farmingscotland.com Issue 148

farmingscotland.com 2023 • Issue 148

World’s Largest Protein Producers World Sheep Shearing Cider Making in Somerset Scotland’s Beef Event Latest Machinery and much more...

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Contents BUSINESS

Pick-ups for Peace Pig Trade Global Red Meat Trade QMS Chefs’ Day RSABI Support Keeping Fit for Farmers All Electric 4x4 Mental Health First Aid Training

EDUCATION

Snack Attack Challenge 2023 Movers & Shakers

SHEEP

Carsphairn Show 2023 World Sheep Shearing Champs On the Stand – Calum Shaw Current World Champion Richard Jones On the Stand – Hamish Mitchell History of World Sheep Shearing Champs NSA Northsheep

14 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 40

11 28 30 32 34 36 38

MACHINERY

All Electric 4x4 Kuhn Robotic Diet Feeder BVL Twin Auger Mixer Wagon Hustler Hurricane Pottinger Boss Forage Wagon Claas Variant 500 Balers New Claas Disco 1010 Grimme Potato Planter Schaffer Two New Loaders Kubota Partners with Topcon

26 43 44 45 46 48 50 52 54 55

Scotland’s Beef Event Canadian Urges Farmers to Think Heading Up the Beef Shorthorns

16 18 27

BEEF

DAIRY

Proan – The World’s Biggest Protein Producer

4

Dry, Medium or Sweet?

58

WORLD TRAVELS/ INTEREST

58

farmingscotland.com

11 Editor 21

28

54

W

Eilidh MacPherson

ith a new sheep shed at Marbrack my lambing beat was indoors this year (front cover). It is probably a bit late for a lambing photo but I loved the way the light made the ewes all stripy!

A trip to Mexico with the International Guild of Agricultural Journalists in February was an eye opener. Our first on farm visit was to a 12 000 head dairy farm. This family run operation also had pig and poultry units, a bakery, ice cream making facilities and a dog food factory.

Complete circular farming is practised.

Read all about it on page 4.

While I was in the Americas, globetrotting Petra Jacob was at home in the UK for once, with a cider feature from Somerset on page 58.

Irish machinery correspondent – Chris McCullough – has all bases covered from trailers to balers,

Eilidh MacPherson Editor/publisher farmingscotland.com Magazine Marbrack Farm Carsphairn Castle Douglas DG7 3TE

machines for feeding, bedding to loading and the latest in telescopic mower booms and potato planters. Start his section on page 43.

With the World Sheep Shearing Championships coming up at the Royal Highland Show we have On the Stand interviews with the Scottish Team machine shearers – Hamish Mitchell and Calum Shaw, a history of the World Champs and an interview with current World Champion, Welshman Richard Jones.

Other events coming up include: the NSA North Sheep at Bradford House Farm, Northumberland on Wednesday 7th June (see page 40) and the Scottish Beef Event at Dalswinton Estate in Dumfriesshire on the 6th June (p 18).

Scary to hear that Avian Flu is now spreading to mammals, with the death of two raccoons recorded on Prince Edward Island, Canada.

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Photos by Eilidh MacPherson unless otherwise stated on page 21

PROAN

the World’s Biggest Protein

Producer

by Eilidh MacPherson

PROAN – the World’s

A

Biggest Protein Producer

recent trip to Mexico with the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists had an interesting and diverse itinerary – from typically Mexican agave growing and Tequila production to the more universal dairying, berry growing and avocado farming.

For me a visit to the family owned PROAN near San Juan de Los Lagos in the state of Jalisco was the absolute highlight and some! Taking their name from the words Protein and Animal this father and four sons large scale family farming business is apparently the biggest protein producing operation in the world.

With a tag-line “Let’s feed the world together,” on their website the Romo family milk 12 000 Holstein dairy cows, rear 1.6M Duroc pigs, run 36M Bovans laying hens and have several other complimentary enterprises too boot, so

6

are giving a good crack at the whip at feeding the world!

Established in 1950 as a family owned and operated property of 500 laying hens, today Proan is the largest livestock facility in Latin America. Still owned by the Romo family and operated under the philosophy “what is good can always be better,” Proan is now headed by one of the sons, CEO, Manuel Romo.

DAIRY

The state of the art fully air conditioned shed, (pictured above), which houses 5500 dairy cows, is the first of its kind in Mexico.

“Pure air comes in and we find that year round the cows are in better health and are producing more milk, averaging 39 litres/cow at 4% fat and 3.45 protein,” commented dairy manager Anders Conales (above).

“The 12 000 dairy cows are milked on two 80-bail rotary parlours with two 11 hour milkings on each over the 24 hours,” he added. “We guarantee the extraction and purity of the milk, which never comes into contact with the outside.”

With around 440 000 l of fresh milk leaving the premises a day, Coca Cola is the largest client, while a small percentage of the milk is used by sister company Bolonia to make ice cream (photo p10).

As the cattle are housed 24/7, year round they have the equivalent of daylight for 16 hours at 150 lux and 10% intensity at night.

The cattle are fed a corn alfalfa, soya based ration twice a day.

The shed is cleaned while the cows are being milked, using a no water system. The manure is split with the dried manure composted and recycled as bedding.

FARM FACTS Farmer:

Farming:

PROAN

Area:

approx 2000 acres

Location: Cattle: Pigs: Poultry:

Sheep:

Employees: Other:

Jalisco, Mexico

12 000 dairy cows bull beef also bull fighting bulls

1 600 000 Duroc Pigs 4500 slaughtered every day using own facilities 36M laying hens, the second largest egg producer in the world also sell chicken 80 000 Pelle ewes 7000 full time 700 others

Own packaging company Bakery Dog Food manufacturer Ice Cream maker 7000full time employees and 700 others

“What is

good can always be

better”

PIGS

Pigs were introduced in 1970 with the first full-cycle pig farm in Mexico and pork production now accounts for 20% of the business at Proan.

Sixteen per cent of the pig meat is exported to the USA, Canada, Japan (8%), Korea and Hong Kong.

The 1.6 Million pigs are reared in a multi-site system for “sanitary reasons and safety from diseases.”

“We offer a product unmatched in quality and that is 100% traceable, starting from the pig genetics, up to the precise completion of each growth stage and until the product reaches our customers and consumers,” commented Tomas, who heads up the pig, animal health and horticulture divisions.

The first unit houses the productive females, who are artificially inseminated.

At 25 days old the piglets are moved to the second unit. By 70 days and at an average weight of 73kgs they are shifted to the third site – the fattening unit.

The pigs are ready for slaughter around the 160-day mark, weighing between 125 and 135kgs.

A tour round the enclosed walkway above one of their pig slaughtering premises was an eye-opener. We viewed

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the whole process from start to finish. A staggering 4500 pigs that are produced in-house are slaughtered every day. The whole procedure was as stress free as possible for the pigs, entering a CO2 chamber. The carcases are chilled overnight. A third are sold whole and the rest are cut the following day, with the ones heading for the USA cut in six pieces.

Every last part of the carcase is used with any waste bound for the biodigesters, which produce electricity for the plants. The business is entirely self-sufficient in electricity and any extra is sent to the National Grid.

Proan was the first to export the pancreas to Germany for pharmaceutical work. The rectum heads to Korea, the stomach and intestine to the USA, while the entrails are salted and sold on the domestic market. The hair and the flour of the blood are used as fertiliser and the bones are crushed for use in Proan’s dog food manufacturing operation – Maka.

“Demand is increasing so we are installing new lines,” added Tomas.

EGG PRODUCTION

With 36 million layers, Mexico’s Proteina Animal (PROAN) ranks as the

world’s second largest egg producer when measured by flock size. Only the United States company Cal-Maine Foods, based in Mississippi produce more – 44.3M. Egg production is the backbone of this Mexican farming business with the bulk selling into the North American market, as table eggs, egg whites, liquid egg and egg albumen.

Using Bovans layers, the company’s egg producing flock has expanded by 20% since 2016. For the past five years they have been producing 600 000 day-old layer pullets a week in their new hatchery installed in 2017.

The Bovan Brown is a highly versatile and robust laying hen. Combined traits include high peak production, great laying persistency and a flat egg weight curve, resulting in top quality dark brown eggs.

The Bovans Brown laying hens have excellent feed intake capacity and robustness so that it fully expresses genetic potential in multi-age and free-range environments.

The hens are reared in 8-level battery cages, pictured right, which were designed in-house.

Mexico incidentally has the highest per capita egg consumption in the world – apparently 409 eggs per person in 2021! They are followed by Japan and Columbia.

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 9 10

State/ Country

Worlds Top Ten Egg Producers

Mississippi, USA Jalisco, Mexico 8 states across USA Bangkok, Thailand Beijing, China Iowa, USA Pennsylvania, USA Tokyo, Japan Wiconsin, USA Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Company

Cal-Maine Foods PROAN Rose Acre Farms CP Group Beijing Dequingyuan Ag. Tech. Co. Ltd Versova Holdings LLP Hillandale Farms Ise Inc. Daybreak Foods Arab Co. for Livestock Development

Layers (Millions) 44.3 36.0 27.6 22.0 20.6 20.1 20.0 20.0 15.0 14.0

POULTRY PRODUCTION

Chickens are also reared for human and animal consumption at PROAN and the layers go for dog food when their productive life is over.

FEED

Eighteen silos, which can store a total of 250 000 tonnes of grain and raw materials, are used to feed the dairy herd, layers and pigs. Sixty-six per cent of the feed is for the poultry and 32% the pigs. In 1990 the family started constructing an underground railroad from the port of Santa Maria for the reception of grains and inputs. All the yellow corn is imported from the USA. Flour for the in-house bakeries is also milled on site.

CIRCULAR FARMING

“At PROAN we are committed to reducing the impact of our industrial processes, as well as optimizing our forms of production to guarantee a more sustainable use of our resources: water, electricity, raw materials and the transformation of organic waste.

“We are proudly aligned with the sustainable development goals of the United Nations (UN).”

The farming operations belong to the National Environmental Audit Program, a plan that contributes to the improvement of production processes to obtain green, sustainable economic growth and in accordance with the national climate change strategy.

“We strive to ensure that our waste water is recycled and used for irrigation, avoiding the eutrophication of surface water beds, in addition, solid waste is used in our compost for the fertilization of agricultural fields, which allows us to comply with biological cycles, positively impacting the ecology of our region and avoiding the use of non-renewable fertilizers.

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“We have a strong commitment to the environment, that’s why we make our processes self-sustainable, we supply our facilities with electricity with the biogas generated with the waste of our pigs. And the company's sports and recreational fields have solar cells through, which we transform solar energy into electrical energy.”

The company also recycles more than 3000 tonnes of newspaper and cardboard a month, producing their own packaging.

EMPLOYEES

PROAN has 7000 full time employees and 700 seasonal workers and plays a huge role in the local employment rate.

“We promote human development as one of the pillars of our business strengthening. Our best capital is the people who work in the company, our collaborators, who with their loyalty, commitment and daily work make us grow.”

They offer all employees the opportunity to attend talks, workshops, conferences with management, health, environmental and motivational themes.

Employees’ families also benefit from school scholarships, education, health sports and the arts.

Twice a year PROAN hosts an event hosting 200-500 Mexican farmers and agri-industry representatives. They share and spread information so that the local agricultural industry can grow.

For me the trip to Mexico was an amazing experience and I found the visit to PROAN inspiring. It was wonderful to see what one family had achieved in the past seven decades and how they share their success and knowledge with their employees and wider community.

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Pick-ups For Peace

ick-ups for peace has delivered its hundredth vehicle to Ukraine, exceeding its initial target of sending 100 4x4 cars to the country's Eastern front.

One hundred and four vehicles, including two ambulances and a campervan, have now been successfully delivered across four convoys, driven to Ukraine by 160 volunteers from the UK. The charity marked the milestone at a dinner in Lviv for the most recent convoy's drivers. The group were joined

by Ukrainian military and humanitarian strategists who confirmed how crucial the vehicles are for communities in and around the frontlines – and will be until Ukraine gets back its international recognised sovereign borders as agreed in 1991.

Pick-ups for peace have now set their sights on the next 100 vehicles and are scaling up their operations as they commit to the long haul. To achieve this target, they are now scoping sources of 4x4 vehicles from all sectors and all corners of the country.

Pick-ups for peace co-founder, Vince

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Gillingham, who has just completed his fourth mission to Ukraine in as many months, said: "Our original aim of sending 100 4x4s to Ukraine by June has been achieved ahead of schedule. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have donated vehicles and funds, and our drivers.

"Each convoy is getting bigger – there were 66 volunteers in the most recent one – and the momentum behind the charity is awe-inspiring. A dozen of the participants were under the age of 25 and had raised thousands of pounds each to donate and transport a vehicle.

Others have given vehicles even though they will struggle to replace them.

"Our military contacts echo this gratitude and the impact donated vehicles is having on Ukrainian communities and troops' capacity at the front is clearly defined. Their message is sobering, however; they need our support for the long haul, until Russia has gone and Ukraine is back on its feet."

Mark Laird, newly back from his fourth convoy to Ukraine, said: "It's

incredible to think that what started out as a conversation has grown into something so big. It's not just vehicles we're delivering: Russia wants to break the Ukrainians' spirit, but every convoy brings morale as well, and we make a point of celebrating each consignment in Lviv with a dinner for the drivers and our Ukrainian friends.

"I have worked with hundreds of people in Lviv and every one of them is either fighting in this war, or has family members and friends that are doing so.

The Ukrainians are fighting this war on our behalf, and we are very fortunate that they are willing to do this.

"Now that we have charity status, we have a stronger platform on which to build and we are looking to throw the net wide open to all sources of 4x4s. The UK's farming and rural community are fundamental to this cause and we are deeply grateful to all those who have funded us so far, as well as the 160 volunteers who have driven vehicles.

We won't give up. Russia wants us to get bored and back off, but we are doubling down."

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T

he Scottish Beef Event is making a welcome return since its cancellation due to Covid.

Attendees will get an insight to the operations at Dalswinton Estate, Dumfries, which include the 550-strong herd of suckler cows focusing on maternal breeds with Charolais bulls used at terminal sires, as well as

diversifications, which add to the estate’s viability – wind turbines, a wedding venue, which utilises the walled garden, along with residential and commercial property, a whisky bottling unit and holiday, fishing and shooting lets.

Peter Landale, whose family has owned the 5000-acre estate for more than 100 years, commented: “Agriculture and particularly beef farming is coming under increasing scrutiny. We see this as a real opportunity to bring the beef industry

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together and create a day where farmers can discuss the future, share ideas and see the Dalswinton suckler herd on the ground.”

Event Chairman, Scott Henderson, commented: “We first approached Peter back in 2020 and are delighted that he’s stuck with us in his offer to host Scotland’s Beef Event. It aims to showcase what you as producers can do to reduce your carbon footprint and other input costs which have seen a significant rise in recent years. The information to do so is out there, you just need to look for it so we hope to have all that information available and easy to pick up for those attending the Beef Event.”

Together with Farm Manager, Andy Williamson, the team run a stratified breeding operation, which includes a herd of 60 Luings and a few Blue Greys within the hill herd, which are crossed to the Shorthorn. These produce a strong calf with good hybrid vigour, ,which is then covered by the Aberdeen Angus to produce the ideal Dalswinton cow – a good, medium sized cow full of milk that retains her hardiness.

Charolais bulls are then used to sire the end product, a uniform calf crop with growth rates that suit their customers’ needs.

Calves are sold store at 10 to 12 months of age having grown from 300kg or so at weaning to 400kg at time of sale, averaging around the £1200 mark in line with the current good trade for cattle.

The team is very open and honest about beef production at Dalswinton, and is continually looking at how they can improve not only profit margins but also the sustainability and viability of the herd.

Peter explained: “We recorded a loss of £81 per cow before subsidy for the 2022-23 year, but we’ve got to look at the

wider estate and we have to understand what we’re doing with marketing.

“A major flaw in our business is that we sell our calves store – effectively we’re passing our product on to someone else to take down the chain and make the most of the sustainability we’ve worked towards.

“It may be that we need to look more at finishing our cattle and adding these benefits to the end product, marketing our animals better. The end consumer is now very interested in the product they buy – how was it reared, is it local, what is its global impact – so if we are doing all we can to improve our carbon footprint, improve our biodiversity appeal and have a desirable end product, we should be the ones to market our animals.

“There’s a phrase, if you chase rainbows you’re never going to catch them, so we tend to stick with a plan and make small changes rather than drastic ones. It looked a good plan to build numbers to 550 cows but should that number instead be 400 to reduce input costs, look at finishing calves and leave a better margin?”

A key part of the day will be the three seminars looking at important issues within the industry – Agriculture Beyond Support, Sustainable Farming in Theory and Sustainable Farming in Practise. The opening seminar will feature Cabinet Secretary for Rural

Affairs and Islands, Mairi Gougeon, as well as Brian Richardson, Head of Agriculture at Virgin Money and Professor John Gilliland, AHDB Environment Team.

Discussing the options available to farmers as the future of financial support goes through a transition period, these three industry experts will give their own professional insight to the challenges resulting from the transition from the Basic Payment Scheme to the new form of support.

“We are currently in a huge period of change and the economics of what farmers are doing is going to change so

we are here to share the support arrangements available. We are on the journey to net zero and there are challenges ahead for livestock producers but it is key for farmers to start that journey,” stated Brian Richardson.

“Regenerative farming is the buzzword of the moment but it’s all about sustainability and farming plays an important part of that as well as maintaining the countryside. It is critical that future support brought in looks at food production. The industry is long term so it’s important that future plans are long term.

“It’s all about maintaining a productive and profitable beef industry and we are here to support farmers on

that journey. We hope they will go away from Scotland’s Beef Event with a need to take that knowledge further.”

From mid-day, the Sustainable Farming in Theory seminar will hear from experts in breeding for sustainability while incorporating cattle health planning, reducing emissions and reducing costs. There will also be discussions on trees and peat and their role in carbon sequestration.

Then, on-farm producers from across Scotland will discuss how they have introduced Sustainable Farming in Practise on their own units. This will include realistic key performance indicators in suckler cows, cost reduction and improving profits, and the effect of regenerative practises.

FARM FACTS Farmer:

Arron Nebras

Location:

Manitoba, Canada

Area:

Cattle: Other:

C

anadian Aberdeen-Angus breeder Arron Nerbas encouraged UK beef farmers to ‘challenge tradition’ at the recent British Cattle Breeders Conference.

Mr Nerbas said many farmers had probably heard of the phrases: ‘that works for us’ or ‘that is how we have always done it.’

He said these can be the most expensive words in farming because they make people resistant to change.

“Tradition is very much entrenched in farming, but we need to be open-minded and consider our options as we move forward,” he urged.

Mr Nerbas runs 75 purebred and 475 commercial Aberdeen-Angus cows across 2023ha (5000 acres) in Manitoba, Canada.

Mr Nerbas and his brother, Shane, have been practising regenerative and holistic grazing principles since 2005 – ideas he says his parents, Cynthia and Gene, have embraced, but would not have considered when they started farming.

This means they have a small 575kg cow, on average, that can thrive off grass and outwinter on bale grazing for four

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5000 acres

75 Aberdeen Angus 475 commercial Angus

practising regenerative and holistic grazing principles since 2005

Canadian Urges Farmers to Think Outside the Box months in daytime temperatures of -30C, with no fertiliser used.

“The key benefits are healthy soil, increased resilience to drought and increased biodiversity,” explained Mr Nerbas.

“Over the past 20 years, through our grazing management, we have increased our forage production by 2-2.5 times.

You don’t have to get more land or more cows to make more money.”

The herd has been closed for 20 years with new genetics introduced via artificial insemination (AI). However, in the future, they plan to use their own bulls because they feel they have enough genetic variation within the herd.

Mr Nerbas said Aberdeen-Angus cattle were well suited to his system thanks to their efficiency and ability to maintain body condition within his 100% forage-fed system.

When choosing replacements he takes a system-based approach, rather than letting his cows define the system he runs.

“Farmers love the cow too much,” said Mr Nerbas.

“I see cattle through a different lens. I

love what the cow can do more than the cow itself.”

He believes farmers should choose the system they want and find the cow to fit it.

Heifers are selected on phenotype alone and strict system pressure determines which ones make the grade.

Milk and cow size have been reduced over the years to make the herd efficient foragers. He said this works well in their ‘optimum performance model,’ aimed at producing maximum meat per acre.

He expects heifers and cows to birth unassisted, maintain body condition, wean more than 50% of their bodyweight at 205 days and re-breed at 55 days post-calving.

These strict but simple selection criteria are delivering less than 2% assisted calvings and they are weaning 85% of calves put to the bull.

He added: “Change is often where you will find opportunity.”

Mr Nerbas was speaking at the British Cattle Breeders conference in Telford, Shropshire, on 23 and 24 January as part of seminars sponsored by the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society.

I

n the week ending April 8th, the GB Standard Pig Price (SPP) reached a new record high of 216.7p/kg deadweight, according to the latest market commentary from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).

This was 37% higher than the same week last year and 45% above the five-year average. While the market has historically edged higher in March and April, the unusual feature in 2023 has been a steady upwards trend since the beginning of the year, with the SPP rising by 8.3% in thirteen weeks.

Iain Macdonald, QMS Market Intelligence Manager, explains: “While a large part of the year-on-year change reflects the sharp increase in pig prices between spring and summer 2022, when pork processors had supported prices in an attempt to protect future security of supply, the further price lift in 2023 appears to have been driven by a sharp tightening of supply.”

Going back to June 2022, while a census was not carried out in Scotland, the census results for England had shown year-on-year declines of 17% in the English sow herd and of 1.4% in prime pigs on farm. Recently published December census results showed that the pace of year-on-year sow herd contraction in England had reached 20%, while the year-on-year fall in prime pigs had accelerated to 7.9%.

This lagged impact on the prime slaughter market is reflected in Defra slaughter statistics as GB abattoir throughput fell by less than 1% year-onyear between June and November 2022.

However, slaughter numbers then fell by 8.7% on a year earlier in December 2022, followed by declines of 2.6% in January and 18.6% in February. Over the three months to February 2023, prime pig throughput at GB abattoirs fell by 10.1% year-on-year and was down by 8.4% on the five-year average.

Meanwhile, data from ScotEID showed an 18.5% year-on-year reduction in pigs leaving Scottish farms for slaughter in the first quarter of 2023.

Iain continues: “Adding to this decline in pig availability has been a

rebalancing of carcase weights from the elevated levels seen over the winter of 2021/22. With abattoirs able to handle the volume of pigs ready for slaughter this year, the average carcase weight of standard pigs at price reporting abattoirs was around 6% behind year earlier levels between December and February.

“As a result, the year-on-year decline in prime pig throughput of 10% in the December to February period at GB abattoirs turned into a 15% reduction in the volume of pigmeat produced.”

Over and above this fall in prime pigmeat output, the volume of sow meat produced for export and further processing has fallen even more sharply, with GB abattoir throughput of sows and boars down by 24% year-on-year in the three months to February 2023.

While some of this decline reflects the elevated sow slaughter levels of winter 2021/22 due to herd contraction, throughput was still nearly 14% below the five-year average, a stronger decline than for prime pigs.

Defra figures highlight the scale of the decline in UK pigmeat production this year, with the UK producing 25,800 fewer tonnes in the first two months of 2023 compared to 2022, more than double the 12,500 tonne increase in UK pigmeat production that was seen in the calendar year of 2022.

Meanwhile, after adjusting domestic pigmeat production to account for import and export volumes, total UK pigmeat market supply is estimated to have fallen sharply since summer 2022.

The estimated decline between July 2022 and February 2023 is enough to more than offset the previous lift in supply from the first half of 2022.

“As well as reduced trade flows, the price of pigmeat imports and exports will have been having an impact on the domestic pig market. Indeed, the average value of pork imports to the UK from the EU rose sharply in 2022, reflecting the surge in EU pig prices. In the first two months of 2023, the average price per tonne imported to the UK from the EU was 26% higher than a year

earlier, while exports averaged 78% more expensive than in early 2022.”

These external pricing pressures are likely to have continued given that EU pig prices have risen at nearly twice the pace of GB prices since the start of 2023, narrowing the difference between GB and EU farmgate pig prices to around 4-5% since the beginning of March compared to a gap of around 12% at the beginning of the year.

“Looking forward, the sharp decline in pig numbers reported in England in December 2022 suggests that domestic supply is set to remain tight for much of this year. Although the steep fall in sow slaughter in early 2023 could be a sign that some producers are beginning to rebuild herds now that farmgate prices have rebalanced higher and the cost of straight feeds has fallen back sharply, any recovery in prime pig numbers will come at a considerable lag.

“Meanwhile, external factors look set to support a tight domestic market. In the EU, the pork market continues to look tight. Indeed, EU pigmeat production reduced by 5.6% in 2022 and the EU Commission is forecasting a 5.1% decline in 2023. While the EU Commission had been expecting pork import volumes from non-EU sources to rise in 2023 to support consumption, tight supply in the UK limited the volume exported from the UK to the EU in January and February.”

Iain concludes: “Looking further afield, the Chinese pork market has softened slightly further in recent weeks after an improvement in supply led to a sharp fall in wholesale pork prices between October 2022 and February 2023.

“However, there are reports of a spike in cases of African Swine Fever in China and futures market pricing in China suggests that traders are expecting supply to tighten in the second half of the year, potentially supporting demand for imports.

Similarly, there have been reports from the Philippines that ASF is leading to a shortage of pork.”

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F

armgate cattle and pig prices have reached a new record high as the lamb trade struggles to match levels of early 2021 and 2022, according to the latest market commentary from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).

Forecasts from leading agriculture analysts point to further instability in the global red meat market in 2023 from both the supply and demand sides, with increased trade flows required to bring markets back towards balance.

Iain Macdonald, QMS Market Intelligence Manager, explained: "Set against slightly reduced world output, global beef demand is forecast to remain resilient despite economic headwinds, with consumption almost unchanged.

For this to happen, mismatch between supply and demand at country-level means that global trade in beef will need to rise significantly."

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has forecast a 0.3% reduction in world production to 59.2 million tonnes in 2023. This is despite beef production being projected to surge by 17% in Australia, as its beef sector continues to rebound from a drought induced herd liquidation in 2018 and 2019, plus expectations of 2-3% output growth for major producers Brazil, Mexico and China and a 1% increase in the UK. Offsetting these gains is a forecast 6.5% fall in output in the USA, the world's largest beef producer, where drought in key calf producing states was followed by elevated cow slaughter and then fewer young cattle being placed in feedlots. Small declines have also been modelled for Argentina, New Zealand, Canada, Japan and the EU. Iain said: "Imports are set to reach 18% of global consumption in 2023, up from 17.7% in 2022 and well above the

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Global Red Me Set to Remain 16.1% level seen in the pre-pandemic year of 2019. The combination of a relatively tight global beef market and increased trade points to firm beef prices.

"China and Hong Kong will be the main drivers, with an expected 1.5% rise of import volumes as they reduce covid restrictions domestically and re-open to overseas tourists and businesspeople.

While China and Hong Kong are set to collectively account for more than 80% of the net increase in beef imports, tight supply is also projected to boost imports to the USA and Japan, while strong demand in Korea is expected to fuel a further lift in imports despite higher domestic output."

In contrast to the beef sector, the USDA projects global pork output to edge 0.3% higher to 114.1m. This would see the recovery from African Swine Fever (ASF) in China and South East Asia continue, taking production almost 20% above its 2020-low. However, consumption growth is set to outpace this, requiring a slight increase in global imports.

Since China accounts for 48% of world production, just over half of consumption and 21% of imports, it is set to remain an important driver of global pork market conditions. A slight rise in imports has been pencilled in; though, at 2.1m tonnes, volumes would remain well below the highs of 2019-21, where shipments had peaked at 5.3m tonnes in 2020.

However, there is considerable uncertainty around the outlook in China, with the persistent market volatility of recent years continuing into 2023. Wholesale pork prices in China doubled between April and October 2022, but then declined by 35% between the beginning of November and

late-January, suggesting a marked improvement in supply since the autumn. A rebound in imports has contributed to the change in market conditions, with monthly volumes picking up through Q4 2022 and managing to show year-on-year growth in December.

Away from China, rising pork production has been forecast in Brazil, Japan, Mexico, the USA and the Philippines in 2023, whereas declines are projected in Canada, South Korea, the EU and the UK. However, with a rising cost of living pressuring disposable incomes across much of the world, pork's position as a competitively priced protein has led the USDA to project increased consumption and/or imports in most of these countries and regions.

Iain said: "Although China has a stronger foothold on global import demand than before the African Swine Fever Crisis, imports across all other countries are set to be 8% higher this year than in 2018, highlighting that significant opportunities will lie elsewhere."

The USDA forecasts do not cover global lamb market conditions. "In the UK lamb sector, production is projected to rise this year as a result of a slower marketing profile of the 2022 lamb crop boosting the hogg carryover. At EU level, the EU Commission has forecast a slight uplift in production for 2023 but, with consumption projected to rise by 1%, a 4% lift in imports is modelled, and this should help support UK exports."

Meanwhile, Beef + Lamb New Zealand have revised their expectations for New Zealand lamb production in the October 2022 to September 2023 season due to a poor lambing. The lamb crop is estimated to have fallen by 2.6%,

eat Trade Flows Firm in 2023 compared to a 1.4% contraction in breeding ewe numbers, extending the decline in lamb numbers over an eight-year period to 15%. However, slaughter statistics point to a strong start to the processing season, with the kill up nearly 13% year-on-year through October and November, driven by a return to a more normal marketing pattern after a delayed schedule in 2021-22.

Despite increased production and competitive prices, Beef + Lamb New Zealand trade data shows that in Q4 2022, New Zealand lamb export volumes fell by 2.6% compared to a year earlier. Interestingly, sales to China rebounded by 14%, almost matching the highs of Q4 in 2019 and 2020, whereas the volume shipped to Europe fell by 17%, suggesting a rebalancing of activity. Moving into 2023, New Zealand lamb continues to look price competitive, with farmgate prices around 20% lower than in early 2022.

In Australia, Meat and Livestock Australia are anticipating continuing recovery from drought in 2023, with good grazing conditions boosting producer confidence despite softer farmgate prices. The other side to reduced farmgate prices is export competitiveness and coupled with higher availability and tight supply in New Zealand, this points to Australia's lamb processors becoming more active in export markets in 2023.

Iain added: "It should be noted that Australia's lamb shipments to the UK are restricted by a tariff-rate quota and, due to firm sales in 2022, any further increase in 2023 is likely to depend on the free trade agreement between the UK and Australia entering force and expanding tariff-free quota access."

S

elected chefs from across the country recently put their 'Scotch' knowledge to the test as they attended Campbells Prime Meat at their facility near Linlithgow for an event on Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork.

Hosted in collaboration with QMS, the objective of the day was to inform the ten chefs on the unique distinctions among the three Scotch brands and to clarify the parameters of what it takes to be classified as Scotch.

Topics such as The Scotch Difference, assurance schemes, traceability, DNA testing, pricing, supply chain and breed specificity were discussed during the presentation by Gordon Newlands, Brands Development Manager at QMS. The attendees on the day included chefs from independent restaurants, restaurant groups and major stadium kitchens.

Iain Brown, Campbells Prime Meat Director and Christopher Campbell, MDof Campbells Prime Meat, welcomed the chefs, along with factory manager Darrin Leslie and supervising butcher Jordan Hanley. The presenters took guests on a culinary journey of Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb, demonstrating different cuts and explaining which part of the carcasses they came from. The chefs paid close attention throughout and were impressed by the showcase of cutting and seaming methods by the two master butchers.

The final item on the agenda was a tasting lunch of all three proteins under the QMS umbrella: Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork.

Campbells Prime Meats chef, Stevie Cheape, prepared Lamb racks, Pork fillet and Beef sirloin and fillet for the attendees to sample. The quality of the

products, both in flavour and tenderness, were highly praised by all.

Gordon Newlands said: "The event was an engaging session that aimed to educate chefs on the unique distinctions between the Scotch brands and what it means to be classified as 'Scotch.'

Feedback post-event has been really positive from the chefs, so hopefully we can hold another event of the same calibre in the near future."

Iain Brown, Director at Campbells Prime Meat, said: "It was a pleasure to welcome the ten chefs to our recent Scotch brands event with QMS. It was a successful session and provided valuable insights into all three Scotch products. The showcase of cutting and seaming methods, as well as the delicious tasting lunch, highlighted the exceptional quality of these products.

We are delighted with the positive feedback we've had from those who attended."

Speaking post-event on LinkedIn, Stuart Aitken, Regional Culinary Lead at BaxterStorey, said: "A great insight into Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb accreditation, which holds the coveted PGI status and rightly so. Seeing the butchers do their thing never gets old, sadly a skill that is slowly leaving many kitchens. I look forward to continuing our partnership."

Kieran Wight, Head Chef at Scottish Rugby Hospitality Elior UK, wrote: "Delighted to attend a fantastic collaboration with Campbells and QMS. A fantastic insight into Scotch Beef, Lamb and Specially Selected Pork and the knowledge and experience from the skilled butchers. Engaging with suppliers, ensuring the best possible product reaches us and learning about its background is key."

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RSABI Ramps up Support for Scottish Farmers and Crofters Amidst Cost-of-living Crisis

W

ith many people in the agricultural industry affected by rising energy costs and the cost-of-living crisis, RSABI has seen its spend on Help for Heating grants almost double since last year.

The organisation, which supports people in Scottish agriculture, is urging those involved in farming and crofting to make the most of the grants and support services available to them, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to put significant pressure on the sector.

The charity's Help for Heating financial support scheme is available for farmers, crofters and others working in, or retired from, agriculture who are struggling to absorb the rapidly rising costs of heating bills.

Grant payments starting at £300 are available to farmers and crofters to claim through the initiative, designed to help those who require support to heat their homes.

Help for Heating applicants are eligible to receive the funding if they are associated with the agriculture industry, spending more than 10% of their household income on heating costs and finding it difficult to afford essentials

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like food and clothing.

RSABI's Welfare Manager Chris McVey said: "These are exceptional times, and we've already seen demand for Help for Heating payments increase significantly.

"We encourage any farmers or crofters, or others involved in Scottish agriculture, who are struggling with rising costs to please get in touch. Our team will take you through a straightforward application process and we might be able to help you in other ways too."

RSABI's freephone Helpline - 0808 1234 555 - is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and calls won't show up on phone bills. All enquiries are treated as confidential by RSABI's friendly, professional team.

McVey added: "We know there will be many households out there who were managing, but with the cost-of-living crisis, increased home energy costs and increased input costs, financial pressure is growing which we know causes stress and has a negative impact on individuals' mental health."

Mr McVey said his team had spoken with older people living on their own

who had been afraid to put their heating on due to concerns about costs.

"If you're worried about rising energy costs or are already struggling to stay warm in your home, please don't hesitate to contact RSABI about our Help for Heating support and enquire about the other support we offer.

"In cases where finances have become really difficult, we can also very quickly arrange a pre-paid debit card to pay for grocery shopping and we can also arrange purchases where household goods break down and people are struggling to pay for replacement items."

The charity also offers ongoing financial support through an Annual Beneficiary scheme, where people in need who meet the support criteria receive regular payments to help top-up their income.

To apply or find out more information, visit the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk, where a 24 hour webchat service is available, or to chat to a case officer, call the RSABI freephone Helpline on 0808 1234 555.

A

n Ayrshire farming couple are helping to inspire farmers, crofters and others working in Scottish agriculture, about the benefits of keeping fit.

Jacalyn Dunlop and Grant Neilson, who now run their own fitness business G&J Coaching, have volunteered their services to help agricultural charity, RSABI, promote the benefits of exercise to mental and physical health.

Jacalyn and Grant came first and third in their respective categories in the 2022 Britain's Fittest Farmer competition, launched five years ago by Farmers Weekly to spark discussions about physical and mental health in farming.

Jacalyn, who grew up on Holehouse Farm, near Ochiltree, now works fulltime in the fitness business while Grant combines working on the family farm, Park Farm near East Kilbride, with fitness training.

The pair are delighted to be health and fitness ambassadors for RSABI and determined to help promote the benefits of regular exercise to people working in Scottish agriculture.

In a series of videos filmed for RSABI, the pair share their top tips, including how farmers can find time to keep fit and healthy and build looking after themselves into a non-negotiable part of their daily routines.

After the pair started training together, the mutual motivation and accountability they offered each other helped drive their fitness careers and has seen them both now become personal trainers.

Talking in their RSABI ambassador videos, Jacalyn and Grant discuss how staying active helps improve their mental wellbeing and promote routes to

BENEFITS OF KEEPING FIT FOR FARMERS fitness that are both relatable and accessible for those working in agriculture.

RSABI has supported Britain's Fittest Farmer for several years and entries are now open for the 2023 competition, which aims to get farmers thinking and talking about their physical and mental health.

Farmers of all ages are invited to take part in one of three qualifiers throughout the UK including a new event for this year taking place at the Royal Highland Show on Sunday 25 June.

"We originally entered the fittest farmer competition on a bit of a whim and didn't know what to expect from it as it was the first time either of us had entered," said Jacalyn.

"The community the event brings together is incredible with a big focus on the importance of promoting fitness in farming. And the event really opens the floor to conversations around mental health."

Before turning to fitness, Grant was struggling with his mental health after sustaining an injury playing rugby, leaving him unable to continue doing the sport he loved. He started training in the gym and working out to fill the void and found it was a release.

"I think when people start to look at the wider benefits of fitness – which for me personally would be strength and mental health benefits, rather than just as a way to lose weight – it becomes less of a chore and more of a choice, which is when you can start to see the true value of it," added Jacalyn.

"We're passionate about encouraging more farmers to prioritise their fitness and help them understand the benefits they will get from dedicating some time

in their day to being active, aside from farming.

"Many farmers find themselves sitting in a cycle of eat, sleep, farm repeat but it's so important to create a bit of space between you and the farm – go for a walk, run, cycle, do an online workout, use the space and resources around you to work fitness into your every-day life."

Carol McLaren, Chief Executive of RSABI, thanked Grant and Jacalyn, who are also planning a new fitness competition for young farmers, for the work they are doing.

"Jacalyn and Grant are truly inspirational and we hope that by sharing their tips and advice more and more farmers and crofters will become aware of the benefits of looking after themselves both physically and mentally.

"That could be just making time to go for a walk, or going all out to take part in a challenge such as Britain's Fittest Farmer. The main thing is to do something you enjoy and to take that first step!"

RSABI's freephone confidential helpline – 0808 1234 555 – is open 24 hours a day, every day. The services offered include practical, emotional and financial support for people in Scottish agriculture. Importantly, RSABI can provide a free counselling service which, if urgent, can be arranged quickly after receiving the initial enquiry.

For more information and to watch Jacalyn and Grant's videos please visit the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk, where you can also find a 24-hour confidential webchat service. You can also follow RSABI on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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World’s Most Capable All-Electric 4x4

Designed and engineered to enable agriculture and other demanding terrain-based sectors to cut emissions without compromising on off-road performance

M

unro Vehicles, a manufacturer of all-electric 4x4s and Scotland’s only volume production car company, will gave its first vehicle, the Munro MK_1, its public debut at the Low Carbon Agriculture 2023 show at NAEC Stoneleigh.

The Munro MK_1 combines a state-of-the-art 280kW electric powertrain with a proven, robust, simple-to-maintain mechanical driveline. Ultra-utilitarian and explicitly user-focussed in nature, the Munro is engineered to provide a unique solution for those wishing to minimize their environmental footprint without compromising off-road ability, performance and practicality.

“Meeting the demanding needs of the agriculture sector was foremost in our minds when we were developing the Munro MK_1,” explains Munro CEO Russell Peterson, who co-founded the company with Head of Powertrain Ross Anderson in 2019.

“Spending much of my formative

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years on a farm and then running my own agricultural contracting company, I know only too well how important it is to have proper, proven kit that you can rely on whatever the weather and the conditions, and that won’t let you down no matter how much abuse you throw at it. And every Munro is engineered around those enduring values.”

Priced from £49 995 with deliveries due to commence later this year, the appeal of the Munro MK_1 extends far beyond field and farmyard. Offering an optimum range of up 190 miles and the flexibility to operate off-road for up to 16 hours on a single battery charge, the Munro’s unique attributes are equally suitable for those working in challenging sectors such as construction, mining, environmental, emergency rescue, remote infrastructure maintenance, in addition to recreation.

Munro takes an equally innovative and disruptive approach to the marketing and maintenance of its products. The company will select a

global series of agents and will recognise the customers’ right to repair and maintain their vehicle without invalidating its full five-year / 100 000 mile warranty.

The company has already established a partnership with Marc Monsarrat, director of Oxfordshire-based Off-Road Electric, which specialises in supplying fully electric utility vehicles to working farmers, landowners and institutions in the UK. Monsarrat, who will join the team at Low Carbon Agriculture 2023, commented: “Until now, there has not been a solution for farmers wishing to decarbonise their work fleet with a new electric 4x4 vehicle. Munro changes all that. With the ability to transport a crew of five over all terrains, operate for up to 16 hours on a single battery charge and provide a 3500kg towing capacity, this is a highly durable vehicle engineered to offer real workhorse capability, day after day, decade after decade, without any tailpipe emissions.”

I

n considering how it could do more to support its customers Virgin Money's client-facing Scottish agricultural banking team successfully complete RSABI's ground-breaking Mental Health First Aid training.

All of Virgin Money's client-facing agricultural banking team have successfully completed RSABI's first aid mental health training and each has gained a certification in the SCQF Level 5 Award in First Aid for Mental Health.

In doing so, every member of this specialist team now better understands what to look out for when they are talking to their farming customers and how they can adapt their approach.

Farming has always been one of the more isolated occupations. Today, as pressures on farmers reach new levels, Stephen Buchan, Virgin Money's Head of Agriculture in Scotland, believes that the bank has a key role to play within the farming and rural community.

"Good mental health is just as important to a farmer as physical health, and as professionals working within the agricultural sector it's incumbent on us to have a greater understanding of mental health and wellbeing. Better awareness and understanding drives better conversations, particularly when we are seeing subtle changes in behaviour, and it allows us to improve engagement with other representative organisations that support our industry. When your mental health is good you make better decisions, you're more productive, more positive and better able to solve problems. Life is better for you and your family.

"We are lucky to work with farmers every day and it's important our team is well-prepared to support them. That's why we have committed to provide first

aid mental health training for all our customer-facing agricultural banking team."

Currently, everything seems to be conspiring to pile more pressure on farmers in the UK. For some time now farming has been changing in ways that increase the isolation, particularly of smaller farmers who now work very much alone. Mechanisation and pressures on profitability have reduced employment on farms, while Covid dramatically restricted what social contact farmers could enjoy and has driven much social and business contact online. Now the current changes in Government focus and financial support are clouding the future of farming in uncertainty.

The training was delivered in the new partnership between RSABI, the charity which supports people in Scottish agriculture and IED Training Solutions Ltd, an award-winning consultancy founded by former Royal Marines.

RSABI's ground-breaking Mental Health First Aid training is aimed at encouraging people to talk more freely about mental health, reducing stigma and improving understanding about what to look out for and how to respond when someone may be struggling.

"We are delighted to be working with the Virgin Money agriculture team on this important training initiative," said Carol McLaren, RSABI Chief Executive.

"It comes at a time when there are some really encouraging green shoots of change as farmers and others working in agriculture become more open about talking about mental health and the steps needed to maintain and improve it. We would encourage anyone who is struggling not to hesitate to reach out for help and our confidential, freephone

Helpline, 0808 1234 555, is now open 24/7 every day of the year."

In its latest annual Mind Your Head campaign, the Farm Safety Foundation reports research showing that "levels of mental health in farming are deteriorating," and highlights the Office of National Statistics figures of 36 farming suicides last year.

Most self-sufficient farmers in that age group are reluctant to accept that this raft of increasing pressure could affect their mental well-being. Farmers will complain about the cost of fertiliser or lamb prices until the cows come home, but talking about anxiety or depression still carries the stigma of weakness.

But younger farmers may be leading the way in recognising and dealing with the problem. The Farm Safety Foundation refers to a survey of more than 900 farmers that found 94% of the UK's young farmers believe mental health is one of the greatest and most hidden, challenges facing the industry – a figure that has risen from 84% in 2019.

Continuing Stephen said: "Accepting that they need help is still a huge barrier for older farmers. We need everyone who serves this industry to better understand the signs and be able to signpost people to the organisations who can support them properly.

"Our mission as a bank is to help our farming clients continue to develop sustainable, successful businesses. Over the years we have developed long term relationships with hundreds of farming families, and as members of the farming community ourselves, we feel we can and should play a part in tackling this fundamental problem for the sake of the farmers and their families and for the future of the industry."

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our new superheroes, "Awesome Oats", "Brilliant Barley", "Wicked Wheat" and "Omazing Oil Seed Rape", will be embarking on a sustainable healthy eating campaign during the 2023 school summer term.

Have you ever wondered how these super seeds, the staple of our diet, are grown in Scotland, and incorporated into so many of our everyday foods?

Join the Snack Attack challenge to find out.

Rural education charities, The Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) and Royal Northern Countryside Initiative (RNCI) have been working to create a super powered journey of discovery of our sustainable Scottish seeds and grains. As part of the year-long spotlight on arable crops, RHET have produced a number of focused teaching resources for all age levels, linked to the Curriculum. Journey of Food – Seeds and Grains is now entering the final few months of the project and with the summer approaching, why not have some fun with our Super Heroes!?

"Food production in Scotland is as wide and varied as our landscape" explains Katrina Barclay RHET Executive Officer. "Our 'Journey of

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Food...' activity offers an opportunity to spotlight a different sector within Scottish agriculture (each year,) which demonstrates local food production, careers, nutritional information, environment and land use, data gathering and meeting the people behind the sector, to name a few areas.

This makes it fully interdisciplinary, accessible to all and based on current practices. We pride ourselves on working in collaboration with a variety of businesses and organisations to bring the facts so pupils can investigate further, enquire and use their curiosity to make informed choices. With support from organisations such as the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, James Hutton Institute and Scottish Agronomy, we are able to access not only research data but also people in the food sector using cutting edge technology who can explain the 'how' the 'what' and the 'why.’"

Scottish companies Nairns and Hamlyns are both generously supporting the Snack Attack challenge.

A spokesperson from Nairns commented on the company's links to the work of the challenge "Oats are one of the earliest known superfoods and

SNACK ATTACK CHALLENGE 2023

the Scots have been eating them for hundreds of years, usually in porridge and oatcakes. At Nairn's, we've been baking oatcakes since 1896 and whilst we have made a few small changes over the years and expanded our range of products, we still insist on the very best oats and only a few natural, simple ingredients. Our aim is to make it easy for everyone to find tasty, versatile oat snacks which are healthy, low in sugar and full of natural goodness." Hamlyns have been working with RNCI and RHET on projects over the years and support from industry is an excellent opportunity to follow the Journey of Food.

If you are a teacher, or have children in school this challenge is now live and after a school is signed up for the 'Snack Attack' they will be entered into a draw to have a real tractor visit their School!

Pupils will be encouraged to help find these Super Heroes in their snack and vote for their favourite. Competition is heating up, so be sure to visit https://www.rhet.org.uk/teachers/ the-ghret-snack-attack/ or see our social media posts for more information.

Heading up the Beef Shorthorns

A

new presidential team has taken the lead at the Beef Shorthorn Society following the Society’s

AGM. Stepping up from vice-president to president is Tim Riley of the Stoneyroyd herd. A breeder with a 15-year association with the breed and the Society, Tim has run a beef and sheep hill farm in the Calder Valley, West Yorkshire for more than 30 years.

Tim also brings wider experience in agricultural, food and environmental policy and governance. He is on the board of the Food Standards Agency and of DEFRA’s Veterinary Medicines Directorate. With a background in genetics he has informed the Society’s breed development work and nationally, the UK’s Farm Animal Genetic Resources Advisory Committee.

Tim said he was honoured to take on the role as Society president and hoped to be able to use both his experience and expertise to help the Society position the Beef Shorthorn as the preferred choice for beef farming going forward.

“It is important that we, as breeders, continue to develop the Beef Shorthorn as the best and most adaptable choice for modern beef farming. My own experience in switching to the Beef Shorthorn has demonstrated what the breed can offer and I am excited to continue helping breeders capitalise on the huge potential offered by the breed as low input replacement cows and as quality beef for the consumer.”

“Beef Shorthorns have the genetics to adapt to different climates, landscapes, and systems. This has become even more important with economic and climate challenges and with agricultural policy favouring sustainable and regenerative farming.”

Ross-shire breeder John Scott of the Fearn herd is taking on the vice president position. Having bred Shorthorns for more than 25 years, alongside a commercial suckler herd

and both pedigree and commercial sheep flocks and an arable enterprise, John brings a great deal of practical experience to the role, as well as a passion for breed promotion and development.

An early developer of on-farm sales for both sheep and cattle breeding stock, John uses all facets of modern technology and communications to promote his business.

“Without a doubt we have a breed, which can answer many of the questions suckler herd owners are now asking.

Whether that be around sustainability, maternal ability, meat quality or forage conversion, Shorthorns have the answers.

“It is a great privilege to take on the role of vice-president and I am excited to be supporting Tim over the next 12 months as he leads the Society.”

Both Tim and John look forward to meeting Society members at events in the coming months and to helping members maximise the appeal of Beef Shorthorns as the breed moves forward in to its next 200 years, having celebrated its bicentenary in 2022.

Photos this Issue:

Page 3 – Page 14 – Page 16 – Page 18 – Page 19 – Page 20 – Page 21 – Page 23 – Page 24 – Page 26 – Page 27 –

top Petra Jacob provided Beef Event Aberdeen Angus QMS QMS QMS RSABI Munro Vehicles RHET Supplied

Page 38 – NSA North Sheep Page 40-42 – Supplied Page 43 – Kuhn Page 44 – BVL Page 45 – Hustler Page 46 – Pottinger Page 48/50 – Claas Page 52 – Grimme Page 54 – Schaffer Page 55 – Kubota Page 58/60 –Petra Jacob

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World Shearing Champs 2023

H

ow old are you now and how old were you when you started sheep shearing?

I’m 32 now and was 12 when I first started shearing our own sheep on the farm.

What countries have you shorn in?

Scotland, Norway, the Falkland Islands and New Zealand

Who are your idols or who inspired/ inspires you?

New Zealanders David Fagan and Johnny Kirkpatrick have inspired me.

What gear do you use?

Heiniger – Charger combs

What is your best tally and where?

512 ewes in Scotland, Mules 480 lambs in New Zealand Best breed of sheep to shear?

Small ones! Mules or Blackfaces

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Are /were you a contractor and if so where / numbers of sheep / shearers?

I am a contractor in Central Scotland. I operate a three stand trailer with an Irishman and a Kiwi this year. We cover Fife and Kinross and as far as Crieff, shearing about 35 000 in the season.

Best music/ song to shear to.

I like a variety of music and it varies from year to year but I like Country.

What was your first shearing competition and when?

The Black Isle Show 2005

Do you get nervous and if so how do you deal with nerves?

I’ve been competing long enough now that I don’t get as nervous as I used to.

What competitions/ titles have you won?

Royal Highland Show Open twice, Scottish National twice, Black Isle twice, Lesmahagow, Lochearnhead, Angus and the World Team Final, with a fifth in the individual. Also the Balmoral Show.

Proudest moments?

Representing Scotland at the World Championships in France and winning the Teams event with Gavin Mutch and making the World Final.

Who have been your biggest rivals over the years and who is your biggest threat at the World Champs?

Not too sure – could be anyone! Anyone who makes the top six could win. Over here in the Juniors and Intermediates it was Johnny Gibson. Through the ranks it varied but the past couple of years it has been Hamish Mitchell and Gavin Mutch.

Are you farming and if so where? What?

Acreage? Details please.

Yes I farm with my father and brother at Salen in Fife. We run 3000 sheep – 800 are Scottish Blackfaces and the the rest are Blackface x Llyen and Texel cross.

We also run 250 Aberdeen Angus cows.

Advice to young shearers?

Travel when you still can. Don’t give up.

Calum Shaw

Machine Shearer

Scotland Current World

Team Champion

On the run up to the World Championships do you do any extra training and if so what?

I should but we have been so busy with lambing, marking and getting cows out to grass. I’ll be glad to get back to the shearing boards on 5th June and get fit for shearing again.

Who has been the biggest influence to you over the years for your shearing career?

Over the years a lot of instructors on the Wool Board courses have had an impact, mainly Tom Wilson, Doug Lambie and Willie Jones

British Wool – training the next generation of shearers and wool handlers

the Highland Show For over 20 years British Wool has provided four stages of shearing certificates enabling UK shearers to safely and effectively shear British wool.

Providing an exclusive training offer to the young farmer movement to help encourage more young farmers into the field.

Silver to Platinum courses in shearing and wool handling are now accredited by Highfield – a global leader in work-based and apprenticeship qualifications.

Working in partnership with key stakeholders – supporting the UK shearing sector.

To find out more call us on 01274 688666 or email shearing@britishwool.org.uk

britishwool.org.uk Together we’re growing something special.

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Richard Jones Machine Shearer

Wales

Current World

Individual Champion

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ow old are you now and how old were you when you started sheep shearing?

I’m 34 but will be 35 by the time of the World Championships. I was about 16 when I first started shearing How did you get into sheep shearing?

My dad used to shear and I started off going to help out with the wool before jumping on a stand.

What countries have you shorn in?

Wales, England, Norway, Switzerland and New Zealand.

Who are your idols or who inspired/ inspires you?

I've always looked up to my Dad growing up and I’d say Hywel Jones inspired me to go further with my shearing.

What gear do you use?

Lister

What is your best tally and where?

540 ewes in Wales 512 lambs in New Zealand Best breed of sheep to shear?

Mules

Are /were you a contractor and if so where / numbers of sheep / shearers?

I am a contractor employing 3 shearers in North Wales Best music/ song to shear to.

Dire Straits

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What was your first shearing competition and when?

Corwyn Shears many moons ago!

Do you get nervous and if so how do you deal with nerves?

Im lucky enough I don't suffer too much with nerves. Only on the bigger occasions.

What competitions/ titles have you won?

World Champion 2019 and Open Final France 2019, five times Champion Shearer of Wales, Open - Royal Welsh Show, Bath & West show twice and the Three Counties three times,

Proudest moments?

Winning the World Champs & winning the Champion Shearer of Wales for the first time.

Who have been your biggest rivals over the years and who is your biggest threat at the World Champs?

I don't believe there is the biggest rival as such, there are many shearers going to the World champs that are capable of winning.

Are you farming and if so where? What?

Acreage? Details please.

Yes farming sheep and beef on the family farm in North Wales

Advice to young shearers?

Go on courses, ask and also listen to advice, travel to New Zealand and other countries to gain the experience.

LEGEND IN THE MAKING. For over 100 years, we have been leading way in high performance shearing equipment. îéſ °é °âÇƠé ÇÎé ÎîÞ ­ Þ°é ¨ é­ é ğÇ â îâž It’s what you do with it tomorrow.

What will you do next?

Lister. Make your mark.

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Lister Skorpion Providing cool running and comfort for hours of shearing.

Hamish Mitchell

Machine Shearer

Scotland Team Champion

H

2014

ow old are you now and how old were you when you started sheep shearing?

I’m 52. Armadale Castle on Skye and the then farm manager Norman MacPherson initially got me interested in sheep. Dog trialling was my first interest and I went on my first shearing course age 15.

How did you get into sheep shearing?

I was 20 when I decided that I wanted to shear for a living. I had returned to America to do a second lambing and the shearers came – I was hooked.

I came home from America and then went to New Zealand. It was the days before Visa cards were commonplace. I spent ten days in Hawaii and Honolulu and ended up in New Zealand with $30, a Lister hand piece and ten combs to my name. My only contact was a Great Uncle in Napier, who settled out there after the war!

What countries have you shorn in?

Sheep shearing has taken me to twenty-two countries in six continents across the world including India, South Africa and the Falkland Islands.. New Zealand and Norway have been my favourites and I really enjoyed the Falkland Islands, many of them had Skye connections.

Who are your idols or who inspired/ inspires you?

In the early days Robert MacDonald, Colin McGregor and Tom Wilson were all really good instructing me, with Tom taking me to Norway in 1990. But over the years I’ve had so many give great advice it’s hard to single anyone out.

What gear do you use?

Heiniger. When I was young David Fagan and Tom Wilson were using it.

Old Joe Te Kapa was given a hand piece to trial for Heiniger and he gave it to me. I won British Isles Senior Shearer of the Year with it and didn’t look back.

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What is your best tally and where?

Roro, up Glen Lyon set the scene for my biggest tally, clicking 636 Blackface ewes and hoggs on the counter.

Working for Colin King, Otorohanga in NZ, I tallied my first 500 and then 600 on lambs the same week.

Best breed of sheep to shear?

Scottish Blackfaces are my favourite.

But NZ Romneys are best to learn on.

Are /were you a contractor and if so where / numbers of sheep / shearers?

I was a contractor for about 20 years. I took on Brian Perk’s run, which had 101 000 sheep – the largest in Scotland at the time. There were 12 of us shearing full time and six other local farmers and shepherds who would do days. When my first daughter was born I moved to Norway and had three shearers working on my run there.

Best music/ song to shear to.

Tina Turner and AC/DC

What was your first shearing competition and when?

Probably the Highland Show

Do you get nervous and if so how do you deal with nerves?

I used to. But now when I’m leaning on the gate waiting to start I visualise shearing the first couple of sheep blow by blow. So when I go in for the first, in

my head I’m going in for the third.

What competitions/ titles have you won?

Over the years I have won 103 Open titles across the World. This is my 9th time in the Scottish Team at the Worlds.

Proudest moments?

My three children being born are my proudest moments. On the shearing scene there have been so many times that I have been moved, sometimes even just being placed second.

Who have been your biggest rivals over the years and who is your biggest threat at the World Champs?

David Fagan – I strived to beat Fagan.

For the World Champs they are all a threat, so many are on a par. It could be a close fought final – anyones for the taking.

Are you farming and if so where? What?

Acreage?

Yes I manage 1000 acres in Perthshire, running 1200 ewes and 140 suckler cows. We own our own 140 acre farm near Stirling running 300 ewes.

Advice to young shearers?

I advise youngsters to travel, go to courses, compete and listen. No one has all the information, but pick what suits you from different people. Once you are the fastest in your gang work for someone else to drive you on.

A New Model We believe there is a simpler and fairer way to work together with wool farmers, and that’s why we are challenging the traditional UK wool sourcing systems.

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Andrew Dodds

Golden Shears World Championships

he inaugural Golden Shears World Shearing Championship was held in June 1977 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Royal Bath & West Show at Shepton Mallet in Somerset, England.

Secretary of the Show, John W. Davis, MBE had been looking for a way of marking the milestone a World Sheep Shearing Championship was put forward as the show had been affiliated with the original Golden Shears at Masterton, New Zealand since 1963.

Twelve countries competed at the event, which was won by Roger Cox, New Zealand. Peter Nitz, Austria was runner-up, followed by Australian John Hutchinson, in third. The famous Kiwi shearer and instructor Godfrey Bowen, was fourth, Australian, Steve Pittaway, fifth and Scottish Borders shearer and sheep farmer Andrew Dodds (above) was sixth. The team event was won by New Zealand.

Golden Shears World Council was formed in the small (population 3000) Australian country town of Euroa on October 27, 1980. Euroa was home to the Australian Golden Shears from 1974 until 1984 when the Australian Workers Union (AWU) applied a ban on competition with New Zealand effectively ending the event.

Tom Wilson

Euroa Shearing Association’s long term vision founded Golden Shears World Championships with Golden Shears England and Golden Shears New Zealand. Founder members were: Bob

1977 1980 1984 1986 1988 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2003 2005 2008 2010 2012 2014 2017 2019 2023

Chamberlain, Laurie Keats, Alan Williams, John Davis, Sir John Colfox, Tug Wilson, Bernie Walker, Neville Stribling and David Rush.

Laurie Keats is now the Patron of the

World Sheep Shearing Champions Bath & West, England Masterton, New Zealand Bath & West, England Perth, Western Australia Masterton, New Zealand Bath & West, England Buith Wells, Wales Masterton, New Zealand Gorey, Ireland Bloemfontein, South Africa Edinburgh, Scotland Toowoomba, Australia Bierkrein, Norway Buith Wells Masterton, New Zealand Gorey, Ireland Invercargill, New Zealand Le Dorat, France Edinburgh, Scotland

Hallrule Farms, Borders

Roger Cox (NZ) Brian Quinn (NZ) Tom Wilson, (Scotland) Mark Conlan (Australia) David Fagan (NZ) David Fagan (NZ) Alan MacDonald, (NZ) David Fagan (NZ) David Fagan (NZ) Shannon Warnest, (Aus) David Fagan (NZ) Shannon Warnest, (Aus) Paul Avery (NZ) Cam Ferguson (NZ) Gavin Mutch (Scotland) Rowland Smith (NZ) Johnny Kirkpatrick (NZ) Richard Jones (Wales) ?

Rotmell Farm, Perthshire

Sir David Fagan

Richard Jones Gavin Mutch

Ireland ten times.

World Council and he was made a Irishman George Graham, who was Vice chairs: Philip Morrison, New Member of the New Zealand Order of instrumental in organising both the 1998 Zealand for the Southern Hemisphere Merit for services to shearing in 2009. and 2014 events is the current Chair of and Colin MacGregor, Scotland for the English shearer and farmer Alan the World Council. He is a third Northern Hemisphere.

Derryman is the current Secretary. He generation shearer and has represented farms 900 Romney ewes and 70 beef cattle in Devon. He World Sheep Shearing Teams represented England in 1986 in, Australia 1977 Bath & West, England New Zealand: Roger Cox and Godfery Bowen and competed in 6 1980 Masterton, New Zealand New Zealand: Brian Quinn and Martin Ngataki World Championships 1984 Bath & West, England New Zealand: John Fagan and Colin King for his country with his best result in NZ in 1986 Perth, Western Australia New Zealand: Rikki Pivac and David Fagan 1988. Alan has been 1988 Masterton, New Zealand New Zealand: David Fagan and Stephen Dodds involved with World 1992 Bath & West, England New Zealand: David Fagan and Kevin Walsh Council since 1996 as 1994 Buith Wells, Wales New Zealand: David Fagan and Alan MacDonald an England 1996 Masterton, New Zealand Scotland: Geordie Bayne and Tom Wilson Representative.

1998 2000 2003 2005 2008 2010 2012 2014 2017 2019 2023

Gorey, Ireland Bloemfontein, South Africa Edinburgh, Scotland Toowoomba, Australia Bierkrein, Norway Buith Wells Masterton, New Zealand Gorey, Ireland Invercargill, New Zealand Le Dorat, France Edinburgh, Scotland

New Zealand: David Fagan and Paul Avery Australia: Shannon Warnest and Ross Thompson New Zealand: Dean Ball and David Fagan Australia: Shannon Warnest and Daniel McIntyre New Zealand: Paul Avery and Johnny Kirkpatrick New Zealand: Cam Ferguson and David Fagan New Zealand: Cam Ferguson & Johny Kirkpatrick Scotland: Gavin Mutch and Hamish Mitchell New Zealand:John Kirkpatrick & Nathan Stratford Scotland: Gavin Mutch and Calum Shaw ?

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INDUSTRY EXPERTS SHOW THE WAY TO THE FUTURE

E

Grants, Subsidies, Carbon Audits, Exporting and Getting a Start....

xperience & Advice at Leading Sheep Showcase, NSA North Sheep.

An outstanding line-up of speakers has been confirmed for this year’s NSA North Sheep seminar programme.

Taking place at Bradford House Farm, Northumberland on Wednesday 7th June, NSA North Sheep is one of the most important sheep industry events in the UK. The seminar subjects will range from the grants and subsidies now available in the UK to the future of exporting and include advice on the many ways to get a foothold in the industry and how to use a Carbon Audit as a starting point for a lower carbon, higher value sustainable future.

The seminar programme is sponsored this year by Youngs RPS, whose own experience providing farm and estate management advice in the post-Brexit farming landscape has shaped the choice of subjects. Managing Director Graeme Bunce hopes the seminars will address

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the key issues that sheep farmers need to understand in order to move forward effectively.

“We have tried to cover the issues that are raised most often with us when we’re helping farmers and landowners to plan for the future. Clearly the most immediate concern is how to continue farming under the very different, environment-focussed UK Government policy on support. We’re delighted to have Virgin Money’s expert advice on how farmers can use Carbon Audits to benchmark and manage their journey to greater carbon and business efficiency.

We have a seminar on the future of exports for the sheep industry and the programme concludes with an overview of opportunities for the next generation to get into sheep farming.”

In the opening seminar, Resilience to Change, rural experts from Youngs RPS farm and land management will discuss how they are supporting farmers in navigating the changes arising from the transition away from the Basic Payment Scheme. Taking the stress out of

funding, they will look at strategies for dealing with grants and proactive cashflow management, as well as maximising today's opportunities.

The Looking Beyond Our Shores, session will debate opportunities for exports and the pros and cons of working collaboratively with sheep farming counterparts from around the world. The UK’s departure from the EU is already gradually changing our meat export focus and we are seeing real interest in British sheep genetics for a wide range of breeds from around the world. The domestic market is important, but exports opportunities exist to be grasped. To what extent is reputation important? Is our traceability clear enough? Are the industry’s environmental and welfare standards adequate? Experts will give an in-depth overview of how they see the future for those reliant on these markets.

Medium to longer term, farmers need to adapt the way they farm to comply with the Government’s environmental

focus and to meet the 2040 Carbon Net Zero target. In the Carbon Auditing seminar, Virgin Money and Carbon Metrics, will announce details of the results of the host farm, Bradford House Farm’s carbon audit and how improvements can be made to reduce both their carbon footprint and their costs. Virgin Money and its expert partners will discuss solutions that can turn what looks like another onerous, regulatory burden, into a life-changing business opportunity.

Getting a foothold on The Sheep Farming Ladder is notoriously difficult, whether you’re a young farmer wanting access to land, or have no farming roots and want to get into the industry. Land values are such that buying or renting is beyond reach for most new entrants, but in this seminar the panel of experts and leading sheep farmers will outline the many opportunities for young people to get a foothold – whether it’s via partnerships or share farming, or establishing flying flocks with little permanent land security. For those entering farming as an early career option there are various ways of gaining both experience and education.

Viv Lewis, the Chair of the Northern Region of the NSA, will facilitate the opening seminar. “We are very grateful to Youngs RPS and Virgin Money for their support at what is such a challenging time for so many sheep farmers. The opening seminar sets the theme of the whole programme, which is aimed squarely at providing farmers with as much help as we can to grasp every opportunity to secure a sustainable future. Farmers are being challenged to change in line with the Government’s new direction, and these seminars will offer a huge amount of positive, practical advice on how our sheep farmers can achieve that change.

“We also have a wonderful panel of speakers who will share their own experience and advice on the opportunities for exporting our world class produce, breeding stock and genetics. And the success of the industry is very much in the hands of the next generation of entrepreneurial farmers, so I hope our final seminar will give aspiring sheep farmers every possible encouragement to make a life in this industry.”

NSA North Sheep will bring many thousands of sheep farmers, breeders, and related businesses from all over the UK to Bradford House Farm, Northumberland on Wednesday 7th June. The event includes seminars, discussions, demonstrations and

North Sheep Seminar Programme 10am - 10.45

11-12 noon

12.45-1.45

2.30-3.30

Seminar 1 Youngs RPS: Resilience to Change Harry Morshead Katie Proctor Chair: Viv Lewis, NSA Northern Region Chair

Seminar 2 Looking Beyond Our Shores Phil Hadley, AHDB Rob Grinnall from UKTAG and UKECP Chair: Edward Eastham, Cumbrian sheep farmer and NSA Policy & Technical committee Chair

Seminar 3 Carbon Audits – Carbon Metrics & Virgin Money Brian Richardson- UK Head of Agriculture Virgin Money Simon Haley – Founder & Director Carbon Metrics Phil Stocker, NSA CEO Chair: Thomas Carrick, Cumbrian farmer and NSA English Committee representative

Seminar 4 Getting on the Ladder into the Sheep Industry Emma Bradbury, NSA Policy Manager Frankie Walton, Northumbrian Farmer and Landowner Jim Breary, S Yorkshire & Cumbria Farmer and Landowner Chair: Tom Vickers, Northumbrian farmer and NSA Next Generation Ambassador

national level competitions for Young Shepherds, Stock Judging and Shearing in association with British Wool.

North Sheep 2023 is made possible by the kindness of the hosts, the Woodman family, and the generous Main Sponsorship of Hexham and Northern Marts.

For more information on NSA North Sheep, visit https://bit.ly/NSANorthSheep, and for regular updates follow us: Facebook: @nsanorthsheep & Instagram: @nsa_northsheep

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

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D

r Grace O’Gorman has joined CIEL (Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock) in the new role of Animal Health Specialist.

A former senior technical policy manager with the National Office of Animal Health (NOAH), Dr O’Gorman will work closely with CIEL’s network to identify animal health priorities and develop new research opportunities across the livestock sector.

Her appointment comes following a period of growth at CIEL, leading to the creation of a new role to further enhance the research and innovation part of the organisation.

Dr O’Gorman says she is excited to join CIEL during an interesting time for the agrifood sector as it faces the challenges of climate change, rising costs, new regulations and trade negotiations.

rigin Fertilisers has added to its national team of in-house nutrition agronomists with the appointment of Julia Andrews to cover Scotland and the Borders.

Ms Andrews brings Origin’s team of nutrition agronomists to six covering all corners of the UK providing balanced nutrition advice to farmers. Hailing from New Zealand, Ms Andrews has been involved in farming all her life and studied for a BSc in Agricultural Science at Lincoln University in New Zealand.

Following this, she gained experience working as an arable advisor for one of NZ’s largest agricultural distributors and input suppliers and her extensive knowledge of production systems, both arable and grassland, will offer UK farmers the opportunity to learn about “It’s a very exciting time to be joining the team. As an organisation, we’re committed to investing in specialist expertise and focusing attention on innovation to improve the sustainability and productivity of the livestock sector.”

“With diverse animal health credentials, including research, veterinary expertise and understanding of the animal health sector, I can ensure new research opportunities are identified are taken forward with industry partners,” adds Dr O’Gorman. ing her skillset in the critical area of animal health.”

CIEL’s strategic investment in animal health capability and expertise signals an exciting new chapter with focused activity such as the launch of an Open Innovation Group on Animal Health, thought leadership and key reports.

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different techniques. Ms Andrews says the many similarities between UK and NZ farming will allow her to help farmers become more productive with their fertiliser use.

“The right crop nutrition has never been more essential and farmers require a deeper understanding of what different nutrients can offer, so our advice needs to make the most of any investment the farmer is making.

Understanding what a crop needs and tailoring fertiliser to meet these demands is essential,” concludes Ms Andrews.

She is based in Stirling and will offer advice on the benefits of balanced crop nutrition to farmers and growers across Scotland and the Borders.

oss Off-road Vehicles, the sole UK distributors of Corvus Off-road Vehicles, are delighted to announce that Matt Richardson has joined their team in the new position of After Sales Manager. Matt officially joined the company on 1st January 2023 and will lead the re-structure of the After Sales Department to support Boss’s aggressive growth plans in the coming year.

Phil Everett, MD of Boss, says: “Matt has been operating in this role and

much, much more for a major Outdoor Power Equipment distributor and is, therefore, an absolutely perfect fit for us.

We’re very pleased to welcome him to the team in this important period of expansion for the company and the Corvus Off-road vehicle brand.”

For more information about the Corvus Terrain range, you can call 01597 810188

E-mail: sales@bossorv.co.uk Web: www.bossorv.co.uk

tocks Ag has promoted Tim Farrow to the recently created position of Technical Director. In his new capacity Tim will be leading

research and development, as well as heading up technical support for customers, dealers and OEMs. Since joining Stocks Ag at the end of 2020, as UK Field Sales Manager, Tim has become increasingly involved in product development at Stocks.

Tim has worked in agriculture for more than 30 years and prior to joining Stocks, he was the Service then Branch Manager for another machinery dealer.

His new position at Stocks will see him setting up the technical support department, as well as taking charge of research and development.

James Woolway, MD at Stocks commented, “It was clear from before I took ownership of Stocks Ag that

imac Agro UK has promoted James Hay into the new role of country manager.

As part of his new role, Mr Hay hopes to increase the company’s overall brand awareness in the UK and empower the firm’s 30-strong team.

“Timac has seen encouraging growth over the last couple of years, despite turbulent market conditions,” says Mr Hay. Sales doubled from 2021 to 2022, with ambitious ‘people’ targets set in the same period, including the further expansion of the arable team in the East.

“To ensure we deliver on our aspirations, we’re putting soil health expertise at the heart of our offer, something that the technical team and product portfolio delivers. We’re heavily focused on delivering sustainable solutions that fit

conventional, regenerative and organic systems,” he says.

Mr Hay explains that a lot of the regenerative techniques that are now popular have been at the heart of Timac’s recommendations for over 60 years.

“Having this unique combination of experience teamed with continuous investment in upskilling and technology development, is what I believe gives us our edge,” he says.

Camille Flecher, international development manager at Timac Agro International, says she is proud to continue to work with Mr Hay as he steps into the new leadership role.

“I look forward to seeing James strategically drive the UK division in a positive direction at this exciting time for the business,” she says.

he Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society has appointed Highland farmer Finlay Munro as its new president.

Mr Munro, who runs the Balaldie herd at Balaldie Farm, Fearn, Tain, replaces outgoing president Angus Stovold from the Rosemead herd in Surrey.

His family has been involved in the Aberdeen-Angus breed since the 1800s and the herd now stands at 120 suckler cows, of which 90 are pedigree registered.

Mr Munro, who has served in the junior and senior vice-presidential roles, said it was an honour to take on the role of president.

“One of my main goals for the year ahead is to keep the breed in the strong position that it finds itself in at the

moment,” added Mr Munro.

“The Aberdeen-Angus breed is sitting with the highest number of registrations of all breeds on BCMS and I hope to help sustain that.”

He said another focus for his time in the presidential role will be overseeing the roll-out of genomics in the next 12 months, as well as getting out to meet as many Aberdeen-Angus breeders as possible.

“I plan to attend as many events as I can throughout the country, as well as attending the World Angus Technical Meeting in the Czech Republic in September,” added Mr Munro.

Mr Munro will be supported in the role by senior vice-president Ian Watson, who runs the Kersquarter herd near Kelso, and junior vice-president Alan Morrison from Northern Ireland.

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research and proactive product development needed investment and time. Having experience in aftersales and being technically minded, has put Tim in a strong position to lead this exciting development in the business.”

“I am looking forward to the challenges ahead,” said Tim. “With so much innovation in agriculture bringing product opportunities for Stocks I believe we will continue to improve our product offering to give farmers and contractors exactly what they are looking for.”

Tim will be based at his home, near Leeds in West Yorkshire and he can be reached at tim.farrow@stocks-ag.co.uk, or on his mobile 07498 027418

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he Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers (SAMW) is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Walker as its new Executive Manager.

Mr Walker, who was previously the chief executive of NFU Scotland, takes on the role formerly held by Martin Morgan who sadly passed away in January this year.

"Scott joins a long list of excellent executive managers who have served SAMW over the years with Martin's five years with the Association, in particular, marking a strong period of leadership for Scotland's red meat industry," said SAMW president, Ian Bentley.

Having spent the last 11 years as CEO of NFUS, Mr Walker has a deep knowledge of Scottish food and farming and a thorough understanding of the red meat sector's many challenges and

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opportunities.

"Advocacy on behalf of the industry has been a major part of my career over the last decade and I look forward to fulfilling a similar role on behalf of the red meat sector," said Mr Walker. "I'm well used to working with politicians and officials in Scotland, Westminster and on the international scene, and will be seeking to do the same for SAMW, on behalf of what is a hugely important industry for Scotland's economy.

"We should all be proud of the quality of red meat produced in Scotland for sale both domestically and across many export markets. There is a strong story to be told and much progress to be made in the months and years ahead."

Mr Walker will take up his new office on April 24, 2023.

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FU Scotland has announced the appointment of John Davidson as its new Chief Executive.

Mr Davidson, who is currently the Deputy Chief Executive at the industry leadership body, Scotland Food & Drink, replaces Scott Walker who stepped down from his post last year.

Mr Davidson joined Scotland Food & Drink in 2020 after a lengthy career in various senior roles across the Scottish Government, including Private Secretary to the former Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Richard Lochhead and most recently as the head of food and drink at Scottish Government for five years.

Mr Davidson, who is well known and respected across the farming and food industry, has been instrumental in supporting the sector’s recovery from Brexit and the Covid pandemic and has recently been leading the development of the new national food and drink strategy for Scotland, which aims to strengthen the resilience of the entire industry and grow its value and reputation domestically and internationally.

He will start his new role at NFU Scotland in late June when he will become the 11th Chief Executive since the Union’s formation in October 1913.

NFU Scotland President, Martin Kennedy said: “Following a rigorous recruitment process to find our next Chief Executive, John stood out as the ideal candidate to lead the organisation into our next chapter.

“His passion, energy, and vision for

the organisation and for Scottish agriculture in generional.

“John is extremely well connected across the industry and has a tremendous grasp and understanding of Government affairs. Above all, he has the personality and leadership skills we need to drive forward the business of NFU Scotland and lead our fantastic team in delivering the best possible outcome for our growing farming and crofting membership.

John Davidson, the incoming Chief Executive at NFU Scotland, added: “I am delighted and honoured to be joining NFU Scotland and leading the organisation at such a critical time for the industry.

“There are many challenges facing our farmers and crofters, but I genuinely believe the future for the industry is bright and I look forward to working with a very talented and passionate team at NFU Scotland to represent our members’ interests.

“Agriculture is one of the world’s oldest and most important industries and is woven into the fabric of Scotland, making a substantial contribution to our economy, communities and environment. It is absolutely vital that this is understood across all aspects of society, just as it is critical that the industry is given the support and conditions it needs to ensure a vibrant and profitable future with food production at its core. I look forward to working across the industry and beyond to achieve this.”

Kuhn Robotic Diet Feeder

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HE latest autonomous diet feeder to hit the market comes from the Kuhn stables in the form of the Aura capable of feeding 280 cows.

It works autonomously using GPS and RTK to move around a farm collecting and feeding out a TMR. Inbuilt loading and weighing modules calculate the exact mix of forage material including grass and maize, along with any supplements and concentrates required.

The Aura’s three cubic metre mixing tank features two vertical augers that require a lower power requirement and feature Kuhn’s K-Nox technology to guarantee a service life of six times longer than steel alternatives. The mixing and chopping speed can be adjusted to create a homogenous TMR with a palatable consistency.

A 56hp (42kW) diesel engine can power the Aura for up to a week of

continual loading and feeding, making it a truly autonomous machine.

The robot is compact, standing at 2.6 metres high, 1.9 metres wide and just under seven metres in length. This helps it to move around most areas of the farm including feed passages and clamps. It feeds out at a speed of 2km/h on both the left and right using a conveyor and can travel at up to 7km/h.

A dual guidance system uses GPS and RTK outside and Lidar inside in conjunction with an onboard odometer.

Farms choosing an Aura will be mapped and wifi devices installed to enable connectivity throughout. The Aura also has inbuilt sensors to stop or avoid objects and it can travel on gradients up to 20 percent.

The TMR can be calculated as often as is needed and uploaded to the Aura remotely. Its built-in loading and weighing modules enable it to travel to

sources of forage, concentrates and minerals to load. A multi-purpose milling head ensures that all forage is loaded efficiently whilst onboard weighing sensors can calculate the TMR to the nearest kilo.

Farms using the Aura will also be fitted with augers connected to silos containing concentrates and minerals that have a receiver to communicate with the Aura’s onboard transmitter.

The time and frequency of feeding can be set to precise points 24 hours a day to enable consistent feeding without intervention. The Aura also features rotating bushes that push up forage and double up to clean the clamp of any fallen material. The brushes operate on both sides of the machine to offer the flexibility to feed in any housing.

The new Aura is expected to hit the UK market in 2024.

new twin-auger self-propelled mixer wagon FROM BVL

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ERMAN manufacturer BvL has extended its series of self-propelled mixer wagons to include a compact four-cylinder version, the V-Mix Drive Maximus Plus 2S, with a larger container volume.

Since the first self-propelled mixer wagons at BvL were developed in the 1990s, the appearance and features of the machines have changed substantially.

Currently, the V-Mix Drive Maximus Plus, is available in single and double auger variants with four and six cylinder engines, respectively.

The new V-Mix Drive Maximus Plus 2S combines the base of the single auger self-propelled machine but with the

container of the double auger machine.

The result is a robust machine with a large container volume of 19m3 or 21m3, but with a smaller engine compared to the standard double auger selfpropelled machine. The 174hp four cylinder machine is therefore in the middle price range between the two previous BvL self-propelled machines.

The new V-Mix Drive series is ideal for use as a farmyard machine, but can be registered for road use and is suitable for short distances to remote barns or other areas of the farm.

Since the machine is equipped with a separate transmission, the mixing process with both augers is no problem whatsoever despite the smaller engine,

MACHINERY RING BENEFITS! Speak to your local Machinery Ring about opportunities when purchasing Case IH tractors, combines and balers.

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and cleaning is also facilitated by very high RPMs. The time-proven and long-lasting structure roller in this mixer wagon also ensures removal of feed without damage to the physical structure of the mix. Other BvL features, such as automatic remixing or manoeuvring with the crawler gear function, are of course also standard equipment.

The machine is also available with new extra options, such as additional storage capacities and loading functions, an additional LED light unit over the cab, or virtually panoramic visibility due to the new Bird View camera system.

by Chris McCullough

Dual purp ose role for Hustler Hurricane LX104

I

F you need a machine that can bed cattle in the pen and also feed them forage then the Hustler Hurricane LX104 is the one as it does both.

Bedding cattle is a time-consuming and back-breaking task when executed by hand, therefore mechanising the task can help improve efficiency.

The Hustler rear and front mounted Hurricane LX104 is a two in one feeding and bedding farm implement designed for maximum versatility.

The machine can feed or spread out round or square bales of up to one tonne, in a simple motion reducing jamming and feed waste and maximising bedding life.

The Hurricane spreads the straw up

to seven to eleven metres without chopping, reducing the risk of dust inhalation and dangerous projectiles fired at the animals.

Fuel and power efficient, the Hurricane does the work of two machines with faster feeding and bedding, all made possible by a 100 percent hydraulically driven innovative belt system, providing higher torque delivery and improved spreading.

One single set of hydraulics and a handy in-cab remote is all that is necessary to control the machine.

The Hurricane is self-loading, instantly connects and disconnects the integrated tines thanks to the Snaplox hands-free system and the all-new

operator-friendly floating mount system, taking less than ten seconds to switch between feeding and bedding without any tools.

Front mounted machines improve visibility on the job, offering a better manoeuvrability and less risks for staff, animals and equipment.

The Hurricane can easily be fitted to all tractors and telehandlers as three point linkage mounts come as standard.

The integrated tines of the Hustler Hurricane can be used to perform other handling tasks on the farm without having to unhook the machine every single time it is not in use.

The Hustler Hurricane LX104 weighs 1300kgs unladen.

45

P

OTTINGER has just launched its new Boss 3000 series forage wagon featuring the classic Supermatic tine conveyor unit.

The new Boss 3000 is available in three sizes with load capacities of 18.7, 21.3 and 23.5 cubic metres, as both high profile and LowProfile (LP) versions.

The Supermatic tine conveyor system originating from the Euroboss is known for very high forage conservation combined with the lowest power requirement.

The loading system can be ordered with three or four arms, which can also be used to load heavy silage. The loader wagons are driven as standard at 540 rpm at the PTO and can be operated by tractors as small as 60hp.

Above that, up to 110hp is also possible. As an option, the driveline is also available for a PTO speed of 1000 rpm. As standard, the Boss is equipped without knives. Six knives can be slotted in as an option. The knife bank with 16 or 31 knives can be folded out by an optional hydraulic system and then swung out alongside using Easymove. All the knives are individually protected against foreign objects.

46

The pick-up with an effective width of 1800mm (DIN) has a freedom of movement of 120mm at the outermost tine. In especially demanding terrain, a trailing jockey wheel chassis further improves ground tracking.

Ground tracking can also be optimised with the Autotast active parallel lift drawbar. The five pick-up tine carriers, which are guided by a cam track, are driven by a maintenance-free V-belt.

The hydraulically dry forage extension can now be equipped with an automatic folding system. Optional nets prevent the crop from snagging or falling out between the struts. For longer working days, an LED lighting package is also available.

In addition to Isobus compatibility as standard, the loader wagon can be equipped with three different types of control system: from simple pre-selects operated by the tractor spool valve, to entry-level automation with power beyond hydraulics for the scraper floor, and load-sensing hydraulics operated directly from the control terminal.

The greasing points on the four-arm conveyor system and the maintenance-free V-belt drive on the pick-up make maintenance a breeze on the Boss 3000. The chain drive on the loading unit is greased by a lubrication system as standard. If any maintenance is needed, the wagon indicates the job in the service counter, which is also standard.

Pottinger Launches New

w Version Boss Forage Wagon

by Chris McCullough

47

F

or the 2023 season, Claas is introducing new Variant 500 round balers with variable bale chamber.

The Variant 500 series initially includes six models. The Variant 560 and 565 can create bales from 0.90 to 1.60m in diameter and the 580 and 585 up to 1.80m.

The Variant 560 RF and 580 RF work with a spiral Roto Feed rotor. The four Variant models available in RC format (560, 565, 580 and 585) with spiral Roto Cut four-star cutting rotor for small forage packages and thus stand for excellent forage quality and high baling density.

The product range includes the Variant 565 RC and 585 RC with HD drive components such as reinforced drive chains, a strong cutting rotor with 8mm double-tine stars and special knife protection.

In contrast to the two other Variant RC models with the tried-and-tested 14-knife cutting mechanism with a theoretical cutting length of 70mm, these two balers are now equipped with a 17-knife cutting mechanism with a theoretical cutting length of 60mm.

48

The standard PRO rotor drop floor can be lowered hydraulically to clear blockages at the push of a button from the tractor cab, while the knives are automatically depressurised.

In order to prevent blockages in advance, the PRO rotor drop floor compensates for uneven swaths by being able to lower itself by up to 30mm and automatically return to its original position.

An acoustic signal warns the driver before the rotor is blocked, so that there is enough time to reduce the driving speed.

In the binding area, the first thing that catches the eye is the ideal position of the net roll, which is 25cm lower than in the previous generation and thus enables easy and safe roll changes.

Thanks to the new net brake, which is independent of the roll diameter, for absolutely constant net tension, a further improved feed plate and the new knife release guarantees a reliable and trouble-free completion of the tying process under all operating conditions.

The machines have new tyre options up to size 560/45 22.5.

New Variant 500 Round Bale

by Chris McCullough

rs Launched for 2023 Season

49

C

by Chris McCullough

LAAS say its latest Disco 1010 Trend/Comfort is the widest mounted mower without a telescopic boom on the market.

In 2021, Claas introduced the unique vector folding system with the Disco 4400 Contour. This feature is now also used in the new 1010 and with the largest working width of almost 10m, this enables safe operation and transport even with light tractors in the 150 hp/four-cylinder class.

As an alternative to the Trend version, the 1010 is also available as a Comfort variant with load-sensing hydraulics, Isobus operation with Cemis 700 and individual lifting as standard.

Thanks to the large working width of 9.70 to 9.90m on the Disco 1010, which can be changed by two setting positions on the booms and the low power requirement of only 150hp, mowing can be carried out more efficiently and with less soil damage than ever before. This is because a wide working width and low power requirement means fewer passes and the possibility of using low weight four-cylinder tractors.

The reduced speed of the Max Cut mower bed, which can be operated with a pto shaft speed of 850rpm, also has a positive effect on the operating costs, with a diesel saving of up to 20 percent.

The main frame and headstock has been redesigned, with the main gearbox moved slightly to the rear and the angular gearboxes facing the cutter bars being slanted by 2°. This ensures that the drive shafts work in a straight line, which reduces the noise level and wear.

Bevelled lower link brackets facilitate attachment by guiding the catch hooks/lower links. The mower combination is equipped with colour-coded, non-slip Kennfixx plug-in couplers as standard.

Thanks to vector folding, the 1010 can be driven safely and legally on the road and on narrow tracks.

For transport, the outriggers are first moved hydraulically into the 120° transport position. They then pivot slightly backwards via a ram combined

50

New Claas Disco 1010 is Widest Mounted Disc Mower Without Telescopic Booms

with the hydraulic non-stop collision safety device and are automatically locked hydraulically. Due to the double slanted position, the mower combination remains below 4m transport height, but at the same time lies diagonally behind the tractor on the headstock and thus shifts the centre of gravity to the tractor's longitudinal axis.

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A mighty powerhouse

With a massive 228hp

21% more torque than the standard TORION 1511

Larger working hydraulics pump for greater fuel saving

Lighter operating weight and still greater lift capacity

Intelligent SMART LOADING as standard, reducing operator’s workload

The TORION 1511P is the fully versatile machine for your operations, just as at home on the clamp as it is in your yard or in the field, providing seamless materials handling.

Call your CLAAS dealer today for a demonstration.

claas.co.uk

GRIMME has launched a number of new machines for the vegetable sector including the first four-row trailed potato planter that has a transport width less than 3m.

Aiming for the 2023 season Grimme says the new Prios 440 will help fight transport regulations on some roads and has a number of other key features.

With the help of a goose neck drawbar coupled to an intermediate frame and a separate lifting mechanism, the planter can be combined with any common implement for active soil cultivation such as a rotary harrow or rotary tiller.

This separate lifting mechanism allows a quick change between different soil cultivation implements. The depth guidance of the soil cultivation is independent of the potato planter, which means the planting depth of the tubers can be accurately maintained.

Focusing on the components of the machine, the depth control of the fertiliser outlet discs, furrow openers, covering discs and the ridge shaping unit are independent of each other.

Four feeler wheels at the front of the machine and two ultrasonic sensors in front of the ridge shaping unit detect the working depth and thus ensure optimum depth control and consistent emergence of the tubers.

In order to save money and resources, the fertiliser box, the barrel system and the planting elements can be switched on/off separately from each other and for each row individually via Section Control.

This can significantly reduce nutrient inputs into the environment, especially when creating spraying tracks or planting on wedge-shaped fields.

Unnecessary pulverisation of the fertiliser in the fertiliser box is prevented by the row-specific shut-off of the metering auger and the agitator shaft.

To help farmers build up the perfect ridge in the field with a smooth surface, the ridging bodies made of plastic (PE) can be combined with closed ridge crown plates or, for a loose, crumbly surface, with cage rollers.

GRIMME LAUNCHES FIRST 4 PLANTER WITH LESS THAN 3

Regulations on the transport widths of machines are tightening and normally a four-row planter with a row width of 75cm, would have a road transport width of 3.30m.

The Prios 440 with a row width of 75cm can be equipped with two telescopic axles. This allows the working width of 3.30m to be reduced to a road transport width of less than 3m for the first time. Protruding machine parts, such as the soil guiding plates, the outermost ridging bodies and loosening tines are retracted into the machine contour.

The Prios 440 is operated by Isobus as standard. The SmartView video system equipped with a 12" touchscreen monitor, zoom function, live slow motion, live image transmission via WLAN, Visual Protect PRO and the option of image recording, ensures a good overview of all machine functions.

New Select 200 elevator harvester

Again following the same width advantage, the new Select 200 two-row elevator harvester also boosts the unique ActiveSteering system.

With ActiveSteering the automatic axle steering eases turning at the headland, reduces the turning circle and enables optimal guidance into the row.

All main webs can be equipped with the patented, infinitely adjustable and reversible VarioDrive, which combines the advantages of a mechanical and hydraulic drive.

In conjunction with Speedtronic-Web, the conveying speed of all main webs is automatically adjusted, relating to the load and driving speed.

The unique variety of separators allows optimal adaptation to different harvesting conditions. For example the machine can be equipped with a MultiSep, a double MultiSep, roller separators

4-ROW POTATO 3mm WIDTH

by Chris McCullough

Schaffer Launches Two New Loaders

S

CHAFFER used the EuroTier Show in Germany as its launch pad to introduce two new loaders to the market.

These were the compact 1622 model and the 23e T, claimed to be the world’s first electric-drive telescopic wheel loader.

The 1622 has an operating weight of 1250kgs, its overall length including bucket is just 3.05m, build height of 1.99m and widths start at 95cm.

The 16.2kW/22hp Kubota engine is a Stage V engine. The drive benefits from proportional hydrostatic drive pedal to accelerate to 16km/h.

Lifting loads of up to 810kgs, the multifunction loader raises cargo to a height of 2.23m. It’s standard hydraulic pump delivers an oil flow of 28l/min to the attachments whereas the optional Schaffer Multi-High-Flow (MHF) pump supplies 40l/min.

The new 23e T is able to lift loads to a height of 3.72m and is powered by a new-generation battery of 31.3kWh, which allows for up to eight hours of working time.

54

The machine is powered by two e-motors; one 21kW motor that drives the wheels, accelerates rapidly to 20km/h and generates high thrust forces, and a second 9.7kW motor that powers the remote hydraulics for up to 42l/min oil flows and fast work cycles.

The maintenance-free lithium-ion battery comes with a 5000-hour or five-year warranty, depending on which comes first. Charging the battery to 80% takes about eight hours if using the

by Chris McCullough

onboard 3kW charger that is connected to a 230V/16amps mains socket.

An 11kW Wallbox will cut this charging time to 80% down to a little more than two hours. The tipping load of the 2.8t machine is 1.3 tonnes and, thanks to its articulation, it turns through a tight 1.15m. Depending on the tyres fitted, the 23e T measures 1.41m to 1.59m in width and 2.19m or 2.14m in height, depending on whether a driver protection roof or cab is fitted.

by Chris McCullough

Kubota partners with Topcon to offer auto-steer options

A

NEW partnership agreement between Kubota (UK) Ltd and Topcon is introducing a new range of auto-steer options available for Kubota’s M-series tractors.

Topcon distributors LH Agro and Topcon Ireland will supply the auto-steering solutions through the Kubota dealer network, along with providing warranty, service and support of the auto-steer kits. Installation will be through Kubota dealers and will also include access to the complete Topcon portfolio.

Auto steer kits include Topcon’s AGS-2 receiver, and where required, Topcon’s AES-35 motorised steering wheel to replace the tractor steering wheel.

In addition, customers can choose from a range of guidance screens including the 21.3cm X25, 31cm X35, 17.8cm XD and 30.7cm XD+ terminals.

Depending on the chosen kit, customers can also customise the task

control options available, or choose from pre-configured bundles.

The correction signal can be RTK and PPP (Precise Point Positioning), with the latter offering less accuracy than RTK but providing improved pass-to-pass accuracy than EGNOS, for example.

Henry Myatt, Kubota’s product manager for M-series tractors, said: “This agreement provides Kubota customers with an extensive suite of guidance options for M-series tractors, available directly through the Kubota dealer network.

“There are a variety of kits available to suit the steer-ready M7 Premium models, and non-steer ready tractors in the M-series.

“This agreement also provides a great solution for the M6002 series, where customers are looking for greater sophistication and increased efficiency with field work.

“With these Topcon auto-steer options, we can provide solutions for all

M-series tractors from the 66hp M4-063 through to the 170hp M7-173 KVT Premium,” he said.

Supplied with a 24-month warranty, kits are priced from £6500 for a Topcon XD auto-steer solution to suit an M7 tractor.

It may be recalled that Kubota Corporation, Topcon Corporation and Topcon Positioning Systems Inc, entered into a collaborative research agreement during 2021, to work together to innovate for future commercialisation through mutual research in the field of smart agriculture.

The companies, each having their own technical knowledge, are working collaboratively to move forward with research and development in smart agriculture. This includes the collection of agronomic data using various sensor technology, research on crop cultivation solutions utilising big data, fleet management and automation technology.

55

DESIGNED FOR ALL YOUR FARMING NEEDS BOBCAT SKIDSTEERS AND EXCAVATORS SUIT A RANGE OF USES

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With Bobcat-trained engineers and expert advice from our Parts Departments, Lloyd Ltd provides both sales and aftersales support for customers across the agricultural industry and beyond.

Contact your local Lloyd Ltd branch for more information.

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BOOK REVIEWS

M

aking cider has been at the heart of English and Welsh country life for hundreds of years. It is a fascinating story. The author traces an elusive history stretching back to the ancient civilisations of the Mediterranean and the wild apple forests of Kazakhstan.

He follows the trail of apples and cider making from Asia to the British Isles.

He uncovers the up and downs of the industry. He meets farmers, cider experts and historians, he unearths surprising stories and anecdotes around cider and uncovers a rich history, culture and explains the science behind cider making.

A

multi-million-copy bestseller about an ancient Japanese concept. Ikigai means: “a reason for living, a meaning for living.“ Having Ikigai means having a clear purpose that makes our life worthwhile.

Finding your purpose in life can be achieved by balancing “what you love, what you're good at, what you can be paid for and what the world needs”.

Where all four elements intersect, we find our own unique talent, purpose and drive. To discover Ikigai, we constantly take action, the journey would give a sense of satisfaction.

The authors have interviewed hundreds of Japanese centenarians to

the

Power of Trees h ow a nci e nt f orests can save us if w e l et the m

Peter Wohlleben author of the international bestseller

The Hidden Life of Trees

Crowden uncovers the ups and downs of the cider industry in recent years. He clearly knows his stuff and has a passion to pass it on. He worked for many years on a cider farm in Somerset as well.

The book makes you see the value of a rich culture and want to preserve it.

It makes you want to go to “cider country“ and visit those hard-working cider makers and taste the huge variety of cider, instead of buying it in (plastic) bottles in supermarkets.

James Crowden (2022): Cider Country. How an ancient Craft became a way of life. Penguin Books London, £ 9.99

unravel their secrets.

On the island of Okinawa, out of 100 000 people, 24 are over the age of 100 – far more than anywhere else on this planet.

The book contains lessons based on what these Japanese centenarians eat and drink, how they treat their work and life and how they found Ikigai.

We all have unique talents that can give meaning to our days. And if you don't know what your Ikigai is yet, your mission is to discover it!

Héctor Garcia & Francesc Miralles (2017): Ikigai. Simple secrets to a long and happy life, Penguin Books London, £ 14.99

T

he Power of Trees is forester Peter Wohlleben’s follow-up to The Hidden Life of Trees, a Sunday Times bestseller that sold millions of copies worldwide. In his latest book, he is dismissive of token gestures in terms of tree planting. Just as he compared forest trees to ‘families’ and urban trees to ‘street urchins’ in his first book, in The Power of Trees he uses equally powerful metaphors to compare tree planting to battery farming ('Switching to fast-growing species and breeding trees for desired traits brought results like those achieved by factory farming: individuals ready for harvest at a young age, all with a relatively uniform carcass weight.'). However, he also joyfully describes trees determination to survive, describing seedlings breaking through

the earth where you least expect them, as ‘stalwart tree children.’

This latest work is as fascinating and eye-opening as it is trenchant in its critique: on the one hand, Wohlleben describes astonishing discoveries about how trees pass knowledge down to succeeding generations and their ability to survive climate change; on the other, he is unsparing in his criticism of those who wield economic and political power—who plant trees exclusively for the sake of logging and virtue signaling—even as they ruthlessly exploit nature. The Power of Trees is a love letter to the forest and a passionate argument for protecting nature’s boundless diversity, not only for the sake of trees, but also for us.

Priced £18.99 from Greystone Books.

by Petra Jacob

Dry, medium or sweet?

I

n January, there is a tradition to "wake up" the apple trees for the new year. In Somerset these are mainly apples for the production of cider – a drink, which the British consume more than any other people in the world. "Wassailing" has been practiced since the 17th century: farmers and citizens come together, pour cider onto the tree roots – so that the "blood of life" is passed on from year to year – and make a lot of noise to drive away evil spirits. They drink – with cider, of course – to the wellbeing of the trees and to a new good apple year ahead.

At Lands End Cider apples are harvested well into December. This is done mechanically with a special device that is pulled through the apple orchards by a tractor and collects the apples, which are this late in the year, of course on the ground.

Cider apples differ from dessert apples not only in terms of taste: their pulp has a fibrous, woody structure, which facilitates juice pressing. In

58

The British drink more cider than any other people.

In the Somerset region in the south west of England, everything fits for a good cider culture: climate, soils, apple varieties – and old traditions.

addition, they usually have a high content of tannin, which gives the cider its typical golden color and a somewhat bitter taste.

"When you bite into a cider apple, you would immediately spit it out again, only pressed and fermented these apples unfold their potential," reveals cider maker Roger Wilkins.

If you want to come to his farm, better: find his farm – you have to travel to the end of the world. Lands End Farm his estate is called, it is tucked away between hills and apple orchards at the end of a narrow side road not far from Wedmore in the heart of Somerset.

The journey is worth it. The visitor feels far away from the hectic world, transported to a place where there is still time. Whether for chatting or enjoying a "good and clean" glass of cider, as they say here. Here they alway serve “half a pint" for tasting, after which each additional glass costs only £1.50.

In a large barn – between oak barrels and an old apple press – cider-drinking

men sit around a large old round table.

Work is going on around them. There is a tractor bringing in anew load of apples. The apples are washed, crushed, spread by two men on porous mats, which in turn lie on wooden slats; after ten layers on top of each other, the stack is pushed under a press, which squeezes golden yellow apple juice from it. The unpasteurized juice will later on ferment and later on mature in oak barrels to 'Farmhouse Cider.’

Roger Wilkins makes cider as it used to be, following grandfather's recipes. It was Roger's grandfather who started making cider here over 100 years ago; when he died in 1969, Roger took over the cider production.

The production of cider has a long tradition in Somerset. Cider making as a source of income was first mentioned in 1230 in a royal charter to the Bishop of Bath. For many years cider – rich in vitamins – was drunk on sea voyages to prevent scurvy. And until well into the 19th century, part of a labourers wage

was paid in cider.

Many associate Somerset with cider making. Nevertheless it is Herefordshire where half of all cider drunk in the UK is produced. France produces the most cider in the world, but no country drinks more cider per capita than the British.

The Somerset region is ideal for cider production. There is the mild climate, "no real winters," as Roger calls it, the steady rainfall, the soil and about 500 different apple varieties. "I'm still learning," admits the 76-year-old, who has been in the business for 54 years.

Roger points to the apple press, where a young man works. It is his 26-year-old grandson Richard, who one day will take over the cider business.

But Roger is far from thinking about quitting. Cider is his medicine, as he reveals with a wink. At the age of ten he drank it for the first time, and at 10 o'clock in the morning he drinks the first glass of ten a day. When Roger laughs, it is hearty and unbridled. Among cider lovers, he is known as the "Somerset Cider Legend." Celebrities like Jamie Oliver and Mick Jagger have been here as well and been thrilled.

There are small and large cider manufacturers spread around the Somerset region. Some with state-ofthe-art production facilities for the mass market, others produce farmhouse cider the old way. Thatcher's Cider in Sandford in northern Somerset has been around since 1904. The family business is one of the leading medium-sized cider manufacturers in England. "Thatcher's Gold" is the UK's best-selling cider on tap.

Sheppy's Cider is also known internationally and the Sheppy family has been working on their farm outside the small town of Taunton for almost 200 years. Sheppy's is famous for its interesting creations such as cider with elderflower or raspberries. There is also a beautiful and well-stocked farm shop.

It is located in the former production room, where the old tanks are still standing and disused oak barrels are embedded in the ceiling of the public toilet. Visitors are allowed to walk through the apple orchards, where they pass black wooden silos , where cider matures. There is a small cider museum, where you can admire the history of the Sheppy family. There are many awards for their outstanding cider and a photo of farmer J. Sheppy and his dairy cow, which set the milk world record in 1912. Originally, cider production was a sideline for farmers.

Today, agriculture is a sideline to the cider business. At Sheppy's, there is a herd of Longhorn cattle and some Suffolk sheep as part of the business, the meat is sold in the farm shop.

Also at Burrow Hill Farm – 20 miles away – there are sheep as part of the business. They graze among the apple trees, keep the grass short and eat the apples that remain after harvesting. In the farm shop you can buy cider on tap from 170-year-old oak barrels or buy potato chips from a renowned company with “Burrow Hill cider vinegar“ flavor.

But most come here for a British treasure. Julian Temperley is the pioneer of the British cider brandy scene. In 1987, he began distilling his cider for the production of brandy,

59

which, matures in oak barrels between six months and 20 years. The operation here looks old fashioned, but that's exactly what makes it so charming. And Burrow Hill Farm is the best example of not being biased. Brandy from here can be found in London's best restaurants and at British embassies around the world and was served at Prince Harry's wedding. It is priced accordingly: 100ml of the 20-year-old brandy will set you back £24.

Travelling through Somerset here and there are hand-painted signs pointing to "cider" or a "cider farm." From Burrow Hill Farm 30 minutes northeast is Heck's Cider. The Cider Farm turns out to be a few inconspicuous stone buildings in the middle of the small village of The Street. At the entrance boxes full of apples, indoors a well-stocked farm shop and the impressive sight of countless old oak barrels. The shelves bend under regional delicacies: juices, vinegar, spirits, chutneys, huge jars of pickled onions and of course, cheddar cheese made from the milk of Somerset cows. Cheddar cheese and cider compliment each other very well.

The Heck family has been producing

60

traditional Farmhouse Cider from their own apples here since 1841. The freshly squeezed juice ferments in 100-year-old oak barrels and is sold as cider on tap.

Andrew Heck, the 6th generation of the family business stands at the tap and pours a cup to taste. His cider tastes very different to the ones made in factories, where plastic or steel containers are used, he says. The cider from the barrel is available in the flavors dry, medium or sweet. As with Roger Wilkins and Julian Temperley, the cider is mixed according to the customer's wishes. Heck's also sells their own cider bottled or from just one apple variety.

Andrew Heck's favorite apple variety is "Porters Perfection," as he reveals. It makes a great cider and the apples can be harvested until late, sometimes until February.

Twenty minutes drive NW back at Roger Wilkins' farm people are in high spirits. The last apples are pressed and Roger has prepared some mulled cider – which is the traditional way of drinking cider at "Wassailing." Currently there are up to 200 visitors a day to his farm, and he expects more, if this cost-of living crisis continues, he says. The

price of a pint of cider has become expensive. “Soon no working man can afford to drink it in the pub.“ Wilkins sells around 200 000 litres of cider per year from the farm. On request, he reveals the recipe for the mulled cider: "To half a gallon warm cider add three generous shots of gin, season with brown sugar and ginger."

To check the temperature, Roger dips his finger into the golden yellow juice. He generously fills the glasses of his guests and toasts: "Cheers – to a good new cider year."

BOOK – 200 Farmers of Scotland – NOW £20 when ordering direct

Every farmer has a story to tell. This book covers the diverse range of Scottish farmers and crofters from those farming the rugged hills of the Highlands to the sandy loams of the Lowlands. From owner occupiers, tenant farmers, share farmers, crofters, farm managers, starter farmers, to new entrants, farming from 10 acres to 31 000 acres – the people are as diverse as the landscapes and environment in which they work.

Scotland covers 7.8 million hectares, of that 5.7 million or 73% is farmland, or 79% if common grazing is included.

This book has photographs of 200 farmers and interviews with 109 from across the country from Orkney to Berwick and Durness to Stranraer within its 288 pages. It is available from individual bookshops and farm outlets or direct from the author. To order direct: drop an e-mail to Eilidh MacPherson at editor@farmingscotland.com or private message on facebook – farmingscotland.com for details.

For more info contact Maree on 01806 335577 or info@polycrub.co.uk