 88% when exposed to 100% beet chlorosis virus infection. This shows our progress in a decade of tolerance breeding and we can now offer this trait cost effectively to growers!
Button is a proven choice for growers that require BCN tolerance, yielding 98.5% of control in the absence of nematodes. It is suitable for early sowing, offering above average sugar content with low total impurity. Furthermore, in 2025 Button gave its best performance in the RL trials that reflect its resilience under dry, stressed conditions. Dependable when you need it most!
Morgan continues to be a reliable and dependable choice. At 99.1% of control for adjusted yield with average sugar content and low impurities, it remains a competitive and reliable variety. Similarly to Button, its RL trial performance in 2025 was its best yet and showed resilience to perform very well under dry, stressed conditions. Morgan is not suitable for early sowing.
Sugar beet variety summary
Our reputation for the highest sugar beet seed quality reflects focus at every preparation step from multiplication, grading and polishing and our ‘3Dplus’ prime and pellet combination.
The full RL list is available on the BBRO website, showing the comparative performance of breeder genetic in combination with the available prime and pellet options.
Growers can select our genetic in combination with ‘3Dplus’ that is offered at highly competitive pricing, delivering excellent value.
Choose Strube-RAGT with confidence.
• McCain opens 202ha research farm
• Project to test regenerative practices
• Global network of 4,400 growers
McCain Foods, the UK’s largest manufacturer of prepared potato products, is launching a new “farm of the future” in North Yorkshire to test regenerative farming techniques at commercial scale.
The site is being developed in partnership with Leeds University. It will serve as a research and demonstration farm for potato production – the company’s third Farm of the Future, joining existing projects in Canada and South Africa.
Adaption
The initiative aims to help farmers adapt to pressures including volatile weather, soil degradation and policy uncertainty. The 202ha farm will trial new systems under real farm conditions while continuing to produce commercial potato crops.
Potato production at the site is expected to begin in 2026. The farm will be located close to McCain’s long-established UK headquarters in North Yorkshire, where the company has operated for more than half a century.
The project will test practices such as controlled traffic farming, yearround soil cover and measures to improve biodiversity.
The aim is to integrate these approaches in potato rotations and how they might improve soil health while maintaining crop yields.
The farm will also pilot a circular nutrient system developed with the University of Leeds National Pig Centre. Pig manure will be used to enrich soils, with the aim of reducing waste and improving nutrient cycling between livestock and arable systems.
McCain will work with Leeds University on a long-term research programme to measure the impact of these practices. The partnership will focus on soil health, biodiversity and greenhouse gas emissions.
Additional research will examine the role of autonomous vehicles and alternative fuels for farm machinery.
The aim is to explore how new technology could help reduce emissions and improve efficiency in potato production.
Professor Nick Plant, pro-vice-chancellor for research and innovation at Leeds University, said the collaboration would help develop evidence around sustainable farming systems.
“The Leeds University is committed to helping address global challenges including food security and the climate crisis,” he said.
“Our partnership with McCain at their Farm of the Future in the UK is a clear example of our joint ambition to promote farming practices which minimise environmental impact.”
The agreement is expected to run for 20 years. McCain said the data generated at the farm will be independently validated and published in annual reports.
strengthen the resilience of our farms, support our partners, and build a more sustainable food system.”
Insights from the UK farm will feed into McCain’s global network of around 4,400 growers, including many in Britain who supply the company’s potato processing plants.
Max Koeune, president and chief executive of McCain Foods, said the programme is designed to identify practical solutions that can be adopted by farmers.
“Each site helps us test real solutions with farmers, understand what works, and share that knowledge
“Farming is at the heart of our food system
James Young, vice-president of agriculture at McCain GB and Ireland, said the project would combine international experience with local research.
“Farming is at the heart of Britain’s food system, and farmers face growing challenges that demand new solutions,” he said.
“We’re proud to launch our third and final Farm of the Future here in the UK, combining global knowledge with local action and a research partnership with the Leeds University.”
McCain said the project forms part of its wider regenerative agriculture programme. In Great Britain, 86% of its contracted potato acreage is now classified as “engaged” or higher within the company’s regenerative agriculture framework.
The company has also reported a 25% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions and a 19% reduction in water intensity since 2017. Both are part of McCain’s wider efforts to build a more resilient food system while supporting farmers, it says.
sociation said it wanted to increase youngsters’ knowledge of food from seed to plate and encourage healthy eating and creative cooking.
BCGA chairman Rodger Hobson (pictured above) said the idea for a schools’ carrot growing competition arose following the success of the association’s first ever British Carrot Day, which now takes place annually on 3 October.
“We want to offer children a fun way to get curious about carrots – how to grow them and the many creative ways to eat and cook with them – be it sweet, savoury or simply to snack on,” said Mr Hobson.
The BCGA and Elsoms Seeds will jointly promote the competition to primary schools, providing resources on carrot growing and care – including recipes for after harvest, tips and tricks, and what they need to do to win the challenge.
Martin Strickson, of Elsoms Seeds, said: “The objective is to increase national awareness of carrots as a British crop, increase their understanding of where their food comes from and get creative at mealtimes with carrots.”
methodical approach to using biostimulants is helping a major agronomy company choosing the right products when
Agrii says trialling biostimulants before recommending them to clients is key to understanding their impact and when they should be used, says Don Pendergrast, the company’s technical manager for non-combinable crops.
“Our trials also show that some work really well as primers, but less well if the stress is already happening when you apply them. It’s a bit like the difference between preventative and cura-
An example of the type of trials Agrii uses to test biostimulants is a six-month glasshouse trial comparing products effects and impact of timing on crops suffering from either long-term drought stress or acute periods of extreme drought.
“For example, we applied products to sugar beet just before stress symptoms were visible, and then again when the crop was stressed, and saw some products worked in one scenario but
For nitrogen fixation products, trials usually compare addition to full rates of fertiliser or a reduced rate which will create stress within the crop. In these trials it is important to compare like with like, says Mr Pendergrast.
Growers should avoid comparing a product that’s used in-furrow to increase potato tuber numbers or improve establishment with a product used later that’s supposed to increase bulking rates, says Mr Pendergras.
Once products of interest have been identified, they all typically also subjected to field trial testing. That was the case in sugar beet with
products that could potentially increase root yield and sugar content.
Two products were tested against an untreated control: Rovensa Next’s Biimore and Corteva’s BlueN, says Mr Pendergrast. Both had a positive benefit on yield and sugar content, he adds.
BlueN from a single application at the sixleaf stage added 5t/ha to root yield and 1.4% to sugar content. But two 50ml/ha applications of Biimore mixed with post-emergence herbicides adding 18.2t/ha to root yield and 2.3% in sugar content. These were statistically significant increases,” says Mr Pendergrast.
Combined that increased adjusted sugar yield by nearly 40%. “Off the back of these results, a number of our agronomists advised the use of Biimore in last year’s beet crops and have also seen some nice lifts in yield.”
Biimore is made from the bacterial fermentation of sugar case molasses by a strain of Corynebacterium glutamicum. It is rich in primary and secondary compounds that act as a natural biostimulant, says Rovensa Next UK manager Bruce Morton.
These compounds help to control various genetic pathways in the plant, he says, including enhancing photosynthetic efficiency, sugar synthesis, potassium translocation, and improved cell wall construction.
The Agrii trials results have been replicated across Europe, with consistent yield increases of 5-7% in France, Belgium and the UK.
Below: Some products work in one scenario but not another.
Inset: Bruce Morton: natural stimulant
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Potato growers are placing greater emphasis on ventilation systems as they seek to maintain quality over longer storage periods.
The issue will feature prominently at PotatoEurope 2026, which takes place on 9-10 September in Springe, near Hannover. The event will focus on how storage systems can support consistent supply across fresh, processing and seed markets.
Loose bulk storage remains standard for potatoes destined for processing. Box storage now dominates for seed and table potatoes. Both systems rely on ventilation to control temperature and maintain quality.
Bulk storage offers lower costs and efficient handling. But large stack heights can increase pressure damage, reducing marketable yield. Ventilation design plays a central role. Systems vary in how they move and distribute air through the crop.
Topics to be examined will include above-floor ducts to offer flexibility. Under-floor systems create a flat surface that improves handling. They cost more to install but require less maintenance and do not reduce storage capacity.
Growers often position ducts perpendicular to loading to improve airflow. Fully slatted floors allow air to move evenly from below. They provide consistent ventilation across the store and allow operators to adjust airflow where needed.
Ventilation options vary in complexity. Natural airflow systems rely on ambient conditions. They reduce energy use but limit control. More advanced systems push air through stacked boxes but require careful setup for even airflow.
Balancing airflow, energy use and crop condition is especially important when margins are tight. Excessive airspeed or uneven distribution can reduce effectiveness – adding to costs while reducing quality.
PotatoEurope’s technical pro-
gramme will explore all these challenges and more. It will bring together growers, researchers and specialists to share practical approaches to storage and crop management.
For full details, visit potatoeurope.de
• Top beef industry showcase
• Leaders debate supply chain
• Event highlights role of marts
The National Beef Association will use its flagship Beef Expo to highlight concerns about the future of the UK’s beef supply chain when the event returns next month.
The industry showcase will take place at Melton Mowbray livestock market on 30 May. Organisers say the event will focus on the theme “Beefing Up Food Security” – reflecting growing concerns about domestic food production.
The one-day event will combine cattle showing with industry seminars and political discussions aimed at addressing the pressures facing beef producers.
Neil Shand, chief executive of the National Beef Association, said the industry faces a pivotal moment. “We are at a critical juncture for beef production in the UK, whether it’s suckler or dairy bred beef.”
Beef Expo was an opportunity to highlight the role of domestic beef pro-
The Beef Expo event will host the National Commercial Cattle Show
duction in maintaining food security, said Mr Shand.
“We are at a critical juncture for UK beef production
“We will not hold back in pressing our politicians on the undeniable importance of supporting home-produced food. They continue to preach that food security is national security, yet we need to see tangible proof of this commitment.”
The event will again host the National Commercial Cattle Show, where producers from across the country will compete in classes designed to showcase the quality of British commercial beef cattle.
Alongside the cattle classes, organisers plan a programme of seminars and panel discussions examining the economic and policy challenges facing
Hosting the 2026 Beef Expo at Melton Mowbray market brings the National Beef Association’s flagships event to one of the country’s biggest livestock marts.
Located in the heart of the Leicestershire town, Melton Mowbray market has been a focal point for livestock trading for centuries. Its history stretches back more than 1,000 years, reflecting the area’s long association with livestock production and food markets.
The modern mart has expanded significantly in recent years. Since 2017, the site has been redeveloped and tripled in size, strengthening its position as a major hub for commercial and pedigree livestock sales.
The venue attracts buyers and sellers from
across the UK, hosting regular cattle and sheep sales alongside specialist events. Organisers expect thousands of farmers, breeders, suppliers and industry representatives to attend the event.
Melton Mowbray has often been described as England's “rural capital of food”, reflecting the town’s reputation for agricultural markets and regional food products.
Hugh Brown, chief executive of Melton Mowbray Market, said the venue’s role in the livestock supply chain made it a natural host for the event.
“We are absolutely delighted to be hosting the NBA Beef Expo next year with its timely focus on food security and resilient supply chains, which we and other marts form a key part of,” he said.
the sector.
These will include a political forum aimed at debating the future direction of government support for domestic beef production.
Beef Expo played an important role in bringing the industry together at a time when producers faced multiple pressures, said Mr Shand.
“With current pressures increasing on the British beef industry, Beef Expo has never had a more vital role in bringing together breeders, farmers, and business stakeholders to demonstrate the strength and vitality of [our] home-grown food production.”
Organisers also plan to introduce a livestock health and welfare hub at the event. The hub will focus on practical information for farmers and provide resources addressing current industry issues.
The programme will also include a “Best Beef Burger Competition”, designed to highlight the quality of British beef to visitors.
Beef Expo will be held at the Melton Mowbray livestock mart, one of the largest town-centre livestock markets in the country. Ben Harman, chairman of the National Beef Association, will jointly chair the event with mart chief executive Hugh Brown.
Mr Brown said the venue’s role in the livestock supply chain made it a fitting location. “We are absolutely delighted to be hosting the NBA Beef Expo next year with its timely focus on food security and resilient supply chains.”
The UK is currently experiencing a convergence of environmental stressors, from steadily rising average temperatures to extreme weather fluctuations. More recently, disruptions to nitrogen supply chains from the UAE, have further tightened access to nitrogenbased fertilisers for UK farmers. Against this uncertainty, TIMAC AGRO is stepping forward with targeted agronomic solutions designed to strengthen farm resilience and protect productivity.
With over 60 years of continuous research and development, TIMAC AGRO is consistently committed to delivering agronomic solutions that enhance crop performance, while maintaining a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship. Central to this approach is a portfolio of biostimulant technologies, developed to support crops under environmental stress and improve nutrient use efficiency.
TIMAC AGRO biostimulant products are certified for efficiency under the European Framework.
TIMAC AGRO maintains a close connection to British Farmers through its network of regional technical representatives, fostering strong, collaborative partnerships with farmers. Although the proven benefits of TIMAC AGRO biostimulant technologies, industry knowledge gaps continue to limit awareness, understanding of agronomic value, and practical application.
TIMAC AGRO’s liquid biostimulants – Fertiactyl Starter and Seactiv.
Fertiactyl Starter enhances early rooting, nutrient uptake, and abiotic stress tolerance, while the Seactiv range encompasses seaweed-based, nutrient-enriched technology to support crop resilience and consistent growth.
Across the UK, spring cropping remains a vital part of the agricultural calendar, with farmers facing increasingly complex decisions shaped by both environmental and geopolitical pressure.
In a trial, independently verified by CERES Research, a Seactiv program (4 x 2l/ha) applied from tuber initiation improved stress tolerance and crop development. This resulted in fewer, heavier tubers, with an average weight of 186.3g and an 18.7% increase in yield.
TIMAC AGRO offers a practical, science-led approach to improving resilience, efficiency, and yield. Speak to your regional TIMAC AGRO representative today.
To find out more about our farm profiles contact our farming team on 01502 725862
• Heavy grass, lower silage quality
• Higher risk of mineral deficiency
• Good field management needed
Awet winter means management decisions on forage and herd health will be key to get more from grass this spring begins.
Mild soil temperatures have kept grass growing but persistent rainfall continues to limit field access. It means many farms now carry heavy swards. But much grass lacks the quality to drive milk from forage.
The next few weeks will shape outcomes later, says Mel Digger, forage product manager for ForFarmers. Grass now is likely to be stemmier and lower in quality – and savvy producers will aim to reset swards ahead of the main silage season.
“Taking a pre-first cut could be one of the best decisions you make this spring,” says Ms Digger. “By removing that bulk, you reset the sward and allow fresh, leafy regrowth to come through for your true first cut.
“Farmers might sacrifice a bit of yield from their first cut, but what they’ll gain is a significantly higher quality silage, with higher digestibility, better energy, and ultimately more milk from forage.”
This extra cut could be especially useful by extending remaining clamp supplies on farms where there is a forage gap. But variable grass quality makes preserving its feed value vital.
“Inoculants don’t turn poor grass into perfect silage,” says Ms Digger. “But they absolutely help preserve what feed value is there. We recommend using inoculants on all grass silage.”
Silage inoculants can help increase milk yield by up to 1.5 litres per cow per day. The same mild, wet conditions have increased animal health risks. That raises the risk of grass staggers – which will impact on milk yields, says Ms Digger.
Rumenco technical services manager Alison Bond says the best strategy is routine supplementary magnesium. Once symptoms are evident, even in a few cattle, a lot of damage will already have been done.”
Spring grass typically supplies only half the magnesium a lactating cow needs. That gap may widen after a wet winter. Sub-clinical deficiency can reduce intake and milk yield before farmers realise.
turnout
Colin Byrne, ruminant technical and deployment manager at Lallemand Animal Nutrition, says farmers must manage the transition from winter diets after turnout carefully.
“
pre-first cut could be your best decision
This spring combines three pressures which must be managed together: forage quality, animal health and profitability. Here’s how to achieve a good balance which will improve farm performance.
1 Assess grass honestly. Stemmy material reduces digestibility. Where conditions allow, removing bulk early can improve main silage cut.
Below: Mel Digger suggests resetting swards
2 Accept trade-offs. A pre-first cut may reduce short-term yield. It can improve long-term output through better silage quality and higher milk from forage.
3 Protect feed value. Variable grass increases the risk of losses during ensiling. Focus on preserving quality, rather than expecting it to improve after cutting.
“With milk prices where they are, farmers are understandably looking to make the most of lower-cost feeds like grass. But the move from winter diets to grazing can cause rapid changes in the rumen environment if it isn’t managed properly.”
Bottom: A pre-cut could help ahead of the main silage season
“Rumen pH is everything,” adds Dr Byrne. Fresh grass ferments quickly. That can depress rumen pH and reduce performance if cows do not adapt. Taken together, these pressures point to a more management-led spring.
Farmers must balance forage quality, animal health and cost control. Those who get the transition right will protect output. Those who do not risk losing performance in ways that are not always visible.
5
4 Address mineral gaps early. Wet winters increase the risk of magnesium deficiency. Spring grass alone will not meet requirements – so consider supplements Manage turnout carefully. Moving cows onto grass changes rumen conditions quickly. Phase the transition and monitor performance closely. Watch for hidden losses. Sub-clinical issues such as low magnesium or rumen imbalance often go unnoticed. They still reduce output.
6 7 inputs blindly.
Link decisions to margins. Milk prices remain under pressure. Maximise output from grass while controlling costs, rather than cutting inputs blindly.
• Pre-em buys early crop protection
• Stacked actives reduce resistance
• Cutting inputs risks yield losses
Atwo-stage approach to weed control is essential to maximising maize yields, says a specialist crop adviser.
ProCam agronomist Justin Smith says a pre-emergence application of pendimethalin followed by a two or three-way combination of post-emergence active ingredients can encourage exemplary crop performance.
“As recently as less than a decade ago, growing maize in the UK was almost perceived as a much less technically involved process,” says Mr Smith.
“Many crops received little in the way of agronomic care beyond a decent amount of farm muck and a basic application of a post-emergence herbicide, after which the crop would be left to its own devices until harvest.
As seed, diesel and labour costs have increased – and the value of homegrown forage has risen, Mr Smith says maize crops must now produce a much greater yield to cover return on investment.
“As a result, most maize is now grown with a professional level of detail, with close attention being given to the creation of a fine, firm, but not overly compacted seedbed and a greater focus on nutrition including the use of starter fertilisers.”
Professional maize growers also have a better appreciation of the value of applying a range of herbicides at both the pre- and post-emergence
Maize is a fickle crop in its infancy
timings, says Mr Smith. That’s important to get the best from the crop.
“In a year when there’s a lot of talk about reducing inputs to offset the effects of recent weather patterns and suppressed farm incomes, there’s a danger this year’s crops might be subjected to corner cutting.
“It’s a precarious strategy, especially as maize is such a fickle crop when it’s in its infancy, with a decent amount of TLC needed to ensure crops go on to produce a high yielding and reli able source of roughage, dry matter and energy.”
One popular cost-cutting tactic is to exclude early season weed control. But a recent ProCam trial indicates that a residual herbicide application is vital to helping to achieve a sustain able, high-yielding crop.”
A pre-emergence application of An them (400g/l pendimethalin) proved to be a reliable and cost-effective in surance policy against a range of grass es and broad-leaved weeds – delivering good efficacy even during last year’s dry spring.
“Using pendimethalin at the pre-emergence timing won’t give 100% control of every weed or spe cies, but it does buy a bit of time and crop security by holding back weeds, so they don’t out-compete the vulnerable young crop,” says Mr Smith.
Below: The difference in approach was clearly visible in field trials
“And, with the threat of early season weeds reduced, there’ll hopefully be less need to rely on a large chemical stack at the post-emergence timing which could put undue pressure on the crop at a vital time in its development.
There’ll also be less for growers to
worry about should the weather take a turn for the worse or if the spray contractor is unexpectedly delayed as the crop will already have received some protection.”
Post-emergence, two or three actives will mop up any stubborn weeds. Spandis (40 g/kg prosulfuron, 400 g/ kg dicamba and 100 g/l nicosulfuron) or Dragster (148.15 g/k rimsulfuron and 92.5 g/kg thifensulfuron-methyl) are good options.
bling crops to tolerate the dry condi tions more efficiently, says Mr Smith.
“They can deliver foliar-applied nitrogen and zinc to the crop to enhance root development, improve nutrient uptake and help the crop grow away from any checking that the herbicide might impart.
“It’s another cost-effective way of insuring the crop’s performance against environmental stresses, and another tool that growers can use to ensure their forage clamps are adequately stocked.”
After writing last month about what felt like endless rain, I’d hoped it might mark the start of some drier weather, writes Nerys Wright.
We’ve still had plenty of wet days, but we have at least been treated to the odd spring like day. These increasingly erratic winters aren’t just affecting our mood; they’re changing conditions on the ground.
One of the clearest examples of this is the gut worm Nematodirus battus. This is where the 2026 SCOPS Nematodirus hatching forecast is a useful tool. The forecast is updated daily using temperature data from 140 weather stations.
Each spring, young lambs are at risk from this parasite, which behaves differently from other worms: it is the ingested larvae that cause disease, and this happens before eggs appear in faecal samples.
With warmer, unpredictable weather shifting the hatch vary8ing by six weeks over the ast five years and not a week later each year — predicting when lambs are exposed is becoming more challenging.
New map symbols make the forecast simpler to read: a circle shows hatching is rising, and a triangle shows it’s falling. Together, they indicate whether risk is building, peaking, or declining.
For Nematodirosis to occur, three things must align:
1. Pasture contamination with eggs shed by last year’s lambs to provide the larvae.
2. Lambs aged roughly 6–12 weeks (or younger triplets/thin ewe lambs) grazing enough to ingest larvae.
3. A rapid increase in temperature, triggering a hatch of infective larvae.
If all three factors coincide, the risk rises sharply. At the time of writing, many areas are already seeing peak hatch dates before most lambs are old enough to graze significant quantities.
Risk varies hugely between fields, so consider altitude and aspect. Higher, colder or north-facing fields hatch later. Hungry lambs – especially multiples –may graze earlier. Use the map alongside your knowledge of fields, grass supply and lamb growth.
Ventilation and monitoring systems to combat heat stress in livestock are eligible for grants from the Farm Equipment and Technology Fund.
High performing dairy cows in the UK can begin to experience heat stress at just 18°C, particularly in humid conditions, says animal welfare expert Chloe Rodriguez, from housing specialists Galebreaker.
“Farmers have the opportunity to get funding for equipment to tackle heat stress and safeguard herd health and productivity,” says Ms Rodriguez.
“For many, last summer was a wake-up call,” she adds. “Four heatwaves in one season is not something dairy farmers can afford to ignore.”
“Heat stress can be prolonged and costly – feed intakes drop, milk production suffers and fertility rates decline. From a welfare perspective, it also puts animals under significant strain with associated health issues such as mastitis and lameness.”
As climate patterns shift, the FETF grants present a timely opportunity for farmers to enhance their livestock environments before temperatures and humidity rise.
“Farmers cannot control the weather, but they can control how well their buildings help cows cope with it. With the FETF funding now available, there’s no better time to invest in solutions that will make a real difference this summer.”
For more on FETF funding, see page 65.
With hatch timing now swinging across a much wider window, a set date white drench in the calendar—because “that’s when we’ve always done it”—may no longer align with exposure.
In many areas, the hatch may have already passed before lambs are grazing enough, making treatment unnecessary; in others, the hatch may not yet have occurred, meaning a routine early drench won’t protect lambs at the right time.
Using the live SCOPS forecast helps ensure treatment, if needed, is timed to risk rather than habit, supporting both lamb health and responsible wormer use.
For further details, speak to your vet or adviser – and visit scops.org.uk, where you’ll find the forecast and a webinar and podcast about Nematodirus. Nerys Wright is an independent sheep consultant. For more details, call Nerys on 07891 187643 or please visit sheepconsultancy.co.uk.
Heat stress can be prolonged and costly, says Chloe Rodriguez.
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Variable weather patterns and waning maternal immunity could leave lambs exposed to clostridial diseases this spring.
Experts are urging farmers to review vaccination protocols to protect youngstock – especially as immunity passed on through antibodies in their mother’s colostrum starts to fade after just a few weeks.
“Once this protection declines, lambs can be hit hard by diseases that progress rapidly and are often fatal,” says MSD Animal Health veterinary adviser Kat Baxter-Smith.
Unnecessary losses from clostridial disease are particularly common during the spring. Data from Farm Post Mortems showing a peak in pulpy kidney cases among lambs aged 2-8 weeks, with almost all affected animals unprotected by vaccination.
“Stressors that farmers cannot control, such as sudden weather changes, dietary shifts or parasite burdens, can trigger outbreaks.”
“This means farmers with lambs at risk would be wise to speak with their vet and consider vaccination for clostridial disease, even in lambs not intended for replacements.”
Common clostridial diseases affecting sheep include lamb dysentery, tetanus, pulpy kidney, black disease, blackleg, struck and braxy. But almost 20% of sheep farmers do not carry out any routine vaccinations.
“Vaccinating lambs at the right time is critical,” stresses Dr Baxter-Smith.“Farmers using Heptavac P Plus in their ewes should follow up with a primary course for replacement ewe lambs from three weeks of age.
Lambs intended for finishing should also be considered for vaccination with Ovivac P Plus, even if they are destined for slaughter this year. This protects against four key clostridial pathogens and helps control pasteurellosis.
Clostridial infections progress
Control is best achieved through vaccination – with Heptavac P Plus for breeding stock and Ovivac P Plus
gers, farmers must be proactive rather
“A timely vaccination programme is the best safeguard against costly and preventable losses.”
• High-starch, high digestible fibre, pelleted feed
• Maintain body condition at lush grass
• Optimise rumen function - firmer dung
• Improve protein utilisation and increase output £/ha
• Increase DLWG/ha
Anew specialist machinery event focused on manure handling and nutrient management reflects a wider shift in UK farming towards tighter regulation and more efficient input use.
Muck Management UK 2026 will bring together manufacturers, contractors and farmers at a time of increased scrutiny on slurry storage and application. It will take place on 3-4 June at Bodrhyddan Hall in North Wales.
Organisers say the event responds to growing demand for practical guidance as farms invest in slurry infrastructure and adapt to environmental rules. Event director Graeme Lea said the industry had responded strongly to the concept.
“What we’re building is a focused, technical machinery event centred on live working kit and meaningful conversations. The response from manufacturers and technology providers has been extremely encouraging.”
The event’s timing reflects pressure on farmers to improve nutrient management. Policy changes and environmental targets have pushed slurry handling up the investment agenda.
Farmers now face decisions on storage capacity, application accuracy and nutrient efficiency. These decisions carry cost implications but also affect compliance and productivity.
Organisers say this has created demand for a more technical, machinery-led event, rather than a general agricultural show. “The focus is on getting working machinery in front of farmers and contractors who are planning their next purchase,” said Mr Lea.
The event will combine live demonstrations with a static exhibition and a technical forum delivered with ADAS, aimed at providing independent advice on nutrient use and investment planning.
Live demonstrations will form a central part of the event. Organisers have already confirmed a range of slurry and manure application systems. Demonstration slots are almost at capacity, with strong interest from manufacturers.
The emphasis on working machinery demonstrations comes as producers demand more cost-effective investments. Farmers want to see how equipment performs in real conditions before committing capital.
With fertiliser costs volatile and environmental regulation tightening, manure and slurry have become more valuable as nutrient sources. That increases the importance of accurate application and efficient handling.
Organisers say early ticket sales and exhibitor interest indicate momentum behind the event. Interest has surged following the spike in fertiliser prices caused by the Iran war and conflict in the Middle East. The event points to a broader trend too. Nutrient management is moving from a compliance issue to a core business decision.
For tickets and full details about the event, please visit muckmanagement.com
More farmers are using organic manures for nutrition and soil health
(Picture: David Calvert / Shutterstock.com)
Farmers are placing greater emphasis on manure and slurry as part of wider changes in nutrient management.
Rising fertiliser costs have increased the value of organic nutrients. At the same time, regulation has tightened around storage, application timing and environmental impact.
These pressures are forcing farms to rethink how they handle and apply slurry. Investment decisions now focus on both compliance and efficiency.
Events such as Muck Management UK highlight this shift. They bring together machinery, advice and practical demonstrations in one place. The aim is to support more informed decisionmaking, say organisers.
The technical forum, delivered with ADAS, will provide independent guidance on nutrient management and application systems. Poor decisions can lead to losses through runoff, emissions or inefficient use.
But better management can reduce input costs and improve soil performance. Farmers must decide how much storage they need, how to apply nutrients accurately and how to integrate organic manures into cropping systems.
The move towards more precise nutrient use reflects a broader change in farming. Inputs are no longer applied routinely. Farmers now manage them more carefully, with greater attention to timing, placement and return on investment.
More farmers are increasing their use of manure as they seek to cut costs and improve soil performance.
Rising fertiliser prices and a stronger focus on soil health are accelerating the shift towards manure. Growers say they are prioritising organic matter to improve structure, water retention and long-term productivity.
Bagged fertiliser costs have soared further since conflict in the Middle East broke out last month. Manure offers a locally sourced alternative to imported fertilisers while supplying key nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
The change places greater emphasis on how farms apply organic materials. Application accuracy and timing now matter more as growers try to match nutrient supply with crop demand and reduce losses.
An increasing number of growers now view soil organic matter as central to resilience. Better structure improves drainage, reduces compaction risk and supports root development.
Contractors have responded by building supply chains with livestock farms to secure manure. Arable businesses without stock increasingly rely on these agreements to access sufficient volumes and maintain nutrient inputs.
Robert Alexander, of AJ Alexander & Son, says his business has scaled up its use of organic manures across 2000ha. “One application of straw manure is worth at least five years of cover crops,” he says.
“We’re on a big drive to improve soil
health, particularly on farms where soil health has been ignored,” he says. It also helps crops cope with periods of drought or excess rainfall, making output more consistent.
The business now applies around 20,000 tonnes a year, using a mix of pig, cattle, duck and chicken manures. These inputs help rebuild organic matter more quickly than cover crops alone.
Applying manure accurately remains a challenge, particularly in wet conditions. Timing is critical when spreading on growing crops, where poor conditions can damage soils or limit uptake.
“We are currently in the process of spreading manure on wheat which is particularly difficult in the current conditions following all the winter rain,” Mr Alexander says.
Growers now demand greater precision from equipment. Even spread pat-
Well-designed machines are more efficient, says Angus Western, of Richard Western
“We’re on a big drive to improve soil health
terns and controlled application rates help reduce variability across fields and improve nutrient use efficiency.
Overcoming constraints
“Well-engineered design in key muck spreader features such as the rotors, bed and body can help ensure loads are spread quickly and evenly,” says Angus Western of Suffolk-based manufacturer Richard Western.
Farmers also face practical constraints. Regulations require manure to be covered during transport. Handling characteristics differ from fertiliser and can complicate logistics and application.
Despite these challenges, the direction of travel is clear. And the shift to manure reflects a broader move towards system-based agronomy, where soil condition and nutrient cycling play a larger role in farm performance and profitability.
Grants of almost 50% are available towards fixed and mobile slurry separators, applicators and equipment such as scrapers, nurse tanks and pumps.
The Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) grants Could make separation a more popular proposition and how farmers can benefit from improving their slurry equipment, says Andy Hayhurst of Vogelsang.
“This latest round is offering £25,000 towards a mobile separator with an estimated average value of £54,580, and £9,516 to-
wards a fixed separator with an average value of £19,033,” explains Mr Hayhurst.
Mobile separators represent a new opportunity for contractors and farms with multiple sites to manage slurry more efficiently. The grants dictate that the separator must be capable of producing a stackable fraction with at least 25% dry matter.
Higher than average rainfall during winter has put pressure on slurry store capacity. The national trend is also seeing herd sizes growing so many farms can reduce capital outlay on larger slurry storage by opting to separate.
“Having a mobile separation service offered by a contractor, or investing in a fixed separator, could be a cost-effective option if farms intend to maintain or slightly increase cow numbers.”
“There are multiple grants offering a 50% contribution towards dribble bar, trailing shoe and shallow injection systems. All these applicators work more efficiently when the slurry being pumped is homogenous.”
FETF grant applications close on at midday on 28 April. For further details, see page 65.
Downloadable resources to run your own ASF contingency planning workshop
Email pig.health@ahdb.org.uk to request your pack. Find out more: ahdb.org.uk/asf-contingency-planning-workshop-in-a-box
• Productivity, investment, health
• Preparedness for disease outbreaks
• More than 340 exhibitors expected
Improving efficiency while managing disease risk will be central themes at this year’s British Pig & Poultry Fair – as producers face tighter margins and heightened biosecurity pressures.
The two-day event takes place on 13-14 May at the NEC Birmingham. It will bring together farmers, advisers and suppliers to examine the commercial outlook for pig and poultry production.
A programme of specialist forums will and explore practical ways to improve performance on farm. Experts will examine market prospects for eggs, poultry meat and pork, alongside the operational challenges facing producers.
Ralph Bishop, of Premier Nutrition, will chair the poultry market ses-
“The sector faces opportunities and risks
Pig and poultry producers seeking the latest industry advice will find all that and more at this year’s British Pig and Poultry Fair.
“The whole point of the fair is to connect people with information, ideas, other people, and solutions,” says event organiser Alice Bell. “Ultimately, it’s designed to help you improve farm performance and leave inspired ready for the future.”
In the pig theatre, supported by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, visitors can hear from experts on the market outlook and how to mitigate the threat of animal disease.
AHDB pork sector director Mark Haighton said: “It gives us the chance to listen to what matters to producers, share the latest insights and showcase the work AHDB is doing to protect and promote British pork.”
Over in the poultry theatre, speakers will cover the market outlook for both broilers and eggs, as well as the latest information on planning for investment – whether that’s new buildings or updating existing facilities.
Ms Bell said: “Visitors can expect to get the most upto-date information and advice on everything from environmental regulations and planning permission to the animal welfare strategy, export prospects and the latest nutritional advice.”
sion. The sector faces a complex mix of opportunities and risks, he says. But both pig and poultry meat remain in demand from consumers.
“With favourable consumer trends alongside the industry’s most damaging disease challenges in recent times, this forum will be a fantastic opportunity to hear from different parts of the supply chain and gain their perspectives on the road ahead.”
preparedness
Biosecurity and disease preparedness will feature prominently in the programme. Two sessions will focus on African swine fever (ASF), looking at on-farm precautions and supply-chain responses, including lessons from the recent outbreak in Spain.
Avian influenza will also be examined – including the challenge of strengthening approaches to disease prevention and risk management –with contributions from Gordon Hickman, exotic disease policy lead at Defra.
Panel chairman Julian Sparrey, technical director at Livetec, said: “Farmers are under increasing pressure to strengthen biosecurity, improve preparedness and make more data-driven decisions.
“This panel brings together vets, producers and biosecurity specialists to explore practical, year-round approaches to managing disease threats, covering cross-sector learnings and
improvements in predictive modelling.”
Another discussion, led by Phileo by Lesaffre, will examine how animal health and production can be better supported by the gut microbiome – a central driver of immunity, reproduction and lifetime performance, With producers increasingly needing to factor emissions and energy efficiency into investment decisions, further sessions will focus on building design, air quality and energy use in livestock housing.
Fair organiser Alice Bell said: “With buildings being a primary source of emissions and a major capital expense, producers need a net zero roadmap and an understanding of the latest low emission technologies.”
More than 340 exhibitors are expected to attend the event. Jonny Lester, general manager at event partner ABN, said the fair would provide an opportunity for the industry to share ideas and assess new technologies.
“The whole industry will be under one roof, making it a great chance to exchange ideas, explore new opportunities and take-home insights that could make a real difference to your business.”
For full details and a FREE entry ticket, visit visit www.pigandpoultry.org.uk.
Tools that help farmers anticipate and manage disease risks are growing in popularity as outbreaks continue to disrupt livestock sectors.
Digital systems are helping farms respond quickly to threats, according to a biosecurity and disease management specialists Livetec Systems, which is marking 15 years in the pig and poultry sector,
The company began as a small advisory operation focused on practical on-farm support during disease incidents. It has since expanded its services as producers seek better ways to prepare for outbreaks such as avian influenza and African swine fever.
Livetec group managing director Gordon Samet said the business had evolved alongside the changing disease landscape facing livestock producers. In that time, the company has grown from two staff to more than 40 employees.
“We’ve gone from being known largely for our on-the-ground, faceto-face work to becoming a company that blends decades of practical experience with a growing range of digital tools.”
Livetec’s Livestock Protect Platform is now used by more than 4,300 poultry producers. It brings together biosecurity planning, compliance
monitoring and disease risk information into one place.
for outbreaks are becoming more important. “In an increasingly complex disease environment, the ability to plan, predict and prepare is critical.
Founder and group technical director Julian Sparrey said the platform had been expanded to include emergency response planning tools, the eBAS digital biosecurity assessment system and wild bird tracking data.
Gordon Samet: digital tools are growing
Mr Griffiths added: “Biosecurity is a cornerstone of sector resilience; our partnership with Livetec reflects our commitment to taking a proactive approach to risk, rather than simply re-
“These features make biosecurity more practical and accessible for farmers, by bringing our four P’s –planning, prediction, prevention, and preparedness – to life in meaningful ways,” he said.
Training and preparedness programmes are also expanding. Livetec has launched an e-learning platform focused on poultry biosecurity and is running African swine fever readiness workshops with industry partners.
Industry groups say stronger planning and preparedness will be essential as disease threats remain unpredictable.
British Poultry Council chief executive Richard Griffiths said tools that help farmers prepare
Poultry feed manufacturer 2Agriculture has strengthened its support for independent poultry growers by appointing a new agricultural relationship manager.
Ali Parker joins the business to further enhance engagement with the company’s independent grower network. She is responsible for managing relationships with growers and strengthening collaboration across the supply chain.
The appointment forms part of a broader programme of investment and change being delivered by 2Agriculture to better support its farm-
Mr Sparrey said: “Notifiable and endemic diseases remain significant threats to the agricultural industry and ensuring people feel informed, confident and prepared to deal with disease outbreaks will continue to be a priority for us.”
ing partners and provide long-term stability for producers.
Ms Parker was previously the NFU’s county adviser Herefordshire and regional poultry lead for the Midlands, where she developed extensive experience supporting farmers and representing the interests of the poultry sector.
She said: “Building strong relationships with growers is essential, and I look forward to working closely with our farming partners to support their businesses and ensure their voices continue to shape how we move forward together.”
A best-in-class customer panelling area allows Pilgrim’s Europe to host product tastings, innovation sessions and collaborative workshops with retail and foodservice partners – helping guests to develop products from concept to kitchen table.
The centre will focus on developing pork and added-value pork products, particularly in key growth categories such as barbecue and ready-tocook ranges – helping to meet evolving consumer expectations, said Pilgrim’s Europe president Ivan Siqueira.
The Centre of Excellence will help develop new pork products
“The new Pork Centre of Excellence at Bromborough is an important investment in our innovation capabilities and part of our wider ambition to create centres of excellence across our different business units at Pilgrim’s
Director of product and innovation
Left: Ivan Siqueira: investment in innovation
Sam Reader said the centre would give employees the space to explore new flavours, formats and product ideas, while working closely with customers to develop new products and showcase the versatility of pork.
“By bringing together modern kitchen facilities, specialist equipment and dedicated customer collaboration spaces, we’ve created an environment where ideas can move quickly from concept to reality.”
Launched in 2023, G&V Tait has become the leading firm of professional valuers and consultants dedicated to the pig industry. We deliver precise, impartial assessments backed by RICS quality standards
Launched in 2023, G&V Tait has become the leading firm of professional valuers and consultants dedicated to the pig industry. We deliver precise, impartial assessments backed by RICS quality standards
Launched in 2023, G&V Tait has become the leading firm of professional valuers and consultants dedicated to the pig industry. We deliver precise, impartial assessments backed by RICS quality standards
Launched in 2023, G&V Tait has become the leading firm of professional valuers and consultants dedicated to the pig industry. We deliver precise, impartial assessments backed by RICS quality standards
Launched in 2023, G&V Tait has become the leading firm of professional valuers and consultants dedicated to the pig industry. We deliver precise, impartial assessments backed by RICS quality standards
Launched in 2023, G&V Tait has become the leading firm of professional valuers and consultants dedicated to the pig industry. We deliver precise, impartial assessments backed by RICS quality standards
Pig farm valuations - sector-specific insight of over 15 farms to date
Pig farm valuations - sector-specific insight of over 15 farms to date
Launched in 2023, G&V Tait has become the leading firm of professional valuers and consultants dedicated to the pig industry. We deliver precise, impartial assessments backed by RICS quality standards
Pig farm valuations - sector-specific insight of over 15 farms to date
Pig farm valuations - sector-specific insight of over 15 farms to date
Pig farm valuations - sector-specific insight of over 15 farms to date
Equipment and livestock valuations - valuing over £16m in pig-related assets
The Feed Adviser Register (FAR) supports farmers to get the best out of feed materials.
Equipment and livestock valuations - valuing over £16m in pig-related assets
Pig farm valuations - sector-specific insight of over 15 farms to date
Equipment and livestock valuations - valuing over £16m in pig-related assets
Pig farm valuations - sector-specific insight of over 15 farms to date
Equipment and livestock valuations - valuing over £16m in pig-related assets
Used equipment brokerage - £70,000 in used equipment transacted to date
Equipment and livestock valuations - valuing over £16m in pig-related assets
Used equipment brokerage - £70,000 in used equipment transacted to date
Equipment and livestock valuations - valuing over £16m in pig-related assets
Used equipment brokerage - £70,000 in used equipment transacted to date
Equipment and livestock valuations - valuing over £16m in pig-related assets
Used equipment brokerage - £70,000 in used equipment transacted to date
On -farm auctions - two retirement auctions successfully completed
Used equipment brokerage - £70,000 in used equipment transacted to date
On -farm auctions - two retirement auctions successfully completed
Used equipment brokerage - £70,000 in used equipment transacted to date
On -farm auctions - two retirement auctions successfully completed
Used equipment brokerage - £70,000 in used equipment transacted to date
On -farm auctions - two retirement auctions successfully completed
On -farm auctions - two retirement auctions successfully completed
Whether you're buying, selling, or managing your pig farming assets, G&V Tait is here to provide the expert support you need.
On -farm auctions - two retirement auctions successfully completed
Whether you're buying, selling, or managing your pig farming assets, G&V Tait is here to provide the expert support you need.
On -farm auctions - two retirement auctions successfully completed
Whether you're buying, selling, or managing your pig farming assets, G&V Tait is here to provide the expert support you need.
Whether you're buying, selling, or managing your pig farming assets, G&V Tait is here to provide the expert support you need.
Formulating feeds to optimise livestock productivity while minimising adverse environmental impact is vital. FAR members provide quality feeding advice for pigs, poultry, ruminants and game.
To find out more about FAR and to source advice from a FAR professional near you, visit www.agindustries.org.uk/feed-adviser-register.html
Whether you're buying, selling, or managing your pig farming assets, G&V Tait is here to provide the expert support you need.
Contact us today to discuss the requirements of your pig farming business.
Whether you're buying, selling, or managing your pig farming assets, G&V Tait is here to provide the expert support you need.
Contact us today to discuss the requirements of your pig farming business.
Contact us today to discuss the requirements of your pig farming business.
Whether you're buying, selling, or managing your pig farming assets, G&V Tait is here to provide the expert support you need.
Tel: 07900 605349
Tel: 07900 605349
Contact us today to discuss the requirements of your pig farming business.
Email: info@gandvtait.com
Watch our animations to learn more about FAR:
Contact us today to discuss the requirements of your pig farming business.
Tel: 07900 605349
Website: www.gandvtait.com
Email: info@gandvtait.com
Tel: 07900 605349
Contact us today to discuss the requirements of your pig farming business.
Website: www.gandvtait.com
Email: info@gandvtait.com
Tel: 07900 605349
Contact us today to discuss the requirements of your pig farming business.
Email: info@gandvtait.com
Website: www.gandvtait.com
Tel: 07900 605349
Website: www.gandvtait.com
Email: info@gandvtait.com
Tel: 07900 605349
Website: www.gandvtait.com
Email: info@gandvtait.com
Email: info@gandvtait.com
Website: www.gandvtait.com
Website: www.gandvtait.com
Ensure healthier pigs and improved profitability with Ecozole®
ECO Animal Health Ltd, The Grange, 100 The High Street, Southgate, London, N14 6BN, United Kingdom. Tel: +44 (0)20 8 447 8899. www.ecoanimalhealth.com
We are excited to display two new innovations at this year's fair!
Big Dutchman is offering a new, smart sensor for broiler feeding. An integrated LED lamp in the iDOL 29 sensor registers the feed level in the second to last feed pan, as tests have shown that illuminated feed pans attract broilers. Poultry managers can therefore be sure that their flock empties the control pan, guaranteeing that the entire feed line will be refilled as required.
Controlled via a smartphone app, farmers can easily configure the sensor settings, such as lighting duration or switch-off delay, with an NFC chip integrated in the smartphone reading the data provided by the iDOL 29.
Integrated into the feed trough, the new feed chain tensioner was developed to make re-tensioning of the feed chain during the batch easier. Available for the FeMaleChain and MaleChain, as well as chain feeding, the chain tensioner connects two trough ends whilst a threaded rod below the chain tensioner is used to adjust the trough length and therefore the length of the feed chain. This ensures ideal feed transport and a long service life, i.e. low wear and tear of the entire feeding system. Suitable for both standing and suspended systems, the position of the chain tensioner can be positioned freely for optimum efficiency.
Ecozole® effectively treats worm infestations, improving fertility and weaner performance.
• Prevents weight loss and poor fertility
• Increases weaning weights and piglet growth
• Treatment: 5mg/kg for 7 days, 3-day withdrawal
Worm infestations in grower pigs can cost up to £6.00 per pig. Ecozole® boosts growth and feed efficiency while reducing health risks.
• Reduces growth, feed conversion, and pneumonia risks
• Prevents carcass downgrade and liver condemnation
• Treatment: 2kg per tonne for 7 days, 3-day withdrawal
Broiler producers could boost performance by addressing anti-nutritional factors in poultry diets.
Producers are missing a trick by not taking measures to tackle feed-induced immune responses (FIIR) caused by beta-mannans in diets, says independent nutritionist Steve Pritchard from The Nut Team.
“A number of anti-nutritional factors in the raw materials present in
Found in vegetable-based feed ingredients – such as cereals, soyabean meal, sunflower meal, and rapeseed – beta-mannans can cause inflammation that affect the tight junctions within the lining of the gut.
“The intestinal lining and tight junctions – which are part of the lining – are absolutely vital to maintaining the health of the bird,” explains Mr Pritchard. “They should form a barrier through which the bird absorbs nutrients, however when there’s inflammation, the barrier becomes more permeable, letting bacteria and other pathogenic material from the gut into the bloodstream, and therefore into the bird.”
A well-balanced diet will optimise broiler performance
Some anti-nutritional factors can cause the gut contents to become more viscous, says Mr Pritchard. Others can cause gut irritation, reduce nutrient
absorption and decrease digestibility.
“We have a range of enzymes available to deal with these ANFs, and while they’re widely used to deal with the arabinoxylans, beta-glucans and phytates, there’s scope for more producers to use a beta-mannanase enzyme.”
Improving gut health will improve bird health, welfare and performance. Failure manage beta-mannans could cost producers as much as three feed conversion ratio (FCR) points, at an estimated cost of £9 per tonne of feed.
“You don’t need to lose many points to suddenly be costing yourself a lot of money. If you lose some feed efficiency because the birds have inflamed guts, it can get very expensive very quickly.”
Poultry producers risk undermining flock health if they rely too heavily on laboratory testing to assess disease control programmes, says an expert.
Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing (AST) is widely used for comparing anticoccidial treatments. But it has limitations, says poultry consultant Tom Dutton, who suggests producers should interpret results carefully.
“AST works well for comparing the efficacy of strong chemical treatments designed to control coccidia, but it’s far less helpful when used to assess other types of anticoccidials such as ionophores.”
Ionophores work differently from chemical treatments, says Dr Dutton. They reduce coccidia challenge rather than eliminating it altogether. This allows birds to develop immunity over time.
Testing methods do not always reflect this. AST protocols typically ex-
lenge over a short period. In contrast, infection pressure on farms builds gradually across the production cycle.
“This is because of how ionophores work,” says Dr Dutton. “They reduce the coccidia challenge, but don’t eliminate it completely, leaving enough coc-
Laboratory testing plays a key role in livestock disease management. But its limitations are becoming more apparent.
AST provides a controlled environment to compare treatments. It works well when assessing chemical anticoccidials that aim to eliminate pathogens. But not all treatments operate in the same way. Ionophores, for example, are designed to allow low-level pathogen cycling. This helps birds develop natural immunity.
Testing protocols do not always account for this. They often expose birds to high infection pressure over a short period. That differs from farm conditions, where exposure builds gradually. This creates a disconnect between lab results and field performance because it doesn’t reflect how coccidiosis normally develops in commercial poultry houses, says poultry consultant Tom Dutton (right).
This can lead to false signals. Producers may interpret test results as reduced efficacy and change programmes unnecessarily. This can mean sudden changes which then increase disease pressure and reduce performance.
Testing still has value, says Dr Dutton. But producers must match the tool to the question. The challenge for producers is to combine lab data with field observation, he adds.
“AST can be helpful for testing multiple chemical anticoccidials against each other, but its value depends heavily on the type of anticoccidials being tested.” Decisions should reflect both controlled results and real-world outcomes.
cidia behind for birds to develop immunity.”
The mismatch can lead to misleading conclusions. Lesions observed in testing may suggest reduced efficacy, even when flock performance remains strong under commercial conditions.
“In these short-term challenge models, the intensity and timing of exposure can amplify lesion expression, meaning AST may indicate reduced efficacy for ionophores even when gut health and productivity outcomes remain strong in the field.”
The consequences of misinterpretation can take time to emerge. Changing established control programmes based on limited data risks destabilising flock healty, says Dr Dutton.
“It can take a couple of crops of birds to start seeing the consequences of changing coccidiosis control programmes but by that point the stability has been lost.”
Recovery can take several production cycles. That creates both biological and financial risk.
“Stable and continuous coccidiosis control will support bird performance crop after crop, so any potential changes need to be carefully weighed up and guided by reliable information.”
The guidance highlights a broader shift in livestock management. Producers are moving away from single metrics and towards more integrated assessments of performance, health and long-term resilience.
Maintaining strict biosecurity on farms is critical to protecting livestock, ensuring compliance, and safeguarding the wider food chain. Yet, one of the most persistent challenges is controlling vehicle and personnel access without disrupting day-to-day operations. Dofygate’s solar-powered automatic barrier system is proving to be a highly effective solution, as demonstrated through its successful deployment with Pilgrims Pride/BQP and in collaboration with Bodo washer systems.
Dofygate has been rolled out at over 30 Pilgrims farms. Working with Pilgrims Pride and BQP pig producers, the primary objective was to ensure that all visitors followed mandatory hygiene protocols before entering biosecure zones. By installing a Dofygate barrier across site entrances—with the activation button located inside the sign-in cabin—drivers are required to exit their vehicles, complete sign-in procedures, and carry out wheel and boot washing before access is granted. This simple but effective intervention significantly improves compliance while creating a clear audit trail of entry.
A similar challenge faced Bodo Ltd, where vehicles were previously passing through wash systems before they had fully activated, compromising hygiene standards. The introduction of Dofygate barriers ensured vehicles must stop before entry, giving wash systems time to operate effectively. With features such as automatic closing sensors, wireless controls, and synchronised barrier systems, the solution integrates seamlessly into existing site layouts.
Across both applications, Dofygate delivers a robust, solar-powered, and low-maintenance solution that enforces behaviour change without adding complexity. The result is improved compliance, enhanced biosecurity, and greater confidence for operators managing high-risk agricultural environments.
David Booth: 07800 551241 david.booth37@btinternet.com Rob Gaffer: 07967 812897
ers cut costs, improve efficiency and improve the resilience of their business. FETF-funded items must be kept for five years from the date the grant was paid.
Helpful
Grants could also be helpful for farmers wanting to participate in an ADOPT (Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies) project, says Tom Allen-Stevens, founder of
including the FarmDroid.
Funding will be awarded to the highest scoring applicants first until the pot is exhausted, so not all eligible farmers will receive support. It also means farmers should apply sooner rather than later.
The FarmDroid FD20 stands out as one of the highest scoring items, with a score of 90 out of 100. It is eligible for the highest grant amount of £25,000 under the FETF218 category (robotic drill and guided hoe).
“Getting the machine partly funded will help future proof your business with reduced labour
Launched in December 2026, the new HEVA G-Drill is eligible for 50% funding. Based on its recommended retail price, this amounts to a maximum of £15,067 under the FETF44 category (direct drill).
“For both farmers and contractors alike the G-Drill is a straightforward, cost-effective direct drill,” says Opico product manager Glenn Bootman. Grants are also available for Opico inter-row hoes and sward lifters; Alpego flail mowers; the HE?VA Top Cutter and Top Strigle; and the Opico Variocast 16.
• Half of farms non-compliant
• More catchments inspections
• Drainage and nutrient plans
Farmers face rising scrutiny as Environment Agency inspections increase to tackle water pollution, with breaches identified on around half of holdings.
The trend reflects growing pressure on agriculture to reduce diffuse pollution and improve water quality, particularly in sensitive catchments, say farm business consultants.
Alice Johnson, of Strutt & Parker, says inspection activity has stepped up noticeably in recent months. “Notifications of an inspection are currently coming through thick and fast in some catchments and it can be a stressful time for farmers.”
Environment Agency inspections focus on practical compliance. Farmers should review key areas before a visit.
1 Start with nutrient management. Ensure plans are up to date and reflect current cropping and livestock systems. Keep soil test results accessible and recent.
2 Check slurry storage capacity. Farms must demonstrate they can store slurry safely and avoid spreading at high-risk times.
Drainage plans are essential, says Alice Johnson (below)
Farmyard drainage is a recurring challenge (bottom)
Library photo: Studio Karel / Shutterstock.com
“Being picked by the agency may not mean you are under suspicion of doing something wrong, but it could relate to concern about water quality in a local river if there are high or rising levels of pollutants like nitrates and phosphates,” she says.
Compliance gaps
Environment Agency data shows that 51% of farms inspected last year had some form of non-compliance. The most frequent issues relate to basic management practices.
Inspectors often find gaps in nutrient planning, missing soil test
3 Review yard drainage. Separate clean and dirty water clearly. Confirm that runoff does not enter watercourses. Ensure rainwater systems are correctly sized.
4 Paperwork matters. Inspectors will expect records to match what they see on the ground. Gaps in documentation can trigger non-compliance findings.
Alice Johnson says early preparation reduces stress and risk. “A pre-inspection audit can help to identify if there are any obvious gaps and be a springboard for exploring opportunities for grant funding if there are problem areas.”
Farmers planning capital improvements should engage early with advisers and regulators. Many projects require approval before applications can proceed when the scheme opens later this year.
records and insufficient slurry storage capacity. Yard drainage is also a recurring problem, particularly after
“An issue we are also seeing come up a lot – particularly given the amount of rain we have had recently – is a lack of a drainage plan for yards,” Ms John-
Farmers must demonstrate they separate clean and dirty water effectively. Inspectors also expect rainwater systems to match site conditions. “It is worth remembering that slurry is defined as water which contains any level of faecal matter.”
More than 4,500 inspections were carried out by the Environment Agency on non-permitted farms in 2024/25. The agency plans to increase this to more than 6,000 by 2029.
Officials typically adopt an advice-led approach– allowing time to address issues before escalating enforcement. But repeated or serious breaches can trigger formal action.s.
Preparation is becoming more important as inspections increase. Ms Johnson advises farmers to carry out pre-inspection audits and review systems early. This can also identify opportunities to secure funding for improvements.
“The letter from the Environment Agency will explain all the paperwork that the inspector will want to see, but, in our experience, it can be very reassuring to have addressed any potential weaknesses well in advance, rather than under pressure.”
Ms Johnson advises farmers to carry out pre-inspection audits and review systems early. This can also identify opportunities to secure funding for improvements under the government’s capital grants scheme.
“Farmers considering making an application for the 2026 round of the scheme are advised to start their preparations now,” she says. It has previously funded slurry store roofs, farmyard manure stores and dirty water storage systems.
Anew farmer training programme aims to help growers adopt regenerative practices while managing risk and maintaining profitability.
The Landscape Enterprise Networks (LENs) initiative has appointed Ceres Rural to deliver the programme across eastern England. Up to 120 farmers will receive training on soil health, environmental management and business performance.
The move reflects a wider shift in agriculture towards systems-based farming. Farmers face pressure to improve soil resilience, reduce inputs and meet environmental targets, while keeping businesses viable.
The programme will combine onfarm sessions with online learning. Farmers will focus on soil structure, crop diversity, nutrient use and livestock integration. It will also cover water quality, biodiversity and funding schemes such as SFI.
Ceres Rural will work with a small
number of pilot farms to develop detailed transition plans. Organisers hope to expand this approach if results prove positive, says Ceres Rural partner Tim Isaac.
The aim is to provide practical guidance farmers can apply immediately, he adds. “Regenerative agriculture is as much about knowledge, confidence and decision making as it is about practice on the ground.”
“By combining on farm learning, technical training and tailored transition planning, we hope to help farmers reduce risk, build resilience and make regenerative systems work both environmentally and commercially.”
the programme topics
LENS farm adviser Chantal Brown says support is essential as farmers seek to change systems without increasing financial risk. “As LENs matures and scales, being able to provide more support to our farmers is critical,” she says.
ture, we must support farmers to invest time and effort, by helping them build knowledge, develop new technical expertise and reduce their risk.”
The training will run from May to December 2026, with evaluation early in 2027. It forms part of a broader effort to help farmers navigate changing policy, input costs and environmental demands.
Farming was never exactly stable. But there were things you could rely on.
Take harvest 2025. Yields were down by a good 15–20%.
In more certain times, a poor harvest like that would have meant higher cereal prices. Low yields, higher prices. Bumper harvest, lower prices.
That’s how it used to work. But times have changed – and not for the better.
Global and domestic events are now driving the outlook. Government legislation hasn’t helped, and events in the Middle East will have a real impact here at home. Diesel and
The numbers are very worrying indeed “
petrol prices are already rising, and that will feed straight into input costs.
Grain markets may react. Oilseeds may follow. But it’s closer to home where the real concern lies. And for those who follow domestic demand, the numbers are very worrying indeed.
Back in 2016/17, UK ethanol plants were using nearly 1.5 million tonnes of wheat and 190,000 tonnes of maize. This coming year, total usage across all crops may be just 200,000 tonnes.
That’s a huge drop. A government trade deal with the US allowed cheap, tariff-free imports to flood the market. With high running costs and no support, the Vivergo plant became unviable. Its loss leaves a big hole in demand for feed wheat.
On top of that, maltsters’ demand for barley has fallen over the past six months. If that trend continues, up to 300,000 tonnes could be left without a clear home. But there are some positives.
The dry 2025 harvest reduced yields but improved quality. Protein levels are higher
than normal, with 69% of Group 1 samples above 13%. Specific weights and Hagberg numbers are also up, meaning more UK wheat is suitable for milling.
So at least we may rely less on imports for now. That's the theory, anyway.
But it raises a bigger question — how low can cereal demand go in this country? Demand dipped during Covid and never fully recovered. Diets are changing. More people are turning away from traditional wheatbased foods. And what happens if 2026 delivers a big crop?
Other EU countries support their farming sectors. Ethanol production is supported. Here, it feels different. The industry needs to be properly understood by government. Otherwise, how can trade deals be struck in a way that supports UK farms?
At the moment, it can feel like farming doesn’t matter — that cheaper imports take priority, regardless of standards. Maybe recent world events will change that thinking.
But it starts with one thing: understanding, respecting and valuing farming.
We offer servicing, repairs, MOTs, vehicle upgrades and stock a range of 4x4 tyres for vehicles dating back to 1948 right up to the present day.
We are stockists of Allmakes, Britpart and genuine Land Rover parts, with over 17,000 stocklines.
We offer a daily delivery service across Norfolk and north Suffolkand aim to deliver within 24 hours of receiving your order.
Marrison Agriculture are holding our annual moisture meter clinic in Hingham on Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th May 2026. Please call to make an appointment.
Call now for special offers on moisture meters, aeration pedestals and post-harvest storage equipment
Marrison Agriculture Limited, Unit 8 Ironside Way, Hingham, Norfolk, NR9 4LF
