Neil Elliott has some big shoes to fill as the managing director of well-established family business G J Elgar Construction Ltd, but a full order book suggests it’s a challenge he’s capable of meeting.
As the relaunched National Fruit Show prepares to dazzle visitors with another superb display of English top fruit, organiser the Marden Fruit Show Society is looking very much to the future.
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS
The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) picked up a top award when outstanding achievements and contributions to the farming industry were celebrated at the 2025 Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) Awards Day.
The association was presented with the National Agricultural Award, part sponsored by Savills, in a ceremony which took place at The Ragley Estate, Warwickshire, in early September. RASE said it was awarded “with special recognition of the outstanding leadership of the organisation’s CEO Jill Hewitt”.
The award celebrates individuals or organisations whose contributions have driven positive change in agriculture, reshaping the sector, whether through innovation, leadership, or a lifetime of dedication. Founded in 1893, the NAAC has been representing agricultural contractors for more than 130 years.
Jill Hewitt described winning the award as “a huge privilege for the NAAC” and said it would “help us promote the excellent and vital role that professional agricultural contractors play in our industry”.
The NAAC said the award recognised that the association “punches above its weight, delivering outsized impact” and pointed to major policy successes including winning the right for contractors to use red diesel and delivering grants and funding for the sector.
“In addition, the NAAC helps members navigate finance, safety and business management, alongside technical and legal compliance, to ensure professional agricultural contractors can confidently partner with farmers to give them access to cutting edge innovation, while bringing skilled labour onto farms,” it added.
The award also recognised the NAAC’s widely recognised safety campaigns, that help to raise awareness of the dangers on UK farms.
80% OF FARMERS WORRY ABOUT SURVIVAL
A poll of 500 farmers has revealed that 80% are worried that their business will not survive the next decade – and suggests Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party is making big gains amongst those responding.
The survey, conducted by the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), appears to demonstrate the far-reaching consequences of the Treasury’s plans to cut vital inheritance tax reliefs for farms and family businesses from April.
More than 60% of those who responded said they had considered selling their farm and leaving the industry, with the current Government squarely in the firing line. Not one of the 500 questioned said they would vote for Labour at the next election, with 36% saying they would back Reform, and the
Conservatives just two points higher on 38%.
The CLA said that the Treasury’s impact assessment of the changes, published earlier this summer alongside the draft legislation, had claimed capping inheritance tax reliefs would not have "any significant macroeconomic impacts". The assessment argued the change was “not expected to have a material impact on food security" and "would not be expected to impact the UK’s ability to source imports from international markets".
The CLA suggested the findings of this new survey cast doubt on these claims. President Victoria Vyvyan said: "The Treasury says these reforms will barely touch rural Britain. Our polling shows they will force hard choices on farms that have sustained communities for generations; selling their land, laying people
off, shelving plans for the future.
"Already, families are weighing up which parts of their business they can afford to keep. Some are holding back investment; others are wondering if they can hand the farm on at all.
"Rural Labour MPs can see what’s coming. They know it will drain the life from the countryside and strip away the trust of the people who sent them to Westminster. If they support it, their voters won’t forget.”
Meanwhile 69% of respondents said they would have to sell land or take out loans to keep the business – with nearly half predicting they would have to sell at least a quarter of their farm.
It also found 89% had paused or delayed investment since the budget, with 27% saying they had held back from investing over £150,000.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS AT RISK FROM EXPIRING AGREEMENTS
Thousands of farmers who have spent years delivering vital environmental benefits on their land face uncertainty as their agreements are set to expire at the end of this year, the NFU has warned.
A Freedom of Information request to DEFRA has revealed that 5,820 Countryside Stewardship (CS) agreements will end in December, leaving farmers with no clear pathway forward.
The NFU has pointed out that with the new Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme still not available and the CS higher-tier option only being available to a handful of farmers invited for pre-application, many farmers risk being forced to abandon projects that have supported biodiversity and environmental delivery for decades.
NFU deputy president David Exwood said: “Farmers have long been the custodians of our countryside, and many farmers have had agri-environment agreements for 30 years. Through these agreements, farmers have done everything from creating wildflower corridors for pollinators and growing feed for farmland birds to nurturing species-rich grassland, all of which contribute to the Government’s environmental targets.
“But without a plan from DEFRA about the future of these schemes, they’re left with a difficult decision – to either continue their environmental work, potentially putting them out of pocket, or to put this land back into food production, which isn’t always a straightforward or immediately available option.
“Certainty is a vital ingredient in farming, and right now that is missing altogether.”
The NFU is urging DEFRA to set out a clear way forward before agreements come to an end on 31 December, including:
• Allowing existing CS mid-tier agreements to roll over for one year, preventing an immediate loss of environmental delivery while giving DEFRA time to develop a long-term plan.
• Delivering the new SFI scheme quickly to ensure farmers can enter agreements without losing the financial means to deliver for the environment.
Mr. Exwood continued: “I’ve written to the Farming Minister (Daniel Zeichner) to highlight our concerns and asked DEFRA to set out a clear way forward.
“To ensure farmers can continue to undertake these vital environmental projects as part of profitable, resilient businesses – an ambition we share with the government – DEFRA must provide a clear plan for their future, and urgently. Any further delay risks undoing decades of positive environmental action.”
Farmers are the patriots OPINION
We are told by those responsible for the plague of limp St George’s Crosses hanging at half-mast from lamp posts and bridges that it represents an upsurge in ‘patriotism’ across the country.
Setting aside the obvious confusion in the minds of many of the flag hangers between patriotism and nationalism, such an upsurge should be good for farmers. After all, what better way could there be to show support for the country than to buy British beef and lamb, English top fruit and local produce in general?
True patriots would, surely, only eat home-grown strawberries (at the strawberry time of year), turn their noses up at avocados and avoid chicken from Thailand, choosing instead to support the farmers who are working to retain at least a semblance of national self-sufficiency in food.
In truth, any correlation between the marchers at the recent London demonstration organised by Stephen Yaxley-Lennon (AKA Tommy Robinson) and farm shop regulars is likely to be vanishingly small, with the country’s ‘patriots’ spending their hard-earned (perhaps) cash on red paint rather than red cabbage.
The true patriots are the farmers, who continue to grow the food we need despite the ongoing challenges of the weather, poorly thought-out tax proposals, unclear environmental schemes and global events they have no control over but which can affect their bottom line instantly and significantly.
There seems to be some good news around, at least for fruit growers, who this year look set to benefit from an impressive crop and more supportive supermarkets, and for dairy farmers, who have also seen an uptick in their fortunes thanks to improving milk prices.
Arable farmers will be hoping their fortunes also improve sooner rather than later, but in the meantime have been enjoying the annual round of ploughing matches, a welcome chance, if not to compete, then at least to watch others do so while chatting to friends and neighbours over a pint.
Those competing may have been inspired by the performance of James Witty, the recently crowned World Conventional Ploughing Champion following his winning performance in Prague. England’s men’s team may not have won football’s World Cup since 1966, but at least our ploughmen and women have something to shout about.
EMAIL YOUR VIEWS, LETTERS OR OPINIONS TO: sef.ed@kelsey.co.uk or write to the address on page 3
® MALCOLM TRIGGS - EDITOR
INCOMING DEFRA SECRETARY OF STATE
Farming bodies were quick to offer advice to incoming DEFRA Secretary of State Emma Reynolds following the Government’s recent reshuffle.
Country Land and Business Association (CLA) president Victoria Vyvyan offered “warmest congratulations” and said “Emma” had been “known for some time as a champion of the rural cause”.
Victoria went on: "She will know already of the immense potential of the rural economy to generate growth and create jobs. We will do everything in our power to support her in unlocking that potential.”
There was, though, a sting in the tail. "This reshuffle offers a profound opportunity to draw a line under a very difficult year for industry-government relations. But to move on, first Government must recognise that their current position on inheritance tax is completely untenable and will do nothing but harm to the
rural, and national, economy," she concluded.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said he looked forward to working closely with the incoming secretary of state in the months ahead and hoped she would uses the role “to champion farming, ensure its high production standards are valued and invest in its future with policies that back British farming and deliver for food security”.
Tom went on: “I would also like to thank Steve Reed MP for his time in post. Despite not always agreeing, we developed a strong working relationship and his door was always open to the NFU.
“He recognised the planning system needed significant change to enable investment in the farm infrastructure of the future. I am confident he will be able to support rural growth and farming communities in his new role at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.”
SPEAKERS CONFIRMED FOR NATIONAL FORESTRY CONFERENCE
An impressive line-up of speakers for the eighth annual National Forestry Conference next month will include Forestry Minister Mary Creagh and Forestry Commission chief executive Richard Stanford.
Organised by the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), Forestry Commission and Grown in Britain, the conference, which is being held on 8 October at Newbury Racecourse in Berkshire, will tackle the theme of ‘Prosperity through resilience and innovation’.
Up to 200 foresters, land managers and landowners are expected to come together to hear from a range of experts, learn from case studies, share experiences, network and collaborate.
CLA director general Bella Murfin will open the conference, with other speakers including Paul King, chief executive of Built by Nature, Chris French and George Muscat of Nature Metrics, David Telford and Dr Joanna Scales from Innovate UK and Matthew Riddiford of Carbon Plantations Ltd.
Dougal Driver, chief executive of Grown in Britain, said: “With the
circular economy ever more important and timber being the ultimate circular material, this event brings all aspects of forestry, processing and policy together under one roof.
“Always an inspirational day, we look forward to welcoming delegates to this annual event of ideas, networking and knowledge sharing.”
Forestry Commission chief executive Richard Stanford added: “The National Forestry Conference is a key opportunity to come together, share innovation, and drive forward practical solutions to ensure forestry delivers for government missions.
“Collaborating and sharing experience from across the sector, and more broadly, is key to ensuring forestry is relevant to the public. At a time when too many people think it is wrong to ever cut down a tree, we need to think about how we shape public perceptions of what trees, woods and forests do for economic growth, economic resilience through flood prevention and water quality and the contribution to environmental outcomes.”
Flooding problems that left hundreds of acres of once top-grade Sussex arable land uncroppable have finally been resolved, thanks to the determination of former South East Farmer correspondent Nick Adames.
Nick regularly used his column to bemoan the state of the local rifes that should have allowed rainwater to flow out to sea via the outfall at Felpham, near to Bognor Regis in West Sussex, but were silted up to the extent that the land was often flooded through to May following a wet winter.
The problems across the floodplain, made worse by flood events that Nick said resulted in his ditches filling up with sewage from the Lidsey treatment works, were the subject of a number of meetings with the Environment Agency (EA), Southern Water, the local MP, council officials and others, but progress towards a solution was slow.
Now, though, the saga has reached a happy end after “pestering” of the EA by Nick and his niece Emma Maclaren persuaded the agency to take action. “Eventually the EA recognised the extent of the problem we had been highlighting and decided that the solution we had been suggesting for many years was worth exploring,” Nick told South East Farmer. “It was becoming increasingly vital not just for the farmland but to protect an increasing number of homes and businesses from spending almost six months each year under water.”
Nick explained: “My niece and I had been ‘getting under their skin’
for so long that eventually the agency arranged for a long-reach excavator to clean up one side of the rife from near the seawall and then used a reed-cutting barge to clear the waterway for some two miles up to and just beyond our land.
“The result was quite outstanding, although exactly what we expected. The water in the rife rushed out to sea every low tide and then the sea gates stopped the high tides coming back in.
“This meant any heavy rain was quickly able to reach the sea, whereas before it simply could not get through the build-up of reed sewage and detritus. We can now stand on our bridge over the rife and see the current flowing fast, where for 10 to 15 years there was no flow, which allowed the water to flood huge areas of once good farm land.
“Now we are able to grow winter cereals or grass, maize or vegetables, as was always possible in the past. I grew a crop of maize on it which last week yielded more than 50 tonnes to the hectare. My neighbours are starting to reclaim their low brookland, too, and the area is becoming productive again.
“This is a real success story, due to our constantly niggling the agency over many months, firstly in South East Farmer and then here on the ground. We have been promised the exercise will be extended locally and that they have purchased a new reed boat, so things are looking up.”
RICHARD SHEPHERD-BARRON
Richard Shepherd-Barron, who died on 7 September 2025 at the age of 88, spent some of his formative years on a farm in the east of England, and while he was best known for his motor racing exploits, he was a keen agricultural writer and contributed a number of features for South East Farmer for more than 25 years.
A member of the British Guild of Agricultural Journalists, he was known for his love of, in the words of his son Chris, “county shows, farm visits, the latest tractors and a good bacon sarnie”.
Born in Karachi in January 1937, Richard came from a distinguished background. His father Wilfrid Shepherd-Barron was a civil engineer who served in the Royal Engineers and was awarded the Military Cross. His mother Dorothy was one of the leading British tennis players of her time, winning the Wimbledon women's doubles with Phyllis Mudford King in 1931 and winning a bronze medal in the women’s doubles at
A remarkably multi-talented man whose loves ranged from farming to motor racing, Richard Shepherd-Barron will be sadly missed by the many friends he made during a full and varied life.
the 1924 Paris Olympic Games, partnered by Evelyn Colyer.
Richard was educated at Stowe School, and after completing his mandatory two years of National Service with the 1st The Royal Dragoons, began an impressive career in motor racing.
Richard’s first race was in a Fiat Abarth 750 at Goodwood in 1958, after which he imported a then-rare Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Veloce, a car which allowed him to show off his considerable ability during the 1959 season.
He joined the distinguished Scottish Border Reivers team and ended the season in the Autosport 3 Hours race at Snetterton with a second-in-class finish behind team mate Jimmy Clark. While the future double world champion won the race in his Lotus Elite, Richard finished
a worthy eighth overall in the Alfa.
While retaining the Giulietta for a second season, Richard also ventured to the continent and teamed up with Bob Staples to take part in the Nürburgring 1000Ks world championship race in which they finished 33rd overall and seventh in their class (the winners were Stirling Moss and Dan Gurney in a Maserati T61).
Through 1959 and 1960 Richard competed in 41 events, winning nine races, either overall or in class, and finishing in the top three on 27 occasions.
In 1962, Richard and Chris Lawrence entered the Le Mans 24 Hours race in a LawrenceTune Morgan Plus Four. It was their second attempt, having been turned away the previous year because the car was said to look “old and obsolete”.
On this occasion the team was rewarded with victory in the two litre GT class and 13th place overall. The photograph of Richard crossing the line in TOK 258 after 24 hours at an average speed of 94mph including pit-stops has since achieved iconic status with Morgan fans the world over.
Richard married Penny Kennedy in December 1960, and while he hung up his crash helmet in 1963, he retained a keen interest in motor racing and was elected a member of the BRDC (British Racing Drivers’ Club) in 1963, later going on to become a Life Member.
Son Chris commented: “It will no doubt pass into legend amongst his petrol-head colleagues that Richard passed away just after listening to commentary on the Italian Grand Prix in September.”
While Richard achieved his own fame on the racing track, his older brother John took a different path and is credited with having invented the ATM, which first operated in a Barclays Bank in Enfield in 1967.
Richard went on to work for steel fixtures manufacturer Joseph Billingham in the Midlands, and then for TPI, a commercial
vehicle panel manufacturer, in Haverhill.
“That was how the family found itself in Suffolk in 1978, although my father always had a deep affinity for East Anglia, having spent his war-time years on a farm in Stokesby, Norfolk,” explained Chris.
Richard then discovered the world of research interviews with Kantar Group, which perfectly suited his interest in people and also allowed him to discover his final vocation as a freelance agricultural journalist, which Chris said “fulfilled his latent desire to be a farmer”.
For many years he wrote about agricultural and horticultural matters for such magazines as Vegetable Farmer, Fruit Grower and Commercial Greenhouse Grower, as well as for the NFU and for South East Farmer, where he is fondly remembered.
“Richard’s contributions to the magazine were always well crafted and much enjoyed by the readers,” said publisher Jamie McGrorty. “He wrote for us over something like a quarter of a century and will be sadly missed.”
Richard died peacefully at home in Alderton, Suffolk, leaving Penny, his wife of 65 years, son Chris, daughter Nicky and six grandchildren.
funeral is being held on 10 October at Seven Hills Crematorium, Ipswich. Donations in lieu of flowers would be welcomed by St Elizabeth Hospice who supported Richard and the family in the last few weeks of his life. (St Elizabeth Hospice /
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Veloce 1961. Richard Shepherd-Barron (right)
Le Mans 24 Hours 1962: Richard crosses finish in Morgan Plus 4 “TOK 258”
Richard's
RSB).
LETTERS
HELP REVERSE THE DECLINE OF POLLINATORS
Dear Sir,
We all know nature needs our help. I am writing to appeal to the people of Surrey to help reverse the alarming decline of pollinators by supporting the Countryside Regeneration Trust’s latest appeal.
Our volunteers at Pierrepont Farm in Frensham are leading the creation of a new wildflower meadow, designed specifically to support bees, butterflies, hoverflies and other essential pollinators whose numbers are in serious decline.
Pollinators are vital to the health of our ecosystems, our food systems and our countryside. Without them, much of what we take for granted in nature simply wouldn’t exist.
The wildflower meadow project was born from the passion of our volunteer team at Pierrepont Farm. With the support of the CRT conservation experts, the volunteers will transform an overgrown patch of scrubland into a vibrant, life-sustaining habitat. It will include native wildflowers for nectar and pollen, nesting spaces for ground bees, dead wood for solitary bees and host plants for butterflies and moths, ensuring it supports pollinators throughout the seasons.
We are currently running our summer fundraising appeal to bring this vision to life, but we are still £2,500 short of our target. The work is due to begin in late winter or early spring 2026, and we hope to reach our goal in time to prepare the site.
If you believe in protecting nature for future generations, please consider supporting the CRT’s Wildflowers for Pollinators appeal. Every donation, no matter the size, will help us create this vital haven.
To learn more or donate, visit: www.thecrt.co.uk/appeal/wildflowers-for-pollinators-appeal Leslie Hackett, Head of Volunteering Countryside Regeneration Trust
VIRUS IS PERSISTING IN WILD POPULATIONS
Dear Sir,
Avian influenza is no longer a seasonal threat. This summer the UK saw more outbreaks on poultry units in June and July than in the same months across the past three years combined. In August alone, six further cases were confirmed, with the total expected to rise to ten or more.
The driver is clear: wild birds. More than 730 dead wild birds have tested positive for the virus so far this year in Great Britain, including 78 in July despite temperatures
above 30°C that would normally suppress transmission. To me, this proves the virus is persisting in wild populations rather than fading with summer heat.
Gulls, in particular, worry me. Young birds are currently fledging and adults are foraging further inland. Recent studies have shown gulls can regularly travel into southern England from northern Europe, sometimes up to 300 km, to feed on freshly cultivated fields. This summer’s heatwave has only accelerated that movement, bringing reservoirs of infection closer to poultry units far earlier than normal. It feels like a perfect storm for disease risk.
That is why I cannot stress enough the importance of biosecurity. Just one lapse, such as a missed boot change or stepping into a contaminated puddle, can devastate a flock of broilers, layers or game birds.
I would urge all farmers not to wait until cases appear locally. Track outbreaks and wild bird activity in real time with the Livestock Protect app. Everyone must stay proactive on farm; keep deterrents in working order, net openings, enforce barrier systems and make hygiene routines simple, consistent and watertight for all staff.
In my view, year-round vigilance is now the only way we can protect poultry flocks and safeguard livelihoods.
Julian Sparrey, Group technical director, Livetec
PhD RESEARCH
Dear Sir,
I was grateful to be able to share my thoughts on Groundswell 2025 and promote my PhD research on antifungal resistance in the August edition of South East Farmer.
As a result of the magazine publishing my piece, two farmers reached out to me to participate in my research. It’s impressive to see how responsive your readership is, and it gave me a great opportunity to connect with farmers in the south east of England.
If anybody else would like to participate in my research, I am conducting interviews with farmers on their fungicide use throughout the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. If this is of interest, I can be reached at sjoh6006@ox.ac.uk
Abi Brown, PhD student, University of Oxford
SOCIALISM IS WHAT LABOUR DOES
Dear Sir,
Like Jonathan Tapp (Letters, September: Policy that is deaf to its consequences) I have farmed all my life (just a few more years) and can remember Harold Wilson`s threatened back door land nationalisation via punitive taxes which could be deferred, potentially forcing the bankrupt farm inheritors to hand the farm to the Government in lieu.
Herbert Morrison, a past senior Labour cabinet member, famously said: "Socialism is what Labour does" and since socialism is based on public rather than private ownership it should be no surprise that all the current and planned tax raids are aimed at the wealth creators, not the oft-quoted workers.
The Labour party is not deaf; it has a redistribution of wealth agenda. VAT on private schools will not raise enough to offset the cost to state schools, envious raids on farms will lead to a loss of food security, suicides, and generations of agricultural experience rendered redundant.
We are in this financial and cultural mess because of the sheer incompetence of the Conservatives, a few of whom are still in opposition and hoping to be given another crack at it next time. They are in for a shock.
A minority of the population voted for the present train wreck crew, with the majority not bothering to vote for the other incompetent lot. The voting turnout for the Brexit vote gave the largest-ever mandate for independence in our history, and yet our borders are still controlled by Brussels because the majority of our elected Members of Parliament past and present feel you and I made a mistake and wish to return to European dominance.
France, Germany and many other EU members are desperately trying to stop the illegal migrant flow and yet still we are subservient to their legal system.
Love him or hate him, Nigel Farage correctly judged the mood of the majority at the Brexit referendum and now leads every poll with his Reform UK party, to the horror of all of our ‘professional politicians’ who may have to get their first ‘proper’ job and become ‘workers’ after the next General Election.
David Steed, Manston, Kent
SMALL SWITCHES ADD UP
Dear Sir,
With British Food Fortnight (26 September to 12 October) in full swing and the national harvest service taking place at Westminster Abbey on 16 October, it’s a timely reminder of the essential role that British produce plays in our economy, communities and national security. Our farmers consistently produce world-class food, but unless there’s a clear route from farm to fork, through retail shelves, foodservice and hospitality menus, we risk undervaluing this national asset.
This year, Love British Food is calling on businesses and consumers to pledge to ‘make the switch’ – to consciously choose British produce during and beyond the campaign.
While the concept of ‘buy British’ is not new, the impact of making small, manageable seasonal switches is often underestimated. Seemingly small changes can create a ripple effect, ensuring a more resilient, sustainable food system.
The commitment to support British food is not an ‘all or nothing’ approach. By encouraging retailers, caterers and consumers to take one simple step with their food choices, we can strengthen our food supply chain.
At a time when food security is increasingly under scrutiny, the ‘small switch’ approach provides a realistic pathway to supporting British food and farming. It ensures that we are investing in farm businesses while building a more sustainable food system for the future.
We urge everyone to pledge to make the switch, and make a lasting difference, together.
Alexia Robinson, founder, Love British Food
Andy Jones, head of service development, Bon Culina Cathy Amos, head of customer marketing public sector, Brakes James Armitage, marketing director, Fresh Direct Phil Rayner, owner and managing director, and Jez Allman, head of commercial, Glebe Farm Foods
Jenny Jefferies, author, food columnist, producer and campaigner
Hedging and Woodland Plants & Planting Service
FROM THE FRONT LINE
CELEBRATING FARMING SKILLS
By Martin Hole, who farms organic livestock with his family at Montague Farm, on the western edge of the Pevensey Levels Wetland of International Importance.
This is the time of year when farming skills are celebrated. Ploughing matches go back to the 18th century, the oldest in this region being run by the Gravesend and Rochester Agricultural Association. Laughton and District will celebrate a centenary in 2030. Trophies tell the tales of talented individuals and serial family farming winners alike, with contests attracting the public into the world of agriculture. Above all, they are sociable and fun, annual reminders of the high standards to which we all aspire.
I must confess here that I have never ploughed an acre. As a young man on the family farm, the job was done by two supremely capable men. They were possessive, yes, but also possessed of good judgement. Something about my younger self caused them to discourage me from going anywhere near this particular task.
I admit to having more of a penchant for stock work. Forty years later I seem not to have improved. My neighbour recently called in to the yard to find me tightening a loose spike on the dung grab. I had a very large spanner and also a piece of scaffolding tube. The nut was obstinate. I didn’t see him arrive, but heard the gruff instruction to “put the spanner down”. Effortlessly he completed the job. This happens often, and I am always so grateful for such practical help.
Ploughing can be interesting from a bird angle. Forty years ago flocks of lapwing covered the freshly turned ground, early takers of newly exposed worms. Unusual these days, with fresh cultivation perhaps more likely to attract gulls and rooks. There is a farm in West Sussex where more than 200 red kites have been counted behind the tractor. Without these flocks the work would be less interesting.
We have only permanent pastures here, so my autumn and summer tractoring is mostly around forage and bale cart. A year or two back a stork arrived from France and followed the mowers, striking at homeless frogs and voles. Most years we get a passage of wheatears, who like to sit on the bales. Occasionally a young one, glossy in its new plumage, not yet knowing fear, will sit determinedly on a bale, even staying on as it is lifted. Imagine its little feet gripping hard, and its puzzlement as the earth moves.
I’m glad that birds are such an adornment to every day on the farm; it takes the mind off politics. To anyone that says: “We could do with a shower”, the response ruefully comes that: “We’ve got one…in Westminster.” Recent disorganisation over stewardship has made us
think about who is on our team. There are good advisers in the local office of Natural England, men and women who have encouraged our community over many years. They, too, are let down when political ineptitude and policy dogma from on high prevent them pursuing best practice in nature recovery and farm resilience. The financial worry and uncertainty we feel on the farm is replicated in their careers. Surely their political masters could do better.
The NFU works continuously at lobbying and partnering DEFRA agencies, but surprise changes of minister are challenging. Steve Reed and Daniel Zeitner had both come to know farming over several years. Their replacement will take relationships back to square one. Civil servants will be vital in making a transition at the top as smooth as possible. Or not. It is frustrating on the ground that these things should even matter. The importance of getting farm policies and nature conservation on a solid track should be greater than political posturing. I’m not sure that the many judges that grace the ploughing matches will this year be making any special awards to Labour ministers.
Male Wheatear
Photo: Graham Bishop
of how farming can survive and thrive in an era defined by volatility and change. With pre- and post-event refreshments and networking for those attending in person. Wednesday 12 6pm-10pm in person (7pm-9pm online)
To find your local Bespoke home insurance specialist, email: winegb@nfumutual.co.uk or search NFU
Helen Browning OBE: Chief Executive of the Soil Association and a pioneering organic farmer. Her work focuses on healthy soils and landscapes and championing high standards of animal welfare, such as developing organic pig systems.
John Gregson: UK General Manager at Regenified where he accelerates regenerative practices across farming and supply chains. Previously he spent 25 years at Waitrose and helped develop their farming and sustainability strategy. His upbringing on a 100 acre tenant farm shaped his commitment to the role of smaller and family farms.
Richard Means: Managing Partner at Ceres Rural Richard advises farms on productivity, sustainability and resilience, alongside managing his own 650 hectare farm in West Norfolk, where he has pioneered trials of various concepts and technologies.
MONICA AKEHURST AT THE KITCHEN TABLE
THE GRASS IS GREEN AGAIN
The field once called Nine Oaks is now Eight Oaks. The new name doesn’t sound quite right, but I expect I’ll get used to it. It was the recent howling winds that brought down one of the old oaks. Sad to see it lying there. Our animals used to seek shelter under its branches; thankfully, they all came through unscathed. On the bright side, the fallen oak will give us some strong gateposts and, once seasoned, good firewood.
We were disappointed this year when Tim Fox from the Sussex Barn Owl study group came to check on our boxes; there were no owlets. We’re not alone. out of the 40 sites he checks, there was only one with young. Our own boxes revealed a pair of adults, but no offspring. The second box was crammed full of twigs, a squirrel’s residence, and the third was inhabited by a stock dove. The wet winter and a lack of acorns last year for voles to eat had depleted their numbers, thereby reducing the prey available for barn owls and negatively affecting their breeding habits.
These are turbulent times for weather. First drought, then lightning, thunder, rainbows and, finally, proper rain. Our rain gauge is overflowing, the grass is green again and the livestock is more content. We’ve been able to
stop feeding silage and hay, conserving our winter stocks.
When the wind blows, acorns drop (there is definitely no shortage of these this year), but with more fresh grass around, the animals aren’t scoffing them quite so eagerly. In the High Weald it’s impossible to fence off every oak; inevitably, there’s always one glutton who ends up relocated to an oak-free paddock.
On the political storm front, I listened to Emma Reynolds’ first speech as secretary of state. She sounded more hopeful than Steve Reed. Given her previous role as economic secretary to the treasury, perhaps she’s in a position to convince the Chancellor to soften her hard line on inheritance tax. Notably this ‘elephant in the room’ was studiously avoided in her introductory speech. Labour’s rhetoric about growth will remain a dream unless businesses are given some certainty. It’s like having the rug pulled from under your feet. Where is the incentive to invest when facing unpredictable policy shifts?
I’m concerned about the planned changes to inheritance tax affecting our farm, so when I saw Farmers to Action campaigners at Hailsham Market this week I had a chat with them. They told me their campaign began
on 3 September in Cornwall, supported by a JCB Fastrac and trailer loaned by Staines of Torrington in Devon.
From this Trailer of Truth hung canvases on which people were invited to leave signatures and comments. Reading these revealed how frustrated many feel about the political incomprehension regarding food production and rural life. One hard-hitting slogan read:
“Undervalued Alive, Overvalued Dead.”
The Trailer of Truth continues its journey around the country visiting livestock markets, ploughing matches, sheep fairs and the like, collecting voices and stories to present to Labour and timed to coincide with the party conference in Liverpool.
Wouldn’t it be great if the Government listened to the rural community? We must keep speaking out. I added my own words and wished them luck. I hope their efforts are rewarded.
My visit to market was brief; just long enough to watch a few pens of sheep being sold. But as I left I found myself chuckling, having listened to an amusing story. Even in tough times, farmers’ humour lifts the mood. And while fair prices for stock are essential to sustain our work, I reflected that retaining a good sense of humour is important too.
When I head off farm, I often feel a twinge of guilt at the endless farm jobs still waiting on my ‘to do’ list. But then I remind myself that, sadly, they’ll still be there when I return and, as the saying goes, you only live once. So, when an email from British Wool landed in my inbox inviting me to an open day at the Ashford depot, I decided to go.
The British Wool Marketing Board was established in 1950, and so this year British Wool is marking its 75th Anniversary with a series of promotional events.
From a sheep producer’s perspective, and given that the price we receive for fleeces doesn’t even cover the cost of shearing, I admit that I haven’t always been complimentary about the wool board, but I was fascinated to learn more about the journey our wool takes. Each fleece is hand-graded and samples are sent to a testing facility. Based on these
results, the wool is sold at an online auction. Our wool doesn’t physically leave the depot until it has been sold.
British Wool represents 30,000 farmer members and sells nearly 20 million kilos of wool on their behalf each year. Before wool can be used commercially it’s scoured and then washed to remove dirt and grease before being spun into yarn or felted into wadding. The fact that there are only two large scouring plants in the UK, both based in Yorkshire, doesn’t help the value we receive for our wool. Some wool is sent abroad to be scoured. Perhaps British Wool should invest in a scouring plant of its own?
I attended the feedback session on the field trial using natural alternatives for the prevention and treatment of fly strike. It was clear that these products are less risky for shepherds’ health and more
Nine oaks now eight oaks
environmentally friendly, but the downside is that they need to be applied monthly, which would significantly increase the workload for commercial producers. For more information I recommend visiting www.innovativefarmers.org where details of recent field trials can be found. It’s interesting reading.
Farming-wise, we’re hoping recent rainfall will deter the cattle from trudging through the ditches on the marshland. Meanwhile one lamb succeeded in wedging its head through the mineral bucket’s handle, parading it around the field and alarming its companions. Another got itself entangled in a strap hanging from the side of a trailer and twisted around until it succeeded in hanging itself. What are the chances, given a whole field to roam in? Wild mushrooms are yummy. Farming is fun, right?
Trailer of truth visited Hailsham Market
Fleeces are graded by hand
The wool bag is suspended over the sorting platform
Wool depot, showing wool bags waiting to be sorted, and those packed ready to go when sold
There’s always one clown
PLOUGHING MATCH RESULTS
Heavy rain showers failed to dampen the spirits of the 68 competitors who took part in the Weald of Kent Ploughing Match at Moatenden Farm, Headcorn, by permission of the Dungey and Hawkes families. Attendance from the public was good, especially during the afternoon when the sun came out and many of the ringside events and the gymkhana were still able to go ahead.
The Weald of Kent Ploughing Match Association would especially like to thank
Weald of Kent
the SE Response 4x4 team and Weald of Kent Young Farmers for helping vehicles on and off the site after the morning downpours.
The Reversible Champion Ploughman and receiving the Kent & Sussex Fuels Trophy was Trevor Bennett on his Massey Ferguson and 4-furrow Lemken plough.
The Conventional Champion Ploughman and receiving the John
Geering Memorial Trophy was Ian Linch on his Massey Ferguson 35 and twin-furrow Ransome plough.
M & A Browns & Sons Ltd were named the Best Trade Stand for 2025 after all the stands in the main trade area were visited. The winners were presented with a case of English wine by sponsors South East Farmer.
Bookings for the 2026 show, when the association will celebrate the 80th anniversary year of the Weald of Kent Ploughing Match, will open in the spring.
Photos: Gary Hawkins
CORRECTION
Basingstoke and District
Agricultural Society
Saturday 4th October MAP-MARKER Bradley Farm, Micheldever, Winchester, SO21 3BQ
What3Words ///campfires.bound.drooling
Kindly hosted by our President Nick Allen and his wife, Kate
Angus Seymour, who won the local reversible plough section at The Weald Of Kent Ploughing Match, with Rosy Willmer
PLOUGHING MATCH
There was something for everyone at the West Grinstead & District Ploughing & Agricultural Society’s Annual Ploughing Match & Show held at Applesham Farm near Lancing, West Sussex, kindly hosted by W D Passmore & Sons.
Society secretary Rowan Allan said it was “lovely to be back on the Downs at Applesham Farm for a great day of ploughing and many other competitions and attractions”.
He went on: “Hugh, Sara and Chris Passmore and their team, along with numerous committee and other helpers, had prepared a great host site to welcome the thousands of visitors across Sussex and adjoining counties.
“There was something for everyone to enjoy, with over 50 vintage and modern tractor and plough combinations competing, along with a team of horses plus an impressive steam engine display.”
West Grinstead & District
produce entries.”
Harris’ funfair entertained young and old and the main ring included the livestock show in addition to a falconry display, a tractor parade and a well fought tug-of-war followed by a hugely enjoyable pull-off involving a flock of young children. Other attractions included a parade of the Crawley & Horsham hounds along with terrier racing, a gun dog scurry and tractor and trailer rides round the farm.
Tim Martin, the society’s chairman, commented: “Great thanks are owed to all of the committee and supporters for their hard work in organising a super site for the match and also to the society’s President for the year, John Ford.”
SOUTH EASTFARMER
Overall Champion Ploughman and Vintage Champion Ploughman was Gary Rutter with a 1941 Fordson tractor and Ransomes two-furrow plough.
BESTTRADESTAND
Rowan added: “Brinsbury College and other local farmers worked hard at preparing their cattle for the show ring, including calves for the young persons’ handling classes, and there were also a number of sheep classes and the everpopular children’s lamb-handling class split into three age groups.
“There were a bumper range of trade stands and exhibits, both large and small, and lots of delicious local produce stalls, plus a colourful range of domestic and children’s classes alongside the field
The Society, which is a registered charity, actively promotes the interests of the local farming community, including holding an extensive range of field competitions through the year. As well as helping individuals through bursary and local schools education awards, the society is this year supporting the Farmers Community Network, the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) and St Barnabas House Hospice in Worthing.
Gary Rutter receives his prize from president John Ford
REVERSIBLE
CHAMPION
CHARITY TRACTOR RUN RAISES £4,000
A well supported tractor run organised by the mum of a young boy who lost his life to a brain tumour five years ago has already raised more than £4,000 for charity.
Mum Becky organised the event at Riggs Hill Farm, Otterden, in Kent in memory of Joey Ward-Bates, with the proceeds going to the Abbie’s Army charity.
A total of 66 tractors were joined by other vintage vehicles to take part in the run, which was supported by sponsors including the Crawfords Group and Home Bake at Lenham.
To support the appeal, scan the QR code:
YORKSHIREMAN IS TOP OF THE WORLD
English ploughman James Witty has been crowned the 2025 World Conventional Ploughing Champion.
James, from North Yorkshire, won the world title and the Golden Plough trophy at the 70th World Ploughing Contest held near Prague in the Czech Republic in early September.
This was James’ second world title, having previously won the World Reversible Ploughing Championship in 2003. Only three people, including James’s late father Graeme, have won both conventional and reversible world titles, making it a remarkable achievement in the contest’s seven-decade history.
Forty-eight competitors representing 26 countries found ploughing conditions challenging during practice, due to a long spell of dry weather, but a little rain during the week improved conditions for the stubble ploughing on the first day and heavy rain overnight softened the ground for grassland ploughing on day two.
James found himself under pressure on
day one when he suffered a breakdown after ploughing started. It took almost an hour to fix damage to his plough depth wheel, but he was given extra time to complete his plot and, despite the setback, delivered an impressive performance and finished second.
On the second day, James was placed fourth, just 2.5 points behind another former world champion and the only other man to ever take the two titles, Andrew Mitchell senior from Scotland. With different names in the top three placings for each day and the points unannounced, the result was unpredictable and the announcement when it came was greeted with delight by the England contingent.
In the World Reversible Ploughing Championship, England’s Ian Brewer saw his title hopes dashed after drawing one of the poorer plots on the field on the first day. He finished in 14th place on day one but delivered a strong comeback on the second day, finishing third on the grassland and ninth overall.
Photos: John Handy Photography
PLOUGHING MATCH RESULTS
East Kent
The East Kent Ploughing Match was held at Quex Park, Birchington on 24 September.
Matt Cullen was named Reversible Champion and Ian Hogben was once again crowned Vintage Champion.
Cinque Port Detecting Club in Sandwich was named the Best Trade Stand for 2025 sponsored by South East Farmer
Ian Hogben, a multiple winner, is pictured here with his great grandson – a future winner perhaps?
Matt Cullen
Cinque Port Detecting Club in Sandwich
Photos: Gary Hawkins
CONSTRUCTION
MANY RETURNING CUSTOMERS
Neil Elliott has some big shoes to fill as the managing director of well-established family business G J Elgar Construction Ltd, but a full order book suggests it’s a challenge he’s capable of meeting.
Neil, who joined the company 14 years ago as a steel erector and cladder, was made a director in 2019 and has now been made managing director, with founder Graham Elgar moving to become chief executive officer.
“Graham talks about having more time to do other things and see his granddaughter, but in truth he’s still very much involved in the business,” Neil revealed. On the day South East Farmer spoke to Neil at one of the company’s recently completed projects, Homestall Farm on the outskirts of Faversham, Kent, Graham sent his apologies as he was busy on another site.
The company Graham founded in 1989 to provide quality steelframed buildings, groundworks and refurbishment in both the agricultural and industrial sectors has grown significantly over the years. It now employs a workforce of nearly 40 people plus six office staff at its Ashford headquarters.
At Homestall Farm, Anthony Redsell of T G Redsell Ltd asked G J Elgar Construction to demolish an older, timber-framed barn and replace it with a larger, steel-framed building.
The team saved the timber so that it could be sold and reused
elsewhere and safely removed asbestos panels before constructing a 24m by 24m grain store with a power floated concrete floor and an open storage lean-to to one side. Along with all the groundworks, the company provided a new access road into the farm and a secure entry gate.
Anthony is one of many returning customers, with G J Elgar Construction having previously built a new onion store for T G Redsell at Brook Farm, Reculver. The company is in the process of refurbishing a grain store at that same site.
G J Elgar Construction is trusted by a number of leading farming businesses to provide quality buildings. Having recently completed a new controlled atmosphere apple store for F W Mansfield & Son in Chartham, the company has now been asked to build 14 cold stores for the same company at Guilton, near Sandwich in Kent.
While it focuses on supporting farmers and growers in Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex, G J Elgar Construction will travel further afield for larger projects. While details are still under wraps, the company looks set to deliver one of the biggest grain stores in the country next year when it takes on a project at Bishop’s Stortford in Hertfordshire.
This time it was Neil’s reputation that preceded him. “The client had my name in his mobile phone from many years back when I had been working for another construction company,” he explained.
“Even though things had changed, he was still happy to ask me to quote for the job in my new role and we are hoping to start work soon.”
G J Elgar Construction has also recently completed a packhouse extension for Edward Velesco of Rodanto Ltd at Honeydale Farm, Sidcup and an impressive refurbishment project for the Crown Estate at Blue House Farm, Romney Marsh.
In what Neil described as “one of our most exciting conversions this year”, that project saw three former agricultural buildings repurposed into a modern industrial complex. Work to the singlestorey industrial and warehouse units involved a combination of steel and concrete frame construction with brick and profile steel sheet elevations, while the project included a new access road and bellmouth junction.
Neil said the company’s full order book was a result of “doing all the right things” alongside G J Elgar Construction’s reputation for “doing a great job for the right price”.
He added: “People also like the fact that it’s a family run business rather than just a commercial operation. They know that a little bit of love also goes into everything we do.”
Steel frame buildings
• Building conversions
• Sheeting and cladding
• Refurbishment and change of use
• Demolition and asbestos removal
• Groundworks and drainage
• Concrete flooring and external concrete
• Concrete frame and steel frame repairs
• Internal stainless-steel drainage
• Insurance and general repairs
• Guttering and repairs
Neil Elliott
NIGEL AKEHURST VISITS: MAYNARDS FARM
FINDING A NICHE IN PICK-YOUR-OWN
On a sunny August morning I met Tom Maynard at his family’s fruit farm in the High Weald. As we walked into the orchards, Tom began telling me the story of how his parents, David and Mary, bought the farm back in 1952.
“They had both studied horticulture at Wye College,” Tom explained. “At the time, there were no buildings; it was effectively an abandoned farm owned by the local hospital. They bought it as bare land, built a bungalow and gradually built up the business. They always wanted to do fruit, but in the early days had sheep and pigs to generate quicker turnover.”
In the early 1960s, Tom’s father had a lightbulb moment. While many farms would open their gates at the end of the strawberry season to sell surplus fruit cheaply, David realised there was more potential in flipping the model. “You want to grow for the pickyour-own; that’s where the profit is,” Tom
This month Nigel Akehurst visits fruit grower Tom Maynard at Maynards Farm in Ticehurst, East Sussex in the High Weald, to learn more about his family’s successful ‘pick-your-own’ and Ribena enterprise.
said. “That became the focus of the business, with any surplus going to market.”
It was the right idea at the right time.
Families were buying their first cars and freezers, and the household economy was strong. Jam-making, bottling and freezing fruit was commonplace. “It was incredibly successful for 10 or 15 years,” Tom recalled. “But of course, lots of other people started similar ventures.”
JOINING THE FAMILY BUSINESS
Tom himself studied horticulture at Reading University before returning to join the family business in the early 1980s. “I came in after finishing my degree,” he told
me. “I’d grown up here, of course, but that was when I really took on a role.”
Today, the farm extends to 22 hectares, a scale that allows for proper strawberry rotation in the ground, unlike many growers who have switched to substrates and tunnels. Over the years, Tom has built a diverse patchwork of crops designed for direct sales: strawberries, raspberries, cherries, plums, apples, pears, cobnuts and even tayberries.
“I know I can’t compete with a Gala grower with 200 hectares and a packhouse,” he said. “So it’s about finding niches and producing quantities that work for direct sales. Lots of little bits of this and that.”
The pick-your-own remains central, attracting a diverse customer base. “A lot of second-generation families – Polish, Afghan, you name it – bring their children because they want them to experience what they themselves grew up with; that connection to food production.”
BLACKCURRANTS FOR RIBENA
Alongside pick-your-own, the Maynards are also long-term blackcurrant growers for Ribena. “My father was one of the first to get a contract back in the 1950s, after hearing the inventor of Ribena speak at Wye,” Tom said. Back then, hundreds of small farms across the UK supplied Ribena using hand labour. Today, that number has dwindled to around 30, but the Maynards remain part of a group of four Wealden farms (Wealden Blackcurrant Harvesters) supplying a shared tonnage with LRS (Ribena).
All the blackcurrants are harvested mechanically using shared specialist machines. “We clubbed together with neighbouring farms back in the 1970s to buy one of the first blackcurrant harvesters,” Tom explained. “Now we contract it out, but the principle is the same – collaboration makes it viable.”
Interestingly, none of the blackcurrants is grown on the home farm, but on rented or share-farmed parcels elsewhere. “This site is more about pick-your-own,” Tom explained. “But Ribena is a really important strand; it’s given us continuity and a long-term contract.”
The relationship with Ribena has been key. “They’ve always looked after their growers,” Tom added. “They fund research, breeding and crop development, and they want us to stay in business. That security is rare in farming.” >>
FARM FACTS
• Family owned 22 hectare pickyour-own fruit farm
• Grow plums, cherries, apples, pears, strawberries, raspberries, tayberries and cobnuts for sale direct
• Grow blackcurrants under contract for Ribena, as a co-operative of four Wealden farms with two harvesting machines growing 600 tonnes in total
• Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm from June to September
Tom Maynard
NIGEL AKEHURST VISITS: MAYNARDS FARM
VARIETIES OLD AND NEW
<< which is a great winter apple, though not so easy to sell through our system.”
Walking through the orchards, Tom pointed out some of the varieties that have shaped the business. The plums are a good example. “Victoria used to be king,” he explained. “Back in the 1970s we would sell most of the crop pick-your-own. People would bottle and freeze them. But these days, people might just pick a handful for a crumble.”
To stay competitive, Tom planted newer varieties. “We’ve got Top End, which is a late plum that extends the season beyond Victoria. Earlier on we’ve grown varieties like Opal, which ripen in July and get people in before the Victorias are ready.”
Apples have also changed. “We’ve still got Bramleys – and at one time we’d sell four or five tonnes pick-your-own. People would take a box for the winter. Now, they’ll pick three for one meal.” Instead, Tom has focused on dessert apples like Estival (also known as Delbarestivale) – a crisp, aromatic variety that sells well in August. “We’ve also got Pinova,
Cherries, meanwhile, have become one of the farm’s biggest draws. “It’s a risky crop, but in a good year it pays,” Tom said, showing me rows under netting. “You get families coming in, sometimes picking £100 worth in one go. And because it’s such a social fruit, people share it on social media, which has replaced the local paper adverts we used to rely on.”
Pears have always been a sideline. “I only planted what I thought I could sell at the gate or farmers’ markets. Varieties like Williams are beautiful but the picking window is so short; they’re perfect for two or three days, then too soft.”
And then there are cobnuts – a Kentish speciality. “They’re low input and people still love them. Some customers will come and buy £80 worth for their winter supply. Others just pick up a kilo or two.”
The farm even has tayberries, cultivated blackberries and the odd greengage. “They’re
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good for giving people something else once they’ve picked cherries,” Tom said. “They wander down the rows and pick a punnet. It adds to the experience.”
THE CHALLENGES OF SCALE, LABOUR AND SUCCESSION
For most of the year, Tom runs the farm alone, bringing in students during the summer holidays. “I’ve never had full-time employees,” he said. “The idea with pick-your-own is that you avoid harvest labour. It’s the same with mechanised blackcurrants.”
Labour is becoming more difficult to source. “I used to get students and local youngsters. But last year was the first time I thought – they’re not coming. Our children are older, their friends have moved on. It’s harder to find people.”
Small-scale fruit farming also has its challenges, from spotted wing drosophila in raspberries to erratic demand for plums. “One year cherries are fantastic, the next they’re a
disaster,” he admitted. “It’s why I’ve always gone for a mix.”
At 68, Tom is also facing questions of succession. “I’ve got three boys, but they’re all in other jobs. They love the farm, but they’re not coming in. And frankly, when my eldest, who’s an accountant, looked at the books, he decided the numbers didn’t stack up.”
Despite that, Tom takes pride in what the farm has achieved. “We’ve ticked a lot of boxes; nice place to bring up the kids, a good life. My father’s still in the bungalow at 95. It’s been worth it.”
WHY NOT A FARM SHOP?
Unlike many similar farms, Maynards has resisted the lure of farm shops and cafés. “People tell me I should be selling cups of tea, but that takes focus away from the growing,” Tom said firmly. “We wanted to be a farm people came to for fruit, not a glorified coffee shop.”
That decision has set the Maynards apart. Across the South East, many pick-your-own businesses have gradually evolved into farm shops with cafés; some highly successful, others struggling under the weight of investment and year-round staffing costs. Tom deliberately chose a different path.
“We’re not on a main road, so it never made sense to build a retail business around passing trade,” he explained. “And I didn’t want to be open all year round, tied down to running a shop and café. What I’ve always enjoyed is the growing, and having people come here for the fruit itself.”
Instead, the business continues to evolve
around the strengths of the land, the crops and the local customer base. Cobnuts and late plums add diversity. Apple juice has become another small but reliable strand. Social media, driven by Tom’s sons, brings in new customers each season.
And while supermarkets and wholesale markets remain fickle, the direct connection with visitors keeps the farm resilient. “People come here as a leisure activity now, not for household economy. They’re not so price sensitive. They want the experience as much as the fruit.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Asked whether he’d recommend fruit farming to a newcomer, Tom paused. “There’s a real need for people,” he said. “It can be profitable, but there are huge risks. You can
only do it if you’re passionate, not just about the fruit, but about running a small business. It’s a lifestyle choice.”
As we wrapped up, Tom reflected on policy and the future of small farms. “I’m not against change. On my scale, the family farm tax isn’t a huge issue. My children aren’t coming in anyway. But I do think the tax advantages have been abused by the very wealthy, so it needs reform. What matters is finding a way for genuinely viable small farms to survive.”
Walking back past rows of apples ripening in the sun, it was clear that Maynards has carved out a distinctive path; holding onto its pick-your-own roots while adapting to new markets and challenges. A model built on variety, resilience and the simple joy of letting people pick fruit straight from the tree.
The success of 2024’s one-day show, warmly welcomed by exhibitors and growers, has seen that format repeated for this year, with Wednesday 5 November the date in the diary for anyone with an interest in the South East’s finest apples and pears.
And while celebrating more than 90 years of promoting English top fruit, the society has its sights set not on the past but on the future, with education an increasingly important part of the MFSS’s programme.
As chairman Nigel Bardsley points out in his introduction to the show handbook, “the education programme under the guidance of Mandy Hounsell is growing in reputation to the extent of not being able to meet demand”.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
As the relaunched National Fruit Show prepares to dazzle visitors with another superb display of English top fruit, organiser the Marden Fruit Show Society (MFSS) is looking very much to the future.
That demand is clear – and growing. Education lead Mandy, who is supported by colleague Irainne and a van called Blossom, notched up a remarkable 11,000 “meaningful engagements” over the past year. They included school visits, mainly but not exclusively to primary schools, group sessions, home education groups, career fairs and agricultural shows.
What is also impressive is that the outreach goes well beyond the Garden of England. Mandy and Irainne took the healthy fruit message as far afield as Yorkshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Herefordshire as well as Essex, Kent and Sussex.
Their ambition is to build on the success achieved so far, something
for which they hope additional sponsors will join the generous support already forthcoming, particularly from the Worshipful Company of Fruiters, AM Fresh UK, One Pay and A C Goatham & Son, which has backed the MFSS’s education outreach since it was set up more than 12 years ago.
“I’m on a soapbox for growers,” Mandy stressed. “I’m not just here to entertain the youngsters and talk to them about the importance of fresh fruit, but to put across a message to future growers and consumers.”
The education team’s stated aims are to promote the industry and provide educational opportunities for a wide audience. The primary school programme leads the way in doing that, with workshops
WHEN Wednesday 5 November 2025, 9am to 6pm
regularly updated to align with the National Curriculum. The team talks to adults about careers in the industry as well as working with children.
“In the past year, efforts have focused on expanding the secondary careers programme and highlighting the variety of careers available in the industry,” Mandy went on. “This included introducing practical workshops, supported by a grant from The Worshipful Company of Fruiterers.”
In the primary workshops children learn about how apples grow, and enjoy a tasting session which includes two varieties of apple and sometimes a pear, along with apple crisps, fruit bars and juice. “They learn that they can get their ‘five a day’ in different ways,” said Mandy. "We try to engage with them and teach them it’s important to enjoy trying fresh produce.”
Mandy has noticed increasing reluctance from children to eat fresh produce, something that isn’t helped by parents. “At shows we often have parents saying: ‘Oh, he won’t eat that’ before the child has even tried it,” she explained. “We then have to work with both of them.” To improve their chances of making a difference, Mandy and Irianne work with children as young as two.
Mandy said supermarkets could do more to help, estimating that 75% of apples on the shelves were still foreign, despite the fact that English growers had been picking Discovery since the second week in August.
This year has also seen the team showcasing the vital connection between farming and the environment. A Powerful Pollinators activity that showcased the role the insects play in orchard ecosystems and fruit production was launched at a large Scouting event for more than 800 Beavers and Cubs and then repeated at the Kent County Agricultural Show in July. Those taking part were given ‘seed bombs’ to take home.
At school science weeks, the team runs a plant science workshop that covers the apple tree life cycle, grafting and agronomy and concludes with students planting an apple tree, donated by Frank P Matthews, on school grounds.
Future plans for the education team, which now runs independently of the show and is responsible for raising its own funding via sponsorship, include creating an online careers portal that will allow young people to explore the opportunities in the industry. Other sponsors of the education programme not mentioned above include Orchard Cooling, Certis Belchim, Berry Gardens, Nims Crisps, Allied Growers and Collingwood Fruit Farm.
Former teacher Mandy, who comes from a cattle farming background and spends two-and-a-half days a week running the fruit show’s education outreach, works another two days each week for John Collingwood at Eaton Farm, Benenden, which gives her additional insights into the industry she supports with such dedication.
In its 92nd year, the show, which takes place at the Kent Event Centre, Detling, will be opened by Judith Batchelar OBE, a former director of Sainsbury and a great supporter of the food industry.
“With growers reporting good crops of high-quality top fruit, I’m hopeful the show will have a very positive atmosphere," commented chairman Nigel Bardsley.
MEET THE FUTURE OF CROP PROTECTION
Visit Russell CropCare at the National Fruit Show on stand S16 to find out more about the next generation of precision pest management. Backed by decades of Russell IPM’s trusted expertise in pheromone trapping systems, Russell CropCare’s innovative service uses cutting-edge AI image recognition to revolutionise the way growers can monitor and protect their yield.
“Stop guessing and start knowing” is the message from Russell CropCare, which provides real-time insights into key pest population dynamics, allowing growers to identify critical hotspots accurately before they become a major problem. This proactive, data-driven
approach minimises crop damage, reduces guesswork and supports a more sustainable farming future.
Russell CropCare’s affordable, bespoke packages covering top fruit, soft fruit and vineyards are tailored to each grower’s specific needs, ensuring a high-tech solution that delivers a clear return on investment. Speak with their helpful team at the show to discover how Russell CropCare can bring precision, predictability and peace of mind to your farm.
If you want to follow up later, please contact Russell CropCare:
• Southern team: +44 (0) 7309 775825
• Northern team: +44 (0) 7309 775800
GOOD FOOD REACHES THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST
FareShare increases capacity to store and redistribute surplus fruit to charities.
FareShare has increased its capacity to store and redistribute surplus fruit, including berries, soft fruit and top fruit, thanks to a grant from DEFRA as part of the Tackling Food Surplus at the Farm Gate scheme. This is expected to help meet the huge demand for fresh fruit across the charities supported by FareShare.
FareShare understands how much time, energy and resources go into growing food and wants to make sure none of it goes to waste. Working with FareShare helps businesses meet sustainability goals as well as making sure any surplus goes to feed people.
Surplus food is delivered by FareShare to 8,000 charities around the UK, including day centres supporting older people and breakfast clubs for children through to refuges for women who have suffered from domestic abuse, and homeless shelters.
By working with FareShare, growers can ensure that good food reaches the people who need it most. To find out how your business can access funding to support harvesting, packaging and transporting your good-to-eat surplus food visit www.fareshareuk.com/nationalfruitshow or email givefood@fareshare.org.uk
Julian Searle Agronomist & Viticulture Specialist
Ben Brown Agronomist & Viticulture Specialist
Matt Greep Fruit Team Manager & Agronomist
Gary Saunders Agronomist, Kent
Brendan Rhodes Agronomist, Kent & West Midlands
Neil Obbard Agronomist, South and South East Ryan Williams Agronomist, Kent & Anglia
Richard Killian Agronomist, South East Jonathan Garratt Agronomist, East Anglia
Steve Masters Product ManagerAncillary Products
Jason Steels Agronomist, Lincolnshire Matt Curry Commercial Support - Ancillary Products
Emma Smith Agronomist, West Midlands Matt Adrian Trainee Agronomist
Hortifeeds is excited to welcome visitors to stand S18 at the National Fruit Show at the Kent Showground on 5 November.
The team will be joined by Rob Kempster, lead applications scientist at Croda Agriculture, who will be available to discuss the benefits of Amētros, the company’s leading calcium mobility product available through Hortifeeds. Amētros has been shown to enhance Class 1 yield and improve fruit firmness across a variety of fruit crops, making it a valuable addition to any fruit crop spray programme.
Hortifeeds will also be highlighting the advantages of regular applications of its complete biostimulant, HortiBoost. When used in tank mixes with programmed sprays, HortiBoost improves fruit quality and yield, while also strengthening plants to resist stress factors such as extreme heat and drought. The ‘little and often’ application makes it a costeffective way to help protect crops.
In addition to these products, Hortifeeds will showcase its extensive range of fertilisers and biostimulants, including the new Marinure Extra seaweed/nutrient complex.
Hortifeeds offers foliar and soluble fertiliser products suited to all top and soft fruit crops and growth stages.
Visit stand S18 to learn how Hortifeeds can help improve your crop fertiliser programmes. See www.hortifeeds.co.uk, email info@hortifeeds.co.uk or call 01522 704747.
BOOST YOUR FRUIT YIELD
#NIPITINTHEBUD
The Farming Community Network (FCN) is a voluntary organisation and charity that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people in farming and ‘walk with’ people at times of difficulty and change.
FCN runs a helpline and e-helpline through which volunteers provide free, confidential support to anyone who seeks help. The charity also runs the FarmWell website, which contains useful information to support farmers, the people around them and their businesses.
FCN has recently partnered with Macmillan Cancer Support to improve the support available to people living with cancer in farming
communities and rural areas, and to migrant/seasonal workers.
The #NipItInTheBud campaign is raising awareness of cancer risks, signs and symptoms in farming and rural communities. It encourages early detection and making time to see the GP when someone notices a change in their health.
FCN welcomes any opportunity to deliver training or awareness sessions and has resources available to suit a variety of audiences. Macmillan resources are available in multiple languages.
If you have experiences that can be shared or from which we can learn, or if you require further support, please ring 03000 111 999 or contact our e-helpline at help@fcn.org.uk
NATIONAL FRUIT SHOW PREVIEW
JenCo Renewables is the specialist green energy division of JenCo Electrical Ltd, delivering tailored solar PV and battery storage solutions across the domestic, commercial and developer sectors.
Fully certified by MCS, RECC, and NICEIC, JenCo combines technical excellence with a deep commitment to sustainability, helping clients reduce energy costs while contributing to the UK’s net-zero goals.
The company’s services span everything from solar panel, battery and EV charger system design and installation to energy diverters, bird protection and ongoing maintenance. From homeowners seeking energy independence to businesses aiming to future-proof operations, JenCo crafts bespoke systems that maximise efficiency and savings.
What truly sets JenCo apart is its customer-
LOCAL POWER, GLOBAL IMPACT
first ethos. Known for going the extra mile, the JenCo team is praised for professionalism, precision and a genuine passion for renewable energy. The company is an approved installer of top-tier brands such as Tesla Powerwall, Myenergi, GivEnergy, and REC Solar Panels, ensuring clients benefit from cutting-edge technology.
In a world increasingly shaped by climate
Part of a larger domestic installation carried out in Sevenoaks, Kent last year, which also included two 13.5 kWh Tesla Powerwall2 battery systems with whole house back up capability
action, JenCo Renewables stands out as a trusted, local partner with a global mindset. Its mission is simple, yet powerful: to empower people to take control of their energy future cleanly, smartly and sustainably.
For more information see www.jencoelectrical.co.uk/, email renewables@jencoelectrical.co.uk or call 01797 224 361.
4th March 2026
CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR FRESH PRODUCE
Controlled Atmosphere Services Ltd (CA Services) was established in June 2022 with a determination to support customers, friends and colleagues within the farming and fresh produce industry.
As a group of like-minded, customerorientated engineers with more than 50
years of CA experience between us, we are driven to give the best service and support to our customers.
With that in mind it was important for us to progress quickly into producing our own control systems. CA Services currently has a growing number of its new scrubber controllers fitted in Van Amerongen CO2
Tracy Beilby
Do
Do
scrubbers and six of our new CA control systems were fitted as replacement/updated systems this year, Both can be viewed on stand S33 at the National Fruit Show.
Are
The systems were designed, developed and built in house and are our own bespoke systems programmed by Derek Wilson, in-house programmer and controls expert.
Pictured: left to right, Derek Wilson, Andy Cottam and Trevor Underdown
NATIONAL FRUIT SHOW PREVIEW
Matt Greep, fruit manager and agronomist
SUSTAINABILITY, INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Agrii is delighted to be returning to the National Fruit Show 2025 and is looking forward to meeting customers old and new on stand S28.
As the UK’s leading provider of agronomy and farm support services, Agrii works closely with farmers and growers across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. With more than 300 arable, BASISqualified consultants and a team of 14 fruit agronomists, Agrii is here to share practical, independent advice backed by years of research and on-farm experience.
Agrii is also looking ahead to the future of UK fruit production. Our focus is on sustainability, innovation and technology, supporting growers in meeting both environmental goals and market expectations.
Through our dedicated research and development programme, we’re exploring new crop protection options, precision farming tools and advanced Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches. These efforts help improve productivity while reducing environmental impact, ensuring farms remain resilient in the face of change.
Agrii’s horticultural agronomists bring generations of expertise, offering personalised guidance alongside a coordination team committed to excellent customer service. With depots located across the UK, the team is able to provide fast, reliable distribution wherever it’s needed.
For Design and Construction enquiries please contact Jake Taylor on 07864 859390.
EMAIL: UKSALES@STORAGECONTROL.COM
OFFICE: 01892 831702
WEB: WWW.STORAGECONTROL.CO.UK
TESCO IS BRITISH APPLE
RETAILER OF THE YEAR 2025
Tesco has been named the 2025 British Apple Retailer of the Year by British Apples & Pears Limited (BAPL), the UK top fruit grower association.
The award is based on BAPL member sales to British supermarkets from September 2024 to end of August 2025 and follows sales of the last of the 2024 apple and pear crop.
In the year from September 2024, Tesco sold 34,043 tonnes of British dessert apples, ahead of Aldi, which sold 30,130 tonnes.
BAPL has also named Asda as the retailer that achieved the best yearon-year performance, having more than doubled its volume of British apple sales from 2023/24, when it sold 5,555 tonnes, to 2024/25, when sales reached 11,427 tonnes.
Executive chair of BAPL Ali Capper said: “Tesco has continued to demonstrate their commitment to British apples, and we’re thrilled to see them take the top spot again. Asda has also excelled this year, achieving the largest year-on-year growth in British apple sales – a real testament to their efforts.”
Several supermarkets ‘over-indexed’ for British apples, selling more than was to be expected given their grocery market share (GMS). Outstanding performers over the past year included Aldi, which sold 20.2% of all British apples, compared to its GMS of 10.8%, and Lidl, which sold 14.4% compared to 8.3% GMS. Sainsbury’s sold 17% compared to 15% GMS, M&S sold 5.2% compared to 3.9% GMS and Waitrose sold 4.6% compared to 4.4% GMS.
BAPL pointed out that some supermarkets, though, are underperforming compared to their GMS, including overall winner Tesco, where sales of British apples were 5.5% below its GMS. Morrisons is 4.9% below its GMS and Asda, despite improvements, is 4.1% below its GMS.
Meanwhile Sainsbury’s is the 2025 BAPL British Pear Retailer of the Year, selling 5,289 tonnes of British pears between September 2024 and August 2025, more than any other UK supermarket. Sainsbury’s also takes the BAPL award for Most Improved British Pear Retailer, increasing sales by 905 tonnes over the 2023/24 season.
Aldi also delivered an exceptional improvement in British pear sales, significantly increasing their volumes from last season and demonstrating a growing commitment to British pears.
Ali Capper said: “We’re delighted to recognise Sainsbury’s for their leading position in British pear sales once again and for achieving the biggest year-on-year improvement. Lidl once again came second in the volume league table, outperforming its grocery market share, but Aldi’s strong growth in year-on-year pear sales also shows how retailers can build on success when they really get behind British fruit.
“With a strong British crop in 2024, we’d hoped to see everyone build on their sales. While some have found it more challenging, we see this as a real opportunity. By sharing this data, we want to inspire all retailers to champion British apples and pears even more in the year ahead.”
BAPL continues to publish monthly UK apple/pear sales data at: www.britishapplesandpears.co.uk/supermarket-sales-data
Full results for 2024 British apple crop
Full results for 2024 British pear crop
THE BEST TOP FRUIT YEAR FOR A LONG TIME
This year has been one of the cleanest crop seasons all three of my interviewees have ever seen, with very low levels of scab. While aphids were an early season issue, the warm spell soon sorted that out. It’s a high brix year with a good pack-out forecast, with growers just needing good weather to see the harvest out.
TONY HARDING
I spoke first to Tony Harding, technical and procurement director for Worldwide Fruit Ltd. He spoke positively about the season ahead and said the industry was in a far better place than 18 months ago, when many growers felt their livelihood was on a knife edge. Progress, he said, had been made on
Sarah Calcutt talks to leading industry figures about the 2025 harvest and pants a positive picture about this year’s top fruit.
pricing over the past two seasons but there is still work to be done to close up the gap with the rapidly increasing cost of production. British Apples and Pears Ltd (BAPL) has done an excellent job for the industry. Working closely with marketing agents, it has been driving the message on cost of production and sustainable returns to the retailers.
Many retailers have always been very supportive towards stocking British apples and pears, and in the past two years other retailers who were previously less committed to British had become more
supportive and wanted to stock increasing volumes of British apples and pears.
Tony, who felt British growers were in “a very good place”, said having a strong, strategic relationship with the end customer that included long-term commitment helped underpin the release of investment back into the industry. He added that the BAPL league tables were working, highlighting the excellent performance by several retailers and inspiring a desire to climb the league.
The World Apple and Pear Association crop numbers suggest that current European
SARAH CALCUTT ARA g S Chair, Fruiterers Awards Council
Spartan at Paul Ward's farm in Hartley, Cranbrook
supply volume is also on a downward trend, and there is a lack of confidence in replanting in some of the regions that have traditionally supplied the UK. The British crop will have an increasingly important role to play in supplying UK retailers to ensure full availability during the northern hemisphere campaign.
Worldwide Fruit growers have the opportunity to plant a range of new varieties generated from a new variety ‘pipeline’. The options include club varieties managed exclusively within the UK by Worldwide Fruit.
This year, varieties such as Jazz, Kissabel, Pink Lady, Mona Lisa and Cosmic Crisp look exceptional on the tree. Quality can’t be defined until the fruit is in the bin, but the colour is good and the earlier low rainfall coupled with a wetter August has meant that main crop varieties will be boosted into the sweet spot on sizing.
Tony was keen to press the point that it is really important that growers have the confidence to reinvest in the future. A season like this is forecast to be will give confirmation to retailers that the British crop is a great one and that the sector is worth supporting.
On harvesting labour, a challenge to many in recent years, everyone I spoke to reported that, in general, enough workers had been secured; with good living and working conditions important, serious investment in facilities has boosted return rates.
CHRIS BROWNING
I spoke next with Chris Browning, a director of Allied Growers and owner of Cottage Farms Ltd, a growing and packing business in Horsmonden, Kent.
Chris said estimates for this year showed a slight increase on last year, but with much better overall quality across the majority of varieties, with Conference pear skin finish getting a special mention.
He said that with all varieties looking good, he was optimistic that it would move the class one grade-out upwards. This good news comes from a low base. Three or four years ago returns were a huge challenge; investment stalled, with growers struggling to plan for the next five to ten years, but a better crop last year with improved returns meant growers were a little more buoyant, though mindful of the rapid rise in production costs.
Group prices have been agreed for the year ahead with a relatively good base and starting point, with Chris suggesting that another couple of years of good crops would see the industry in a far better place.
Chris said Allied Growers members were positive about the year ahead but needed to see returns that recognised the cost of producing a high quality crop.
PAUL WARD
Recent years have been a massive challenge for organic growers, but Paul Ward has grown his largest ever crop in what West Kent top fruit expert Mike Pullen, now 92, described as “the best year for growing fruit in this area ever”.
The warm spring meant bees could work every day, resulting in fantastic pollination. When rain was needed for fertiliser and development it arrived, but only two major, clearly defined, scab events in the whole season meant a fantastic clean crop, Paul said. The crop estimate was for a 50% increase on 2024, but harvesting is delivering 20% on top of that.
The challenge for Paul will be selling it all, with a substantial overhang of Bramley blocking stores, meaning the market is flooded with fruit needing immediate sale.
Organic sales are always affected by the quantity grown in gardens, and this year everyone has apples, which has left Paul with 150 tonnes of summer apples, Windsor and Julia, waiting to be sold. The wholesale market is being offered 15% to 20% discounts to help keep stocks moving.
Paul said the organic produce market was flatlining in the UK, with growth in niche products such as soaps rather than in fresh produce. He has invested heavily in new varieties such as Coryphée/Aria, which is popular on the continent, and Julia/Zuk37, of which he is the sole UK grower
Paul farms my father’s and grandfather’s orchards, and I have noticed that the young pear trees near me have a superb crop. He changed the feed and water regime this year, which has given him his best crop ever. He does, though, feel on a knife edge regarding the risk of getting behind due to weather, and is working hard to get everything away in time.
In short, it’s the best top fruit year for a long time. The quality in the bin will determine whether or not growers get all they need from it.
Pirouette at Paul Ward's farm in Hartley, Cranbrook
SFI CLOSURE LEAVES GROWERS IN LIMBO. HOW TO PREPARE NOW FOR 2026
The unexpected closure of the 2024 Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) Scheme in March 2025 caught many off guard, leaving more than 4,400 growers with mid-tier Countryside Stewardship (CS) agreements, due to expire at the end of December, with no clear path forward.
Uncertainty now hangs heavily over farms just as they approach a critical decisionmaking window.
The advice from Georgina Wallis, Head of Environmental Services at Hutchinsons, for those who intend to apply for SFI in 2026, whether that is those with CS agreements ending in December, those who missed the application window in 2025 or those who have soon-to-be expiring SFI 2023 schemes, is clear: start planning now.
“Being able to prove that actions were delivered when and where they were declared is essential. The final year of earlyadopted SFI 2023 schemes is where we’ll see DEFRA really scrutinise delivery,” she said.
FIVE PRACTICAL STEPS YOU CAN TAKE NOW
While DEFRA refines the details of its next move, Georgina recommends growers take the following steps to ensure they're ready:
1. Update your Rural Payments Agency land details
– Check land cover details, including land cover and land use, and field boundaries for accuracy.
– Make sure any land changes, whether acquired or transferred, are reflected in the system.
2. Evaluate what’s worked before
– Review past successful options, such as specific species within a pollen and nectar mix or whether a two year vs. one year winter bird food mix fits your system. Consider what could be replicated or improved.
3. Speak to your agronomist
– Begin assessing whether crop management actions, such as low-input cereals, could fit into your 2026 plans, even without final scheme details.
4. Organise your evidence
GEORGINA WALLIS
Agronomist
T: 07825 431647
E: georgina.wallis@hlhltd.co.uk
Canterbury: 01227 830064 www.hlhltd.co.uk
– Inspections on existing SFI agreements are becoming more routine. Even if dubbed as "friendly visits", the inspectors still require evidence of delivery. Over-winter
cover crops, for example, need photographic evidence, seed invoices and cultivation records, even if they're long gone by the time of inspection.
5. Use farm management tools wisely – Digital systems like Omnia can store and retrieve documentation such as photos and records with ease, making compliance less of a burden.
LOOKING AHEAD WITH MEASURED OPTIMISM
As we enter October, the realistic window for establishing new SFI mixes this year has all but ended. However, there is still time to prepare for spring implementation under a new scheme, one that many hope will bring clarity, continuity and confidence back to the environmental management of English farmland.
There’s funding. There’s intent. What’s missing now is direction.
Until DEFRA provides the full map, growers must prepare as best they can, with sound planning, diligent record-keeping and a close eye on what comes next.
Winter bird food
SHOT AND SHOCKED STEPHEN CARR
I’m not necessarily known as a fount of optimism regarding the prospects for UK farming post-Brexit, so I thought I’d gauge the mood at last month’s Laughton and District Agricultural Society (LDAS) Ploughing Match, held at Norlington Farm near Lewes, to see how other farmers felt.
First, I spoke to a well-respected arable farmer who has regularly won the prize for the ‘best-farmed farm’ in the LDAS competition. To say he was downbeat about the economics of cereal growing would be an understatement. He described arable farming as “shot”, which I heard as “shocked". When I asked him for clarification he said: “Yes, both shot and shocked.”
He told me that, with the price of arable commodities from malting barley to milling wheat having hit the floor, he’d found the mood in the trade stands very downbeat. Apparently, very few tractors are being sold. Farmers, he gathered, are cutting back on pesticide use, and, where they are buying agrichemicals, are leaning towards generic products rather than branded ones, to try to save a few quid. He even claimed that land agents - normally irrepressibly optimistic, whatever the reality of farming economics – were currently the definition of despondency, grumbling about ‘unsold farms’ on their books.
He then declared ruefully: “Like an ostrich with my head in the sand, I’m ignoring the elephant in the room (his trading losses) and will sow my farm again”, but continued: “though I wonder how much longer I can dip into the kitty I accumulated when wheat was £320 a tonne at the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.”
Gosh, he was almost as gloomy as I am.
I then spoke to a dairy farmer who is equally respected within the LDAS and regularly wins prizes for his cows. He, of course, is having a much better time of it. While wheat prices in the South East are down over £20 per tonne from last year to barely £150 p/tonne, milk prices are riding high, up about 7p per litre on last year to about 45p.
So the dairyman, far from succumbing to gloom and doom, maintained he was “philosophical” about farming at the moment. He was even prepared to cut the current Labour Government a bit of slack, saying: “The country is broke so someone has to be blamed for taking measures to try to sort things out.” Wow.
Like his arable farming counterpart, he too had visited the trade stands but, rather than despondency, he’d found “all the pros looking very chipper”.
So, two radically different views from one ploughing match of farming’s future. Both farmers were talking about the same industry, but their different perspectives reflect the age-old economic conflict between livestock and arable farming: up horn, down corn.
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STEPHEN CARR
Stephen farms near Eastbourne in East Sussex in partnership with his wife and four of his daughters. The farm has a pub, the Sussex Ox at Milton Street, which serves the farm's pedigree Sussex beef, Southdown-cross lamb and fruit and vegetables from the farmhouse kitchen-garden.
MAKING NEW STUDENTS FEEL AT HOME
The college is almost a month into the academic year and we have been busy welcoming new students to the beautiful surroundings of our large managed estate set in over 265 acres of prime arable land.
Making new students feel at home here is easy because one thing the college prides itself on is its wonderful sense of community.
AN OUTSTANDING RESIDENTIAL EXPERIENCE
Hadlow has 199 residential units, 147 units for further education students and 52 for higher education students.
The college’s residential provision was judged as Outstanding across all categories.
Inspectors delivered a series of glowing tributes saying: “Residential students thrive because of the warm, caring and nurturing relationships that they have with the residential staff,” and adding: “Residential students are overwhelmingly positive about their time at the college and say it is like a family.”
Whether you live on site or not, when you study at Hadlow College you benefit not only
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?
The rural experience recommences at Hadlow College.
from a beautiful location but also from some of the best facilities in the country.
SUSTAINABLE FARMING
In 2023, the college officially launched its sustainable orchard and vineyard, with the orchard using the latest technology to grow fruits, including apples, plums, cherries and apricots, in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. This is literally bearing fruit right now, with the second harvest having just taken place.
Our Thanet Earth Centre of Excellence, a groundbreaking partnership between the college, leading industry grower Thanet Earth and research and innovation organisation Growing Kent & Medway, is going from strength to strength.
This is based at the college’s state-ofthe-art glasshouse and is the UK’s first centre of excellence in greenhouse growing, connecting students with leading businesses from the greenhouse sector to bring a new generation of skilled workers to protect the future of UK-grown fresh produce.
If you are interested in studying at Hadlow College and want to find out more, come along to our next open event, which runs from 10am to 1pm on Saturday 15 November. Here you will be able to get a taste for the college, experience our facilities and speak to current staff and students.
MEDAL WINNERS
In May, the college took home a silver medal at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Hadlow took home several prizes at The Kent County Show in July and Edenbridge and Oxted Show in August for home-grown livestock.
Our animal management unit is one of the best of its kind, housing over 500 animals from 125 different species.
Hadlow is also home to the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, which provides refuge and care for up to 600 unwanted and vulnerable reptiles and amphibians. And there is more at Hadlow, including:
• A fully functioning commercial farm, home to 35 ewes, as well as a separate farm which is home to a herd of beef cattle.
• An equestrian stabling area that accommodates 64 horses along with two international-sized indoor arenas and paddocks.
• A fully stocked fisheries hatchery which contains a variety of tropical and cold water fish. The college also has over 50 aquarium tanks and a two-hectare mixed coarse fishing lake and growing-on ponds at Grove Farm.
• An agricultural workshop with 540 sq m of floor space which can accommodate many kinds of projects, from vintage and classic tractor restorations to modern tractors and more.
NUMEROUS ISSUES OF DRILLING TOO EARLY
By Simon Roberts, CCC Ltd.
With the distinct lack of rainfall during August across most of Kent, the temptation to drill oilseed rape was postponed until we actually had some soil moisture; in places volunteer rape was wilting in the field, so we were pleased we had not inflicted this on the new crop. By mid-September the usual crop invasion of cabbage stem flea beetle had not taken place. There has been some grazing but nowhere near the levels we have seen in the past. The only pest pressure has been from the turnip saw fly larvae and ever-present slugs. After the early September rains, stubbles have generally greened up well and will enable a timely spraying-off with glyphosate to control cereal volunteers and grassweeds ahead of the next cereal crop. At least two weeks are needed after spraying off cereal stubbles ahead of second wheat to minimise the risk of frit fly damage and the direct transfer of barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) from any aphids present on volunteer cereals.
Following non-cereal break crops, stubbles should be sprayed off five to seven days before drilling. Remember that there is a growing and real threat of grassweed
insensitivity or resistance for glyphosate, so minimum rates should now be maintained at around 1,000gms/ha or above for mixed populations of blackgrass, volunteer cereals, brome etc, but for ryegrass nearer 1,500 gms would be advisable due to locally confirmed resistance risks. With particular reference to ryegrass, check for any surviving plants after spraying.
The issues of drilling too early are numerous, including increased disease levels, high grass weed germination in crop, warmer soils which reduce residual herbicide persistency and an increased risk of BYDV. The rain has so far not given the opportunity to start wheat drilling yet, but I am sure that by the time this goes to press the drilling campaign will be well underway.
The main spread of BYDV in cereal crops is usually from the second-generation wingless aphids following the initial flight in of the winged aphids. Temperature accumulation of 170 day degrees after the initial flight into the crop is a good indicator that the next generation is appearing and migrating onto new plants and therefore spreading the virus.
In the past few years we have seen high
Ideal conditions for volunteer and grass weed germination before the crop is drilled
CCC AGRONOMY
Chichester Crop Consultancy is a farmer member run co-operative agronomy service that aims to deliver truly independent, research/ science-led agronomy advice with no commercial bias and now covers the South of England.
CCC works closely with Crop Advisors, which supplies independent group purchasing on crop inputs as well as sourcing cover crop/environmental scheme seed mixes.
levels of winged aphids on one-leaf to two-leaf cereal crops in a number of situations, after grass and maize but not exclusively limited to these scenarios. So vigilance is key from germination onwards. Use the 170 day degrees as a guide and treat as appropriate; there is no point applying if aphids aren’t present or weather conditions aren’t suitable.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board has an excellent tool for following the accumulated day degrees for your location at https://ahdb.org.uk/bydv
Simon Roberts
Saw Fly (Left) and its damage
ANITA HICKSON ORGANISED CHAOS
AGRICULTURE HAS BEEN FACING PROFOUND CHALLENGES
The boys had a lovely day at the East Kent Ploughing Match at the end of September. I was on a ferry to Ireland with Zara as she had been selected to participate in the Nations Cup team in Ballendenisk. I think it must be 20-plus years since I missed our local match.
The grass is now all drilled, and the winter drilling will have been started by the time this article is published. We have just completed our four-yearly TB test, so a tense week of testing/reading has been completed. Thankfully all was good.
Having travelled the length and breadth of the country this year (or so it feels) and spoken to many different types of farmer, it would appear that many people feel at a loss as to the pathway ahead. The majority of farmers are unsure whether to retire/sell/keep going for the children etc, creating a negative attitude. Meanwhile we all await the Government’s next plan to thwart farmers. When will it end?
Agriculture has been facing a series of profound challenges, particularly evident in recent events as of September 2025. Among the most pressing issues are Rea Valley Tractors – a large supplier of agricultural machinery in the North – going into administration, the cessation of the young farmers’ start-up grant by the Government, the ongoing struggle of farmers to secure a fair milk price and persistent labour shortages in farming.
Each of these developments not only impacts individual farmers and rural communities but also raises larger questions about the sustainability, resilience and future direction of British agriculture.
The reasons behind Rea Valley Tractors going into administration are many. Like many
businesses in the sector, it has faced financial pressures due to a changing market, increased costs and disruptions in global supply chains. Fluctuations in the value of the pound, rising fuel and parts prices, and uncertainty tied to Brexit and international trade agreements have compounded these challenges.
For farmers, the consequences are immediate and severe. Many rely on timely delivery and maintenance of tractors and other vital machinery, and the collapse of a key supplier risks delays, uncertainty and increased costs. Those with existing orders or service contracts may face uncertainty about whether these will be fulfilled or honoured, while staff at Rea Valley Tractors face immediate redundancies.
We unfortunately had a small fire in one of our telehandlers and the part waiting list is more than four months! How can farmers survive with a machine out of action for that length of time? The machine is four years old, and in that time the depreciation has reached more than 75% of its purchase value.
Equally concerning is the Government’s decision to stop the young farmers start-up grant, something that has historically played a crucial role in supporting new entrants into farming, helping them overcome the considerable financial hurdles associated with land purchase, machinery, livestock and initial running costs.
The withdrawal of this support threatens to deepen a generational crisis in farming. The sector already faces a huge challenge, with
a steadily ageing workforce and a shrinking pool of young people willing, or able, to take on farming businesses. Young people wishing to enter the industry often encounter prohibitively high start-up costs, limited access to credit and a lack of affordable land.
By halting the young farmers start-up grant, the Government risks discouraging the next generation from pursuing careers in agriculture. This may have long-term consequences, not only for food production but also for community sustainability.
The decision has sparked criticism from farming unions and rural advocates, who warn that such measures send the wrong signal at a time when the sector needs renewal, skills, and fresh ideas more than ever.
The labour challenge continues, while the milk price is now falling. Many farms depend on seasonal and migrant workers for harvesting and animal husbandry, but Brexit, changing immigration laws and the Covid-19 pandemic have dramatically reduced the number of available workers.
We have recently taken on a new apprentice through a local agricultural college. The support and assistance we have received from this college has, though, been disappointing at best. He is lovely, willing and hardworking and the aim was to encourage him to take a pathway in farming and gain a qualification, but it would appear that the college is more interested in the financial aspect of having a bottom on a seat.
Until next time, stay safe.
ANITA HICKSON Farmer
JOIN US FOR ANOTHER DAY IN THE OFFICE
Plumpton College is more than just a place of learning; it’s a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and opportunity in land and environmental education. As our agricultural programmes continue to grow in scope and ambition, we’re seeking passionate professionals from the farming and rural industries to inspire the next generation of agriculturalists.
Whether you’re an experienced educator or an industry expert ready to make the leap into teaching, now is the time to join a college that’s deeply rooted in farming heritage and actively shaping the future of British agriculture. We celebrate 100 years of Plumpton College in 2026, and now is the time to join us for the next chapter of our journey.
If this wasn’t enough to tempt you, the college has recently invested £11m and created first class resources and teaching facilities including:
• The introduction of Lely A5 robots for our high-yielding dairy cows
• A new, state-of-the-art high welfare sow breeding to finishing pig unit
• A fully functional, industry endorsed, bio-secure system
• A new state-of-the-art agri-food centre with a training development kitchen and bakery
• A new butchery department, fully furnished with the latest equipment and teaching resources.
To find out more and to apply: recruitment@plumpton.ac.uk www.plumpton.ac.uk/we-are/vacancies/
We can demonstrate the best farming practices to our students through increased productivity, a drive towards more regenerative practices, exposure to the latest cuttingedge technologies and reducing our carbon footprint.
A FANTASTIC SUMMER FOR INSECTS
Well, this summer really was something else, dominated by several heat waves and an old fashioned drought, followed by high pressure which delivered a chilly, dry, north east wind. Our harvest was early and the yields mean, particularly the spring barley.
Our pasture quickly became burnt and bare, so we had to feed our South Devons hay with generous creep for the calves. The family pet donkey joins the herd and is small enough to get into the creep, so has remained fat, in contrast to cattle that will be housed at a condition score of 3 or less, which means we may well have to add supplements to maintain sufficient condition through to calving.
It hasn’t been all gloom though. We have had a fantastic summer for insects, mostly beneficial. Aphids were controlled by masses of ladybirds and hoverflies. There were butterflies of all sorts, almost like the sixties, with loads of those whose caterpillars feed on grasses, such as meadow browns, gatekeepers, ringlets and marbled whites.
The hedges were also prolific, despite the
lack of water, with loads of wild plums, crab apples, wild pears, rowan, blackberries and sloes, so fruit eaters should do well at least to mid winter. Our grandchildren’s free-range pet pig, a lady of very traditional build, has done well on fallen fruit. The birdseed plots are, however, poor, so we shall still be starting our winter feeding in late November for the specialist granivores.
The last time we were so dry, with grass burned brown, was in ’95. The memorable drought before that, which looms large in farming folklore, was ’76. Global warming is increasing, so we can make an educated guess that a wet autumn and some nasty floods, accompanied by cries for better protection, will follow.
Climate volatility is the new norm, and a direct consequence of the rise in atmospheric carbon mankind has caused. Recent research reveals a close correlation between all past mass extinction events and rapid rises in atmospheric CO2. Most of these rises have followed volcanic activity, but the current one is down to us burning off the earth’s stores of
carbon while the Trumps of this world, who seek to lead humanity, ignore the evidence. What can we do to mitigate the stresses of heat and drought upon our livestock, and upon cattle in particular? A black hide significantly increases heating in the sun, and cows suffer increasing heat stress as temperatures rise above 21°C, triggering reduced milk production and loss of condition. Is it time to breed for lighter coated cattle?
Tall, thick hedges provide shade and browsing. Large circular troughs reduce competition for water. In-field trees provide more shade and create cooling draughts. Planting trees in pasture is a long haul, for it takes about 20 years before the trees deliver shade, browse, better water percolation and nutrient retention.
There are pros and cons regarding scattering the trees at random to create parkland or clustering them in loose copses to maximise shading and minimise interference with machinery. Where we have rectangular fields abutting, I would be tempted to cluster tree planting loosely in corners. This
maximises ecological gain by joining up hedges and copses with an understorey. It would also ensure shade at all positions of the sun. We are facing these decisions as we implement our contribution to our local cluster’s landscape recovery plan.
The national fall in yields has stimulated rising imports, with consequential protestations about self-sufficiency. UK farming is relatively high cost, so if retailers can source food cheaper from the other side of the world, why not import it? We, the customer, get the benefit even if we, the farmer, do not.
But does what we pay really reflect actual costs? What costs are hidden and not accounted for? Two are fairly obvious: CO2 plus other pollutants produced by transport, and the environmental costs the producer country incurs to meet exports. Nor are these costs taken into account in what we produce. Currently, then, ‘total costs’ are too inaccurate for good policy decision making.
Sir Partha Dasgupta, emeritus professor of economics at Cambridge University, has tackled such issues in his recent book On Natural Capital: The Value of the World Around Us. This very readable book is a distillate of a detailed report to government that has now been published in full.
In essence, Professor Dasgupta demonstrates that the economic models we use to consider our financial health are flawed, since they take no account of common goods extracted from the planet, nor of the effects of our behaviour upon our environment. In a finite system with so many interactions, these hidden and assumed ‘free goods’ should be accounted for, if we are to get a true picture of our economic position. If we did so, we would all become more mindful of the delicate balances that make our home habitable and the effects of our profligacy would become more obvious. Necessary remedial action would consequently become more politically acceptable.
If economists embraced wider data in their economic calculations, we would probably see that imports were significantly more expensive, while home-produced products were more competitive. The latter would be particularly true if all us UK farmers worked in greater sympathy with our environment to the extent that we made no contribution to riparian pollution and enhanced our carbon status.
Wild plums
Marbled White
Nolan and Willa scrumping
Speckled Wood
Small Copper
Gatekeeper Dull-backed boxer fly
Sloes
Painted Lady
Despite the obvious annual day-to-day difficulties largely associated with the weather impacting on grazing and flock husbandry, it is fair to say that the sheep trade is in a satisfactory place for the middle of August, with the best lambs through 400p/kg, averages around 350p/ kg and some of the best heavyweights close to, and over £200.
We are now into the autumn months and well into our weekly Friday sheep sales, which complement our Tuesday sales that are, of course, held all year round.
At our Friday sales, which include large numbers of both store lambs and breeding sheep, we see faces around the ring from far and wide, this year unfettered by bluetongue, both buying and selling.
Store lambs have been a strong trade so far, even though food is not readily available. Confidence is growing steadily, with recent rains now helping grass and roots after it was so dry throughout August, when drilling of winter food post-harvest took place.
With the national flock well down, and plenty of flock dispersals or reductions having taken place over recent years as eyes turned to environmental payments, the thought is that store lambs will be short. Buying while they are available has created this level of trade.
Finished lambs took a slight knock back in prices through late August and into September, and with what the store lambs are currently making, as a farmer who must sell lambs, there is no doubt that taking the money for them as stores is no disaster.
BUSY TIMES IN THE MARKET
Breeding sheep have also seen a strong trade, with more confidence seen from those looking to maintain numbers and hopefully expand, and certainly from buyers who have sold lambs well early on, particularly those who tend to lamb a little earlier and feed their lambs.
With the best breeding tegs £200 plus, this does not seem unrealistic when the best of the commercial cull ewes are £170 to £200. These young ewes, which potentially have four or five crops of lambs to come, face a low depreciation charge for those who can get their cull ewes well fleshed and marketed at the correct time.
A slight reverse, clearly, for younger enthusiasts who are looking to make a start and are having to go out and tie up more money. Some sort of central funding would certainly make sense in helping younger people enter the livestock industry, but this seems unlikely with current government priorities far from trying to keep farming alive. But who is going to feed the nation in the future?
trade was so strong.
There are now a few more farmers making the decision to feed cattle to a finished level, with corn prices remaining desperate, and they can see the margins adding up; all national factors which have reduced the numbers seen in the store rings.
I have full confidence that all grades of store cattle will be a strong trade through the autumn months with the lower numbers that are now available nationally, and I feel, even with some concerns over forage supplies, that the smaller cattle will be bought and housed so they are available for turnout next spring.
At the end of August, after a Friday sheep sale, the first ever Romney Marsh Speed Shear took place at Ashford Livestock Market. It was a great event organised by shearers and young farmers, and it was pleasing to see so many young faces as well as many older ones.
JAMES COOK O’CONNELL ALAA
Store cattle sales are picking up, with the strongest short-term feeding stores a marvellous trade and confidence in finished prices remaining positive. Smaller numbers seem inevitable this autumn, with larger numbers sold throughout the spring when the trade reached levels never seen before. Many decided to sell in the spring while the
For a first-time event, it was well supported by both competitors and spectators, who had travelled far and wide to get in on the action. The skill of the shearers is a sight to behold, with the fastest regularly under 30 seconds. Food, drink and music were all on offer, and the event raised over £1,200 for the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance. Congratulations to all involved, and there is much hope, on the back of this successful start, that next year will be bigger and better.
PROACTIVE BRD BLUEPRINT
Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) is a complex condition that costs the UK cattle industry an estimated £50 million every year. As the most common cause of death and poor performance in youngstock, tackling it is not just a welfare concern but essential for the profitability of the farm. The disease is multifactorial, influenced by viruses, bacteria and environmental management. The most cost-effective approach? Prevention.
YOUR PROACTIVE BRD BLUEPRINT
The biggest mistake is waiting for the coughs to start. Use these three pillars to keep the disease off your farm this winter:
1. ENVIRONMENTAL AND STRESS CONTROL
Poor housing conditions act as the primary trigger for BRD outbreaks. Viruses (like RSV, PI3, and IBR) and common bacteria are often present in healthy calves but only cause pneumonia when the animal is stressed and its lungs are compromised. Transport, movement and weaning are examples of major stressors.
Ventilation is key; stagnant air allows pathogens to build up. A well-ventilated shed will feel fresh, not smelly. Fresh air can kill airborne bugs faster than a compromised system. Consider a smoke test to properly assess your airflow.
Avoid stress points; overcrowding and mixing calves of different ages increases stress and pathogen exposure. Similarly, schedule stressful events (weaning, castration) to avoid the high-risk housing period.
2. THE COLOSTRUM AND VACCINATION DEFENCE
Colostrum is the foundation; antibodies provided in colostrum protect the calf for the first three to four months of life. Use the ‘5 Qs’ (Quantity, Quality, Quickly, sQueaky clean and Quantify) to ensure every calf gets the best start.
Timed vaccination; vaccines are a crucial tool, but they are not a substitute for good management. Ensure your vaccination program is completed about a month ahead of the main risk period (like housing) so the immune system is fully prepared for a fast response.
3. TREATMENT AND RESPONSIBILITY
If you see signs of pneumonia (reduced feeding, raised temperature, increased breathing effort), you must act quickly. While you may treat mild cases, severe or widespread disease demands veterinary attention immediately.
Dr Ami Sawran, Westpoint Farm Vets, advises a proactive prevention plan to maximise profit and safeguard welfare.
Treatment protocol; an appropriate antibiotic combined with antiinflammatories (to reduce lung damage and fever) is the standard approach. There should be a response within 24 hours. In mild cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy alone can be enough to stop pneumonia in its tracks.
Responsible use; treating all calves in a group is sometimes necessary, but antibiotics must only be used under veterinary guidance to protect against rising antimicrobial resistance.
Your practical challenge; use a smoke test this month to assess the ventilation in your calf shed. If you haven't already, call your vet today to ensure your vaccination programme is fully timed and ready for your target housing date.
A CHALLENGING SEASON
For numerous reasons this season has been rather challenging for sheep and, sadly, I suspect that the sector will continue to face further trials, both in the short and long term.
I must admit to being a little presumptuous in the last issue with reference to store lamb prices. A drop of rain at the end of July had stimulated a bit of West Country enthusiasm for stores, no doubt in anticipation of more rains to follow; sadly, that enthusiasm, along with hopes of more rain, rapidly evaporated, literally, with much of the south of the country seeing no meaningful rainfall during August. Conversations with breeders at the Lleyn Society sale in Exeter at the end of August showed a mixed picture, with tight supplies in the south of the county, which is desperately in need of rain, while the north and into Somerset had plentiful grazing. Hopefully the recent rains will provide a good autumn flush and stimulate the demand for store lambs; there are plenty in the South East looking for a new home.
Lamb prices have been indifferent, due in part to a significant number of poorly finished lambs entering the market; I fully understand why and admit to being guilty myself. With grass supplies getting ever tighter, and under pressure to shift a few mouths, I took some
ALAN WEST Sheep farmer
of the poorer pedigree type ram lambs into the market, knowing that their finish was somewhat marginal and done with some soul searching as to whether to send them as stores or fat. I chose the latter, luckily a correct decision, at least financially, although there may have been a bit of tutting in the market, but I can live with that. Prices weren’t what I had hoped for but were, realistically, better than expected; that in spite of it being a week in which there was a dramatic drop in lamb prices.
Quite apart from the obvious challenges related to the weather and various government policies, the sheep sector faces other issues; processing facilities under pressure, rising processing costs and supermarket domination of retail with sourcing decisions driven by the bottom line rather than any true commitment, in spite of rhetoric, to supporting UK producers. Add to this falling domestic consumption the potential impact of right-wing anti-Islam propaganda on sheep meats entering the
This ewe lamb is smart and she knows it, twin born and reared and doing well despite the weather
Muslim market; like it or not, this important market accounts for 20% of our domestic consumption and is a significant element in the export trade. We are being squeezed from multiple directions; personally, in view of the summer that we have experienced and the possibility that this may be a foretaste of future weather patterns, I am reappraising our system and seeking ways of building in greater resilience.
And, as if the recent events didn’t present enough of a challenge, the environmental lobby keeps on chipping away at the sheep sector; the methane debate rumbles on, in spite of convincing arguments to the contrary, a deliberation that has been appreciably blurred by misinformation and half-truths.
Serious proposals for the introduction of lynx in the north of England gather momentum and considerable support, largely from urban sources. There is also a vociferous minority calling for a considerable phased reduction in the national flock, with a few prominent voices advocating the complete eradication of sheep from the British landscape.
The main thrust of their argument is that sheep are not a native species and have no natural ecosystems evolved around them, unlike cattle, ponies and deer, all species that were present on our shores into prehistory, long before our arrival on the scene. It is, however, an erroneous argument that could equally be applied to every one of our cereal crops, which have a considerably greater environmental impact and, coincidentally, all have their origins in the same regions of the Near and Middle East as sheep. Taken to a logical conclusion such an argument would include many other of our food crops without which we would have a very much poorer and boring diet; it is a plainly a nonsense argument.
True, there are no native species of sheep in the UK, but things have changed somewhat since their arrival on our shores with Bronze Age farmers 6,000-odd years ago. Nature is dynamic. It does not stand still but adapts to suit changing environmental pressures. It’s
With the recent heavy rain at the beginning of September, it is hard to believe what a dry summer we had, although the lack of forage in the sheds is a stark reminder. As we are coming to the end of the summer there have been a number of call outs to sick animals and to some that have died suddenly with no obvious illness before death.
The shortage of grass can lead to animals looking for the weird and wonderful, potentially encountering toxic plants while grazing marginal areas. Diagnosing toxin ingestion is difficult and these cases can be frustrating for us as vets. Diagnosis is usually based on a combination of findings from looking at symptoms in the live animal or on post-mortem findings, together with the grazing history and farm history.
A recent call was for an investigation into the sudden death of one bull and one cow out at grazing within two months of some ditching work. They had both died within a few hours of each other. After confirming the carcasses to be anthrax negative, they were moved off the farm for us to perform a post-mortem examination. We found nothing
POISONOUS PLANTS
remarkable, apart from something which was found in the rumen (see photo 1a and 1b);
This was Hemlock. Water Hemlock, especially the root, is extremely poisonous, and can cause death within eight hours, sometimes as quickly as 15 minutes.
A couple of other examples of poisonous plants we encounter are:
RAGWORT
• Poisoning is most common when ragwort is ingested in hay or silage
• Ingestion over time causes chronic weight loss, diarrhoea, jaundice and bottle jaw. Cattle or sheep will be dull and depressed.
• Once liver damage is present there are no treatment options available.
ACORNS
• This year the oak trees are laden with acorns.
• Acorns contain tannins which can cause severe kidney damage, which is often fatal.
• Signs you may see are inappetence, bloat, depressed demeanour and initially constipation, which then leads to tarry diarrhoea.
• Death usually occurs four to seven days after ingestion.
• Supportive treatment can be attempted but is often prohibitively expensive and not often successful.
• If you are concerned that your sheep or cattle are eating acorns, then remove them from this pasture or fence off highdensity acorn areas.
called evolution; if there has been time for our sheep to evolve, from the Soay-type first arrivals into the multiplicity of “native” British breeds that we now have, then logically there has been sufficient time for local ecosystems to adapt and evolve alongside the sheep, particularly as, for the first 4,000 years, most of the variation in our sheep would have arisen largely by natural selection as sheep populations, with fairly random breeding, adapted to local conditions. Excepting the introduction by the Romans some 2,000 years ago of the white, fine-wooled Tarentine (precursors of our fine wool breeds), selective breeding as we recognise it would have been
limited, that is until Robert Bakewell came along in the middle of the 18th century. Local and regional ecosystems have had time to fully adapt, evolve and thrive alongside sheep, and to say otherwise is a misleading argument, often proffered by individuals with alternative agendas. It is also foolhardy, particularly in upland areas, where adaptations are such that significant removal of sheep grazing pressure in some areas, alongside restrictions on controlled burning, have generated a huge increase in fuel load in the event of wildfires, something that has been more than adequately demonstrated by recent events on the North Yorkshire moors; actions
have consequences, often unforeseen. The sheep sector is undoubtedly facing challenges moving forward. Some may be addressed internally by revisiting what we do - sheep farmers are an adaptable and innovative lot - but we also need to ensure that we capitalise on every opportunity to inform the general public, to dispel some of the myths and misinformation and to put forward our own reasoned case. They are our customers and we need them on our side; it’s not sufficient to simply rely on the NFU, National Sheep Association and others, but is incumbent on all of us to do our bit whenever we are able.
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With autumn now fully with us, some good news is needed in farming. With exceptionally low prices being quoted for harvested grain, the drought still causing issues and sheep prices at lower levels than we have seen for some time, it has not been easy to have positive conversations with many farmers.
The only bright light has been the continued positive cattle trade, with prices throughout the four weeks before this report was being written at exceptionally good levels for the best, with averages still 100p/kg more than 12 months ago and cattle trading at record levels for the time of year.
Despite cattle dead weight prices being quoted as under pressure, that was not really seen through the live ring, particularly for the stronger, well-bred cattle. As always, secondary cattle are still looking exceptionally well sold.
There are still plenty of cattle trading at over 400p/kg every week and cattle regularly seen over £3,000 a head. The general run of cattle is still in the 340p/kg to 380p/kg price range live weight.
Relatively positive feed prices are helping cattle finishers, with low prices quoted for barley and other ingredients also stable if not falling.
It is pleasing to see so many good quality cattle going through the market, as stated previously this is a real credit to eastern counties beef finishers.
Of concern still for the livestock market is the number of people leaving the industry and the difficulty of obtaining replacement stock when cattle are sold.
The over-30-month and cull cows trade is still looking strong, with numbers now increasing as farmers look to make a decision regarding carrying cattle through the winter. The processing trade for beef is still dominating this trade and shows little likelihood of falling.
Store cattle remaining at exceptionally high levels where farmers are competing strongly to replace those which have left the yards. There is a risk, but it does seem that the cattle trade is buoyant at this time and into the future.
In the sheep section, the upturn reported in the new season lamb trade last month did not continue, which was disappointing, with numbers coming forward as grass became short and many finishers of sheep now having to feed hard food at a cost that is difficult to sustain, lowering prices for the finished product.
We saw a fall of some £40 a head on many lambs in the period of this report, with best lambs trading around £150 to £170 a head in the 50kg weight range. The finished lamb trade is also affecting the store lamb trade but this has also been adversely affected by the lack of keep and new grass growth. Without more rain, it is doubtful if there will be good crops of fodder beet and other fodder crops,
Looking at the trade it is difficult to see an upturn in the lamb price until later this year or early 2026.
Cull ewes and rams are still finding a strong demand, but many plain ewes are coming forward as producers select their 2026 breeders. Again, with the shortage, it keeps the price of the lean grazing ewes under pressure.
With the harvest in East Anglia mainly finished by early August, much cultivation work has been carried out for the 2026 harvest,
with farmers now looking for rain to ensure seed beds can be provided for next year’s crops. The moisture is also assisting the growth of black grass and rye grass, enabling farmers to spray off and help with next year’s crop protection.
We are in interesting times, with the world going through a period of great change, but hopefully all will remember that farming is the basis of producing food for this country and support is now at its lowest level probably since the war, with farmers looking for good news throughout the industry.
The National Pig Association (NPA) has urged the government to act “comprehensively and without delay” on what it called the “devastating findings” of an MP-led inquiry into the virtually unrestricted flow of illegal meat into the UK.
A report from the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee concluded that “alarming amounts of meat and dairy products are now being illegally imported into Great Britain for both personal consumption and sale”.
During a visit to the Port of Dover in March, members of the cross-party committee were told by one worker that they had “found an entire pig stuffed inside a suitcase; its legs cut off badly so that it could fit inside”.
Among a number of key findings
NPA URGES GOVERNMENT TO ACT ON ILLEGAL MEAT
and recommendations, MPs said it was “unacceptable” that there was no clear, publicly available data showing the scale and nature of the illegal meat entering the country and its destination, and called on DEFRA to begin fining and prosecuting repeat offenders. They also described the department’s ban on personal imports of most meat and dairy from the EU as ‘toothless’, with prohibited animal products continuing to enter the UK freely.
Lizzie Wilson, chief executive of the NPA, which worked closely with EFRA on the
report, said it laid bare “the Government’s inadequate steps to protect UK livestock from potentially devastating notifiable diseases like African swine fever and foot and mouth disease”.
Thanking those behind the report, as well as the “diligent people involved in the very difficult and under-resourced work in trying to stem the flow of these illegal imports at Dover and elsewhere”, she called on the Government to take the problem seriously and “act comprehensively and without delay to implement its recommendations in full”.
Call us today or visit our website: 01227 763939 furleypage.co.uk
PROTECTING A COMPETITION HORSE AS AN ASSET
The tragic deaths of a number of high-profile riders have highlighted the need to ensure your horse is protected in the event of your death, says Francesca Hayward, Associate at Furley Page.
The recent sudden deaths of jockey Michael O’Sullivan, eventer Sarah Yorke and showjumper Chris Moyce are a sobering reminder of the risks that riding brings and raises the question of who would manage your horse if the worst were to happen. This is especially relevant if your family is not ‘horsey’ and wouldn't know how to manage or rehome your prized asset.
For all owners, their horse becomes part of the family, but for those competing they can also be one of their most valuable assets.
Regardless of whether you’re riding at grassroots level or aiming for international events, competition horses usually represent a significant investment of money, time and emotion. Between the purchase price, training, livery, veterinary care and travel, a competition horse’s value can be substantial. At the top end they can also generate income through prize money, breeding or sponsorship.
Without clear legal arrangements in place, disputes over ownership, care or sale can arise at the worst possible time. But these potential disputes can easily be avoided with a bit of careful planning in advance.
The key advice on how to safeguard your horse and your wishes is:
• Document ownership clearly: Have in place a written agreement confirming ownership, especially if the horse is shared or owned through a syndicate. Also make sure your horse is registered to the correct legal owner with the relevant breed society or governing body and in its equine passport.
• Consider a trust: Placing a horse into trust can protect it from being sold against your wishes and ensure it is managed by people who understand its value and care needs. A trust deed can set out who makes decisions about the horse’s training, competing, or sale if you are no longer able to.
• Insurance for peace of mind: Ensure you have comprehensive insurance cover for mortality, veterinary fees, public liability, and loss of use, and review the insured value regularly to match the current market.
• Written care and competition agreements: If another rider competes with your horse, set out in writing the terms for costs, responsibilities and decision-making. Loan agreements should be equally clear, including permitted uses, care standards, and what happens if the agreement ends.
• Include your horse in your will: State clearly who inherits the horse and how it is to be managed or sold. Without this, non-horsey family members may have no idea of the horse’s needs or value. Whether your horse is worth £300 or £300,000 the principle is the same; you need to make a plan. It’s not morbid, but part of responsible ownership.
By putting the right legal structures and agreements in place now, you can protect both your horse’s welfare and your investment, and ensure your final wishes are carried out.
For advice on protecting your horse and making sure the right people are in place to look after it, contact Francesca Hayward at Furley Page for tailored legal advice on 01227 763939 or by emailing fh@furleypage.co.uk
WHY FARMING DISPUTES ARE SO DIFFICULT
Farming families often operate across generations, with land, property, and business assets tied up in complex ownership structures. When disputes arise, whether over a will, a trust, or succession planning, they can quickly become emotionally charged and legally complicated.
Unlike other commercial disputes, these cases often involve blurred lines between personal and professional relationships. A disagreement between siblings or between parents and children can affect not just the business, but the entire family dynamic. Litigation in these circumstances can be slow, expensive and deeply damaging.
WHAT IS MEDIATION?
Mediation is a confidential process where a neutral third party helps those in dispute reach a voluntary agreement. It’s not about deciding who’s right or wrong, but about finding a solution everyone can live with.
The process is flexible and informal. It allows families to speak openly, explore creative solutions and stay in control of the outcome. Unlike court proceedings, which are public and adversarial, mediation is private and collaborative, making it particularly well-suited to sensitive family matters.
WHEN MEDIATION CAN SAVE THE DAY
Disputes over inheritance, succession and family trusts can be especially painful in farming families, where business and personal lives are deeply intertwined. Deborah Cain, Partner at Brachers, explains how mediation can offer a constructive and cost-effective way forward.
WHEN CAN IT HELP?
Mediation can be used at almost any stage of a dispute. It’s especially effective in:
• Disputes over a Will or Codicil
• Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
• Allegations of undue influence or financial abuse
• Disagreements between beneficiaries and executors or trustees
• Family fallouts over succession planning or lifetime gifts.
In many cases, mediation can resolve matters in a single day, avoiding months or even years of litigation.
THE BENEFITS OF MEDIATION
Mediation offers a number of advantages. It’s typically faster and more cost-effective than
If you're facing a dispute over a Will, trust, or family inheritance, mediation could offer a way forward. Deborah Cain and the Private Wealth Disputes team at Brachers are here to help you explore your options and protect what matters most.
We understand the importance of protecting your legacy. Whether it’s your assets, personal affairs or family business, we find tailored solutions that safeguard your interests for generations to come.
going to court. It’s also more flexible, allowing for outcomes that a judge couldn’t impose, such as restructuring a business, agreeing future roles or setting up trusts.
Perhaps most importantly, it can help preserve relationships. In farming families, where people often live and work together, maintaining those relationships can be just as important as resolving the legal issues.
LEGAL SUPPORT STILL MATTERS
While mediation is less formal than court, legal advice is still essential. A solicitor can help you prepare, understand your rights and ensure any agreement reached is legally binding. At Brachers, we regularly support clients through mediation as part of a wider strategy to resolve disputes with dignity and discretion.
From Planning to Permission: Securing homes for rural and agricultural workers
Whilst there may be the opportunities to explore using permitted development rights to obtain seasonal, temporary or permanent accommodation this is not always possible or desirable and a full planning application is required.
“Obtaining
Justifying a rural worker’s dwelling, is particularly difficult as functional need and financial viability often come under the microscope in addition to the usual planning considerations –highways, ecology, heritage, drainage, contamination, landscape, dwelling size and design, and more recently, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). Therefore, Tom’s advice to readers is to make sure you have someone who understands and is suitably
qualified and experienced in rural enterprises (not just planning) who is able to advise you on the chances of success and the strategy for working toward a permanent dwelling. The last thing you want to do is pursue a case that has no hope and can potentially cost a lot, both financially and emotionally.
Says Tom Ogden, Director
Bloomfields has a demonstrable track record for advising on how best you should approach getting rural worker dwellings on your site. Scan the QR codes to view just a selection of our “full planning” success stories. See our website for successful outcomes relating to seasonal workers accommodation and or getting dwellings on-site using Class Q permitted development.
OAK | EAST SUSSEX
A TRADITIONAL RESIDENTIAL AND GRASSLAND ESTATE
Conster Manor is a traditional Sussex residential and grassland estate located within the picturesque Tillingham Valley now on the market with BTF Partnership.
Conster Manor was purchased by the vendor’s family in about 1965. Initially they concentrated on rearing Shorthorn cattle, before introducing sheep to the farming enterprises in the mid-1980s.
Edmund Austen in his book Brede, The Story of a Sussex Parish wrote in 1946: “Several references are made to this house and farm in connection with the iron industry. The house, with the exception of Brede Place, is probably the oldest in the parish”
The property now being sold extends in all to approximately 71.3 acres.
According to The National Heritage List for England, the south wing of the Grade II Listed manor dates to the 14th-century, with the north-west wing being an 18th -century addition. The three-bedroom manor, which is approached via the private farm drive, is set some 300 yards back from the highway.
Divided into a number of undulating pasture fields, with small areas of ancient woodland and scattered ponds, the land is predominantly grade 3, with the River Tillingham on its north boundary.
The range of traditional and modern outbuildings include:
• Triple-roundel oast house: Although now lapsed, planning permission (RR/94/1915/P) was approved and subsequently renewed on three occasions (with the last occasion being in 2012) for conversion into two dwellings with garaging.
• Seven-bay barn (approximately 32m x 12m)
• Former granary
• Four-bay barn (approximately 22m x 7m)
• Pole barn (approximately 22m x 9m)
• Pole barn (derelict)
• Former dairy building with attached bull pens
• Former milking parlour
• Single garage
• Silage clamp with railway sleeper walls.
Viewing strictly by appointment via the sole agents: 01435 864455
Land & Property Experts
Conster Manor Near Rye, East Sussex
A traditional Sussex residential and grassland estate located within the picturesque Tillingham Valley. Grade II Listed Manor with traditional pasture fields within a ring fence. Range of modern and traditional outbuildings, including an unconverted Oast House (in need of renovation). First time on the open market for 60 years.
Approx 70.4 Acres Guide Price £2,500,000
Versatile
High Weald arable and woodland in the Tiese Valley with Bio-Diversity opportunities. 205 Acres. Guide Price £1,725,000
Land at Vane Court, Biddenden, Kent
A parcel of Grade III agricultural land extending to approximately 55 acres in the Weald of Kent with road frontage to the north and further access rights to the south. Currently cropped with maize with the remainder the third year of a grass ley. BNG possibilities.
Approximately 55.07 acres
Weald of Kent
Level arable land with large field enclosures and Wealden ponds. 162 Acres Guide Price £1,515,000
SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY
SUBSTANTIAL COUNTRY HOUSE
A substantial country house located on high ground with twobedroom self-contained annexe cottage and detached holiday let is on the market with Batcheller Monkhouse. In addition, there is a superb former aircraft hangar 109’ x 61’ and private gardens and grounds including two lakes; in all about 31 acres.
Lower Morgay Farm is an unusual, south-facing property situated on high ground, set up its own driveway enjoying complete privacy with no immediate neighbours.
The accommodation at Morgay Cottage (annexe) comprises a double bedroom and a single bedroom.
Quince cottage (holiday let) is set slightly removed from the property, with its own parking area to the front, and includes a mezzanine bedroom.
Outside is a superb former aircraft hangar currently divided into two rooms, one being a large workshop area, 45’ x 16'. The main body of the building, 64’ x 45,’ has a large roller door to the front and is an excellent height. There is a staircase leading to a good sized mezzanine area, 55’ x 18’, above the workshop.
The gardens and grounds are a particular feature of the property, providing complete privacy with a mixture of about 8.5 acres of pasture
and about 20 acres of deciduous woodland with excellent mature oaks and beautiful bluebells.
To the west of the house is a timber studio building with an area of decking to the front (in need of repair). Within one of the paddocks are two former storage containers. Of particular note are the two large ponds which are located within the paddock to the west of the house and which lend themselves to a variety of pursuits.
Not a very jolly
The interesting thing about planning is generally (excluding attachments to listed buildings) you can build something without planning permission and it does not become ‘illegal’ until an Enforcement Notice is served. If you require further assistance in this matter or any other planning matter, please phone or email our team.
BNG has “de-risked my business” says Suffolk farmer
Second-generation farmer and recipient of the Ian MacNicol Farm Conservation Award, James Bucher, was looking for a way to derisk his sustainable farming and agroforestry enterprise in Knettishall, Suffolk.
After first reaching out in 2023 to explore his options, James partnered with Environment Bank to take 50-acres of his least productive land and create a BNG Habitat Bank which went live in spring 2025. James worked together with our team of ecologists and land managers to design something that would really complement his land business – including incorporating James’ herd of Red Poll cattle into the habitat management plan using sustainable grazing.
What made you consider a BNG Habitat Bank for your land?
“The farming world is currently facing low crop prices and the withdrawal of other subsidies. I was interested in BNG for its environmental potential and the long-term income security it could provide for my marginal, less-profitable arable land.
I have always been interested in conservation, but this is really exciting because it’s large-scale with a 30-year commitment so we should see some really fantastic results, especially with the Habitat Bank being right next to Knettishall Heath Nature Reserve. This is marginal land that does not produce fantastic yields with arable crops, so both the location and the quality of the soil lends itself to something like BNG.”
Why did you choose to partner with Environment Bank?
“In a good year on that field, growing an arable crop would probably return half of what we are getting paid through Environment Bank. We are never going to achieve those sorts of figures with arable crops, so to take some marginal land out of production makes sense to me. You cannot keep flogging a dead horse.
The really exciting thing is these guys at Environment Bank have got the expertise to guide this and we can create something really effective rather than a stewardship agreement, which is great for wildlife in the short-term, but which might not necessarily be targeting the species that the area is lacking or suited to.”
What changes are you seeing for your land and farm business?
“It has de-risked the business. We are getting a guaranteed rental payment and management payment for the next thirty years.
Our BNG Habitat Bank has taken about a twentieth of the farm out of production, so it is not a massive area, but it is a guaranteed source of income at a time when government support is waning, and commodity prices are as low as they have ever been. Environment Bank creates the habitats, and we get a rental payment per hectare for the field, which is good at today’s prices – it’s a guaranteed return. With unpredictable weather and commodity prices, it’s nice to have some surety. What I am hoping is that in ten to fifteen years’ time there could also be some significant agrotourism opportunities to be tagged alongside the Habitat Bank, like glamping and bird watching.”
Our vision for Coney Weston Habitat Bank
Farmer, James Bucher
Photo credit: Duncan Elliott
LAND AND FARMS
NEGOTIATING THE PLANNING RED TAPE
For many people, understanding the detail involved in submitting a planning application and the parameters the local planning authority will consider when looking at a proposed scheme can seem like a minefield. Understanding the way local councils approach their planning decisions and being able to negotiate the red tape is a particular skill and an area in which the Batcheller Monkhouse team has much experience.
As Christine Dadswell explained: “All councils are different and are looking for different things. We know how best to put forward a particular scheme, what each planning authority will insist on and the areas with potential room for manoeuvre, streamlining the process considerably.”
The team works with landowners in a range of rural locations who face an array of issues trying to get proposals through an already complex planning system.
“One of the current problems is the threshold for biodiversity net gain (BNG), which has been set far too low,” said Christine. “Even putting in an application to build stables in a paddock can see the applicant being asked to improve the site’s biodiversity by 10%, which can add considerably to the costs.”
This is an issue that has been recognised by the development industry as a whole, and there has been considerable lobbying for changes to the thresholds for BNG. The Government recently consulted on some potential changes to the thresholds which, if they came into force, would enable more applications for small-scale developments to be exempt from the need to provide BNG, thus providing considerable costsavings both in making an application and implementing a permission.
Discovering that an ecologist needs to be employed to survey the site for everything from bats to newts can be an expensive
surprise, but expert advice can reduce the ecological headache. “We can advise the landowner on which parts of the site have a lower ecological value,” said Christine. “Although an ecological report will still be needed, choosing the right location can reduce the need for expensive and time-consuming species-specific surveys.”
Achieving water neutrality is another challenge that needs expert guidance and in which the team has considerable experience. The Batcheller Monkhouse specialists can often find innovative ways to meet the requirement for developments to have a neutral impact on local water usage.
Batcheller Monkhouse will provide useful guidance in cases where councils decide that a non-listed building should be considered a ‘non-designated heritage asset’ because of its local importance. “There may be ways to avoid a plan falling foul of that issue or bring in a heritage consultant for their expert view,” explained Christine.
Additionally, Batcheller Monkhouse’s planners are also well versed with the permitted development regulations which can allow landowners to carry out work subject to a prior approval process which can be less onerous than applying for full planning permission.
The firm has successfully secured consent for a number of proposals under the ‘Class Q’ permitted development rights, which allow agricultural buildings to be converted to residential use. In some cases, once the
principle has been established under Class Q rights, Batcheller Monkhouse has gone on to win planning permission to put new-build dwellings on the site instead.
Batcheller Monkhouse is also well versed in permitted development rights in relation to the construction of agricultural buildings, and can advise clients of the likelihood of securing consent for an agricultural building on the basis of their current level of agricultural activity. Even here there are differences in the level of detail which different local planning authorities ask for in support of a prior approval application, with some simply requiring plans of the building along with an agricultural justification while others require a level of supporting reports close to that required under a full planning application.
“In short, we have the expertise to look at all the options, work with consultants where necessary and help the client put together an application that has the best chance of success,” Christine concluded.
CHRISTINE DADSWELL
Steel frame buildings.
Sheeting, cladding and oversheeting.
Gutter replacement, repairs and lining.
Steel frame, concrete frame alterations and repairs.
Asbestos removal.
Roof light and sheet changes.
Refurbishments and usage changes.
24
Demolition, groundworks and site clearance.
Roller shutters, sliding and personnel doors.
Condition reports and dilapidation work
before solar panel installation
Mezzanine floors
Insurance and repair work
On
• Steel frame buildings
• Sheeting and cladding
• Guttering and repairs
• Groundworks and drainage
• Demolition and asbestos removal
• Refurbishment and change of use
• Concrete frame and steel frame repairs
• Insurance and general repairs
• Concrete floor and block paving
www.gjelgarconstruction.co.uk
For more information contact us: t: 01233 623739
e: enquiries@gjelgarconstruction.co.uk
CWP fencing
Cleft post and rail
Standing Sweet Chestnut Wanted
Standing Sweet Chestnut Wanted
Standing Sweet Chestnut Wanted
Cleft post and rail
Cleft post and rail
Cleft field gates
Cleft field gates
Cleft field gates
Fencing stakes
Fencing stakes
Fencing stakes
Straining posts
Straining posts
Straining posts
Chestnut fencing
Chestnut fencing
Chestnut fencing
Tel: 07985 298221 colin@cwpfencing.co.uk
Tel: 07985298221 colin@cwpfencing.co.uk
Tel: 07985298221 colin@cwpfencing.co.uk
COMPLETE OUR CROSSWORD TO WIN
Two bottles of Monks Delight, two bottles of Special Mead and one bottle of Special Reserve
ACROSS
1 A decision made at random (9)
5 Out of the way; stage whisper (5)
8 Shape (9)
9 Hit with fist (5)
11 Girl’s name (4)
12 Run away (7)
14 Game bird
(Open season 1 Sept - 1 Feb) (4,9)
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20 Remarkable (7)
23 Seabird (4)
25 School subject (9)
26 A narrow, fast flowing air current (3,6)
27 Melody (4) DOWN
1 Aviator (6)
2 Meat cut (5)
3 A device to catch rodents (4)
4 Mathematics that uses letters (7)
6 Noise (5)
7 Announce (7)
10 To dispense milk into a glass (4)
13 Stringed instrument (4)
14 Duck breed (9)
15 Thought, concept (4)
17 Vehicle (3)
18 Dessert often served with ice cream (5)
19 Frozen water (3)
22 Fruit (5)
23 Form into bent, curling shape (5)
24 Authenticate (7)
To enter, simply unscramble the anagram (8,6) using the green squares.
Email your replies with your name, address and phone number to sef.ed@kelsey.co.uk
Correct entries will be entered into a draw which will take place on 20 October. The winner will be announced in the November edition.
LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS: LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS:
For a winter warmer we are offering readers the chance to win two bottles of Monks Delight, two bottles of Special Mead and one bottle of Special Reserve. For more information about the vineyards, please visit www.biddendenvineyards.com or call 01580 291726.
