South East Farmer Mach 2026

LIME AGRICULTURAL

Robins Liming Services Derek Knight: 07812 171273

FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF FOREST ROADS, FARM TRACKS, HARDSTANDING & PARKING AREAS.

Do you need...

› A new building?

› To build a noise bund?

› To create a hardstanding to store silage or straw?

› To build up an area to prevent flooding

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We may be able to help

We can subsidise your costs by building up areas with subsoils classed as non-hazardous inert waste.

We can gain all planning permissions needed so give us an opportunity to reduce some or all of your costs on your next project or improvement. East Sussex area preferred.

Our roads will withstand the heaviest lorries and farm vehicles. Constructed with our own materials which makes us one of the most competitive companies around.

We also create ditches and culverts for the wettest of areas to cross

www.southeastfarmer.net

SOUTH EAST FARMER

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EDITORIAL

Editor: Malcolm Triggs

Email: sef.ed@kelsey.co.uk

Photography: Martin Apps, Countrywide Photographic

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Cover picture:

The Land Army in 1939-1945 ©Plumpton College

There was widespread support for Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds when she launched a package of measures designed to “supercharge” British farming in her address to the NFU’s annual conference at the end of February.

Unveiling a package worth a total of £345 million, which DEFRA’s announcement said would “fund innovation, new technology and infrastructure to boost farm productivity and support the conditions for more affordable food over time,” she said she wanted farm businesses to be “productive, profitable, and resilient.”

The announcement also clarified the details around this summer’s launch of the 2026 sustainable farming incentive (SFI), including moves to help small and medium-sized farms access more of the funds available.

The measures were welcomed by the NFU, with President Tom Bradshaw saying it “appears to strike the right balance between simplifying the process and maintaining flexibility, while still retaining preferable actions for farmers and growers”.

Martin Lines, CEO of the Nature Friendly Farming Network (NFFN), said the announcement would be “extremely welcome news for many English farmers”, while the Country Land and Business Association (CLA)’s response was more cautious, with President Gavin Lane unhappy with DEFRA’s introduction of a £100,000 annual cap on individual agreements.

Ms Reynolds said the Government was “taking action to back farmers”, with a focus on partnership and listening to what farmers needed. DEFRA said the announcement package was a response to farmers’ calls for “partnership, clarity and long-term stability” following extensive engagement with the sector.

The Secretary of State also said she wanted to see “more British food on more tables”, both in the UK and around the world, alongside a countryside that was thriving for wildlife, communities and “the families who have worked this land for generations”.

The new SFI offer, touted as “simpler, fairer, more stable, and shaped by farmers”, will include 71 actions, down from 102, with agreements capped at £100,000 per year.

DEFRA claimed: “With around 97% of farms already below this level, the cap will help ensure funding is shared more fairly and

SUPERCHARGING BRITISH FARMING

reaches more small and medium sized farms.”

Applications will open in June for small farms and those without an existing Environmental Land Management (ELM) revenue agreement, with small farms defined as holdings of three to 50 hectares registered with the Rural Payments Agency at the start of this year.

A second application window will open to all farmers in September, with further details to follow. “The SFI will continue to back productive, profitable farm businesses that deliver food security and value for consumers,” DEFRA said.

The package unveiled at the conference includes £70 million for the Farming Innovation Programme to move cutting-edge research into practical tools and £50 million for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund. This aims to help farmers “invest in equipment to improve productivity and animal health and welfare and manage slurry, boosting efficiency and performance”.

DEFRA explained: “From seed-planting robots which cut costs to pesticide spreaders that help reduce chemical use, the grants enable farmers to increase efficiency and sustainability – while supporting long-term food affordability.”

Ms Reynolds also confirmed a new round of ELM capital grants opening in July 2026, with increased funding of up to £225 million available, to help farm businesses invest in infrastructure that supports environmental targets and long-term resilience.

Farmers can apply for funding to plant hedgerows for biodiversity, build new slurry

storage tanks, introduce natural flood management measures and purchase new livestock equipment that will help improve water quality.

Martin Lines commented: "After months of uncertainty, this announcement will be extremely welcome news for many English farmers. If it wants to secure the future of British farming, the Government must now commit to consistent, long-term funding for nature-friendly approaches to agriculture.

"Moves to simplify the application process are welcome, as smaller farms have often found it difficult to secure funding compared to larger ones with more resources. Concentrating initially on farms that do not have any ELMS agreements, along with the promise of more support for upland farmers, is also positive news.

"However, the funding being offered here still falls considerably short of what is required for the full-scale transition to nature-friendly farming required for meeting our goals on climate mitigation and nature's restoration.”

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said the Secretary of State’s announcement on investment in productivity “demonstrates that she recognises the vital contribution our nation’s food producers make to the economy and to our national security”.

He continued: “I said today that stopping the decline of UK food production would be good for our economy, good for our national security and good for our natural environment. If government agrees, we can collectively deliver.”

YOUNG SHEEP FARMERS GET TOGETHER

A young sheep farmer from Buckinghamshire has been selected as one of the National Sheep Association (NSA)’s Next Generation Ambassadors for 2026.

Hamish Grant has deep farming roots and has recently returned to farming following a career in professional sport. Aged 32, he has travelled widely, working on farms across the world, and is now focussed on building his own enterprise.

NSA’s Next Generation Ambassador programme was launched in 2014 and is part of NSA’s wider Next Generation initiative, a dedicated area of work designed to encourage and support sheep farmers of the future.

Following a careful selection process, Hamish joined 11 other enthusiastic young sheep farmers on the first of five personal and career development sessions in North Wales in early February, gaining useful knowledge from a series of insightful industry visits and talks.

During a two-day visit, the group enjoyed a guided tour of the Wool Testing Authority and delved deep in to the future of efficient sheep genetics with a fascinating talk from Dewi Jones of Innovis. The session concluded at Coed Coch Estate, where head shepherd Daffyd Owen took the group on a tour of the impressive farming enterprise. President of the Sheep Veterinary Society Phillipa Page rounded off the first session with a practical talk on how to protect sheep flocks and improve animal welfare.

NSA Technical Communications Officer Anna Wilson, who will accompany the group throughout the programme, commented: “We have had a fantastic first delivery session, finishing on an excellent farm visit. The group returned home full of motivation, ideas and excitement for the year ahead.”

As NSA Next Generation Ambassadors, the group will work closely with the NSA both regionally and nationally and will help to promote the work of the association to secure a positive future for the UK sheep industry.

Meeting the people behind the news OPINION

I was fortunate enough to be invited to talk to the Kent Herdsmen’s Club’s annual meeting in early February, and not only spent a convivial evening with a group of local sheep, cattle and dairy farmers but also managed to win a prize in the monthly raffle.

I had been invited to talk to the group about my role as editor of South East Farmer, but leavened that with a bit of background about how I managed to find myself doing such a rewarding job. A show of hands proved that all bar one of those present read the magazine – and the one who didn’t read it wasn’t a farmer.

Meeting the people behind the news, the announcements and “the heartache, and the thousand natural shocks that farming is heir to”, to paraphrase Shakespeare’s Hamlet, is always fascinating, and is a privilege granted to me by virtue of editing this magazine.

It allows me to put faces and places to what would otherwise be a straightforward announcement from DEFRA on how the Government is planning to support – or in some cases withdraw support from – British farmers, or a story about falling milk prices or yet more unseasonal weather.

Farming is about people, something that can sometimes be forgotten when reading a Government press release that casually calls a sudden halt to a subsidy programme on which farmers are relying, or trims a budget by a few million pounds or announces another tangle of red tape.

The delightful ‘thank you’ note from the herdsmen’s club coincided with DEFRA’s announcement regarding the relaunched sustainable farming incentive, again reminding me of the ‘real’ farmers behind an otherwise list of ambitions, figures, limits and conditions wrapped in promises and platitudes.

The announcement itself seems to have been well received, with the usual, and inevitable, caveats from organisations with their own vested interests. The focus on small to medium-sized farm businesses is to be welcomed, although they need to take advantage of the ‘head start’ they have been given and get their applications in quickly.

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds, in her speech to the NFU conference, referred to “stability”, which is something farmers have long been calling for. She also promised “no more sudden, unexpected closures”, an admission, perhaps, of the distress caused by the last one.

A period of stability, genuine support for farmers and real partnership is essential if groups like the Kent Herdsmen are to continue to thrive alongside the farmers they bring together in such a supportive and companionable way.

EMAIL YOUR VIEWS, LETTERS OR OPINIONS TO: sef.ed@kelsey.co.uk or write to the address on page 3

® MALCOLM TRIGGS - EDITOR

WHY I OPENED MY GATES TO GLEANERS

Natasha Hart, Food Projects Manager, Social Enterprise Kent, talks to Artur Swakon of Greenway Fruit Farm, Herstmonceux, East Sussex.

When I first met with Artur at Greenway Fruit Farm, in Herstmonceux, I expected to talk about surplus fruit and logistics. What I didn’t expect was a conversation that ranged from supermarket supply chains to mental wellbeing and from pruning heritage orchards to the quiet power of sharing food locally.

Artur Swakon is not a typical ‘inherited’ farmer. Originally from Poland, he arrived in Sussex more than 20 years ago for what was meant to be a short stay. Farming wasn’t his background, IT and journalism were – but Greenway became his home, his livelihood and eventually his responsibility. Over time, apples and pears expanded into cherries, plums, soft fruit and asparagus, with produce sold through wholesalers, markets and, crucially for Artur, directly to people.

That desire for connection is at the heart of why Artur has,

increasingly, opened his gates to gleaners.

SEEING SURPLUS DIFFERENTLY

Surplus, Artur is clear, isn’t theoretical. It’s fruit left hanging on trees because it doesn’t meet retail specification. It’s bins of apples that cost more to store, grade and transport than they’ll ever return. It’s produce grown with a year’s worth of labour and resource that suddenly has no market. “For a grower, it’s painful,” he told me. “You look at the trees and you know you’ve done everything right. And then it’s just not worth picking.”

Before working with gleaners, surplus often meant exactly that; fruit left to rot, dropped to the ground or ploughed back in. Not because farmers don’t care, but because time, labour and margins are already stretched to breaking point.

HOW GLEANING WORKS ON THE FARM

Artur’s experience of gleaning has been straightforward – and that’s important to him.

When fruit becomes surplus, he sends a message. He doesn’t organise volunteers, manage rotas or supervise picking. A trusted coordinator comes back with a plan, brings people with their own crates and equipment and takes responsibility on site. Artur shows them where to pick, outlines boundaries, and then gets on with his day.

This season, gleaners came multiple times, picking plums that would otherwise have been left, clearing trees reducing disease pressure later and collecting apples from cold store bins that were never going to be sold.

In total, around 2.4 tonnes of fruit left Greenway not as waste, but as food destined for community projects, kitchens and households. “For me, that amount is nothing,” Artur said. “But for others, it’s a lot.”

WORRIES AND WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENED

Artur is honest about his initial concerns. Like many farmers, his biggest fear wasn’t liability paperwork, it was disruption. “Too much trouble,” he said. “That’s what farmers worry about. We already have too much pressure.” But, in practice, those worries didn’t materialise.

With clear communication, trust in one or two regular coordinators and no expectation that gleaning should take priority over farming, the process fitted around the business rather than disrupting it.

His advice is simple: don’t try to build relationships in the middle of harvest. Start conversations earlier in the year. Trust one lead person. And accept that small mistakes may happen; then move on. “If you try it once,” he said, “you won’t go back.”

WHO THE GLEANERS ARE AND WHY IT MATTERS

The volunteers who came to Greenway ranged from retirees to corporate groups taking part in paid volunteering days. Some arrived knowing little about farming; others came simply wanting to help.

What surprised Artur most was how quickly those volunteers began to understand the realities of food production: why fruit that tastes incredible can’t go into supermarkets, why timing matters, why farming is as much about judgment as it is about machinery.

“They taste the fruit straight from the tree,” he said. “And they realise it will never taste like this from a supermarket shelf.”

For Artur, knowing exactly who eats the food isn’t essential. What matters is trust, the knowledge that the produce will be respected and used well. That trust has grown with each visit. >>

UNEXPECTED BENEFITS

Some benefits were practical: trees cleared, reduced rot, less pressure at peak points in the season. Others were entirely unexpected.

One corporate group paid Artur £200 after their glean, unprompted, because they felt the value of the experience. Local residents who collected free apples later returned with chutneys, honey, venison, sausages or homemade liqueurs. None of this was asked for, but it reinforced something Artur strongly believes.

“It’s not all about money,” he said. “If you share something, something good comes back, maybe not money, but something else.”

Organised gleaners show you the real difference your surplus makes, sharing photos, thanks and feedback from volunteers and recipients; social impact that LEAF (Linking Education and Farming) and Red Tractor actively recognise and encourage. Many donors enjoy public thanks online, but there is never any pressure to be named.

Perhaps most importantly, gleaning brought energy onto the farm. Volunteers arrived optimistic, grateful and curious, something Artur believes many farmers rarely encounter during difficult seasons. “It’s like therapy,” he said. “They remind you why growing food matters.”

A STRONGER COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Artur already values local connection through farmers’ markets, footpaths across the farm and conversations with walkers and neighbours. Gleaning deepened that relationship.

Opening the farm to gleaners has strengthened Artur’s relationship with the community and facilitated new ways to share knowledge. From explaining produce and seasonality to volunteers, to running a winter pruning workshop at a heritage orchard, he’s teaching others while learning about different trees and varieties himself; a reminder that farming, at its best, is a conversation as much as a craft.

Earlier this year, he put out bins of surplus apples for local residents to collect. More than 100 people came. Many asked why the fruit was free. When told it was surplus, they were astonished. “That’s how people learn,” he said. “Not from policy – but from seeing it.”

He now plans to go further, linking gleaning sessions with local community groups and neighbours, combining organised volunteers with people who live just down the road.

WHAT ARTUR WOULD SAY TO ANOTHER FARMER

Artur doesn’t believe gleaning is for everyone, but he does believe many farmers rule it out too quickly.

His advice?

• Don’t do it alone- work with a group that understands farming

• Build trust early, not during harvest

• Start small

• Let someone else manage volunteers

• Appreciate that benefits don't have to be financial.

“If farmers could see it working once,” he said, “they’d realise it’s not trouble, it’s help.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Artur is clear that farmers should not carry more responsibility for food waste; they already carry too much. But he also believes surplus should be used, not wasted, wherever possible.

With the right support, the right timing and the right relationships, gleaning can reduce waste, support communities and, perhaps most importantly, remind farmers they are not as alone as they sometimes feel. As he put it: “I love what I do. And if I love it, why shouldn’t others share in it?”

A PRACTICAL OPPORTUNITY FOR KENT FARMERS

Social Enterprise Kent (SEK) is offering farmers and growers across Kent and Medway a simple way to turn surplus into something worthwhile through the Government–funded Tackling Food Waste at the Farm Gate scheme.

SEK can collect produce from the farm gate, organise wellmanaged gleaning sessions and, in some cases, help cover staff costs to extend harvesting once retail demand is met. For farmers, it means less waste, less stress, cleaner fields and the satisfaction of knowing good food is valued and used.

✉ Email Natasha Hart at n.hart@sekgroup.org.uk

RETURNING TO SUSSEX ROOTS

After briefly sampling city life, Lucy Marsh has returned to her Sussex roots, where she has been training as an agronomist with crop production specialist Agrovista.

“I studied for my biology degree at Southampton University, but I quickly found out I didn’t like living in a city,” said Lucy. “It was a bit of a shock to the system.”

During her course she undertook a year’s placement with a crop production and grain marketing business. “I gained work experience in seed, precision and environment, did a bit of grain trading and spent a lot of time in the sustainability team, so it gave me a good all-round introduction to the sector,” she said.

“I also shadowed seven other independent agronomy companies in the area, which convinced me this was the career I wanted to follow.”

Lucy, who was brought up on a family farm near Rusper, West Sussex, recently passed her BASIS exams with Agrovista and will advise customers in Kent and Surrey as well as in her home county.

As well as advising on crops in the area, including milling wheat and other combinable crops, maize and grass, Lucy wants to specialise in soil health.

“It was a fascinating part of my degree,” she said. “I specialised in modules on soil fluxes and cycles and microbiomes, and wrote papers on interactions of microbes and the availability of nutrients.”

Lucy will also be working with Agrovista’s rural consultancy team, working on integrated pest management and nutrient management plans and advising on the sustainable farming incentive.

SUSTAINABLE FINANCING FOR SUSTAINABLE FARMS

The agricultural sector in the UK is undergoing one of the most significant periods of transition in living memory. For decades, farmers operated within a relatively stable policy and financial environment shaped by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and domestic subsidy frameworks. Now we’re facing a period of unprecedented upheaval and opportunity, with a combination of regulatory reform, market pressures, climate change and shifting societal expectations reshaping the landscape in which rural businesses operate.

At the heart of this hiatus is the concept of sustainability, not as a buzzword but as a guiding principle for long term resilience. Sustainability today extends far beyond environmental stewardship. It encompasses soil health, financial viability, market competitiveness, labour management and the capacity to withstand external shocks. As traditional subsidy structures fall away, sustainability becomes not just a moral imperative but an economic one. The sector must adapt to a world in which profitability increasingly depends on efficient resource use, diversified business models and new forms of income grounded in natural capital.

What makes this transition so challenging is the speed and complexity of change. Farmers face volatile commodity prices, rising input costs, shortages in skilled labour and extreme weather patterns that challenge even the most experienced operators. Consumers, meanwhile, demand transparency, provenance and low carbon production, while regulators introduce new schemes and markets related to carbon, biodiversity and land use. The combination of these forces means that standing still is no longer an option; inertia

itself has become a strategic risk.

Against this backdrop of change, the role of finance is also evolving. Traditional lending, built around collateral and historical performance, is no longer sufficient to support the modern farming business. I believe that finance must become a proactive enabler of transition, rewarding sustainable practices and helping farmers invest in the future. Sustainable finance instruments such as outcome-linked loans, natural capital backed credit, discounted lending for environmental improvements and blended finance packages combining grants and borrowing are emerging as essential tools in the agricultural sector’s transformation. Crucially, sustainable finance is not an abstract concept. It’s rooted in practical, measurable outcomes: healthier soils, improved water retention, reduced emissions, increased biodiversity, diversified revenue and stronger business resilience. These are the building blocks of long term profitability. Farms that invest in regenerative practices often see enhanced productivity and lower input dependency. Those who embrace renewable energy achieve cost stability and energy security. Businesses that diversify into tourism, direct sales, or environmental markets create new sources of income that reduce exposure to commodity volatility. Finance that supports these shifts is therefore not only ethical but economically strategic. Transition requires clarity of purpose, well-defined strategy, effective tactics and realistic financial modelling. Many farms have strong operational skills but less experience with strategic planning, scenario modelling or resilience assessment. The message is clear: lenders can add value not just through capital but through expertise, guidance and partnership. Early conversations help ensure

that financial products, business plans and environmental goals align, reducing risk for both the lender and the borrower.

Another powerful theme is collaboration. From machinery sharing to joint marketing, from nutrient exchange to coordinated environmental delivery, collaboration offers a pathway to efficiencies of scale, and amplifies impact. No farmer operates in a vacuum. Shared challenges require shared solutions and so as the environmental market grows, with carbon credits, biodiversity net gain, and private, nature based finance, collaborative approaches will become even more valuable. Finally, I would encourage farmers to think hard about their purpose. What do you and your family want to achieve? What should you stop doing? What capabilities does the family or team really excel in? These questions recognise that farm businesses are not just economic units but family legacies. Transition is as much about people, values and communication as it is about finance and land use.

Sustainable financing is not a niche product or a temporary trend. It is a cornerstone of the future agricultural economy. By understanding your natural capital, embracing diversification, adopting soil-first practices and approaching finance as a partnership, farmers can build businesses that are resilient, regenerative and profitable. The transition may be challenging, but with clarity of purpose and the right financial tools, the sector can and will thrive in a changing world.

Whether you’re seeking working capital, navigating succession discussions, investing in sustainability or planning for growth, Virgin Money offers more than funding. We offer partnership, perspective and proactive support. In farming, timing is everything, and now’s the time to plan a sustainable future, together.

JUSTIN ELLIS, BSC PSAG Senior Director, Agriculture & Large Estates –

LEGACY CONTINUED

Haynes Bros. Ltd has acquired Mike Garwood Ltd’s Case IH business at Alton, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight, building on the company’s recent successful acquisition of Ernest Doe’s Case IH business at Woodchurch, near Ashford in Kent.

The latest move to acquire the Case IH business of Mike Garwood Ltd has been supported by CNH, which is rolling out a new network strategy to consolidate its network where possible in order to give franchise partners more scale.

Haynes Agricultural Ltd, the agricultural subsidiary of Haynes Bros. Ltd, currently operates the CNH New Holland franchise from depots in Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and Berkshire and the CNH Case IH franchise in Kent. This acquisition gives Haynes further scale with both CNH brands in the west of the company’s territory, and it will also shortly be adding the New Holland and JCB franchise to the newly acquired business on the Isle of Wight.

Bob Garwood, son of the late Mike Garwood, who died recently after devoting most of his life to the business, said: “My father was keen to see the continuity of the business he had successfully built up over many years. I am therefore glad we have found another well-respected and long-established family business to continue his legacy and to start

John Deere has named the Farming Community Network (FCN) as its official 2026 charity partner in the UK and Ireland.

The linkup will see John Deere staff receive specialist wellbeing support training from FCN, as well as opening the door to a range of volunteering opportunities and fundraising initiatives expected to raise thousands of pounds for the charity.

John Deere employees have a strong track record of fundraising for good causes. Previous efforts have included tackling the Peak District Ultra Challenge, which raised more than £13,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Staff are encouraged to come forward with their own ideas for volunteering and fundraising, with the company pledging to support these initiatives.

“FCN is a charity that does incredible work in this area. Its outreach touches our staff, our network, our customers, and throughout the communities we operate in. It is a great fit for us and the partnership is something that really resonates with our team,” said Joedy Ibbotson, division business manager at John Deere.

a new chapter in the business’ development.”

Haynes Bros. Ltd Group Managing Director James Broadley said the company was “pleased to acquire this particularly good and successful Case IH business that Mike Garwood owned and ran for so many years”, adding: “We look forward to working with the highly skilled team at both Alton and the Isle of Wight and to adding further brands to their portfolio of franchises.”

Adrian Woods, Haynes Agricultural Operations Director, commented: “Having spent a good deal of time with the Garwood team at both locations, I feel this is a natural fit for both businesses and I am pleased to welcome our new colleagues into the Haynes Agricultural fold and to further developing the business at both locations.”

The move was described as “another important milestone in our company’s development” by Haynes Bros. Ltd Chairman and CEO Andrew Haynes, who said: “As a 236 year-old family business, I am pleased that we are still finding ways to expand the Haynes brand to give us more scale in what are highly competitive markets.” He added that the move would “enable us to better support our farming customers and provide them with even greater value through increased economies of scale”.

CHARITY LINKUP

Georgina Lamb, head of partnerships for FCN, at the launch with Joedy Ibbotson

FAR-REACHING CONSEQUENCES FOR ANIMAL WELFARE

Farmers are being urged to write to their MPs after the Home Office confirmed its decision not to allow overseas shearers to enter the UK without work visas this year.

Opposition to the decision is being led by British Wool, with the support of the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC), the NFU and the National Sheep Association (NSA).

British Wool said the decision not to allow the concession to overseas shearers “risks placing additional pressure on an already stretched shearing workforce and could have far-reaching consequences for animal welfare, farm businesses and the wider sheep sector.”

Chief executive officer Andrew Hogley said the organisation strongly encouraged everyone involved in UK sheep farming to write to their local MP to highlight the importance of overseas shearers to the UK sheep industry and to urge the government to reconsider its position.

He went on: “British Wool has trained more than 4,000 people on its shearing courses over the past five years and will continue to invest in training and skills development.

“Our courses for the 2026 season have recently been announced, with almost 1,000 places available, but the reality is that overseas shearers remain an essential part of the UK shearing workforce. Their contribution supports timely sharing, safeguards animal welfare and strengthens the sharing of skills and best practices across borders.”

Mr Hogley concluded: “Your voice matters. MP's need to hear directly from those affected on the ground, A short letter or email to your MP explaining how this decision impacts your business, the industry and the welfare of your sheep can make a real difference.” There is a template letter available:

�� https://tinyurl.com/BritishWoolLetter

South East Farmer ’s sheep correspondent Alan West adds his view:

“I am generally not given to conspiracy theories and do endeavour to avoid politics in my articles for South East Farmer, but the decision this year by Mike Tapp, Minister for Immigration, not to extend the concession for visa-free access for up to 75 New Zealand shearers does seem to be illogical, petty and spiteful, serving only to reinforce the view that the current administration has a significant antifarming/livestock agenda.

“It is a system that has worked well for many years without issue, admitting shearers who make a vital contribution to the UK shearing season and then return to the other side of the world for their own country’s shearing season; in total they represented a mere 0.009% of legal immigration last year.

“We simply do not have sufficient UK shearers to cope. The absence of support from New Zealand shearers will almost certainly generate substantial disruption and a significant extension to the domestic shearing season, with potential for substantial welfare issues.

The template letter available by following the link on this page simply requires producers to insert their own details including their address and postcode (important or they will not respond) and either post or email to their MPs, for whom contact details are readily available online.

This is an important issue for the sheep sector. It takes just a few minutes to respond so do, if you care about the industry, make your views known.”

VINEYARD & WINERY SHOW

2026 DATE CONFIRMED

Vineyard magazine, organiser of the Vineyard & Winery Show, is pleased to announce the date of this year’s show as 25 November 2026. Now in its 6th year, the show will once again take place at the Kent County Showground, Detling, Kent.

In association with

The Vineyard & Winery Show is aimed at supporting the continued growth of English and Welsh wines, offering a chance for growers, winemakers and buyers to come together at this showcase for great wine. Along with tasting some of the best wines, visitors from across England and Wales have the opportunity to meet top notch manufacturers, equipment specialists and technical experts. The Vineyard & Winery Show provides the perfect atmosphere to swap notes, check out the latest technology, innovations and equipment and catch up after a busy harvest.

Partnered by WineGB, who host the popular seminars throughout the day, this year’s show will again feature WineGB’s Golden 50, where wines are shortlisted from English and Welsh wines that have won gold medals or higher across a range of national and international competitions during the year. “Sommeliers, wine writers and the trade are all taking notice of which wines make it into the Golden 50,”

commented Jamie McGrorty, publisher of Vineyard magazine. “It is wonderful to see that the Golden 50 has created a national and international interest from buyers who can now sample the best of the best in one place,” continued Jamie.

Popular Vineyard columnist Matthew Jukes will once again have a wine hub dedicated to the wines that he has featured in the magazine during the year. “We often hear that wines featured by Matthew in Vineyard magazine and at the show sell out quickly, especially when only small quantities are available, so it is essential to recognise what good publicity can do,” said Jamie. Matthew will also be hosting his ever-popular masterclass at the show sharing his insight and knowledge with humour and panache.

Plans are in place for a third wine tasting area this year, enabling anyone who is interested in English and Welsh wines to sample the very best on offer. “With 2025 providing excellent growing conditions we are very excited about the wines that will be featured at this year’s show, creating an excellent showcase,” added Jamie.

The Vineyard & Winery Show is pleased to announce the continuing support of major sponsors – Vitifruit, Hutchinsons, NFU Mutual and Autajon Labels. The 2026 show will also see Itasca Wines become a major sponsor for the first time. “We are really pleased that Itasca Wines have become a major sponsor of The Vineyard & Winery Show,” said Jamie. “We have known Malcolm Walker and his team since they first announced plans for their vineyard and winery in Hampshire, back in 2019. Each year Itasca’s presence has got bigger, not just at our show but in the UK in general, with a second winery in Essex opened last year.”

Sponsors play a vital role in supporting the show and Vineyard magazine is delighted to have such strong support from across the industry. With an extra hall being created this year to fit in new exhibitors, visitors to the show can also look forward to seeing the latest machinery, learning about the latest developments in viticulture and meeting up with industry colleagues. “There were 2,400 visitors to the show in 2025, our highest number yet, with exhibitors commenting that they were busy all day and creating new contacts, which is really nice to hear,” concluded Jamie.

OCCASIONALLY SHEEP SURPRISE YOU BY BEING SENSIBLE

Daffodils and primroses signal the arrival of spring; woodpeckers can be heard in the woods, bird behaviour and song suggest that we are moving out of winter. I’ll be glad to see the end of wet, cold, windy, mud-making weather. Daylight hours are certainly lengthening, and my chickens are laying more prolifically. Calving has started, winter bedding and fodder stocks are dwindling; conditions need to improve if we are to achieve our optimistic desire for an early turnout. Today, however, is wet, and we are surrounded by floods.

Wetland birds have clearly been appreciating this weather, but our store lambs have found conservation grazing challenging. Occasionally sheep surprise you by being sensible, but this is rare. I noticed a group of seven had got onto a half-acre patch surrounded by water. I wrongly assumed that once they had grazed it, they would get themselves off, and became concerned when they were left standing in mud. I tried to reach them on the quad bike but quickly realised a hovercraft would have been more appropriate.

I called up a keen fisherman and secured the loan of two pairs of waders. I returned home and enlisted volunteers; Nigel and youngest daughter Clare, plus a sheepdog. We set off on a rescue mission.

Clare stayed on dry land, while Nigel and I sloshed through water of varying depths, crossing two deep channels which Mollie the collie had to swim. Eventually the store lambs were persuaded to plunge in and swam surprisingly well. On emerging they gave themselves a

good shake and trotted off to find their mates. As a precaution, I’ve bought myself size five waders, as tens were a touch too large.

Our trial of marshland winter grazing for cattle concluded at the end of January. The cattle looked well, but the wet conditions dictated that we move them into a shed, and they have not complained.

Three loads were transported home without an issue, but the final trip turned out to be a chilly one. A “loud explosion”, as my other half described it; the tractor’s front window shattered, with most of the glass falling inwards. He later admitted he thought he’d been shot, clearly watching too many violent movies. On the same day the grab on the JCB stopped working and required a new solenoid.

We have reduced the numbers of sheep grazing on the marsh. They also look well but muddy, but it’s impressive how quickly the grass greens up. We don’t lamb until April, but some ewes look decidedly matronly.

In February, a Plough Sunday service followed by a light lunch was held in Ashburnham Village Hall. I like to support this, so I rallied the troops, and all seven grandchildren came along. While we enjoyed singing “we plough the fields and scatter, the good seed on the land", Wilf, at 17 months old, did some impressive dance moves to the music. It was a lively service which also, importantly, celebrated food production and raised money for RABI and the Farming Community Network.

My other half, who rarely leaves the farm, announced he’d join a car-load of farmers attending the Doe Show and was gone by five

This calf has climbed through the feed barrier

in the morning. Nigel came by to do the tractor work, feeding and bedding down cattle. I was keen to see if any of my hoggets were fit to sell, so despite the rain I got them into the shed and was pleased to find several good to go. Nigel helped with dagging then dashed off to collect children.

Later, my plans to get sheep to market the next day were thwarted. Travelling through the lanes close to home, our pickup truck was forced into a deep pothole while avoiding a lorry, resulting in a ruined tyre. The 12-volt compressor managed to inflate it enough to limp to the tyre company in Rushlake Green, but they couldn’t fix it until late the following day.

I then received a call to collect the day-tripper, who was dreaming of all the shiny new machinery he’d been admiring. I readily agreed

and jumped into my car, parked outside the farmhouse. The brake pedal went straight to the floor, warning lights lit up like a Christmas tree, and a message flashed up “top up brake fluid”.

The solution sounded simple; add some brake fluid, and off I go. Our mechanic swiftly forbade it. “Cars don’t just lose fluid without a reason,” he exclaimed in horror. Nigel was called once again to act as chauffeur. Alarmingly, both the brake cable and air-brake system cable on my car had been gnawed through. My best guess is that the dogs on the trail of a mouse had bitten through the cables in frustration, or perhaps something more sinister… murder mysteries sprang to mind.

No car, no truck, so I had to use the quad bike to travel along the road; not something I relish. I moved marsh ewes then checked the store lambs, one of which stood alone, gazing longingly across the river at neighbouring sheep, running along the riverbank, bleating. I knew if I left it, I’d find it floating, as the banks are steep.

The solution seemed to be to catch it and give it a lift to join its usual companions. Unfortunately, I was concentrating more on the sheep and directing Tip the collie than on the bike. Suddenly the bike started sliding towards the river; it wouldn’t move forwards but I managed to reverse it quickly against a fence, averting complete disaster.

We used the JCB to extract it. Keeping it on the top of the bank and extending the boom, retracting it was enough to get me out of the worst of the mud. The lone sheep observed these antics from a safe distance. I resolved to bring a few of its companions to join it, something Tip and a more cautious me successfully achieved.

On the way home, I needed to buy milk, both for ourselves and for a friend who was feeling unwell. I stopped at the service station, covered in mud, removed my boots and padded into the shop in my socks. Tip minded the quad, parked beside some rather smart cars, and looked mightily relieved when I emerged with the milk.

We had hoped for a relaxing evening. No chance, it was all action: two heifers and a cow calved. Thankfully the calves got up and suckled, nature at its best. We went to bed tired but happy.

I treated myself earlier this year to an online ticket for this year’s Oxford Real Farming Conference. Traditionalists might view this as the ‘woke relative’ of the popular Oxford Farming Conference. I am certainly happy to wear that badge in its original meaning: awareness. I share a selection of the eclectic and challenging range of presentations that tickled me. I look forward to more evenings watching recordings of those I missed.

In The Magic of Trees for Livestock, Prof Jim McAdam of Queens University Belfast

ECLECTIC AND CHALLENGING PRESENTATIONS

presented his experience of a unique, 35-year, ongoing, carefully controlled, experiment in silvopasture, growing trees planted into pasture. The trees, planted five metres by five metres apart, were thinned over time to 110 trees per hectare as the canopy closed.

The sward was managed in the same way as the adjacent control pastures, with both grazed by sheep at the same stocking density. For scientific purity the trees in each study field were monocultures of either ash or cherry. The results showed trees increased soil porosity, water retention and carbon sequestration and reduced runoff, which extended good grazing into the autumn.

This, combined with more shade, produced more and better fodder, augmented by tree leaves. Soil health and biome also improved,

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with marked increases in fungi and insects. Animal welfare and performance improved, alongside reduced ammonia output, while their worm burden lowered.

The trees did require management, however, particularly when good timber was an objective. The fields with trees held more species generally. This exciting model looked easily adaptable to working farms by mixing species and starting with much wider spacing. Cattle or horses would certainly mean a need for extra protection for the young trees, but it looks like a real winner, nonetheless.

The next offering was Landscape Recovery Stories, which looked at the first two projects fully signed off and underway. All four presenters from DEFRA (Al Meghji), Natural England (Tony Juniper) and the two projects showed their obvious excitement about what they achieved and what is to come. Getting the projects to the take-off point clearly took hard work and a clear vision.

Lorienne Whittle, from the company Nuttergal, described the Boothby Wildland in Lincolnshire and the engagement with the surrounding community. It really is a Knepp scion and modeled on that successful experiment. Nuttergal, a company that aims to foster solutions to the dreadful state of Europe’s biodiversity, owns this 617-hectare farm. This project was simpler to set up than many in the pipeline because there was just one landowner and a unified vision for a discrete block of poorer farmland. Nuttergal has strong links with major actors, making the exercise robust and financially secure.

Paddy Deady, project manager and farmer, spoke for the Upper Duddon landscape recovery project in Cumbria’s Lake District. Leeds University guides this project, which involves nine farmers, most of them tenants of either the Forestry Commission or the National Trust. It covers 2,800 hectares of valley and mountains and has the added aims of increasing local employment and community welfare. It will restore native woodland, reduce sheep numbers, hold more water on the upland and improve the ecology of the Duddon valley and river.

Measures of success are greater botanic diversity and the return of key species such as pine marten and water voles. There should also be increased breeding success for waders such as curlew.

The seminar Resistance and Renewal – a debate on Glyphosate, led by Professor Michal Antonious of King’s college London, offered a more sombre note. His presentation was a beautiful example of a quiet, unemotional, factual summary of the current evidence

on a controversial topic, from someone who has produced much of the published research. Glyphosate is a very simple molecule of a phosphone group attached to the ubiquitous and useful amino acid, glycine. It kills by interrupting the metabolism of sugars and fats, an ugly reminder, should we need it, that pesticides are designed to kill and will therefore produce collateral damage.

We should not be surprised that Glyphosate can damage the organ that processes all our nutrients, the liver. We should also expect free living bacteria might be damaged, and indeed they are. Soil bacteria are reduced, even in the gut of earthworms, where they are important digesters of plant material. Perhaps we all should be less blasé in our use of this apparently benign product. I certainly will. Regulatory licences don’t guarantee safety.

Updates from Frontiers of Soil Science gave a tantalising glimpse into

seismology (the transmission of shock waves) as a means of learning more about soils. Architects regularly use seismology to provide information about soil characteristics when designing structures for earthquake zones. Might it inform us better about our own soils and help us improve them? Might it also provide a cheaper and reliable platform for carbon trading? Joe Collins, from Harper Adams and part of the Earth Rover Program, presented a field study comparing conventional and regenerative cultivation. Seismic waves were certainly different in the two plots, and they correlated with soil bulk density, with bulk density greater in the regenerative plots. This is definitely something to watch and, if it fulfills its promise, will be of global, affordable importance.

Recordings are available online and publications from all these four topics can be found easily through Google.

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HOLDING THE CHAIN TOGETHER, FROM FIELD TO HOOK

This month Nigel Akehurst visited Goodtrees Farm and Butchery in Cowden, near Edenbridge, Kent. He met owners and hands-on farmers, husband and wife Ian and Marie Melluish, along with some of their young butchers, to learn more about their modern contract butchery and farming operation.

On a quiet lane off the A264, near Edenbridge, Kent, a steel door slides open and a chilled rail system disappears into the heart of Goodtrees Farm and Butchery. Carcasses arrive this way; cattle, sheep and pigs, each one tagged, traced and handled individually.

It is an unassuming entrance to what has become one of the South East’s most complete small-scale meat operations. Not a factory, not a farm shop with a cutting room attached, but a working livestock farm and contract

butchery built almost entirely around service, serving farmers, smallholders and customers trying to keep local meat systems alive.

“Everything starts here,” said owner and first generation farmer Ian Melluish, gesturing to the rail overhead. “Once the carcass comes through that door, it flows through the whole system.”

What follows is a carefully designed process, one that has grown steadily over time, shaped as much by the collapse of local infrastructure as by ambition.

A BUTCHERY BUILT FROM THE GROUND UP

Around 95% of the work at Goodtrees is contract butchery. Livestock arrives from across Kent, Sussex and the wider South East, often from farms running at modest scale; a handful of cattle, a small flock of sheep, a few pigs reared for the freezer.

Each carcass is hung according to the owner’s instructions, sometimes for just a few days, sometimes for four weeks or more, before moving through two permanent

KEY FACTS

• 250 acres farmed: 100 acres owned, with a further 150 rented locally

• Mixed livestock enterprise: 86 cattle, 115 sheep, 35 goats and 50 laying hens

• Mid-tier countryside stewardship supporting environmental management across the holding

• On-farm, nose-to-tail butchery, complemented by a small poultry processing unit

• Works primarily with local farmers and smallholders across the South East, strengthening regional meat infrastructure

• Four employed butchers enabling a fully integrated field-to-hook service

cutting blocks. Everything is processed to customer specification.

“We don’t have a standard box,” Ian explained. “People tell us exactly what they want, how it’s cut, whether it’s minced, how thick the steaks are, whether they want sausages, vacuum packing or labels.”

Each customer has their own digital profile. Artwork and logos can be uploaded, with labelling printed in-house to meet legal requirements while retaining farm identity.

“For people selling direct, that matters,” he said. “It’s their name on the packet.”

At every stage, traceability is absolute. Each carcass carries its own number, tracked from hook to box. “It’s slow,” Ian admitted. “But it’s the only way to do it properly.”

TRANSPARENCY INSTEAD OF MYSTERY

One of the guiding principles behind the business is openness around cost, something Ian felt was missing when he began sending his own livestock away.

“You’d get a bill back and never really understand what you were paying for,” he said. “So we decided to break everything down.”

Customers are charged separately for cutting, hanging time, vacuum packing, labelling and waste disposal. Nothing is bundled. Nothing hidden. >>

NIGEL AKEHURST VISITS: GOODTREES FARM & BUTCHERY

“We don’t want this to become industrial,” he said.

“This exists because people with 10 or 20 birds don’t have anywhere else to go.”

“If you don’t want labels, you don’t pay for labels. If you want to take waste away yourself, that’s fine, too,” he said. “At least people know.” For small producers trying to make direct sales work, often on tight margins, that clarity can make the difference between continuing or stopping altogether.

POULTRY PROCESSING AT A HUMAN SCALE

Behind the main cutting room sits a dedicated poultry unit, fully separate to meet hygiene regulations.

Here, batches of 50 to 75 birds are processed at a time, chickens throughout the year and turkeys seasonally.

Birds arrive live and are rested under red light to keep them calm before being stunned, bled, scalded and plucked. After chilling overnight, they are butchered according to customer instructions and either sold whole or cut into portions.

“It’s a two-day turnaround,” Ian explained. “But it suits people with small numbers.” The system is designed to handle up to 10,000 birds a year, though the intention is not to reach that ceiling.

“We don’t want this to become industrial,” he said. “This exists because people with 10 or 20 birds don’t have anywhere else to go.”

In an era where small poultry producers are increasingly squeezed out, that niche is vital.

ORGANIC, GOATS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

Goodtrees is certified organic with the Soil Association, processing organic carcasses

separately following approved procedures.

It also processes goats, still unusual in UK abattoir and butchery systems, alongside pigs, sheep and cattle.

“The smallest thing we’ve ever butchered was a squirrel,” Ian said with a smile. “A customer makes squirrel curry.”

It is perhaps an extreme example, but it reflects the flexibility the business has had to develop. “People don’t fit neatly into systems anymore,” he said. “So we try to work around them.”

BEYOND FRESH MEAT: FROZEN AND ONLINE

Alongside contract butchery, Goodtrees supports an online meat business operating from the same site.

Garlic Wood, which is owned in-house, supplies customers nationwide. Meat is frozen, packed using insulated liners and ice packs, and shipped via next-day courier.

“Frozen gives you breathing space,” Ian explained. “If there’s a delay, you’re not suddenly dealing with food safety issues.”

At Christmas alone, nearly 300 orders left the site, a scale that would have been unthinkable when the first cutting room was built just three years ago.

FARMING ALONGSIDE THE KNIVES

As well as a busy contract butchery, Goodtrees remains very much a working livestock farm.

Wagyu crosses, run as a suckler system.

Native breeds are finished slowly, often beyond 30 months, with animals assessed individually rather than by calendar.

“We don’t say ‘you’re 24 months, you’re ready’,” Ian explained. “We look at the animal.”

The Belted Galloways are also used for conservation grazing on nearby sites, helping manage scrub and rough ground.

Winters have become increasingly challenging. “They used to go out in March,” he said. “Now it’s often April.”

Handling systems have been designed with safety at their core, lessons learned early on when cattle and machinery shared space.

“If we were going to do this,” Ian said, “we had to do it properly.”

SELLING FACE TO FACE

Every Sunday, Ian travels to Blackheath Farmers’ Market in London, leaving before dawn and returning late afternoon.

His stall carries a full mix: beef, lamb, pork, sausages, venison and goat, displayed fresh and wrapped using paper rather than plastic. He also takes eggs from their flock of chickens.

“A lot of customers come back here to see the animals,” Ian said. “They want that connection.”

Rising costs, particularly electricity for chillers and freezers, have inevitably pushed prices up, but the aim remains balance.

THE WEAK LINK: ABATTOIRS

Like many livestock businesses, Goodtrees operates downstream of a fragile slaughter network. Capacity remains tight. Slots are scarce. Smaller producers struggle to compete for space. “Large abattoirs want lorry loads,” Ian said. “If you turn up with two pigs, they’re not interested.”

The easing of OTM (over thirty months) restrictions has helped native breeds, but closures continue to create pressure across the supply chain.

“There’s probably room for another small abattoir in this part of the South East,” he said. “Without it, everything backs up.”

Managing the flow, including slaughter slots, hanging time and cutting schedules, has become as important as the farming itself.

A YOUNGER GENERATION IN THE CUTTING ROOM

Inside the butchery, one of the clearest signs of hope is the presence of younger staff learning traditional skills. Among them is Josie Rollings, a qualified butcher who came through Plumpton College four years ago and now works four days a week at Goodtrees.

Unlike many retail-trained butchers, Josie works nose-to-tail, breaking carcasses from the hook rather than opening boxes of pre-cut meat. “That’s becoming rare,” Ian said. “A lot of people simply haven’t been taught it.”

“People might not eat meat every day anymore,” he said. “But they’ll buy good meat when they do.”

For Josie, the work connects directly back to farming. Alongside her job in the butchery, she and her partner Ollie Blake run their own sheep enterprise, gradually built from scratch over more than a decade.

Around 100 acres are farmed on-site, with a further 150 rented locally. The herd includes Belted Galloways and Sussex- >>

NIGEL AKEHURST VISITS: GOODTREES FARM & BUTCHERY

Ollie Blake

“We weren’t born into farming,” she explained. “So everything has taken time.”

Their first sheep came not through inheritance, but through work experience. As a teenager, Ollie helped a neighbouring farmer and, instead of wages, was given three sheep. “That was our starting point,” she said. “Those three sheep turned into a flock.”

Today, they run close to 200 ewes spread across multiple parcels of rented land. None of it is secure long-term.

“You’re always conscious that land can disappear overnight,” she said. “If someone decides they don’t want sheep anymore, that’s it.”

It is a reality faced by many new entrants operating on handshake agreements, juggling grazing blocks and constantly negotiating access. “You can build a business,” she said, “but you’re always aware how fragile it is.”

LEARNING BY DOING

Josie is honest about the limitations of formal agricultural education: “I studied for three years,” she said. “But the real learning happens on farms. You only understand agriculture by doing it, by working with people who’ve done it for years.”

Their flock has grown slowly, funded through reinvestment rather than borrowing. Lambs are sold both live and through their boxed meat business, Blake’s Lamb Boxes, to diversify income.

Margins are tight. Markets fluctuate. Numbers matter. “Below 180 to 200 ewes, it’s hard to make it viable,” she said.

FARMING AND ENVIRONMENT FOCUSED CONTENT CREATION

Storytelling through interviews, features, case studies, photography and short films.

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Josie Rollings

Yet walking away is not an option. “You’ve worked too hard to give it up,” she said.

BUZZWORDS AND REALITY

From the butchery’s perspective, Josie sees the same patterns Ian does when it comes to labels and marketing. “There’s a lot of talk about regenerative,” she said. “But there’s no definition.”

Carcass quality, she notes, varies enormously, even among animals sold under similar claims. “Sometimes they’re finished beautifully. Other times they’re not ready.”

Goodtrees processes meat for Pasture for Life farms, organic producers and conventional systems alike.

“What matters is the animal,” she said. “How it’s been looked after. Whether it’s ready.”

WHY THIS PLACE MATTERS

Goodtrees Farm & Butchery did not emerge from a master plan. It grew one building, one system and one problem solved at a time, driven by necessity and shaped by experience.

When husband and wife team Ian and Marie first arrived, the farm had been derelict for decades. There were no roads. No hardstanding. Buildings were swallowed by brambles. They were not farmers by background. “I thought we were buying a smallholding,” Marie said. “It turned into a farm.”

Over time they tried different species; cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and poultry, learning what worked and what did not.

The butchery followed later, initially built to process their own animals. Then neighbours asked, and word spread.

HOLDING THE CHAIN TOGETHER

In a countryside where processing capacity continues to shrink, and where small livestock producers struggle to find routes to market, Goodtrees now plays a quiet but critical role.

It connects farms to customers. It trains young butchers in skills at risk of disappearing. It provides a route for producers too small for industrial systems yet too committed to give up.

From field to hook, from apprentice to experienced farmer, it holds together a part of the food chain that too often goes unnoticed.

In the South East today, that may be its greatest achievement.

CHOCOLATE SPOT WILL CONTINUE

TO BE A THREAT

IF WET WEATHER CONTINUES

By Simon Roberts, Managing Director, CCC Agronomy

– members of the Association of Independent

Crop

Consultants (AICC).

With what feels like continuous rain throughout January and February, the available days for field work have been limited, although with a few days of dry weather and the arrival of a few rays of sunshine we were able to make a start in places towards the end of February. The prolonged wet weather and cool conditions have proved ideal for the early appearance of chocolate spot in winter beans. It is easy to find low levels in most winter bean crops, although in some instances worryingly high levels can be seen. Yield losses of 25% are not uncommon, rising to 50% in high pressure years. If the wet weather continues, this disease will continue to be a threat and the options for control are predominantly protectant. Close monitoring and earlier than normal treatment may well be required this year.

While it feels like conditions should have been harsh for any insect life, it wasn’t too

difficult to find aphids present on late drilled cereals that hadn’t received an aphicide or on earlier drilled crops that missed the second planned application. As soon as cereal crops start stem extension, any effect from barley yellow dwarf virus is dramatically reduced. While the residual herbicides have delivered good levels of weed control in the autumn, their persistence doesn’t last forever; as the soil warms up, the inevitable germination of broadleaved weeds and spring germinating grass weeds will begin. One of the most persistent germinating weeds following legume fallow is phacelia. It highlights how important it is to manage the seed return in these sustainable farming incentive (SFI) options. Where topping before seed set was missed or too late, the seed return is huge and just keeps germinating!

As soon as nitrogen has been applied there will be some well-developed oilseed rape and cereal crops that will require a growth

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.

regulator as stem extension will not be far away, if it isn’t already there on some forward winter barley crops. If conditions are still cool, choosing the correct growth regulator that works in cooler conditions will be required.

OMNIA AND JOHN DEERE STREAMLINE DATA SHARING

An exciting new integration between Omnia digital farming software from Hutchinsons and John Deere Operations Center promises to deliver genuine benefits to farmers through seamless data transfer across the two systems.

The upgrades are the latest in ongoing developments to Omnia which will deliver further efficiency gains for users of both systems through improved workflows, reduced management time and automated, accurate record keeping.

Hutchinsons' Head of Digital Agronomy

Lewis McKerrow said that while the data exchange between the two systems is now more streamlined, with some fully automated options, users still retain the flexibility to choose how data is used and shared.

“The transfer of data from Omnia into Operations Center, and back the other way, is now much easier and more closely integrated, yet users of either platform remain fully in control of what they do,” he explained.

Lewis highlighted four main aspects to the latest upgrade:

1. SHARING TASKS/WORK PLANS

Digital 'tasks' created in Omnia can now be sent directly to Operations Center as 'Work Plans', with no duplication of data entry on either side. As well as details of specific tasks, users can allocate them to individual machines and staff all within Omnia, with further opportunity to review and amend, if required, once in the John Deere system.

“Once the task has been confirmed and the work plan received, that operator has all the

CHRIS HOSKINS Omnia Sales Manager

T: 07890 067228

E: chris.hoskins@hlhltd.co.uk

Canterbury: 01227 830064

www.hlhltd.co.uk

information they need to complete the job,” noted Lewis.

Work plans/tasks can include anything from a simple cultivation task through to spray plans including tank mix details, or variable rate plans for fertiliser and other inputs.

2. RECORDING FIELD DATA

Once tasks have been completed in the field, data can now be automatically sent from the machine directly back into Omnia (via Operations Center) within one hour to create an ‘as applied’ operation record. Users have the option to sync all completed work plans and operations back into Omnia or manually select which to save. For Omnia subscribers, this information automatically adjusts stock records and updates field costings.

3. AUTOMATED YIELD IMPORT

From summer 2026, an upgrade will allow the automated importation of yield data; this will streamline the data transfer from John Deere combine and forage harvesters to ensure data can be available to users at peak times.

4. HARVESTLAB INTEGRATION

The final development is the integration with John Deere’s HarvestLab, allowing

a host of additional information to be imported directly from the machine with yield data. HarvestLab currently measures a range of constituents in different crops, such as crude protein, dry matter, sugar and starch content in forage crops, and protein in combinable crops.

John Deere said the integration reflected the growing demand for simpler digital workflows.

Dennis Schrijver, John Deere Precision Tech Specialist, said: “Farmers want their technology to work quietly in the background, without creating extra admin. This integration with Omnia helps remove duplication, reduces the risk of errors and gives users faster access to accurate field data.

“When information flows easily from the office to the machine and back again, it supports better planning, stronger compliance and more confident decision-making. That is exactly what we are aiming to deliver through John Deere Operations Center.”

FURTHER DEVELOPMENT

Hutchinsons and Omnia remain committed to an ongoing programme of development for the system, and details of further integration with other systems are due later this year. Find out more at https://omniadigital.co.uk

THINK TWICE STEPHEN CARR

Farming in a densely populated area like the South East has its challenges, but surely the most distressing of these is the worrying of livestock, particularly of sheep by dogs. So how much help will the introduction of the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act be, when it comes into effect this month on 18 March?

For one thing, the revised legislation gives police powers to impose an unlimited fine on owners who fail to keep their dogs under control. That will certainly be a step forward, as the last time my flock suffered a dog attack the limit of the fine that a court could impose on any dog owner was £1,000.

On the advice of the police, therefore, I accepted a compensation agreement that they negotiated with the dog owner on my behalf. She was to pay me compensation for damages in instalments over a number of months, as she said she could not afford to pay anything that day. I never received a penny.

The other useful amendment to the livestock protection legislation is that police will have powers to seize and detain dogs where they have reasonable grounds to believe that a dog might attack or worry livestock again.

The issue of dog owners not wishing to hand their dogs over to the police takes me back to an incident several years ago, when a neighbour’s two labradors escaped into my field from his garden. Our shepherd at the time found several sheep in severe distress, but as soon as he got out of his pickup to try to catch them, both dogs fled back to the garden from where they’d escaped.

He reported the incident back to the farm, but by the time we’d called the police and they’d called on the neighbour to report that his dogs had injured several sheep, he claimed, with complete sincerity, that his dogs had been either in his house or garden all day so they could not have been involved. Fortunately, the police, although they didn’t have any rights to inspect the dogs, were able to persuade the owner to allow them to give both labradors a salt drench. Even though the attack had by now occurred several hours earlier, both dogs quickly regurgitated enough wool and flesh that the owner, faced with such incontrovertible and gory evidence of his dogs’ vicious behaviour, was extremely apologetic and paid full compensation that day.

Of course, it’s not all, or even mostly, about the money. It’s about adequate sanctions being in place to make dog owners think twice about letting their pets off a lead when in the countryside and therefore reducing the terrible suffering that sheep currently endure when subjected to dog attacks.

The revised livestock protection, then, has not come a day too soon. According to the NFU Mutual, farmers suffered £330,000 in livestock losses to dog attacks last year – a 137% increase on 2014. That is an alarming amount of money and suggests an appalling level of animal suffering.

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This month I caught up with Rachel Sands, one of the outgoing NextGen Fruit Group committee members, freshly returned from taking 55 members to South Africa for a week. The NextGen Fruit Group (formerly Under 40’s for the older ones amongst us) is an essential part of creating a network, and updating skills and knowledge, for any younger member of the fruit industry. Now in its 59th year, this group has taken generations of our industry all over Europe and latterly further afield. It last visited South Africa nine years ago; this time the group was based in Stellenbosch.

A great trip was had by all, and it started in true NextGen style with a visit to a vineyard

Outgoing committee members (left to right): Ben Cooper, Will Jarvis, Rachel Sands, Alana Deacon, Charles Hutton-Squire, Jason Steels and Jake Kinderman

A SOUTH AFRICAN ADVENTURE

to sample the regional wines and then a visit to Table Mountain. The following week was spent visiting some of the major businesses in the region.

Monday began with a visit to Vitro-plant, a plant biotechnology company based in Somerset West, Cape Town. They operate a large, modern, in-vitro plant tissue culture laboratory and nursery designed,

custom built and equipped for large scale commercial plant production. The group was shown demonstrations of green-on-green grafting instead of budding, techniques that have been transferred from the flower industry to accelerate the production of fruit whips and bushes.

The company works across the majority of the fruit and nut crops produced in South

Africa, as well as supplying international customers. Currently in production are apples, pears, berries, kiwis, grapes, peaches, and pistachio, walnut and cherry trees. The group visited the sister nursery operation on day two, seeing the 30cm plants, fresh from the lab, planted out to harden off, ready to be finished into market-ready 2m whips. The nursery is in a colder location, essential for hardening the green wood and producing a robust whip with a strong centre leader.

That was followed by a visit to the Lingenfelder brothers’ family apple farm, which sounded like a great example of what is possible, with a plentiful labour supply, keeping processes really simple across their whole operation.

The brothers were cropping a massive 180t/ha of apples, with some varieties expected to reach 200t/ha this year. The three brothers in partnership aim to use pared down techniques, including six cuts only per tree in pruning, taught as part of a streamlined programme. Labour is cheap and plentiful and they have people who climb ladders and so trees are taller (another benefit of higher light levels). The daily wage for pickers is the same as the UK hourly minimum wage, and with 35% unemployment in the Stellenbosch region there is no shortage of labour. Other visits included a look at

regenerative/sustainable top fruit operations thanks to a return visit to the team at Dutoit Agri to see some of the company’s 2,000 hectares of top and stone fruit.

Dutoit remains one of the most forwardthinking farming business in South Africa, where there are restrictions on the degree of automation allowed in order to protect jobs. Dutoit has looked ahead and is planting 2D growing systems on wirework supporting a standard tree height of 3.5m.

Oz Blue, which harvests blueberries 50 weeks of year across a global operation, has developed its own varieties with an extensive breeding programme with low chill hour requirements. The company’s aim is to average productivity at 50t/ha, with 80% of berries at 2.2g to 2.5g in weight.

Haygrove Heaven and Earth was also on the programme, sharing the company’s holistic approach to farming and community. The Hermanus operation has a medical centre for all staff, along with a programme offering work in their UK operation, where four months’ work equates to three years’ earnings in South Africa.

Across all top and stone fruit operations, the twin bonuses of sunlight and limitless labour were evident; in top fruit operations, tall trees and long ladders, in stone fruit a two-table structure for trees and the possibility of three rounds of summer pruning to carefully

manage the colouration of nectarines.

There were also two days of vineyard and winery visits in the programme, the managers sharing an open book on processes they had adopted from other regions, the varietal spread that remained highly productive in the region and the commercial landscape for wine producers.

The group visited both the Kelpak processing plant and the harvesting beds on the coast. Kelpak is an organic biostimulant made from Ecklonia maxima seaweed which is used widely throughout UK soft and top fruit production.

Kelpak has been investing in the seabed management of Ecklonia and has doubled harvested volumes over the past 50 years. It’s a species of seaweed that is only found in the waters around the Western Cape, the cold, turbulent waters delivering high levels of anti-stress properties to the plant which are preserved by the specialist processing methods developed by the company.

The manufacturing plant was of particular interest; it’s not often that farmers get to visit the production plants behind some of the valuable inputs that we routinely use. The Kelpak team has made substantial investments in a cold-process method which retains the high levels of auxins and cytokinins that are so effective in improving nutrient uptake and plant health.

DEVELOPING INDUSTRY-LED TRAINING AND EDUCATION

It may be 100 years since the first students arrived at what is now Plumpton College, but its ‘raison d’être’ remains the same as it was a century ago.

As principal Jeremy Kerswell pointed out: “The Government of the day wanted to see an agricultural institution in every county in the country because they wanted the UK to be more self-sufficient in food production."

The problem was perhaps even more critical then than it is now. With war on the

horizon, Britain produced just 40% of the food it consumed in 1914, importing meat from Argentina, mutton and dairy produce from Australia and New Zealand and wheat from the USA and Canada.

“A century on, that need to grow more of our own produce and become as selfsufficient as possible remains important, particularly in the light of key global challenges,” commented Jeremy.

But while the driver has stayed constant, the

landscape has changed. In the late 1980s there were 44 land-based colleges in the country, but that figure has since dropped to just nine independent land and environment colleges. Plumpton, meanwhile, has not just survived as one of the nine but has grown over the past decade under Jeremy’s leadership and continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of the industries it serves while remaining true to one of its core goals in relation to food security.

Congratulations

to Plumpton College on your centenary.

As Plumpton College celebrates its remarkable centenary, City & Guilds is proud to celebrate this milestone and to continue supporting its journey into the next century of specialist land and environment education.

Plumpton College have been successfully empowering the next generation with the skills and qualifications they need to thrive. Together with City & Guilds, we have built a strong foundation for excellence in the land‑based sector driven by a joint commitment to quality delivery and meaningful impact.

We are honoured to be a trusted skills partner to Plumpton College and look forward to continuing our collaboration to deliver vital qualifications and CPD that meet the evolving needs of the land‑based industries for the next 100 years.

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CENTENARY

The college has invested in a range of new facilities and continues to look for new ways of making its mark not just nationally but internationally, and won a Queen’s Anniversary Prize in 2023 for its groundbreaking work in support of the English and Welsh wine industry.

The award recognised the college for its role in developing industry-led training and education programmes supporting the growth and sustainability of the English wine industry. The college, which offers degrees in both wine business and wine production, ran its first wine courses in 1989.

Other major innovations in recent years have included the college’s impressive new AgriFood centre, its horticultural centre of excellence at One Garden Brighton facility and its Veterinary Studies Centre, which opened in Easter 2025.

In 2026 the college is celebrating its centenary with a number of events including an exhibition, an open day and spring fair, a

charity foundation centenary ball, a trail race and a ploughing match. It is also marking the occasion by recording an exclusive podcast mini-series.

But while making the most of the opportunity to glance back over the past 100 years, the ‘buzz’ around the college and amongst the staff and pupils is very much about the future and about the next way in which the college can provide new opportunities for students and support the wider food, farming and environmental sectors.

It was in 1919 that East Sussex County Council took a five-year lease of Wales Farm, which remains at the heart of the college estate, and began running it as the East Sussex Farm Institute. It bought the freehold five years later and then in 1926 welcomed its first students.

“They studied poultry production as well as modules on crops, bookkeeping and practical skills,” Jeremy explained.

Courses were suspended during World War Two, when the college was instead

turned over to training 4,500 members of the Women’s Land Army, but it ramped up its activities in the 1950s when there was again a focus on domestic food production.

After the first principal, Mr R H B Jesse, Plumpton saw five more people occupy the hot seat before Jeremy took on the job in 2015. It was a challenging time for further education colleges across the country as it coincided with a strategic area review by the Government that reduced the number of establishments by more than a third.

“It was aimed at cutting costs and boosting efficiency and focused my mind as I had just arrived and was determined to see Plumpton not just survive, but thrive,” Jeremy recalled.

“There has long been an issue with the general perception of land-based colleges which we needed to challenge and, in doing so, respond to the needs of industries for more highly skilled new entrants than ever before.

CENTENARY ANNIVERSARY

“Attracting more students to study one of these subjects was therefore pivotal, as was raising our educational standards and, in doing so, improving the financial resilience of the organisation.

“I was determined that Plumpton would rise to the challenge and used this context as a rationale for change.”

That determination saw Plumpton evolve quickly, with new courses, a dynamic leadership team and a focus on high quality teaching that reflects Jeremy’s commitment to high standards and his belief in the power of education to change lives.

“The whole team shares an unerring drive to ensure young people get the very best standards of education,” he said. “We are committed to creating one of the leading land-based colleges in the country and to making a difference, in terms of research, training and innovation.”

Born on a dairy farm in Wales, Jeremy spent much of his childhood in Sussex, again on a dairy farm. After studying animal science at Reading University, he worked in the industry before teaching at Brinsbury, Hadlow and Moulton Colleges and then becoming assistant principal at Bridgwater College in Somerset, in

which capacity he took on the management of Cannington College.

When he arrived at Plumpton in 2015 at the age of 39, Jeremy’s aim was to modernise and professionalise the college and work closely with employers to develop new curriculum areas across all subjects, from agriculture to horticulture, forestry and land management, equine, fisheries and many more.

“We knew we had to attract more students from outside farming families and challenge perceptions that studying land based subjects didn’t lead to higher academic levels of study," said Jeremy.

He was also determined to grow the college in order to remain financially sustainable and independent, particularly in the face of the ongoing area review.

It was too big a job for one person to tackle, and so Jeremy built a new senior leadership team that shared his vision, and is quick to point out that the college’s recent growth has been a team effort that reflects the input of the new staff who joined him on his mission.

“It was a time of high staff turnover, but it was important to get the right people into the right places and to bring in the skills and the

culture we needed to pursue the new vision for Plumpton College,” Jeremy explained.

Those new members of the team, now wellestablished after ten years in the role, include deputy principal James Hibbert, human resources director Sarah Jeffers, vice principal, student support Phaedra Tanghe, director of horticulture Jon Searle and Liz Mouland, who leads the marketing team.

Their success can be seen in the figures since 2015. The college has doubled in size,

with turnover up from £15m to £30m, it now trains six times as many apprentices as it did ten years ago, and the number of 16 year-olds learning at Plumpton has grown by 70% in that time, with students coming from across Sussex, Kent and beyond.

Work with employers and with adult learners has also increased substantially. The college employs some 310 staff. On a national level, Jeremy also has an important role to play. As the Chair of Landex, a membership

Challenge yourself to solve real world problems

organisation for land-based colleges, he works with key stakeholders and government to inform and influence future policy

“We have made Plumpton one of the fastest growing, commercially driven colleges in the country,” Jeremy commented. “Given that we are now one of just nine land-based colleges in the country, we have a regional catchment and a reputation to match.” At 800 hectares, the college has the largest educational estate in the country.

The commercial aspect is important at Plumpton, with the farm, the vineyard and the other facilities all run as businesses to make the student experience as realistic as possible. Both One Garden Brighton and the vineyard have a turnover of £1m a year and each makes a profit.

“Our students learn in real life businesses,” Jeremy said. “They don’t just get a qualification; they get skills and the kind of abilities they need in the workplace. Whether it’s the farm, the vineyard or at One Garden

CENTENARY

Brighton, nothing here is simulated.”

When it comes to teaching the kind of business skills needed in a modern farming environment, Plumpton leads by example. In its drive to ensure financial sustainability, the college has leveraged more than £40m worth of investment as part of its recent transformation. “Relative to our size, I think it’s safe to say we have invested more in our estate than most,” Jeremy commented.

Plumpton’s first major project was One Garden in Brighton, the walled garden

at Stanmer Park which the college took over from Brighton & Hove City Council on a 25-year lease before investing several million pounds in restoring it and creating a horticultural centre of excellence.

A Royal Horticultural Society ‘partner garden’ which has already welcomed 1.2 million visitors in its first five years, the facility sells the college’s own Plumpton Estate wine as well as other produce. It has a café, organises a wide range of events and can be hired for private functions, weddings and parties.

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From Field to Florist

Sunninghill is pleased to support Plumpton College as it celebrates its centenary.

Sunninghill is pleased to support Plumpton College as it celebrates its centenary.

We are proud to have worked with Plumpton on projects that support this vision and to play a part in the College’s ongoing development.

We are proud to have worked with Plumpton on projects that support this vision and to play a part in the College’s ongoing development.

The facility is also used to train hundreds of adult students on accredited horticulture courses and is home to the Plumpton School of Bakery, which trains bakery students and apprentices who provide the café with in-house baked goods fresh on the counter daily.

Plumpton’s impressive, modern, AgriFood Centre has become well known as a conference centre since it opened in 2023. The striking, £10m building provides training, education networking and events facilities and hosts the South East Future of Farming event each year.

As part of the AgriFood Centre project, on-farm investments at Plumpton included a new pig unit, dairy robots and a bio-security centre, along with a training kitchen and butchery.

The newest of the college’s ambitious investments is the Veterinary Studies Centre which opened in March last year and features a range of specialist equipment including an adjustable water treadmill, a canine hydrotherapy pool and state-ofthe-art classrooms.

CENTENARY

Students on the Lead Baker Apprenticeship

“Veterinary studies was one of the areas that we identified for development after carrying out a review seven or eight years ago into those key sectors where we felt we needed to invest to facilitate the delivery of higher technical skills,” Jeremy explained.

“We now train more qualified nurses across the South East than any other college and we are still struggling to keep up with the demand.”

As with other areas of the college, as well as being used to teach the students, the specialist

facilities in the centre also function as a reallife commercial operation.

Plumpton’s latest innovative, commercial development is its nine-hectare ‘centenary vineyard’, which incorporates a high level of technology and data analysis equipment aimed at teaching students about precision vineyard management in order to support the industry’s future. Viticulture students enjoy the leadership of Plumpton’s director of wine provision Sam Linter, previously CEO of Bolney Wine Estates.

CENTENARY ANNIVERSARY

Students and staff in front of the main building c1952-1959

Determined not to rest on its laurels after winning the Queen’s Anniversary Prize in 2023, the college is continuing to invest and has set aside £500,000 as a ‘wine resilience pledge’ to help the industry upskill and is launching a new degree programme which will have national reach and has been developed in collaboration with growers and winemakers. Always community focused, Plumpton

<< College is exploring new delivery methods and partnerships as it looks forward to its postcentenary future.

“Alternative delivery models and partnerships will be fundamental to our growth over the next ten years,” explained Jeremy.

The college is already working with Homewood School in Tenterden, where there

has been a thriving Young Farmers’ Club for many years, to offer land-based studies to students in the sixth form. The young people will be able to study at levels one or two and will then be able to move on to an apprenticeship or switch to the college itself to continue their education. Jeremy paid tribute to the support of Homewood headteacher Jeremy Single in helping to set up the course.

Links with education are supported by Plumpton’s school liaison team, which was set up ten years ago, Sophie Stapley and Sophie Holden visited more than 150 schools last year, offering support and information on landbased issues as well as raising awareness of the college and its opportunities.

Plumpton has also been working in partnership with land agents to create a new rural land and business management degree, a two-year accelerated qualification that has won the backing of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Online courses that take advantage of current technology will also feature as Plumpton builds on 100 years of educational excellence and seeks to provide the industry with the workforce it needs.

It is a challenge to which Jeremy is looking forward. “By continuing to focus on excellence, supported by the right technical staff and teachers, a curriculum co-created with industry and continued, well-targeted investment, I am confident that we can continue to serve both those we train and the industries in which they will go on to play their part,” he summed up.

EDUCATION INSIDE PLUMPTON COLLEGE

A bold new era for veterinary science has arrived in East Sussex. With the opening of its state-of-the-art Veterinary Studies Centre, Plumpton College has cemented its status as the South East’s premier hub for veterinary science and animal welfare.

Each year, 80 graduates emerge from Plumpton’s nursing and allied therapies degree and apprenticeship programmes as specialists in veterinary nursing, physiotherapy and canine hydrotherapy, and this landmark facility ensures the next generation of veterinary and animal welfare experts will be trained at the cutting edge of the industry.

A £4.4 MILLION INVESTMENT IN EXCELLENCE

The new £4.4 million Veterinary Studies Centre was unveiled at the college’s inaugural VetFusion industry event. The investment was bolstered by the Institute of Technology, which awarded Plumpton College £2.3 million in 2021. This investment has enabled a ground-breaking transformation that matches Plumpton’s

The South East’s hub for veterinary excellence.

already impressive reputation for training veterinary nursing and physiotherapy professionals across the South East.

The Veterinary Centre is one part of a wider investment programme through the Institute of Technology which was formed across England to enhance the career and employment chances of young people and adults. Investments have been seen across Plumpton’s South Downs campus, from the glasshouses in the horticulture division through to the redevelopment of its commercial winery and modernisation of production facilities, in addition to audio-visual equipment enhancements in the AgriFood Centre for rural businesses.

For Plumpton College, the new Veterinary Studies Centre isn't just about ‘bricks and mortar’; it’s about providing ‘clinicready’ resources such as virtual dissection tables and advanced hydrotherapy equipment that mirror modern commercial practice, immersing students in real-world customer scenarios as part of their training, communication and customer relationship skills.

SECTOR-LEADING FACILITIES

The centre not only serves Plumpton’s students but also serves the wider community, offering advanced rehabilitation and treatment options for the general public and their dogs, along with training opportunities and continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities for the wider animal welfare and veterinary sector. Key highlights include:

• the South East’s largest canine hydrotherapy pool: A 7m, in-ground pool and underwater treadmill, a game-changer for canine rehabilitation housed in the canine hydrotherapy centre. The facility also includes state-of-the-art classrooms, a reception area for visiting patients and meeting spaces.

• an advanced clinical suite: 100sq m of flexible space designed to facilitate clinical operations featuring virtual dissection and anatomage tables. The suite also includes additional space to host exams.

• an upgraded animal education centre: This will support Plumpton’s animal science, behaviour, welfare and conservation programmes. It is designed to mimic real-life public attractions and animal centres, with a diverse and extensive animal collection including otters, lemurs, red squirrels, meerkats and exotic mammals.

For veterinary and animal welfare students, these pioneering facilities and technological resources support a suite of degrees and level 3 apprenticeships such as veterinary physiotherapy, veterinary nursing, canine studies including dog grooming, and a new set of canine hydrotherapy qualifications.

Director of Veterinary Science Sarah Holman said: “We have created a space that reflects the realities of modern practice, bringing together students, educators and industry professionals in an environment designed to support multidisciplinary learning, innovation and the highest professional standards.

“Our aim is to equip the next generation of veterinary and canine practitioners with the practical skills, confidence and collaborative mindset needed to thrive in an evolving profession.”

For 2025 graduate Honor Collins, the hands-on environment for her level 3 small animal hydrotherapy course was transformative. “Having the opportunity to apply theory in a hands-on setting, while working with real animals and observing their individual responses, really enhanced my understanding,” she said.

“It brought the learning to life and gave me the confidence to translate knowledge into practice. The guidance and feedback from the teachers during these sessions made the experience even more rewarding.”

VETFUSION: DRIVEN BY INDUSTRY

Plumpton’s drive for excellence extends beyond the classroom through VetFusion, a multi-disciplinary conference that unites industry and education through peer support and cross-department CPD to explore the latest innovations in animal care and rehabilitation.

Having been launched this year in the new veterinary centre, VetFusion will see the college well placed to support the veterinary industry further, as Sarah Holman explained:

“VetFusion was created to bring the whole veterinary team – from surgeons and nurses to physiotherapists, hydrotherapists, educators and students – together in one collaborative, forward-thinking space.

“The conference reflects our commitment to supporting lifelong learning, strengthening professional relationships and encouraging new conversations around patient care, rehabilitation and teamwork.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR THE SOUTH EAST

For aspiring veterinary and animal care professionals, and the sector-at-large, this investment puts the South East and Plumpton College at the very heart of veterinary excellence.

FROM THE FRONT LINE IN CONJUNCTION

It has been a challenging start to 2026. I signed off my last article hoping for average weather, but obviously the good Lord was not listening. We have had 290mm of rain in 2026 up to 12 February; that’s nearly 12 inches and clearly not average.

My father said there is always a day when the weather is right for doing a job on the farm; you just must be ready to go when the day comes. I am afraid that is not entirely correct. Finding the day, any day, to harvest fodder beet this year has been impossible.

Our beet is grown on free-draining sand,

EVERYTHING IS A CHALLENGE

Writes Peter Knight, managing director of Burgate Farms Ltd, Hambledon, Surrey.

and given 24 to 48 hrs of dry we can go without making a mess. The plan has always been to lift about once a fortnight to have fresh beet available. Last year was challenging, but this January has taken it to another level, having to tow the beet harvester to get along. It is not just the inconvenience, cost and aggravation; getting the next crop into land that has been mauled to death is the next challenge.

February is a month when a lot can be achieved on the land or nothing. It’s not looking good so far this year, past Valentine’s Day and still raining. The good thing is that the crops are still looking good and not desperately in need of early nitrogen; when it does stop raining for a few hours the surface water is disappearing quickly, a sign of good structure and favourable drilling conditions last autumn.

All fertiliser has been delivered and plans for spreading are in place, but given the poor wheat price set against nitrogen costing over £1/kg we will be fine tuning applications as the season progresses.

The NFU crops board has been discussing another challenge; the EU realignment to free up cross-border trade with the UK and the sanitary and phytosanitary agreement that is an integral part of the realignment.

There is no doubt the Government has decided that the deal will be concluded and in place before the end of this parliament, which, in terms of EU deals, is extraordinarily rapid. The timescales being set and the impact on the crops sector have necessitated detailed feedback to DEFRA to hopefully head off possible pitfalls.

Detailed negotiations are in progress between the UK and EU. The target date for an agreement is this summer, with full implementation by June 2027. The basis for agreement is the UK must adopt EU rules; doing so will affect our ability to grow crops without rethinking our agronomy or, if not aligned, affect our ability to market crops.

Alignment on plant protection products risks the UK losing new actives that have been registered in the UK but not in the EU, most notably cinmethylin, as in Luximo. The actives in the latest generation of fungicides Miravis Plus and Vimoy are also at risk. The thought of losing these plant protection products (PPPs) in just over a year is frightening and just not practical, let alone the impact on weed and disease control, as these are the latest generation chemicals that bring huge benefits on farm and are not replaceable.

The ask is that there is a suitable transition period to enable the EU and UK to gradually align on PPPs and other areas. It needs to be recognised that the climate in the UK is different to the majority of Europe; we have different challenges that require different solutions.

Binding restrictions in areas such as mycotoxins in oats and ergot alkaloids are not practical as they are largely driven by climatic conditions and beyond the control of the grower. The NFU commodity boards will continue to scrutinise proposed changes to regulations and to challenge change to ensure it is justified, practical and implementable.

AT ASHFORD MARKET

FRIEND OR FOE?

Friend or foe, the weather always has a major impact on the whole rural community, with this year`s incessant rains having a damaging impact on land and livestock and our farming custodians having to dig ever deeper into their reserves of energy, money and wellbeing to tolerate what appears to be the worst we can all remember. It probably is not, but it is certainly a growing trend during these midwinter months.

We have had our share of weather difficulty on the Ashford market site already in 2026, with the river that bisects us flooding not only the fields and car park but being high enough to prevent the clean rainwater from our roofs and car parks, as well as the runoff in general from the surrounding area, escaping to the river as the levels are too high for the culvert. The result is that it fills our site and the effluent plant up with river water, which is frustrating and expensive. Perversely, just by the market entrance, since the turn of the year queues of tankers have been tapping into the large clean water main 24/7 in a move to transport huge amounts of drinking water to, presumably, the Tunbridge Wells area.

Do not get any of us started on the world of water, but governance at any level, whether it be international, national, county or borough, or even so-called big business, seems to be struggling to come up

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with any answer to the problem before them. Plenty of clever people, but too few who are really connected to the whole problem, and many happy to be parachuted in and booted out, with enormous recompense to ease the pain.

In our agricultural world, the news that some £650,000 is to be spent on educating staff at DEFRA on matters agricultural did not go down well. Whether it should be £650 or £650 million matters not a jot and probably would not make any difference, but it does show how they at the top simply miss the point. Sadly, this is a problem that is replicated in many government departments where far too few have any real experience in the subject they are now in charge of and are telling those with knowledge what to do.

Big business is today inextricably linked to government, too closely many might feel, and the individual or small and medium sized business has little chance in influencing strategic change. When it comes to food, any government, with an eye always on rising prices and inflation, will side with the big boys looking to get price out of fundamental products such as cereals, milk and meat.

They have poultry and pork well under control in the current industrial era of production, with low cereal prices continuing. Morals have never been a hindrance to those at the top, and a blind eye continues to be turned towards the destruction of much of the Amazon as demand for soya and palm oil escalates, with new deep-water harbours being dug in the zone to facilitate the big players with bigger and bigger vessels.

How that all fits with a greener sustainable environment that the tax-paying majority pursues is hard to see, but with the world filling with a population that could not care less as long as someone is paying their benefits and they can survive, only time will tell as to how long it will be before the money finally runs out.

Milk, and its legacy of sound family production in Britain and Ireland, is struggling, with some 40% taken out of the milk price. Calf and cull prices have gone a little way to ease the pain, but many will surely leave this core agricultural sector as costly improvements and pressures appear unsustainable. The ramifications are massive, with more than 55% of UK beef coming from the dairy herd.

The recent decision to prevent the unworthy vegetable alternatives carrying a ‘milk’ name is welcome news, but the big manufacturing processors must take more responsibility with their products and not allow palm oil to be the cheap go-to option, and preserver of their profits, at the expense of the dairy industry and the environment.

There is no doubt that many parts of the economy are having a tougher time than they deserve, and certainly everyone ought to expect bumps in the road, but should we not, at least, expect help rather than hindrance from government? Support and a fair price from customers who have a vested interest in the product and its future? Genuine respect for the whole world, land and sea, its natural environment and its animals?

It is really not all gloom, and the February half-term, fortunately, puts a smile on many faces as Ashford Market welcomed record numbers of school children from farming and non-farming families to share in the mix of animals and auctions, as well as a treat in the Stock Pot.

GREEN SHOOTS OF AN INCREASING TRADE

Another month passes and the new year draws on, the trade for best beef cattle remaining strong throughout the period. Although some hesitancy has been reported at some deadweight outlets, livestock markets continued at strong levels, with best cattle still trading, as in previous months, at over 400p/kg, and R and O grade cattle 360p/kg to 380p/kg.

Numbers are still less than needed to satisfy the demand of local wholesalers and butchers in the live market.

As January ended and February started, it was hoped that stronger trading patterns would emerge. This time last year had seen the start of a tremendous rise in beef cattle prices in the live ring; that has now stabilised, but thankfully the prices have not fallen.

The cull cow trade is still strong, but with the dairy industry under some pressure, more cows were being sold than perhaps would be normal. However, the trade maintained good levels.

Store cattle, as always, are short at this time of year, with farmers desperate to replace and still paying prices which are good for vendors; buyers are gambling that the beef trade will give a positive return to the finished cattle producer.

The old season lamb trade saw a distinctive downward trend, particularly for the heavy, old season lambs, in late January and early February. With the high price of store sheep being seen in the back end of 2025, many producers will be concerned about the return they are likely to have, although hopefully the green shoots of an increasing trade that were being seen as this report was being written in the second week of February will continue and the stronger old season lambs will increase in value.

A good trade was seen for handy weight old season lambs at between 38kg and 44kg, but these were short in supply. Numbers in

the eastern counties are down on 12 months ago and, in all honesty, saw supply equating to, or just above, demand. Best old season lambs were still trading around £160 to £180 per head, most in the £130 to £145 per head band. This is not a great return when many store lambs were being sold from £120 to £140 at the end of 2025.

As reported for many months, the ewe trade was still strong, and more cull ewes are wanted. There was strong demand both from abattoirs and grazers of ewes, with the availability of fodder good as root crops had a good growing period from late 2025 to early 2026.

The pig trade, as in previous months, was still under pressure, with prices dropping. Cull sows were at very low levels, disappointing and really a reflection on the great shortage of competition in that market.

Rain is still required to fill many reservoirs in the eastern counties, although the land was standing wet due to the amount of rain that fell in January and early February, with more still required. Crops are looking generally good, with some cereal crops showing the need for nitrogen in early February due to the strong growth they have had since the back end of 2025, but with the land too wet to allow field operations.

In full, ‘grumpy old man’ mode I’m starting with a bit of a moan, probably not particularly welcome nor appreciated, particularly at a time of year when, after rather too many grey, wet days, melatonin levels are low and we are all feeling a bit fed up; we could all (sheep included) benefit from a bit of sunshine. No offence is intended and apologies to those that may feel slighted, but the DEFRA consultation concerning the castration and tail docking of lambs has been doing the rounds since January (closes 9 March), and seems to have been dismissed or simply ignored by many producers.

I know the feeling of deep frustration; yet another sign of government’s anti-sheep/ farming sentiment, a feeling that will only be reinforced by the recent decision by Mike Tapp (Minister for Immigration) to scrap the 25 year-old scheme allowing 75 antipodean shearers visa-free access to the UK each summer. Who knows what impact that will have? Government appears to want to improve welfare on one hand but potentially compromise it on the other; one could be forgiven for thinking that governernment departments don’t talk to each other.

I accept that the consultation has not been well promoted by DEFRA (no surprises there) and so some may have missed it, that in spite of it having been highlighted by a number of farming organisations both online and in

What a difference a year makes

ALAN WEST Sheep farmer

“GRUMPY OLD MAN” MODE

some of the farming press. That said, some organisations could have done considerably more.

As a consultation, it is short on practicality and in parts grossly misinformed, but it is one which will, quite probably, precede fresh legislation that could have a significant impact on the way in which we are permitted to deal with new born lambs. Some of the options presented bear little resemblance to the realities of lambing sheep and could, if brought into legislation, bring significant additions to the complexity, time and costs of what is an already quite stressful point in the sheep calendar.

The implications of some of the proposals are a matter of some considerable concern, particularly as it is an open consultation and a host of organisations and individuals, not just sheep producers, are able to respond, including some with views that may be diametrically opposed to those of most sheep keepers; the wrong legislation could, at worst, drive some out of the industry.

My moan is, however, not about the consultation, as bad as it is; rather more concerning is the attitude and apparent apathy of a significant number of sheep

producers. As frustrating as it may be, all the tutting, head shaking and finger pointing in the world (it’s the fault of do-gooders, townies, vegans, politicians, vets, equipment manufacturers, immigrants in dinghies (there are some weirdoes out there) even Halal slaughter (?) etc.) will not make the consultation go away nor generate the desired results. Nor will throwing your hands in the air and saying: “There’s nothing wrong with things as they are, why can’t they leave us alone?”

It’s too late for that; DEFRA civil servants, probably with little or no real understanding of the sheep sector and who have never been inside a busy lambing shed, have decided, no doubt prompted by other vested interests, that there are issues to be addressed (maybe not without some justification, but that is another debate); hence the consultation. DEFRA will be looking to the responses to direct formulation of future plans/ legislation, whatever form that may take; an overwhelming response from those within the sheep industry will, hopefully, provide a better outcome than one dominated by the views of those with alternative agendas. If we are not careful we risk, by default and a

ORGANISED CHAOS ANITA HICKSON

PUTTING ON MY BRAVE PANTS

At the time of writing this, I had to put on my brave pants and drive the lorry with three horses to Alicante so that Zara could compete in a showjumping event for which she has been saving hard for the past 12 months.

Since Brexit, the paperwork for livestock has increased beyond all recognition. The minefield of ensuring all paperwork is correct certainly seemed to be rather stressful, but we did manage it. Health papers, vet checks times three, carnets etc... I, on the other hand, only needed my passport, and even then they didn't bother to look at or check it. The sun is very pleasant but having left the rain we seem to have wind at 60mph gusts.

In the meantime this year seems to have got off to a flying start. Time seems to disappear, and before we know it, harvest will be upon us. February half term has been and gone, and Easter will be just around the corner.

The weather has been creating its usual havoc amongst all farmers so far this year. At the time of writing, I am quite sure that we haven't gone a day without rain yet. One consolation this year appears to be that most of the arable crops were established

before the rain came, therefore giving the plants roots. If we have a long dry spell they will hopefully be able to withstand the conditions much better than last year.

The price of corn doesn't seem to show any signs of uplift in the near future. Things at this moment are very difficult for all farmers. The temptation to diversify is increasingly becoming a reality.

Lambing will be in full swing relatively soon across the country, and fingers crossed that the rain holds off, although snow is on the forecast for parts of Scotland and Wales.

In 1980, a farmer would need to produce two litres of milk to buy a pint of Guinness. In 2025, a farmer would need to produce 15 litres of milk to purchase a pint of Guinness at the National Ploughing Championship. Therefore, a farmer must work 7.5 times harder just to afford the same pint. Everything else has increased, but milk prices have been left trailing behind.

Surprise, surprise, in February we had another price decrease just to add insult to injury. It always seems to be a cycle with the milk price, but this latest round of consecutive price cuts seems to have bitten hard. Losing 15p per litre in six months

is particularly hard. The milk price has dropped every month since September.

The price of butter in the supermarkets is around £8 per kilo even though the market for butter has allegedly fallen to one of its lowest points. We can only hope for the market to stablise over the next few months.

For the first time in my life, I seem to be struggling to see a positive side to farming, especially for new entrants or farmers' children. We need a glimmer of optimism when every turn seems to be filled with more than its fair share of challenges. We seem to be spending more and more time completing paperwork to ensure compliance rather than farming.

We are not alone in this feeling; the majority of farmers across the country, or indeed the world, are having the same feelings/thoughts.

Until next time, stay safe.

degree of apathy generated by frustration, a potentially damaging outcome that suits nobody within the sheep sector.

We are all entitled to our own views, but the reality of the situation is that individual opinions, no matter how well informed or strongly held, do, to a certain extent, become an irrelevance and will not alter the fact that the consultation has been drafted and circulated (online) for comment; none of our views has any traction unless registered online within the context of the consultation. It is not just a tick box exercise; ample opportunity is provided for individual comments, the latter being the most important.

The sheep industry really does deserve much better than the dismissive attitude of a significant number of producers, sadly both

young and old, an attitude which, however understandable, does the rest of the sheep industry a great disservice. New legislation will potentially have a considerable impact on how we are able to operate and may force a rethink in the way that some produce their lambs, but that is a different story. Moan over; again, apologies to any sensitive flowers that may have been offended.

As I said in my opening paragraph, many will be somewhat fed up after having endured what, for some, has been the wettest January for almost 150 years; stodging about in mud all the time does get a bit disheartening. The weather has also put substantial pressure on already depleted stocks of conserved forages; tight supply after last summer’s drought and increased demand has pushed up prices, justifiably,

although not welcome, a situation that will no doubt persist for the rest the year as producers look to rebuild stocks. If I were both a bit younger and better positioned I would be seriously considering getting some additional forage/grazeable cover crops into the ground this year to extend the grazing season and reduce reliance on conserved forages/hard feeds next winter.

Lambing will be imminent for many, so good luck; I hope it all goes well and fingers crossed for some good lambing weather and plenty of grass to lamb onto; there is nothing quite like a bit of fresh grass for putting milk under ewes. And, just as important, remember that lambing can be a stressful and a lonely time. Phone a friend; a friendly voice, a chat and problems shared may be most welcome.

Lambing time is one of the most critical periods in the sheep farming calendar. There are many factors involved in having a successful lambing and many of these occur prior to the lambing shed itself. The body condition of the ewes in the run-up to lambing is something that can often be overlooked but is essential, not only for the prevention of diseases in the ewe but also for the birth of lively, healthy lambs.

Over-conditioned ewes can present as many challenges as under-conditioned ones, and so regular body condition scoring and appropriate feeding alterations in response to these scores is important. This article will discuss some of the common issues at lambing time that can be associated with the body condition of ewes.

The first condition is one that is very often spoken about at lambing and that is pregnancy toxaemia, or twin lamb disease. This is a metabolic condition due to insufficient energy intake of the ewe in the final few weeks of gestation which results in the mobilisation of fat stores and subsequently ketosis (elevated ketone levels in the bloodstream).

THE IMPORTANCE OF APPROPRIATE BODY CONDITION AT LAMBING

Alice Baker BVMSci MRCVS of Westpoint Winchester investigates the association between the body condition of ewes and health conditions at lambing.

Although this disease is primarily caused by too little energy in the ration, ewes with higher body condition at lambing are at higher risk of developing it due to the higher levels of fat mobilisation that can occur. It is therefore essential to ensure that ewes are fed appropriately in the final trimester to keep up with the increased demands of the foetuses, but it is also important that the ewes are not over-conditioned before this point to reduce the risk of excessive fat mobilisation.

the abnormal position before birth.

The final issue discussed here that can be associated with over conditioned ewes is dystocia or ‘difficult births’. This one is fairly self-explanatory, but if ewes are overfed during gestation then they will have more energy to put into the growth of the foetuses. This can result in over-large lambs, especially in singles, which can be problematic.

If you would like to discuss anything covered in this article contact your local Westpoint practice

Westpoint Ashford T: 01306 628208

Westpoint Winchester T: 01962 779593

Westpoint Chelmsford T: 01306 628489

E: info@westpointfarmvets.co.uk www.westpointfarmvets.co.uk

Another condition that is more common in ewes with higher body conditions is vaginal prolapse. This is because the more fat deposits a ewe has abdominally, the less space there is for the growing foetus. This results in an increase of pressure in the final few weeks of gestation which can cause the ewe to prolapse. Not only is this very unpleasant for the ewe herself, but it causes risk of trauma and infection. Vaginal prolapses also can result in difficult lambings as the cervix may not dilate properly due to

A difficult birth can have a big impact not only on the ewe herself but also on the lamb. A difficult birth may result in the lamb being fatigued or, in some cases, can result in rib fractures. This can prevent the lamb from receiving the desired quantity of colostrum in the appropriate time frame, as they may be too tired or unable to suckle. Lack of colostrum can have many negative knock-on effects for the lamb going forward.

There are many online resources on body condition scoring and recommendations for feeding depending on the stage of gestation, the number of foetuses and the ewe’s body condition.

VET DIARY

SPRING HAS SPRUNG Turnout with

Spring has sprung, with the first lambs safely on the ground and the later lambing flocks just getting their ewes scanned. As a practice we are busy with TB testing, lambing/calvings and pre-lambing/calving checks, as well as other routine work across our dairies.

We have unfortunately had a number of barren ewes this year, which has taken us on farm to investigate and discuss why we may be seeing this. For clients claiming under the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway (AHWP), we can use the ‘reproductive performance’ package to investigate this, looking at disease, nutrition and trace elements. We are, though, also looking at more topical issues related to the past year, such as bluetongue and the summer drought. All of this begs many questions, with some answers easier to find than others.

What results should we be aiming for? Well, this may be a bit of a ‘how long is a piece of string?’ question. Depending on your breed and system, we may have a different tolerance for single lambs as opposed to twins. However, what is consistent across every flock is that we want a barren rate of less than 2%; with anything over this, we would want to be investigating why our barren rates were higher than expected. What could be the cause of my poor scanning rate? We need to assess whether we have had poor conception rates or if we are getting early embryonic deaths (EED). Poor conception rates may be related to a sub-fertile ram, ram:ewe ratio, stresses around tupping, the body condition score (BCS) of ewes, trace element status, diet or disease status, whereas EED is more likely to be related to disease. It's also important to note what your scanner is telling you. Are we just seeing barrens or is the scanner suspicious that some ewes are aborting? Is one field, ram, or age group the source of the problems? What can we do when presented with a poor scanning result?

• Analyse tupping data – raddle data is essential to help differentiate the causes.

• Blood test to assess disease and trace element status.

• Perform metabolic profile bloods on those in-lamb to ensure we are feeding correctly ahead of lambing.

• Assess your rams, as although today's fertility doesn’t reflect his fertility on the day of tupping, you may find something of note.

• Discuss the results with your vet. It’s never too early to start thinking about next year.

• Fertility test all rams.

• Change raddle colour every two weeks.

• BCS all breeding animals and feed and manage accordingly e.g. wean earlier (and pray we don’t have another drought summer).

• Engage with your vet and the AHWP and look for the causes.

• Vaccinate against toxoplasma and enzootic abortion of ewes.

• Ensure good biosecurity on farm.

• Assess purchasing and quarantine protocols.

One thing you can tick o with certainty this spring

Legal services for farmers & rural businesses

PROPRIETARY ESTOPPEL AND HOME OWNERSHIP DISPUTES

Disputes over family property often arise in cases where informal promises are broken. A High Court decision, Maile v Maile [2025 ] EWHC 2494 (Ch), provides a detailed examination of proprietary estoppel in the context of inheritance and family farming arrangements.

WHAT IS PROPRIETARY ESTOPPEL?

Proprietary estoppel can prevent a legal owner from denying rights to another person where:

• a clear assurance or promise has been made about ownership or rights in a property

• the claimant has relied on that assurance

• the claimant has suffered detriment because of that reliance.

The court’s role is to prevent an unconscionable outcome, often by granting an interest in the property or financial compensation.

THE FACTS IN MAILE V MAILE

The case concerned a 170-acre family farm in West Devon. The deceased had made a Will in 2006 leaving the farm equally to her two daughters. In 2011, she executed a codicil gifting the farm to her grandsons (the claimants), but in 2016 and 2017 she executed further codicils reverting to equal division between her daughters and gifting a small meadow to one of them.

The grandsons claimed their grandmother had repeatedly assured them that they would inherit the farm and that they had worked on the farm and invested time and money in reliance on those assurances. They sought to have the farm transferred to them under proprietary estoppel principles.

Stephanie Butler, Senior Associate in the property disputes team at Birketts LLP shares the lessons from Maile v Maile.

UNUSUAL FEATURES OF THIS CASE

The judge noted these differences from typical farming inheritance cases involving proprietary estoppel:

• There was no evidence that the deceased fell out with any members of her family.

• The claim was brought by the second generation, rather than the first. It was not the usual case of a child or children claiming that they gave up most of their working lives on the strength of a promise.

• So far as the claimants were concerned, this was not the only relevant farm. They were also in partnership with their father in relation to a neighbouring farm at which they worked most of their time and which they would expect to inherit in due course.

THE COURT’S DECISION

The claim failed. Mr Justice Michael Green held:

• No clear assurance: Vague statements such as “one day this will all be yours” were insufficient. The judge accepted that the deceased wanted to encourage the claimants to take over the running of the farm business, so that it would remain within the family, but did not believe that two teenage youths (as the claimants then were) would have interpreted their grandmother’s words as a promise that they would inherit the farm directly from her. The claimants’ parents were fit and alive at that time.

• No reliance: The claimants continued to work on the farm even after learning of the 2016 codicil. Much of their work was remunerated, or linked to tax planning arrangements that benefited the whole family.

• Countervailing benefits: The claimants received substantial financial benefits, including free accommodation, partnership profits and gifts. Net detriment was not established.

• Unconscionability not proved: The deceased’s final will reflected fairness between her daughters and was consistent with long-standing family intentions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Clarity matters: Casual remarks or expressions of hope rarely amount to enforceable assurances.

• Reliance must be causally linked: Continuing as before after learning of a change in testamentary intention undermines reliance.

• Net detriment is assessed: Benefits received will be weighed against alleged losses.

PROPRIETARY ESTOPPEL BEYOND INHERITANCE: LIVING DISPUTES

Although proprietary estoppel often arises in inheritance cases, it is not limited to situations where someone has died. The doctrine applies whenever a person is led to believe they will acquire rights in property, acts in reliance on that belief and suffers detriment as a result.

In relation to business or farming partnerships, if a landowner encourages someone to invest time or money in property on the understanding that they will acquire an interest, estoppel can arise even before a Will is made.

LEGAL CHECKS BEFORE PLANTING SEASON

As spring approaches, farmers naturally turn their attention to fieldwork, cropping plans and contractor schedules. Before machinery heads out, however, it’s essential to make sure the legal foundations for the season are firmly in place. With tightening regulations, evolving land-use requirements and closer scrutiny on contracts, a little early preparation can help avoid costly issues and keep operations running smoothly.

REVIEWING TENANCY AGREEMENTS

Many farms operate under a mix of Agricultural Holdings Act (AHA) tenancies, farm business tenancies (FBTs), licences and short-term agreements. Each arrangement carries its own statutory rights and responsibilities, and failing to meet these can risk lost entitlements, financial liabilities or, in some cases, security of tenure. Ahead of the planting season, it’s helpful for farmers to review any cropping restrictions, soil management obligations, environmental scheme commitments and access or machinery use provisions.

UPDATING CONTRACTS WITH SUPPLIERS AND CONTRACTORS

At Brachers, we support farmers and rural businesses in navigating these complexities with confidence. Whether reviewing tenancy terms, advising on land use permissions or drafting robust contractor agreements, our specialist agriculture team works closely with you to protect your business and ensure a legally sound start to the season.

SARAH GAINES

Partner, Property

T: 01622 776446

E: sarahgaines@brachers.co.uk

www.brachers.co.uk

CONFIRMING LAND USE PERMISSIONS

As regulations evolve, the distinction between agricultural and non-agricultural use is becoming less clear. Activities such as soil importation, diversification, contract storage, intensive livestock units or temporary structures often require more permissions than expected. Before operations begin, farmers should confirm planning status for new cropping techniques, irrigation systems, tracks, buildings or hardstandings, review permitted development rights and confirm any relevant easements, rights of way or abstraction licences.

Proud sponsor of the Brachers Building

In

Spring often brings increased third-party involvement, whether seed suppliers, agronomists or machinery contractors. Clear, up-to-date documentation protects everyone involved and helps prevent disputes during a busy period. Farmers should ensure supply contracts reflect current prices, delivery terms, input specifications and liability provisions. Contractor agreements should clearly set out responsibilities around crop damage, biosecurity, timings, machinery standards and insurance.

LOOKING AHEAD

The planting season is one of the most intense periods of the farming year, and one where legal issues can quickly escalate if not addressed early. Reviewing tenancy obligations, securing the correct permissions and tightening contractual arrangements can provide clarity, reduce risk and keep operations running smoothly.

128.5 ACRES OF FARMLAND ON THE SUSSEX COAST

A diverse block of coastal farmland has come to market with Savills in Seaford, East Sussex.

The land is classified as grade 3 and is a mixture of arable and permanent pasture in several parcels. Situated between Seaford and Newhaven, with views over the Channel and South Downs, it’s an opportunity for farmers, growers, amenity buyers and investors to purchase a block of land in an area where such opportunities on this scale rarely come to the market.

The farmland could suit a wide variety of uses (subject to planning consents where necessary), such as grazing, amenity, leisure, environmental stewardship, enhanced biodiversity or natural capital opportunities. Much of the land is within the South Downs National

Park, although about 13 acres lies outside.

Chris Spofforth, of Savills Farm Agency, said: “Coastal farmland opportunities in the south east are rare and this land really is diverse in its make up. The views across the Channel coast at Tide Mills and over the South Downs behind Bishopstone are stunning.”

Savills is selling the land as a whole or in up to five lots, with a guide price of £1,040,000 for the whole.

For more information, contact Chris Spofforth of Savills Farm Agency on 07812965379

WILL RENTING BE AN ATTRACTIVE PROPOSITION FOR LANDLORDS IN 2026?

Letting residential property has become more challenging over recent years. With the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act on 1 May, it will become harder for landlords to keep up with all the rules and regulations, with stricter penalties and tighter enforcement.

This latest piece of legislation endeavours to protect landlords’ interests as well as those of tenants, but those landlords who fail to comply with the legal requirements will lose that protection and could face penalties such as forfeiting two years’ rental income or being unable to evict their tenants or even increase rent levels, as Batcheller Monkhouse’s Head of Lettings Lucie Allan explained.

Section 21 Notices, the so-called ‘no fault’ evictions, will cease to exist from 1 May 2026. Landlords will be able to obtain possession of the property if they want to sell it or if they, or a close relative, plan to live in it, but those arrangements only apply to landlords who meet all the legal requirements, including registering on the private rented sector database.

“You can only benefit from the legislation if you abide by it,” Lucie pointed out, “and the penalties for getting it wrong could be huge. Using a professional letting agent will be more important than ever, as will vetting prospective applicants effectively.”

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has issued a guide that warns of a £7,000 penalty for a range of breaches of the legislation and a penalty of up to £40,000 for more serious offences.

“At Batcheller Monkhouse, we offer our clients a ‘property MOT’ service where we check all the elements of the tenancy, review the rent levels and carry out a property visit

to ensure the property is safe and compliant and that all the certificates are valid and in place," said Lucie.

“Rents are still high, and for landlords who use a reputable agent and follow the rules, letting property remains a profitable business. As with everything, being suitably insured is key and we are able to offer our clients the protection of a comprehensive landlord policy.”

It is not an easy time for tenants, who now find themselves unable to secure fixed term tenancies or pay in advance if they were unable to pass referencing, and competition for property remains at an all-time high. Landlords will inevitably be more cautious in taking on tenants, and those most in need of housing may well lose out, especially as stock levels are lower as landlords have exited the market.

Batcheller Monkhouse is a proud member of Propertymark and is campaigning for the introduction of a professional qualification framework for letting agents known as RoPA (Regulation of Property Agents).

WHAT IS THE RIGHTS RIGHTS’ ACT?

From 1 May 2026

• All assured shorthold tenancies will become assured periodic tenancies

• Tenants can end a tenancy by giving two months’ notice in writing

• Security of tenure will be an initial twelve months

• Section 21 notices will be replaced by the Section 8 notice

• No advance rent payments can be made

• ‘Bidding wars’ are outlawed

• Rent rises must reflect market rates and can be challenged at a tribunal by the tenant

• Landlords need a legitimate reason to refuse a request from tenants to keep a pet

• Discrimination against those with children or on benefits is prohibited.

Secondary legislation will introduce the following measures:

• A landlord private rented sector database

• A landlords’ ombudsman

• A decent homes standard

• Awaab’s Law added to the private rented sector.

Utility & Infrastructure Works: How to safeguard your land

We all rely, often without consciously realising it, on essential services such as water, sewage, electricity, telecommunications, and road and rail infrastructure. It is usually only when these services are disrupted, or when maintenance, repairs, or upgrades affect our land, property, or business, that we truly appreciate their importance.

Lambert & Foster currently represent a number of landowners affected by projects being carried out across the south east by Network Rail, the Environment Agency, National Grid, UKPN, and the major water and waste water companies and telecom operators. We have learnt a great deal from the many projects we have been involved in over the years, and would highlight the following as some key matters worthy of note to any person or business impacted:

■ Rights – although the answer is often that the party seeking to exercise rights has the legal or statutory authority to do so, it is not always the case. Establishing under what basis the rights are being exercised and the extent of the powers this provides them is always step one.

■ Timely engagement – the sooner you can engage with those seeking to exercise rights over your property, the better. If a routine project, early engagement allows time to explore options that minimise the impact of the scheme as well as providing time to fully explore and understand the financial losses that will be incurred.

■ Pre-entry – in the case of routine or planned works, an accurate and all encompassing pre-entry schedule of condition is critically important to ensure the compensation claim for any damage caused can be fully justified.

■ Emergency works – often the most damaging in respect of the impact on property, when powers are exercised in cases of

emergency it is important to act quickly to understand what works are going to take place and the timelines involved so that you can try to influence the works to minimise the impact on your property. Regular project monitoring will also be key.

■ Re-instatement – there can often be a disconnect between the promises made by the Agent acting for the other side and the contractors working on the ground in terms of the quality of the reinstatement works. At this critical stage of any project, it is key that the contractors are routinely monitored to ensure they deliver on what has been agreed.

■ Opportunities – by way of an example, when significant schemes are undertaken, contractors will often require temporary compounds for storage of machinery and equipment. If you have an under utilised area of land that suits their needs, this can provide an opportunity to generate a commercial storage rent for the duration of the project.

■ Compensation Claims – negotiations need to be robust but fair, seeking a claim settlement which delivers on the overarching principle that a claimant should be no better but no worse off.

In almost all cases, Lambert & Foster’s fees are paid by the organisations seeking access or rights over your land. If you have been notified of an upcoming project affecting your land or property or there is an ongoing project, Lambert & Foster can help.

SOUTH EAST FARMLAND MARKET STAYS RESILIENT

The South East farmland market displayed strong resilience in 2025 despite tighter supply volumes and mixed price movements across Great Britain, according to a new report from Savills: Spotlight: The Farmland Market

A total of 16,800 acres of farmland was marketed during 2025, compared with 21,600 acres the previous year, a decrease of 22%. While supply has eased, the region maintained its position as an important contributor to national availability, accounting for 14% of all farmland marketed in England.

County-level figures showed a varied but active market. Hampshire publicly marketed the largest volume of farmland in 2025 with 4,768 acres, followed by 3,306 acres in Oxfordshire, 3,241 acres in Kent, 1,518 acres in East Sussex, 1,530 acres in Buckinghamshire, 1,141 acres in West Sussex and 1,051 in Berkshire, which continues to rise year on year as more land is publicly marketed in the county.

Average land values continued to rise, with

prime arable achieving the highest average value at £10,720 per acre. This was followed by grade 3 arable at £9,874 per acre and £9,018 per acre for average livestock land. Despite regional differences, land values are expected to remain stable, with growth returning in the medium term, supported by demand for development, agriculture, energy and environmental initiatives.

Chris Spofforth, head of rural agency for Savills in the South East, said: “Even with supply easing in 2025, the South East remains a critical driver of farmland availability in England, and the level of interest we are seeing across all land types reflects the continued confidence in the sector. Buyers are taking a long term view, recognising the role farmland plays not only in food production but also in energy, development and environmental delivery. As policy and taxation changes begin to influence decision making, we expect

activity to build steadily, with values holding firm in the short term and opportunities for growth in the medium term.”

Across Great Britain, Savills’ annual report recorded a 12% year-on-year fall in publicly marketed farmland to 165,000 acres across 882 properties. Overall average farmland values dipped by around 1%.

Nationally, Savills expects supply to increase from 2027 as larger farming businesses begin to address inheritance tax (IHT) liabilities, although it does not anticipate a return to pre-2000 acreage levels.

The report suggests planning policy changes should boost capital flows for farming businesses in growth areas. If the National Planning Policy Framework reforms succeed in their ambition, development land transactions, and therefore landowners looking to plough sale proceeds back into farmland, should recover.

�� For the full report, visit: www.savills.co.uk/research_articles/229130/386687-0

A diverse block of coastal farmland

A mixture of arable land and permanent pasture, in several parcels. Situated on the East Sussex coast between Seaford and Newhaven with fine views over the Channel coast and South Downs. Potential for amenity use, environmental stewardship, enhanced biodiversity and Natural Capital opportunities.

+44 (0) 78 1296 5379 cspofforth@savills.com

Land & Property Experts

Mount Hall Farm, Benenden, Kent

A rare residential development opportunity available as a whole or in three lots. The property includes the listed farmhouse, a Listed Barn & Oast, an Agricultural Building and approximately 6 acres of land. Additional land may be available by separate negotiation. Pre Application advice has been received for the barn conversions.

Approx 6.07 acres

Guide Price

£1,400,000 (As a whole)

Blackhurst Farm, Nr Rushlake Green, East Sussex

Blackhurst Farm is located on the outskirts of Rushlake Green within the High Weald National Landscape. The farm is available as a whole or in two lots and briefly comprises: Lot 1- Four/five-bedroom farmhouse, enclosed pasture fields, and a range of outbuildings.

Lot 2 - Ring-fenced parcel of arable land subdivided into six hedge-enclosed fields with two small blocks of Ancient Woodland. Please note that the vendors would prefer not to sell Lot 2 away before Lot 1.

Lot 1: Approx 124.19 Acres

Guide Price OIEO £2,300,000

Lot 2: Approx 125.18 acres

Guide Price OIEO £1,000,000

Little Southernden Farm, Headcorn, Kent

A smallholding with potential located in a rural yet accessible location at the end of a private drive. Includes a detached 3 bedroom farmhouse, a significant range of farm buildings, barns & stables, riding arena, ponds, grazing and arable land. Additional land available by separate negotiation.

Approx 51.77 acres

Guide Price £1,500,000

Land & Property Experts

Lamberhurst Farm Faversham, Kent

A multi-use commercial investment opportunity with 5 residential dwellings, over 40 let units, producing a significant rental income with future opportunities still available. All residential and commercial tenants are on written agreements. Total income circa £430,000 per annum.

Approx 7.94 acres Guide Price OIEO £4,995,000

Hylands Field Faversham, Kent

A parcel of Grade I arable land with road frontage to Porters Lane. The land extends to a total of 17.70 acres and has deep well drained silty soils that are renowned for their productivity. The property is offered for sale by Informal Tender as a whole with a closing date of 12 noon on Wednesday 11th March 2026.

Approx 17.70 acres

A detached Grade II Listed three-bedroom cottage in a peaceful and private edge of village location. Offers spacious living with characterful features and need in need of modernisation and updating throughout. Offered chain free to the market

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A BUSY SUMMER AHEAD

Hadlow College is preparing for another packed summer programme of events, following a strong start to the year that has already seen students engaging with industry partners and the wider community.

Earlier this term, level 3 animal management students took part in the college’s annual Big Cat Week, delivered in collaboration with The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden. The three-day project challenged students to develop conservation plans for small cat species, combining scientific research with community engagement and digital media campaigns.

The initiative continues to build practical conservation knowledge alongside teamwork, leadership and communication skills, reflecting the college’s commitment to preparing learners for modern, land-based careers.

Looking ahead, Lambing Weekend will return on 25 and 26 April (running from 11am to 4pm). The event has become a firm fixture in the county calendar, regularly attracting thousands of visitors to the Hadlow campus. Alongside the opportunity to see newborn lambs, visitors can explore the college’s commercial farms, specialist facilities and wider land-based provision. The weekend also provides an important opportunity to engage the public in farming, food

production and rural skills.

The college will open its doors again for an open evening on 3 June (running from 3pm to 7pm), offering prospective students and their families the chance to tour facilities, meet teaching staff and learn more about courses across agriculture, horticulture, animal management, equine, and agricultural engineering.

Summer also means show season. After recent prize-winning success at both the Kent County Show and the Edenbridge & Oxted Show, where livestock entries performed strongly in the ring and the college’s trade stand received formal recognition, Hadlow is preparing to take part again in this year’s:

• Kent County Show: 3, 4 and 5 July.

• Edenbridge and Oxted Show: 30 and 31 August.

Students and staff will be showcasing livestock, land-based courses and student-led enterprise activity while engaging with farmers, industry partners and the wider rural community.

As Kent’s only rural and land-based college, Hadlow continues to play an active role not only in training the next generation of agricultural professionals, but also in contributing to the county’s farming and countryside events calendar.

NEW FARMING SHOW

✓ Latest machinery and equipment

✓ Agricultural suppliers and services

✓ Live auction

✓ Free entry, free parking

✓ One-day, focused event

SCAN THE QR CODE OR REGISTER AT easterncounties farmingshow.co.uk REGISTER FREE TODAY

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.

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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

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www.gjelgarconstruction.co.uk

For more information contact us: t: 01233 623739 e: enquiries@gjelgarconstruction.co.uk

Fencing

Fencing

Standing

Straining

Straining

Straining posts

Chestnut fencing

Tel: 07985

Tel: 07985298221

COMPLETE OUR CROSSWORD TO WIN

White

ACROSS

1 Cut of lamb (8)

4 Bivalve mollusc often served with pasta (5)

7 Technical equipment for a specific task (9)

8 UK's tallest bird (4)

10 Small body of water (4)

11 Extremely large ocean creature (7)

13 Bacteria found on the skin (14)

15 A short passage taken from a longer text (7)

17 ------ Prynne, protagonist of The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne (6)

20 Radioactive metal (7)

22 Poorly draining soil type (4)

23 Annoying (10)

24 Beginning again after a pause (10)

25 Furnace used for firing pottery (4) DOWN

1 Card -----, a poker cheat (5)

2 An amusing adventure (4)

3 Thames -------, where the Thames meets the North Sea (7)

5 Coniferous tree with resin used for turpentine (5)

6 Brand of agricultural machinery (7)

9 ---- drill, agricultural machine (4)

12 A short fruit bearing side shoot (4)

13 Musical instrument (9)

14 Used for drying hops (4)

16 Large, flightless bird (3)

17 Stalk (5)

18 Long, narrow fish (3)

19 Protective sheath of nerves (6)

21 Watery discharge from eyes/nose (5)

22 Alkaline soil type (5)

visit www.biddendenvineyards.com or call 01580 291726.

Knowledge

 Specialists in controlled atmosphere stores

 Rapid chilling systems for soft fruit and fresh produce

 Secondary cooling systems with energy efficient defrosting using air source heat pump technology

 Retrofitting of existing high cost electrical defrost heaters with air source heat pumps

 Electrical engineers and contracting

 Refrigeration and Electrical service, maintenance, and breakdown cover

 Testing and certification to NICEIC

 Mains power solutions for distribution and installations

 Temperature controlled wine storage solutions using DX or Secondary refrigeration with heating options

 Qualified to install EV chargers

 Refrigeration gas leak detection systems

 F-gas compliance and record keeping

 Refrigeration system controls with remote monitoring