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NOVEMBER 2022

WORRIES OVER FUNDS POLICY

Farmers are “stuck in limbo” because of uncertainty over the Government’s agricultural policies, a think tank has warned.

Research by the Social Market Foundation (SMF) has found farmers are holding back on investing in technology as they wait for clarity on funding. In a research report based on interviews with farmers across the UK, the SMF found many are holding off on spending money to modernise their operations due to concern over new post-Brexit financial streams. Farmers told the Social Market Foundation recent government policy announcements are complicated and confusing to navigate, and this unpredictability is making it hard to plan ahead and make investments. The think tank’s research found the future of government funding is the “single biggest issue in agricultural policy” and the “single most important factor in shaping the future of technological adoption”. The report said while farmers say they “want more technology and want to change”, they feel “stuck in a limbo” as policy uncertainty is a major barrier to widespread adoption of technology. The SMF has urged the Government to reorient farming subsidies towards investment in precision technologies. Other SMF recommendations from the research include raising awareness of cutting-edge methods among farmers, improving access to key data held by slaughterhouses and retailers, and mak-

BY IAIN ST JOHN

ing farming more attractive as a career to younger people. Aveek Bhattacharya, SMF chief economist and co-author of the report, said: “Brexit offers the opportunity to fundamentally change the subsidy system and address British farming’s long-standing productivity challenges. “Yet that opportunity is being squandered and uncertainty over the future of agricultural funding risks making things worse by undermining farmers’ confidence and ability to invest.” The report was sponsored by MSD Animal Health UK, though the SMF retained complete editorial independence. Sam Gayton, from MSD Animal Health UK, said: “We welcome the report by the Social Market Foundation. “Supporting the productivity and efficiency of UK livestock farming by engaging our highly-skilled, hardworking farming community is a priority for MSD Animal Health UK and we are committed to ongoing partnership with the industry as a whole, with policy-makers and with individual farmers and their veterinary professionals. Success in this area is critical to our future food security and is a central factor in the international competitiveness and future trade success of UK agriculture. Using the right technology, livestock farming will continue its progress in sustainable practices, efficiency and productivity, while achieving the highest welfare standards. “We believe these are priorities for food consumers, industry and government alike.”

New era begins for Rea Valley Tractors

Award delight for Alex

November 1 marks a new era in Rea Valley Tractors’ 38-year trading history as they embark on new franchise agreements, and an extended territory. Becoming one of the biggest agricultural machinery dealers in the country, RVT is opening three new branches in Middlewich, Ormskirk and Denbigh, in addition to its four existing branches in Newport, Shrewsbury, Sudbury and Welshpool. RVT will more than double its trading area for its new franchise New Holland, and enhance the coverage for JCB and Kuhn Farm Machinery. Their Sudbury depot moves forward as a JCB Centre of Excellence and has also been able to secure an enhancement to their current Kuhn portfolio as a dedicated Kuhn Baler Centre. Read the full article on page 2.

Warning is given on quad bike thefts

Alex Gregory, left, receives the award from David Crozier

Harper Adams countryside and environmental management graduate Alex Gregory has been named the winner of this year’s Tilhill Top Student Award. Alex’s award was presented by David Crozier, Tilhill Wales’s senior forest manager at the university’s 2022 graduation

ceremony. Upon receiving the Tilhill award of £250 prize money and a wooden carved trophy, Alex said: “I’d like to express my sincere thanks to Tilhill for presenting me with this award. It was an unexpected surprise.” l See inside for the full story.

Police in South Shropshire have appealed to quad bike owners to make their property more difficult to steal following a spike in thefts. Bishop’s Castle and Rural Safer Neighbourhood Team said older models are being targeted by a gang of criminals. A spokesman for the team said: “The gang have targeted older models in this area and appear to be removing the quads with the aid of a trailer. If you own a quad, please take some measures to make the vehicle as difficult as you can to steal.”

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Wildlife group in nature plea Wildlife experts have urged the public to raise their concerns over government policies which they say could be a “disaster” for nature and long-term food security. Shropshire Wildlife Trust is asking people to contact their local MPs and councillors – both online and in person – to voice concerns over the new proposals. Recent government announcements have left the trust and other charities worried about the threat posed to nature, climate and food security. These include the Retained EU Law Bill which, according to the trust, threatens to revoke hundreds of laws that protect wild places and ensure standards for water quality, pollution and the use of pesticides.

Meanwhile, the trust claims a new planning and infrastructure bill and proposed investment zones with relaxed planning laws will threaten to weaken vital protections for habitats and wildlife. Commenting on the decisions, Craig Bennett, chief executive of Shropshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Nature is under attack from a raft of dangerous decisions by Government and we know people are furious at the new threats. “Vital legal protections for wildlife are at risk, fossil fuel extraction is being favoured over renewables, and the Government is going back on plans to reward farmers for managing land in a nature-friendly way. “The Government’s Food Secu-

rity Report 2021 identified climate change and biodiversity loss as the biggest threats to food production in future – so farming in harmony with nature must be encouraged. “Yet the Government wants de-regulation that’ll lead to yet more poo in rivers, less wildlife and land that’s unable to adapt to climate change. We are calling on the public to contact their elected representatives and share just how concerned they are. “These actions will affect us all – the communities where we live, our wild places, food security, and our futures. “The climate and nature crises pose monumental challenges, and recent proposals by this Government will only make things worse.”

The trust claims the proposals have caused outrage among green charities, politicians of all parties, farmers and campaigners, who feel anxious that the Government is not tackling the nature and climate crisis with the urgency required. According to the State of Nature report, more than 40 per cent of species have declined in abundance since 1970, with 26 per cent of mammals at risk of disappearing altogether. Every river and lake in England currently fails chemical pollution standards and only 16 per cent are classed in good ecological health compared to 53 per cent on average in the EU. For more information visit shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

New era begins for Rea Valley Tractors COMMERCIAL FEATURE

November 1 marks a new era in Rea Valley Tractors’ 38-year trading history as they embark on new franchise agreements, and an extended territory. Becoming one of the biggest agricultural machinery dealers in the country, RVT is opening three new branches in Middlewich (Cheshire), Ormskirk (Lancashire) and Denbigh (North Wales). This is in addition to existing branches in Welshpool (Mid Wales), Sudbury (Derby), Newport and Shrewsbury (Shropshire). This means RVT will now more than double its trading area for its new franchise New Holland, and enhance the coverage for JCB and Kuhn Farm Machinery and many other premium agricultural brands it already supplies. Their Sudbury depot moves forward as a JCB Centre of Excellence and has also been able to secure an enhancement to their current Kuhn portfolio as a dedicated Kuhn Baler Centre. The changes have creat-

RVT is opening three new branches and is becoming one of the biggest agricultural machinery dealers in the country

ed more than 60 job opportunities throughout the company, whilst retaining 95 per cent of their current highly experienced workforce, who bring many years of knowledge in the agricultural sector. Alongside the introduction of dedicated product specialists for harvest products, JCB, and in-field parts, RVT have invested heavily in their people and workplaces to maximise the level of service their customers have come to expect. RVT will continue to service and provide parts for their customers existing machines for years to come,

Water firm praised Severn Trent has been rewarded for its good work by being given permission to put customers’ bills up. The company has been earmarked for praise by the water regulator Ofwat. And while other under-performing firms are being ordered to pay refunds to customers, Severn Trent has been given permission to charge more. Households across the UK are to see almost £150 million taken off their water bills after 11 water suppliers have been hit by fines for poor performance. Bosses at Ofwat said the utility

companies have been fined for missing targets in areas such as water supply interruptions, pollution incidents and internal sewer flooding. Thames Water and Southern Water performed the worst and will have to return almost £80m to customers, Ofwat said. But other companies which exceeded their targets will be able to recover more money from customers, meaning they could see their bills go up. Severn Trent Water, which supplies millions of people with water across a large part of the West Midlands, performed particularly well in the regulator’s review.

as well as offering a large demonstration fleet for the latest machines in their new product range. The announcement comes as part of a wider changing environment faced by many of the UK agricultural machinery dealerships. RVT recognise that these dealer changes and consolidations, which are happening throughout most areas of the UK, can be both exciting and unsettling for some customers. Steve Petford, RVT’s Managing Director, comments: “New relationships will take time to build, but in a relatively short time, RVT’s aim is

to provide all customers both established and new, with a much more enhanced service than ever would have been possible before. Through our seven depots we will have dedicated specialists in your field, who will be operating with local support by local teams and we look forward to showcasing the outstanding service RVT has to offer.” “This is a new dawn for Rea Valley Tractors. After 38 years, we are really excited by the opportunity not only for our business, but customers alike by supplying and servicing machinery from world-class British manufacturers. “Combined with our skilled workforce, knowledge of the area and drive to move our business forward, the future is tremendously exciting,” said RVT’s Chairman Simon Clarke. RVT look forward to sharing their plans over the coming weeks and months, look out for the latest news on their website reavalleytractors.com, social media channels or through regular publications and advertisements. Are you interested to find out more about working with one of the country’s leading dealerships? Visit reavalleytractors.com or call us on 03300 568800.

Get in touch Do you have news for us? The Farmer welcomes your news, views and pictures. Editor: Iain St John Email: iain.stjohn@mnamedia.co.uk Advertisement sales: Julie Allen Telephone: 01743 283334 Email: julie.allen@shropshirestar.co.uk Katie Marsh Telephone: 01952 241316 Email: katie.marsh@thefarmer.com Website: www.thefarmer.com The Farmer is published by MNA Media

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Top dairy industry prize for Lianne

Lianne has won a top dairy award

A Shropshire-based dairy worker has been described as a ‘fantastic ambassador for women’ after landing a top industry prize. Lianne Farrow was named Dairy Industry Woman of the Year at the Women in Dairy (WID) Conference in Worcestershire. Lianne heads up the calf rearing unit at the Downes family farm at Longnor. She beat off stiff competition to become the sixth woman to win the prestigious award which aims to celebrate the achievements of women in the dairy sector. Judge Becca Cavill said: “Lianne epitomises enthusiasm. Her motivation to change her life and become

an integral part, not only of the farm she works on but the wider community of the British dairy industry, is phenomenal. As women in agriculture, we are often found precariously juggling career and family life and Lianne is a fantastic ambassador for women attempting this within the dairy industry.” Lianne previously set up the successful Shropshire Women in Dairy Group and, with the help of her colleague Sophie Tedesco, the group has gone from strength to strength. Grace O’Dwyer from award sponsors HSBC said: “Lianne’s obvious and infectious enthusiasm for the

sector came across in abundance. She has navigated a path where, despite challenges, she has significantly added value to the farm. It is great to see how a new entrant with drive and energy can achieve a fantastic balance.” This year’s Women in Dairy Conference attracted more than 100 delegates. Women in Dairy is designed to bring women working in the industry together through regional discussion group meetings. The aim is to connect women, share knowledge, develop skills, and inspire by encouraging innovative thinking and vision for the future of UK dairy.

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business and supports the communities we serve, and we are delighted to have over 40 Welsh suppliers in Welsh Asda stores.” There were also presentations on the latest market data and the Welsh Government’s Food and Drink Insight Programme’s ‘Value of Welshness’ research which showed 80 per

cent of Welsh shoppers would prefer to buy Welsh products. The idea of holding a suppliers conference emanated from the Royal Welsh Show Food & Drink Wales Business Lounge held in July, in which Asda took part. Included in the conference was a ‘Meet the Buyer’ session for six po-

tential new suppliers to present their products to Asda. At the same time, a Welsh food and drink display highlighted a wide range of Welsh products, along with new products recently listed by Asda – including beer, gin, bread, cakes, and meat – which will be in stores soon.

University business links are praised Harper Adams University excels in working with businesses, according to a new report. According to the Knowledge Exchange Framework, the Shropshire-based university is in the top 10 per cent in its cluster for working with business and research partnerships. The university is part of a STEM cluster a group of specialist institutions covering science, technology, engineering and mathematics. And Harper Adams is above the cluster average in six out of the seven assessed areas of activity, according to the report.

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Supermarket retailer Asda has held its first conference focussing on Welsh food and drink and the value of Welsh produce.

Jointly organised by Asda and the Welsh Government Trade Development Programme, the supplier conference included more than 40 Welsh food and drink producers – including existing and potential Asda suppliers. The event featured well-known Welsh brands and producers of all sizes and gave them a valuable opportunity to meet Asda representatives. The conference was held at Hensol Castle in the Vale of Glamorgan, where suppliers heard presentations on a variety of Asda’s business activities, including strategy, commercial planning, rewards and loyalty, point of sale, and marketing. Gruffudd Roberts, Asda’s Local Buyer for Wales said, “Supporting local suppliers in Wales has been a priority for Asda ever since we opened stores here nearly 50 years ago. Selling local products is a business imperative – because our customers tell us that they want to see a range of great quality Welsh products in their local stores. “We care about local sourcing because it’s a cornerstone of our

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The KEF release coincided with the publication of a GuildHE report on the impact of research and knowledge exchange at small and specialist universities – and just after Harper Adams enrolled its highest-ever number of degree apprentices onto programmes developed with industry partners. Head of enterprise business services Clare Keegan said: “I am delighted with the latest round of Knowledge Exchange Framework, which shows that we are holding our position, staying above average in the sector. “Some of our newer initiatives

won’t yet be reflected in the data collection, so I’m really excited for the year ahead and to see how our performance improves.” Harper Adams University’s position is supported by new developments in research and knowledge exchange with industry, such as the School of Sustainable Food and Farming. The university scored highly for research partnerships thanks to a variety of sector-leading research projects, journal publications and knowledge exchange collaborations with industry. And Ms Keegan added: “Univer-

sities that had previously submitted were unable to amend the narratives from KEF 2020. “So scores for public and community engagement and local growth and regeneration are based on older versions and won’t yet consider our work with local authorities, and more recent developments in the region that have encouraged foreign direct investment to co-locate and work with the University at the Agri-Epi Centre and the Newport Innovation Park. “More work with how we measure Graduate Start-Ups could elevate this position further.”

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Police have promised to clamp down on hare coursing this autumn. Betting on the blood sport, in which hares are chased and killed by dogs, is big business but police in Shropshire and Staffordshire have now signed up to Operation Galileo. The South Staffordshire local policing team will work with West Mercia Police and estate bosses in the region. New government legislation introduced in August will see longer sentences and increased powers to tackle hare coursing nationally. This can include an unlimited fine and a possible prison sentence of up to six months. Rural and Wildlife Crime Officer PSCO Louise Jones said: “Hare coursing is a recurring problem across rural communities. Not

only is there the issue of animal welfare, but the wider impact on the community. “This can include vandalism of property, loss of income for farmers and landowners, theft, intimidation, and road traffic issues. “Prevention is the focus of Operation Galileo. Residents living in our rural communities play a vital part in helping us gather intelligence. “We are asking residents to report any unusual activity or patterns of behaviour they may witness. This helps us to build up a better understanding of hare coursing in the area, and ultimately prosecute those involved.” Bradford Estates is among those working with police on the issue. Property director Steve Farrow is determined to disrupt the hare coursing season this year.

Promotions made at leading company Halls, one of the UK’s leading independent firms of estate agents, chartered surveyors, auctioneers and valuers, has announced two promotions in its experienced rural professional team. Chartered surveyors Louise Preece and Anne-Marie Brettell have been promoted to Head of Rural Professional Services and Head of Professional Valuations and Infrastructure, respectively. Chairman Allen Gittins and director James Evans will be managing all major rural agency business together with the company’s rural professional team. An associate director of Halls, Louise has spent her entire professional career to date working in the company’s Shrewsbury head office. A Rural Enterprise and Land Management graduate from Harper Adams University College, she joined the company in 2009. She is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), a Fellow of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) and has achieved the Basis Certificate in Conservation Management and the LANTRA certificate of training in Farm Accounting and Administration. From a West Shropshire farming background, Louise now farms in partnership with her husband Lee and their two young children at his family’s 410-acre beef, sheep and arable farm at Burwarton, near Bridgnorth.

Louise Preece, left, and Anne-Marie Brettell, have been promoted by Halls

She uses her knowledge and practical experience to advise on all aspects of rural professional work, including land management, valuations for all purposes, agency and environmental grant schemes. A fellow graduate of Harper Adams University College, Anne-Marie joined Halls in 2018, having previously gained 10 years’ experience with another firm of chartered surveyors and auctioneers. A farmer’s daughter from Yockleton, near Shrewsbury, she is a member of the RICS and Fellow of CAAV and is qualified to advise on all aspects of rural professional work. Anne Marie is married with two young children and lives near Montford Bridge. She and her husband Chris are partners in his family’s 1,000-acre organic arable and poultry business. From the company’s nine offices, Halls covers Shropshire, Worcestershire, Mid-Wales, the West Midlands and neighbouring counties.

Beavers are at the centre of trust’s urban wildlife project As legislation comes in to protect beavers, Shropshire Wildlife Trust is working on an urban initiative in Shrewsbury. The government has published guidance which outlines how beavers might be managed in the future, but both the Beaver Trust and the Wildlife Trust are concerned it does not give sufficient support to landowners – and that the proposals lack ambition and detail. Shropshire Wildlife Trust and Shrewsbury Town Council are currently working on a beaver project in the

centre of the county, trialling a captive urban release of beavers within a secure enclosure at the Old River Bed in the town. Once the site is fully prepared and the fenced enclosure is erected, a pair of suitable beavers will be moved in and released only when it is appropriate to do so. It is likely to be next year due to the seasonal translocation period. They will replace grazing cattle to prevent trees and scrub from invading the wetland and allow the site to become more diverse in wildlife.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

‘Nature emergency’ declared by council despite concerns A majority of councillors have voted in favour of a motion that Powys County Council declares a “nature emergency”. The motion came from Liberal Democrat Councillor Adam Kennerley, a professional ecologist. He said: “The motion proposes what assets and opportunities we as a council can use to showcase good practice and work with others across the county.” The motion included asking for a biodiversity post to be created which would be paid by external funding.

Conservative Councillor Iain McIntosh said: “I’m going to struggle to support this motion – all notices of motion should be accompanied by a fully costed analysis of financial and resources implications.” Councillor Karl Lewis said: “I’m worried how it will feed into the LDP (Local Development Plan) especially for farm diversification. I think it could be the thin end of the wedge to curtail livestock farming in Powys.” The debate went to a vote and was approved by 36 votes for 16 against and five abstentions.

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The Farmers’ Union of Wales has presented David Lewis, past chairman of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s council, with the FUW’s award for outstanding service to Welsh agriculture, at a special dinner held in Carmarthen. Mr Lewis is the only person to have held all of the most senior positions at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society. He was show president during 2005, chairman of the board of management between 2006 and 2012 and chairman of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s council between 2012 and 2021. Some of Mr Lewis’s many other important contributions to Welsh agriculture include holding the posts of president of the British Charolais Cattle Society and president of Charolais International and chairman of Charolais World Convention. He was also a founder chairman of the Welsh Council of the National Beef Association. Speaking after the dinner, FUW president Glyn Roberts said: “David Lewis has given so much to agriculture in Wales and for this we thanked him here in Carmarthen. “The award could not have gone to a more deserving person, he is a true stalwart of our industry.” Also attending the function were John Davies and Steve Hughson, who recently stood down from their roles with the Royal

FUW president Glyn Roberts, David Lewis, Helena Lewis and FUW group managing director Guto Bebb at the presentation

Welsh Agricultural Society. Both were also honoured by the FUW for their outstanding services to agriculture on the night. Mr Roberts added: “John Davies and Steve Hughson have also served the agricultural industry in Wales with distinction and purpose. “It was a pleasure and an honour to present them each with their awards, which recognise the outstanding work they have done on behalf of the agricultural community here in Wales.” The profit from the dinner will be donated to the Dai Jones Memorial Fund.

New initiative offering crucial support to vets A new initiative is helping newly graduated vets meet together and access specialist advice. The first session, supported by Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), held at Bala shared vital knowledge around the number one health priority for Stoc+ farmers, sheep lameness. Experts Joe Angell and Phillipa Page were on hand to discuss with the young vets how to work with farmers to implement the latest management techniques on farms to minimise the impact lameness has on sheep production. Fifty per cent of Stoc+ farmers identified that lameness in sheep was the main health issue they needed to tackle on their farms, closely followed by worm control and sheep fertility.

One of the attendee vets, Rosie Ling from Wern Vets, Ruthin said: “I am really glad I took the time to attend. “That session alone gave me the knowledge and inspiration to become much more involved in tackling lameness on farms. “A couple of days after the event I rang a farmer who I knew had a lameness problem, so I could come up with a better plan for him. “There is now a lot more I feel I can do to help farmers with this issue.” Lowri Thomas, flock and herd health officer for HCC, said the new initiative for newly graduated large animal vets gave them the opportunity to meet and network, whilst at the same time accessing some specialist advice from industry led experts.

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Testing decision is welcomed The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed the news the Welsh Government has approved the use of Approved Tuberculin Testers (ATTs) in private practice in Wales. The move follows the decision to expand ATT capacity in England following a rigorous pilot by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Under the scheme, any lay TB tester au-

thorised by APHA will receive authorisation to work in both England and Wales. Existing testers in England will also be permitted to work in Wales subject to additional training. BVA Welsh branch president Collin Willson said: “The veterinary workforce in Wales has been universally stretched, including farm animal practices, and so the expansion of tuberculin skin testing capacity is a much-needed resource.”

Carbon dioxide cost fears The surging cost of carbon dioxide could add £1.7 billion to the cost of British groceries, according to new analysis. Research by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) suggests the UK’s food and drink sector could end up footing the mammoth extra bill for liquid CO2 if gas prices remain high. UK commercial energy prices have

rocketed over the past year, accelerated by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The move has had heavy ramifications for industries reliant on carbon dioxide, with production also disrupted due to the rampant inflation. The price of a tonne of liquid CO2 is up to 3,000 per cent higher than it was a year ago, currently as much as £3,000 per tonne, compared to just

£100 per tonne one year ago, the ECIU said. Soaring prices resulted in CF Fertilisers proposing to halt production at its ammonia site, where CO2 is created as a by-product, in August. CO2 is used in a raft of sectors but particularly in food and drink, including in the slaughter of pigs and chickens, to add fizz to beer and soft drinks, and in packaging foods safely.

Native breeds ‘tick Genetics expert ‘honoured’ all the right boxes’ to judge Duke of Norfolk competition at winter fair

The value of native beef genetics is rapidly growing, with breeds such as Aberdeen-Angus showing that they can tick the boxes at all tiers within the beef supply chain, cattle industry leaders have said. Better suited to grass-based, lower input systems than continental breeds, native genetics offer the potential to boost producer margins and support environmental goals, while delivering a consistently high-quality end product, supporters say. Robert Gilchrist, CEO at the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society, said as a result, the industry is seeing significant growth in their use. He said: “As subsidies drop off and input costs continue to rise, beef farmers have had to start looking at ways to enhance their resilience, which has resulted in a significant increase in native breed BCMS registrations over the last 10 years. Aberdeen-Angus calf registrations have increased significantly and they’re now top of the list with 471,528 registrations in 2021. “Four per cent growth has been seen in the last year, accounting for 24.41 per cent of beef calves.

As any regular English Winter Fair attendee will know, the Royal Smithfield Club Duke of Norfolk is a show-stopper in the ring, and has everyone on the edge of their seat.

Robert Gilchrist

“More farmers are recognising that the lower input systems, where cattle can be predominantly finished off forage and grassbased diets, is a much more sustainable and financially viable way of producing beef.”

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With preparations for this year’s English Winter Fair at the Staffordshire showground now well under way, farmers across the country will be readying their animals for display. Choosing a worthy winner is no easy task and is one that requires years of experience and knowledge about genetic characteristics that stand out. Luckily, Philip Halhead is well qualified. Owner of Norbreck Farm, Cockerham in Lancashire, Philip has been farming since returning to the family dairy farm to manage it alongside the Belgian Blue beef enterprise. He began exporting live pedigree breeding cattle from the UK in 2006 following many successful years selling Pedigree Belgian Blue bulls to artificial insemination (AI) stations. In 1999, Philip decided to develop the genetics business, selling bull semen to major AI companies and marketing semen and embryos along with live cattle to many countries worldwide. The business soon surpassed the turnover of the farming business. Philip still farms a small herd of Pedigree British Blue and Pedigree Aberdeen Angus cattle himself, and says functionality is what he will look for when he enters the ring in November. “It is a real honour to judge the Duke of Norfolk competition and I don’t take that too lightly,” he says. The competition sees three pedigree calves selected from each breed to be

The Shorthorns won the Duke of Norfolk competition in 2021. They received their trophy from the Royal Smithfield Club chairman Chris Riddle, left, after being picked out by judge Richard Rettie, second right.

judged in the ring. The winner takes home the large Duke of Norfolk trophy. “First and foremost, I’ll be looking for form and functionality of those calves, paying close attention to feet, and style and presence. I like to link what I’m seeing in the ring with what is demanded by consumers, both in the UK and globally.” In 2022, Philip also judged at the Royal Norfolk Show, where he witnessed the passion for breeding that the pandemic failed to quash. “It was great to get back in the ring and it’s obvious that pedigree breed exhibitors are glad to be back and have put time and effort into what they’re going to be showing,” he says. “The quality is improving, not only in the categories I’ve been judging, and there are some seriously dedicated

breeders travelling long distances.” The challenge of winning has never been greater, with an interesting dilemma facing the next generation of farmers. “A lot of data and science about cattle breeding now exists and while embracing that, we have to keep our feet on the ground and there is a real need for a more traditional, Stockman’s eye of what has the ability to thrive and do well in a commercial environment,” David says. “A lot of universities are now very data driven but still having the ability to judge the animal in the flesh is a skill that needs retaining.” Tickets for the show are £8 in advance or £10 on the gate and the car park opens at 8am. For more information and entries go to www.staffscountyshowground. co.uk/english-winter-fair.

Survey flags up worries about impact of climate change on health and food A national public survey conducted by Public Health Wales and Bangor University has revealed over three quarters of residents in Wales believe climate change will damage mental health and increase the costs of heating a home and buying food. Conducted in 2021/22, the survey interviewed 2,269 residents. Other key findings include 82 per cent of people were fairly or very concerned about climate change and 61 per cent believe

climate change is already having an impact in Wales, including extreme weather, flooding and coastal erosion. Many people regularly engaged in recycling but fewer were regularly engaged in other climate friendly actions such as minimising energy use at home or trying to buy local products. Many would consider doing more climate friendly actions in the future, including 59 per cent who would use companies that protected the environment, 54 per

cent would avoid buying products with unnecessary packaging and 53 per cent would use green energy sources to power their home. However, some climate friendly options were not as popular. For instance 41 per cent would not be willing to eat less meat or dairy. Sara Wood, researcher at Public Health Wales, said: “The survey revealed that climate change is a real concern to people in Wales and that most are keen to engage in positive actions.”

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Company announces new vaccine licence arrangement MSD Animal Health has announced that its BOVILIS INtranasal RSP Live vaccine is now licensed for use in calves from the day of birth onwards for active immunisation against Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) caused by Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV) and Parainfluenza Virus 3 (Pi3). No other UK-licensed BRD vaccine can be administered earlier in life, the firm said. The firm said this is a significant benefit because the sooner these vulnerable young calves can be protected from viral BRD and the damage it causes the better.

A company spokesperson said: “BOVILIS INtranasal RSP Live delivers the fastest on-farm protection of all the available pneumonia vaccines, with an onset of immunity after administration for BRSV of just six days for calves vaccinated from the day of birth onwards, and five days for calves vaccinated from the age of one week onwards. Onset of immunity after administration for Pi3V is one week after vaccination. The duration of immunity is 12 weeks for both viruses. “Early and fast protection against pneumonia is important.”

‘We can build on export work’ Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) is ready to build on export success for Welsh red meat following the first shipment of Welsh Lamb to America, according to HCC chair Catherine Smith. Addressing delegates at SIAL Paris, one of the world’s largest and most influential trade shows, Catherine highlighted that international demand for Wales’s red meat products was strong and celebrated the recent news of Welsh Lamb being exported to the USA for the first time in 20 years. HCC was leading a delegation of PGI Welsh Lamb and PGI Welsh Beef exporters at the Paris trade show. It was there to meet current customers and establish new links to help grow an export trade which is already worth £210 million a year to the Welsh economy. SIAL brings together all the major players in the global food and drink industries with more than 310,000 trade visitors from over 200 countries. Catherine told delegates at a reception hosted by HCC: “We have already seen a 22 per cent increase of exports of Welsh Lamb to Europe compared to last year and an in-

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Free seminar will look at Natural Capital rules Barbers Rural is running a free seminar to explore Natural Capital regulations. The company says Natural Capital is the stock of soil, water, air and biodiversity. Healthy Natural Capital delivers a huge range of benefits, including carbon capture, cleaner water and reduced flood risks. The Government has recognised this and is introducing new legislation to both govern and market natural capital. “There is still a lot to learn about what the new legislation will mean to our farming clients,” said Dan Bowden, Rural Surveyor and Partner with Barbers Rural. “Direct Payments, including The Basic Payment Scheme, are due to be phased out by 2027 and we need to know how the new Natural Capital regulations will affect support for farmers going forward.” To help farmers understand more about what Natural Capital will mean to their farming businesses, Barbers Rural is running a free seminar on December 1 at 6.30pm. The event will be held at Market Drayton Livestock Market and the guest speaker will

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Good ventilation ‘vital for health of livestock’ With the news that millions of factory farm chickens perished during July’s UK heatwave, experts at agricultural ventilation company Hydor warn that effective and available ventilation has become vital for the health and welfare of livestock on British broiler farms. The risk of heat stress in livestock reached concerning highs over summer and with extreme temperatures accelerated breakdowns of older equipment is more likely. Therefore, supply chains from British providers such as Hydor have become crucial, the firm said. The specialist agriculture HVAC manufacturer has extended its current profile to now include a new range of industry-standard round chimney tube fans which can be a direct replacement for any existing fan unit.

Named the Agri-Max Tube Fan, it is ideal for broiler breeders, and can be used for pig farms too, the firm said. Andy Mann, general manager of the agricultural brands within Elta Group and parent company of Hydor, said: “The hot weather and increasing temperatures are posing a huge problem for farmers and the animals they look after – none more so than broiler breeders. This is where ventilation and access to equipment becomes critical. “For years we have been well-known in the market for our high-performance Agri-Jet roof fan. The Agri-Max has been designed based on almost 60 years’ experience of agricultural ventilation, as well as the needs and wants from real customers on farms.”

Warning over tribunal result Landowners wanting to develop land or buildings affected by telephone masts and cables could face major problems following a recent tribunal decision, says the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV). This is due to the Electronic Communications Code, governing the relationships between a landowner and a telecoms operator, being found not to cover who can renew or modify an Electronic Communications code agreement when the original site provider has since granted a tenancy subject to the mast or cable agreement. The decision in Vodafone v Gencomp and AP Wireless considered who can renew or modify a code agreement when the structure of ownership and leases for a site has changed since the original grant, with a new lease interposed between the original site provider and the operator. “Given that many landowners grant intermediate leases like a farm business tenancy (FBT) and this is a structure used for development proposals, the tribunal warned that this has a stark consequence with practical and valuation effects which owners and developers will need to consider,” says CAAV secretary and adviser Jeremy Moody. “The tribunal found a ‘Catch 22’ situation where the only person who can grant code rights is the original site provider but, no longer the immediate landlord, that person does not have the direct power to change the

The tribunal considered who can renew or modify an Electronic Communications Code agreement

agreement. However, the immediate landlord now with the lease to the operator is not recognised by the code. The result looks like a stalemate for owner and operator and no renewal or modification of the operator’s lease can be effected.” The tribunal went out of its way to warn: “So long as this gap in the structure of the code remains, a concurrent lessee who wishes to redevelop a building over which code rights have been granted by a superior landlord will find themselves in difficulty, and with no obvious means of bringing the code rights to an end. A person contemplating taking a concurrent lease with a view to redevelopment would therefore be well advised either to adopt a different structure or to ensure that any code agreement which may interfere with their proposals has been terminated before they acquire their interest.”

Restrictions put in place to counter the threat of bird flu Following an increase in the number of detections of avian influenza (bird flu) in wild birds and on commercial premises, the Chief Veterinary Officers from England, Scotland and Wales have declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) across Great Britain to mitigate the risk of the disease spreading amongst poultry and captive birds. This means it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers in Great Britain to follow strict biosecurity measures to help protect their flocks from the threat of avian flu. A government

spokesperson said: “Implementing the highest levels of biosecurity measures on farm is the most effective way in reducing the risk of disease spreading and is the best way to protect flocks. “The introduction of the AIPZ comes after the United Kingdom has faced its largest ever outbreak of avian flu with 190 cases confirmed across the United Kingdom since late October 2021, with over 30 of these confirmed since the beginning of October this year. The East of England has been particularly badly hit with outbreaks in poultry and captive birds.”

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Concerns on food security A recent survey by the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM), has found the current level of UK food security is concerning to 81 per cent of respondents. Conducted ahead of The National Farm Management Conference, being held by IAgrM this month, the survey also highlights the majority of respondents believe there is a direct conflict between food production and the delivery of environmental outcomes, while 84 per cent see UK agriculture having a positive role to play in climate mitigation. “This survey, which was completed by over 200 members and industry stakeholders, has provided great insight into how the UK agricultural and food industry currently feels about the challenges that come with balancing food and environmental security,” says Carl Atkin, chair of IAgrM. “This really helps set the scene ahead of our National Farm Management Conference, titled ‘Agriculture’s Defining Decade: Balancing Food and Environmental Security’, where discussions will include the monetisation of natural capital, alternative food production options and what’s needed to maintain supply chain resilience.” He explained the stability of the UK’s food security has been tested by a combination of Brexit, Covid-19 and the Ukrainian war. “The latest governmental changes, and particularly the change of Defra ministers, has added extra uncertainty into the mix and only time will tell how these changes will impact UK agriculture. The results from the survey confirm that this is very much a ‘live’ issue. As a professional body for agricultural and farm managers, it’s great that we can carry out surveys that get a fantastic response from those willing to share their own views and opinions.”

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Firm announces expansion move BY IAIN ST JOHN

Roger Parry & Partners has announced the expansion of its planning and architectural services team following the recent amalgamation with Les Stephan Planning Ltd, one of the leading planning consultancy firms in the Midlands and Wales. The Les Stephan Planning team will become an integral part of the on-going service provided by Roger Parry and Partners throughout the Midlands and Wales. Les Stephan Planning’s senior planning consultants are members of the Royal Town Planning Institute and include three former local authority planner officers, with a wide knowledge and expertise in a variety of planning aspects. Roger Parry, partner at Roger Parry & Partners, said: “We are delighted to announce the inclusion of Les Stephan Planning within Roger Parry and Partners. The company shares our values and our long-standing commitment to excellent and successful planning advice in the region. We are delighted that they have joined us and will allow our planning department to take on more substantial projects and also to become a MRTPI company.” Roger Parry & Partners said it was pleased Les Stephan, with his long-stand-

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ing expertise, chose to become part of Roger Parry and Partners to continue to provide the same high standard of service to his clients. Les said: “I am looking forward to remaining with the new amalgamated business in a consultancy capacity with the support of Rob Mills, Stuart Taylor and Daniella Owen, who will remain in position to ensure continuity to all clients’ current and future projects.” Richard Corbett, partner at Roger Parry & Partners, said: “Expanding the company is very exciting for us, having now got five offices in Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Welshpool, Llanidloes and Minsterley.

This amalgamation will enhance our planning and architectural services business for the benefit of all our current and new clients. Going forward we are now able to expand more into sectors involving land promotion and option agreements and have the resources to take on larger scale projects and a wider spectrum of work.” Roger Parry & Partners has assisted clients with all aspects of property advice and services for more than 40 years. The company has a strong presence in the residential, agricultural, and commercial sectors.

Key payments are given out More than 15,600 Welsh farms received a share of over £161m when Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) 2022 advance payments were made on October 14, Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths has announced. This means 97 per cent of claimants received a BPS advance payment worth 70 per cent of their estimated claim value. This is the second year Rural Payments Wales (RPW) made automatic BPS advance payments in October. Before 2021, BPS payments commenced from December 1 annually. Regulation changes made by the Minister following the end of the EU Exit Implementation Period simplified the requirements for BPS. This sees BPS advance payments made prior to December to eligible claimants. Reasons why a BPS advance payment may not be made include ongoing land dispute, breaches identified at inspection or outstanding probate matters. Full and remaining balance BPS 2022 payments will be made from December 15, subject to full validation of the BPS claim. It is expected all but the most complex BPS claims will be fully validated, and payments made before the end of the payment window on June 30. Lesley Griffiths said: “Following the simplification of BPS requirements, advance payments have been made prior to December which provides financial certainty to farm business during this extremely challenging time. “In addition, here in Wales we have maintained the BPS budget at £238m, the same level as last year. “Full and remaining balance BPS 2021 payments will be made from December 15 and my officials will again this year be working hard to make these payments to as many farmers as possible early in the payment window.”

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Solar farm bid revealed Plans have been revealed for a solar farm stretching across 100 acres which could be built in Shropshire. A drop-in event has been held for residents to view plans from greentech for the development of the proposed Hilton Fields solar farm, to be built between Lilleshall and Sheriffhales. If the plans for the farm, located on private agricultural land off Lilyhurst Road, get the green light from Shropshire Council, developers say it will provide clean electricity for 9,500 homes in the area and save 14,400 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. Yaw Ofori, managing director for greentech UK, said: “We are working with a local landowner on transforming part of their land into a solar farm, which will generate clean, green electricity for the local community for the next 40 years. “We understand that residents might have questions about what we are proposing – and some may have concerns about the impact it could have on their day-to-day lives.” Feedback gathered at the public exhibition will be included in greentech’s full planning application, which will be submitted to Shropshire Council later in the year. Telford & Wrekin’s Andrew Eade, councillor for Church Aston and Lilleshall, has raised concerns about the plan. He said: “Yet again we see more proposals to gobble up another 100 acres of our valuable countryside. “If recent events have taught us anything it is that the production of our own food is essential for our wellbeing and security. This country is now farming less land than at any time since 1945 and, as a result, 60 per cent of our food is imported from abroad. “Solar farms currently in the pipeline will remove a whopping 150,000 acres of farm land from food production, in addition to the 100,000 acres of rural land lost each year to housing and industrial developments.”

Bill ‘paves the way to back farming in Wales’ The first ever Welsh Agriculture Bill has been laid before the Senedd. Wales Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said it paves the way for “ambitious and transformational legislation to support farmers, sustainable food production, and to conserve and enhance the Welsh countryside, culture and language”. The Bill also includes the Programme for Government commitment for a complete ban on the use of snares and glue traps. Wales will be the first country in the UK to introduce a complete ban. Government bosses say the first ‘Made in Wales’ policy framework recognises

BY IAIN ST JOHN the complementary objectives of supporting farmers in the sustainable production of food alongside taking action to respond to the climate and nature emergencies, contributing to thriving rural communities and keeping farmers on the land. At its heart lies Sustainable Land Management which establishes a policy and legislative framework aimed at ensuring farmers can carry on producing high quality food and agricultural goods for generations to come. Sustainable Land Management is based on key objectives. They are to produce

foods and other goods in a sustainable manner, to mitigate and adapt to climate change, to maintain and enhance the resilience of ecosystems and to conserve and enhance the Welsh countryside, culture, and to sustain the Welsh language and promote and facilitate its use. Lesley Griffiths said: “This historic Welsh Agriculture Bill not only impacts the agriculture sector, but everyone across Wales, from the food we eat, to how it has been grown, harvested, stored and prepared for sale. “For the first time, we have the chance to build a system of support and legislation which works for our farmers, our sector, our land and our people.

University ofﬁcially opened Uzbekistan’s new International Agriculture University, a partnership with the UK’s Royal Agricultural University (RAU), has officially opened in the nation’s capital Tashkent. Just days after welcoming the first 200 students to its new courses, the grand opening ceremony took place. It was attended by Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev, Minister of Agriculture Aziz Voitov, as well as RAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter McCaffery and Dr Munira Aminova, acting rector of IAU. After signing the Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions, Mr Khodjaev and Professor McCaffery attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the new building, which has been named The Queen Elizabeth II Building in honour of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who was also the patron of the RAU. Professor McCaffery and Mr Khodjaev then planted a tree to commemorate the opening and Professor McCaffery gave Mr Khodjaev a commemorative plaque to mark the partnership between the two institutions. Speaking at the ceremony, at

Jamshid Khodjaev, left, with RAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter McCaffery

which the new first year students made a “student pledge” as part of their matriculation ceremony, Professor McCaffery said: “Today’s launch of the International Agriculture University (IAU) opens up an exciting new chapter in our history. “That the RAU was chosen as the founding partner by the Uzbekistan Ministry of Agriculture, against competitors from North America and Europe, bears

testament to our mission, vision and approach to agricultural education. “With the potential to exceed 3,000 students in three to five years, the RAU is uniquely placed to be ‘the UK’s International Agricultural University’. The surpluses generated – like those from our links with China – will go towards improving the experience of all our students, including Cirencester.”

“These are difficult and challenging times for our farmers. Climate change, rising costs, new trade deals and the war in Ukraine, are just some of the issues they face. This Bill provides a framework on which all future agricultural support will be delivered and outlines how we can keep farmers on the land, produce food sustainably and deal with the climate emergency. “I’m extremely proud of our farmers and the agriculture sector here in Wales. Through the provisions in the Bill, I want to ensure we can continue to support and encourage our farmers and producers to create and sustain a thriving agricultural sector.”

Show date announced The date has been set for Pembrokeshire County Show in 2023. The event will take place on August 16-17 at Pembrokeshire County Showground in Haverfordwest. Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society has thanked all those who supported this year’s event. The society praised the hard work of the huge army of volunteers, without whom it would not have been possible to hold the show. Show president Mansel Raymond said: “Thank you to everyone who came along and supported the show. We had to rely heavily on the time and contribution of volunteers to organise and manage this year’s show after the difficult period the society faced as a result of the pandemic.”

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Vets welcome welfare plan The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has warmly welcomed the Welsh Government’s first Welsh Agriculture Bill, which includes a commitment for a complete ban on the use of rodent glue traps and snares in Wales. The landmark Bill will embed Sustainable Land Management (SLM) goals into Welsh agriculture and give Welsh Ministers the power to provide support for these goals. How this support is delivered will be defined by the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). The BVA responded to the consultations during the development of this scheme, and

BVA representatives are involved in the working group looking at the next stage. Commenting on the Bill, British Veterinary Association Welsh branch president Collin Wilson said: “This is a landmark piece of legislation which represents a great opportunity to reform the way farmers in Wales receive support. We are particularly pleased to see specific recognition within the Sustainable Land Management goals of the need for high standards of animal health and welfare. We are looking forward to seeing more detail on how the conditions within the proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme will support animal health and welfare as a Sustainable

Land Management goal. As farmers’ most trusted advisors, vets have a vital role to play in delivering the scheme. We will continue to engage with the Welsh government to develop what the scheme looks like in practice and we look forward to responding to the consultation on the final proposals in 2023.” Along with other animal protection organisations, such as the RSPCA, Humane Society International/UK, Universities Federation for Animal Welfare, Peta UK, Animal Aid, Cats Protection and UK Centre for Animal Law, the BVA has been campaigning for a ban on glue traps, which can cause immense and prolonged suffering.

Guidance about your listed building and its curtilage If you own a listed building, then you’ll probably be well aware of the strict rules that govern what you can and cannot do to the fabric of your building, says Laura Fildes of Berrys. Laura said: “What you may not know is that each listed building is surrounded by a zone of influence known as a ‘curtilage’ and that any structure within this zone is subject to the same degree of protection as the listed building itself. Sound simple? Unfortunately, it isn’t. There are more than 400,000 listed buildings in England alone, yet none of these includes a clearly defined boundary of its curtilage. “Historic England and CADW keep a record of all designated heritage assets in their respective areas, including listed buildings, scheduled monuments and registered parks and gardens. “However, the descriptions of these assets often fail to record the features that form their curtilage and add to their character. “As you might well imagine, there-

Laura Fildes of Berrys

fore, curtilage is something that has been defined and redefined in many legal cases since its inclusion in the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. “To cut a long list of legal cases short, a curtilage includes any object or structure that falls within the grounds of the listed building when the property was first listed, or that was present on the land before 1948. “This has been extended by case law to include three further tests:

l Did the listed building and curtilage structure share a single historic ownership? l Are the designated asset and its structure close enough to be included in the same listing? l Did they both share the same function historically and at the time of the listing? “Under these rules, anything deemed to be within the curtilage of a listed farmhouse will be protected, be it a stable, a barn, a milking parlour or even a garden shed. As with the main farmhouse, it is a criminal offence to alter or remove anything that is curtilage listed without first seeking Listed Building Consent from your Local Planning Authority. There’s absolutely no need to be alarmed however, help is always at hand. If you’d like to work out the extent of your curtilage, or you think you may fall within the curtilage of a neighbour’s building, Berrys has a team of heritage consultants who can cut through the confusion and advise you on the best course of action to take. “Please contact Laura Fildes on 01743 295469 or email laura.fildes@ berrys.uk.com.”

Skills scheme completed

Tilhill, the UK’s leading woodland creation, forest management and timber harvesting company, and Foresight Sustainable Forestry Company Plc, the UK’s first listed natural capital investment company, are pleased to announce the inaugural ‘Foresight Sustainable Forestry Skills Training Programme’ in Wales has now been successfully completed. The programme was launched in the summer to help young people within rural Wales gain employment in forestry within their local community. More than 50 applicants applied for the programme and the four selected

trainees have now completed their fully funded training over three separate weeks at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, securing qualifications in tree planting, chainsaw operating, tractor driving, and much more. The four trainees – Lewis Hosking 20, Thomas Mellars, 24, Daniel Harrison, 22 and Rhys Jones, 16 – come from across Wales and from a variety of backgrounds. Richard Kelly, co-lead of Foresight Sustainable Forestry Company, said: “Congratulations to Lewis, Thomas, Daniel and Rhys for successfully completing the first Foresight Sustainable Forestry Skills Training

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Project will help fish to thrive in their waters Bosses at the Rhug Estate in North Wales have enlisted the help of the Welsh Dee Trust to improve the physical characteristics of two rivers which run through the estate to ensure a future for the fish who depend on them. The Camddwr and Nant Ffrauar rivers are tributaries to the River Dee which is highly designated for the species it supports. Despite Rhug Estate being organic for more than 20 years and making improvements to riparian habitat under agri-environment schemes, there is still much that can be done on the estate to conserve and restore local fish populations, bosses said. The Welsh Dee Trust has been busy undertaking interventions that will improve the ecological health and biodiversity of the rivers, contributing to run-off attenuation, improving water quality and increasing capacity for carbon sequestration. Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate, said: “It has saddened me greatly to see so many rivers choke up and run dry this year. I welcome the input of the Welsh Dee Trust here. Their interventions are well-aligned with our own work and I look forward to seeing these take effect and develop.”

Livestock The works carried out have included flow deflectors, pinned woody debris, bank revetment, and riparian fences to keep livestock out of the water. This combination of methods was used to reduce erosion, increase water quality and provide habitat for invertebrates and fish. In many of the rivers and streams, the water course has been straightened under past policies, this has reduced the quality of the riparian habitat over time. Flow deflectors have now been used to scour out gravel downstream, creating spawning habitat for salmon and trout and increasing turbulence in the water, boosting the flow diversity. Pinned woody debris in a river also creates a pool downstream and a substrate build-up upstream, creating varying habitat and refuge for invertebrates and fish. Gareth Jones from the Welsh Dee Trust said: “It was very exciting to be able to carry out in-river habitat work on the Nant Ffrauar and Afon Camddwr. We are confident that the work carried out over the summer will bear fruit after the winter floods, with clean gravel being scoured out of the riverbed, providing excellent habitat for spawning for fish. “The work carried out on the Rhug Estate’s land demonstrates the importance of working in partnership with local landowners to enrich the health and wildlife of our rivers. “We look forward to forming similar partnerships which will benefit our rivers across the Dee catchment.”

Package focuses on health and safety An innovative health and safety package has been upgraded to help ensure a safer working environment on farms. H&H Insurance Brokers (HHIB), which offers independent advice on all aspects of rural and business insurance, has relaunched its H&H Safety product to minimise accidents on farms by ensuring all clients are fully compliant with health and safety requirements. It comes as farming continues to have the highest rate of work-related deaths

according to the Health and Safety Executive.(HSE) Fatal Injuries in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing in GB Report 2021/22. The figures showed that there were 25 deaths recorded. To help reduce the risk of tragedies, H&H Safety, in conjunction with risk management company AW Safety, has been developed. It aims to take away the burden of administration from farmers to help them meet the required health and safety

standards to keep their employees safe and comply with HSE Farm Assurance Scheme legislation. Haf Rowley, associate director with H&H Insurance Brokers, said: “We are all aware of how busy and hands-on farmers are and they don’t always have the time or capacity to fully deal with this side of the business, despite health and safety being a crucial part of their livelihoods. “The purpose of H&H Safety is to take away the stresses of documentation and

New president is announced The new president of a major show has been confirmed. Caroline Belcher has been named as the president of Newport Show by Newport and District Agricultural Society. Speaking after taking on the role, Mrs Belcher said she wants to introduce the show to people moving into the area – and use the event to “bring the community together”. An Edgmond resident, Mrs Belcher has volunteered for both the society and the show for more than two decades. She is married to a local farmer, and plays an active role in the running of the firewood business Logalog based at Bridge Farm, Edgmond. Mrs Belcher said she is hoping she can work with the society and the Newport Show’s team of staff, stewards and volunteers to build on the success of the event, which returned this summer after a twoyear break. Having been involved in the farming world since she joined Shifnal and Albrighton Young Farmers Club 42 years ago at the age of 16, Mrs Belcher began volunteering at the Newport Show in 1997, stewarding in the sheep lines of the livestock section – before then joining the main committee in 2000. Since then, she has worked to develop the food area at the show – helping it develop from a small single marquee with a handful of exhibitors to a busy, vibrant

Caroline Belcher, the new president of Newport Show.

area, showcasing some of the best local, artisan food and drinks from across the region. The Festival of Food area now includes celebrity chef demonstrations, Little Foodies, hands-on cookery for young up and coming chefs, live music, street food and more. This year, the Festival of Food drew praise from celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager, who not only hosted two cookery demonstrations, but also toured the

stalls, picking up her own local produce. Mrs Belcher said: “I am extremely proud to be part of the team that has developed the food area at Newport Show. “I hope that during my presidency, we can continue to bring or local community together – and introduce everything Newport Show has to offer to people moving into the area, too.” More information about the show can be found at newportshow.co.uk

administration and to guide farmers through step-by-step what measures they need to put in place to make sure they meet the important HSE legislation and ensure everybody on the farm is as safe as possible. “Following the success of the package, we have updated it to ensure farmers get more benefits from our services so they are compliant with health and safety criteria, and therefore don’t face any potential punishments.”

Camping application A farm hopes to welcome campers for up to four months a year. Park Hill Farm, near Market Drayton, rears cattle and pigs and already hosts occasional educational visits for schools, as well as offering camping facilities for a month each year. Now the Pimlott family hope to extend the time they are allowed to operate their campsite. They are seeking permission from Newcastle Borough Council to change the use of the field at the Park Lane Farm to a 64-pitch campsite for four months a year, as well as building a new toilet and shower building. Two nearby residents objected to the proposals on the grounds of highway safety, road deterioration, noise nuisance and impact on wildlife. The application has been recommended for approval by planning officers at the borough council. The borough council’s planning committee deferred a decision to seek more information about passing places on Park Lane.

‘World is now facing huge food emergency’ The UN food chief has warned the world is facing “a global emergency of unprecedented magnitude”. David Beasley, executive director of the UN World Food Programme, said the 345 million people facing acute food insecurity in the 82 countries where the agency operates is two-and-a-half times the number of acutely food-insecure people before the Covid-19 pandemic hit in 2020. He told the UN Security Council it is incredibly troubling that 50 million of those people in 45 countries are suffering from very acute malnutrition and are “knocking on famine’s door”. “What was a wave of hunger is now a tsunami of hunger,” he said, pointing to rising conflict, the pandemic’s economic ripple effects, climate change, rising fuel prices and the war in Ukraine.

BY IAIN ST JOHN Since Russia invaded its neighbour on February 24, Mr Beasley said, soaring food, fuel and fertiliser costs have driven 70 million people closer to starvation. Despite the agreement in July allowing Ukrainian grain to be shipped from three Black Sea ports that had been blockaded by Russia and continuing efforts to get Russian fertiliser back to global markets, “there is a real and dangerous risk of multiple famines this year”, he said. “And in 2023, the current food price crisis could develop into a food availability crisis if we don’t act.” The Security Council was focusing on conflict-induced food insecurity and the risk of famine in Ethiopia, north-eastern Nigeria, South Sudan and Yemen. But Mr Beasley and UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths also warned about the food crisis in Somalia, which they

both recently visited, and Mr Griffiths also put Afghanistan high on the list. “Famine will happen in Somalia,” Mr Griffiths said, and “be sure it won’t be the only place either.” Mr Beasley recalled his warning to the council in April 2020 “that we were then facing famine, starvation of biblical proportions”. He said then the world “stepped up with funding and tremendous response, and we averted catastrophe”. “We are on the edge once again, even worse, and we must do all that we can – all hands on deck with every fibre of our bodies,” he said. “The hungry people of the world are counting on us and ... we must not let them down.” Mr Griffiths said the widespread and increasing food insecurity is a result of the direct and indirect impact of conflict and violence that kills and injures civilians, forces families to flee the land they

depend on for income and food, and leads to economic decline and rising prices for food that they cannot afford. After more than seven years of war in Yemen, he said, “some 19 million people – six out of 10 – are acutely food-insecure, an estimated 160,000 people are facing catastrophe, and 538,000 children are severely malnourished”. Mr Beasley said the Ukraine war is stoking inflation in Yemen. The World Food Programme hopes to provide aid to about 18 million people, but its costs have risen 30 per cent this year to 2.6 billion dollars. As a result, it has been forced to cut back, so Yemenis this month are getting only two thirds of their previous rations, he said. Mr Griffiths urged the Security Council to “leave no stone unturned” in trying to end these devastating conflicts, and to step up financing for humanitarian operations.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Popular fair set to be packed full of activity COMMERCIAL FEATURE The annual Royal Welsh Winter Fair is just around the corner, and it won’t be long until the showground in Llanelwedd is once again full of exhibitors, prize-winning livestock and Christmas shoppers, the organisers have said. Preparations are well under way for the annual event. This year the Royal Welsh Winter Fair is taking place on Monday, November 28 and Tuesday, November 29. A spokesperson for the Royal Welsh Winter Fair said the organisers were looking forward to another hugely successful event. The spokesperson said: “As one of the finest prime stock shows in Europe, the Winter Fair draws crowds from far and wide to enjoy two days packed full of competitions, festivities, food and drink, and shopping. “We were delighted to see its return in 2021 after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. “And we are looking forward to welcoming you back again this November for what is set to be another fantastic

Preparations are well under way for the annual Royal Welsh Winter Fair which is taking place on Monday, November 28 and Tuesday, November 29

Winter Fair. As well as livestock competitions, the Winter Fair hosts a huge variety of different classes and competitions. “This includes horses, the hound show,

dressed poultry, butchery, meat hampers, cookery, produce and handicraft, horticulture and floral art. “There’s something for everyone to get

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involved in. Along with all of the above, the Winter Fair offers shoppers the perfect opportunity to pick up some unique and original Christmas gifts from the hundreds of tradestands across the showground during the two-day show. “Visitors will be able to enjoy watching the demonstrations and exhibitions and listening to carols and bands performing throughout the showground. “The renowned Food Hall attracts producers from all over Wales and further afield and is packed full of culinary delights, demonstrations, perfect Christmas gifts and tempting tasters. “Come along, eat, drink and be merry! “The Winter Fair will be opening its doors to the public at 8am each morning. “On the evening of Monday, November 28, tradestands will be open through the evening for late night Christmas shopping and the great firework display. “What better way to kickstart the festive season than with a visit to the Winter Fair? “Tickets are £20 for adults, and £5 for children with discounted tickets for RWAS members. “Members tickets must be purchased before November 14 in order to redeem the discount. Buy your e-tickets for the Winter Fair online now on our website. “For more information visit www.rwas. wales / www.cafc.cymru”

Wilson Boardman, an internationally respected crop nutrition and formulations expert, has joined the Emerald Research Ltd (ERL) team as business development director. Bosses say Mr Boardman’s extensive knowledge of biostimulants and crop nutrients will further strengthen and complement ERL’s already impressive research and new product development programmes, bringing still greater improvements in crop performance, sustainability and farm profitability. Mr Boardman is respected within both the academic and commercial biostimulant and crop nutrition arenas and often invited to speak at international congresses. His wealth of knowledge comes from 40 years of experience within the crop health care market, from a timeserved field agronomist to his last role as global ambassador for plant care technology at the Olmix Group. During his time at Micromix, a company he founded in 1999, he developed an extensive knowledge and resource base in Eastern Europe, China and Brazil, where he has spent time working closely with commercial, technical and regulatory bodies. He joins ERL to support the business as it embarks on a radical five-year growth plan to support British and European agriculture to increase crop quality and quantity in a sustainable way with a reduced reliance on chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Mr Boardman brings not only his extensive knowledge of plant biology, physiology and the biochemical formulations to ERL but also his experience in tackling the international regulatory challenges that are at the forefront of enabling global food production to become sustainable.

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Prestigious award delight for student Alex Harper Adams countryside and environmental management graduate Alex Gregory has been named the winner of this year’s Tilhill Top Student Award. As part of Tilhill’s work to strengthen links with future forestry, harvesting, and ecology managers, the company presents awards to top performing students at universities offering degrees in forestry-related subjects across the UK. Alex’s award was presented by David Crozier, Tilhill Wales senior forest manager – himself a Harper Adams alumnus – at the university’s 2022 graduation ceremony. Alex, from Suffolk, studied Sustainable Forestry and Forestry Products on his BSC (Hons) Countryside and Environmental Management degree with the university. Alex spent his placement year at an ecological consultancy as an assistant ecologist and has secured a job there following graduation. He is looking to further his education with an MSc in conservation or environmental forestry. Upon receiving the Tilhill award of £250 prize money and a wooden carved trophy, Alex said: “I’d like to express my sincere thanks to Tilhill for presenting me with this award. “It was an unexpected surprise. “I really enjoyed the forestry related modules on my course and realise how important the sustainable management of global and national forest resources are for both present and future generations.” Nick Covarr, lecturer in Forestry and Woodland at Harper Adams University, said: “Congratulations to Alex for this fantastic and wellearned achievement. “We are sure he has a bright future in the environmental sector ahead of him after an exceptional few years at Harper Adams. “Thank you to Tilhill for sponsoring this award and for continuing to engage with our students to bring their studies to life. “Tilhill continue to provide an irreplaceable element of our teaching experience by sharing their sites, skills and enthusiasm for forestry with us.” David Crozier added: “It’s a pleasure to see such a high standard of graduates coming from the countryside sector and gives us all hope for the future. “It’s important to keep a link between organisations such as Harper Adams University and Tilhill to ensure that future graduates are of an equally high standard and ready for employment in environmentallyconscious roles. We hope to see enthusiastic graduates like Alex applying for the Tilhill 2023 Graduate Programme which opens for applications in December. Visit www.tilhill.com for details on how to apply.”

THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Tree planting programme welcomed An agricultural solicitor has welcomed a Government pledge to support tree planting by offering farmers and landowners grants to press ahead with their schemes. Through the launch of the England Woodland Creation Offer (ECWO), farmers and landowners could receive a one-off £8,500 per hectare grant for tree planting and woodland creation, alongside annual maintenance payments of £300 per hectare for 10 years.

Hannah Taylor, a senior associate at local law firm mfg Solicitors, has welcomed the move which establishes a national framework for tree planting which she says could give many farmers and landowners more confidence about signing up. She said: “The Government announced this scheme to encourage more tree planting and to reassure landowners that they will not be worse off than if they wait to see what future schemes

come through. It’s a welcome move as the EWCO should help give many landowners who are considering tree planting the reassurance they need in order to enter into the scheme, but it is also important to realise it may not work for all.” A recent statement from Defra and the Forestry Commission reported that £25 million in funding would be available for these types of schemes. The England Woodland Creation Offer was initially launched in June 2021 as an

Ploughing skills showcased The 89th annual Cruckton Ploughing Match was held at Silverdale, Yockleton by kind invitation of Milton Jones and family, the Hemmings family, Myles Thomas and family and the Bowdler family on September 17. Organisers said the weather was perfect, even though the ground was a little hard they had some excellent ploughing done. A spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, our tractor pulling was unable to go ahead due to not getting enough pullers on the day and our ‘Have a Go’ at horse ploughing sadly didn’t go ahead due to transport issues. “Let’s hope we can try and have it again at our 90th match next year. “BBC Radio Shropshire’s Ryan Kennedy joined us and had a go at tractor ploughing. “A big thank you goes to to Richard from Battlefield Tractors for showing Ryan how to plough on the day. “Our sheep dog trials were back this year and they were a great attraction to watch. “A big thank you goes to all of the Cruckton committee, judges and stewards, sponsors, agricultural machinery companies, trade stands and the general public who all came and supported the match. “Also, thanks to all our advertisers in the match day programme. “Lastly, I would like to thank all our

Organisers of the 89th annual Cruckton Ploughing Match said the weather was perfect, and even though the ground was a little hard they had some excellent ploughing done

tractor ploughmen/women and four horse teams who put on a great exhibition of how ploughing should be done.

“Thank you all for making it a great day and a very successful match. Hope to see you all at our 90th match in 2023.”

interim funding scheme under the Agricultural Act, but it will transition into the Local Nature Recovery plan (LNR) from 2025. Existing EWCO agreement holders will have the opportunity to transition their maintenance payments into the LNR scheme from 2026 in accordance with the Government’s pledge that noone should be worse off if they start planting now rather than waiting for future Government schemes.

Research is presented Research from Harper Adams University has been presented at a leading industry conference. The research work by the Shropshire-based university was presented at the 10th European Conference on Sensory and Consumer Research in Turku, Finland by senior lecturer in food science and sensory evaluation Dr Wilatsana Posri. Work presented was ‘exploring synergies between health attributes, carbon footprint and sensorial quality – the case of Lingzhi mushroom products’ and ‘functional food – what does it mean to young buyers?’. Dr Posri said: “This research project was funded by internal quality related funding at Harper Adams, with my supervision. It captured immune boosting trends in the UK market and looked into consumer perceptions and decisions made based on nutrition claims. “We see that consumers are ambiguous on what ‘sustainable health’ means in the context of intrinsic food properties.”

Solar plan is approved despite land loss fears A proposal for a solar farm has been approved by councillors despite concerns from residents over the loss of agricultural land. The plans for Brick House Farm, at Greete, near Ludlow, had been submitted to Shropshire Council by Bluefield Renewable Developments. The proposal is for 54 hectares of land at the farm and a decision on the scheme had been deferred by the council’s south planning committee September. The delay was due to concerns over the loss of quality land, known as ‘best and most versatile agricultural land’ (BMV), as part of the scheme. A revised plan, which was considered by the committee on October 18 saw several sections of land taken out of the proposal. A report prepared by council planning officer Grahame French, said:

BY IAIN ST JOHN “Bluefield has been able to remove a significant area of solar modules from four parcels of BMV land totalling 15.4 acres (six hectares). “This leaves just 6.06 acres of Grade 3a land being required for solar due to remaining engineering and design constraints.” The report added: “The redesign means that 95 per cent of the solar farm is now on grade 3b land which is not BMV. “Of the remaining BMV land which has been taken out of solar use, 15.4 acres are allocated as ‘Food Opportunity Areas’ with the remaining six acres allocated as Additional Biodiversity Enhancement Areas. “The above calculations have been verified by the company’s retained independent agricultural consultant. The amendments have resulted in a loss of

5MW of the solar farm capacity, which, according to Bluefield would have provided enough electricity to power the equivalent of 1,500 homes. “The proposals retain a significant capacity of 45MW which is sufficient to power 13,500 homes.” Objectors against the proposal spoke at the meeting, arguing the land is “far too productive” to be taken over with a solar farm. They said the site had been a “very productive farm, on very productive land”. The criticisms of the plan were backed up by two councillors, Andy Boddington and Richard Huffer. Councillor Huffer said: “We have a duty to protect food security, not just for the UK but a moral duty globally.” He said he believed approval for the plan could see it going to judicial review, adding: “Don’t take the easy option. This council needs to work harder to ensure

we do reach the targets set within our climate emergency but this is not the location.” Councillor Boddington said he was also concerned about the impact of the development on the area’s small local roads, as well as rights of way footpaths. Questions were also raised over why an environmental impact assessment had not been carried out for the proposal, with smaller solar farm schemes having been subject to the requirement. Jonathan Selwyn, managing director of Bluefield, spoke to the committee saying the country needed to get back to being self sufficient in terms of energy production. Two motions were put forward at the meeting following a discussion over the plan, with one for, and one against the application. The committee voted nine to two in favour of approving the plans.

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Bid to host war games on farming land is withdrawn A controversial plan to use a south Shropshire field for war games has been withdrawn, planners have confirmed. Frontline Events had applied to Shropshire Council to use land south west of Rock Hill Farm, in Greete, near Ludlow for mainly weekend events for up to 100 war gamers. They had been proposing using realistic Airsoft guns that fire degradable plastic pellets. Opponents feared extra traffic and noise in the area. There is also a public footpath across the land, which is just 140m from the Scheduled Monument of The Bower moated site. Shropshire Council confirmed that the plan was withdrawn last month. One of the objectors, who did not wish to be named, welcomed the news. “Everyone along here is very happy but we will be watching like a hawk now,” they said. In a letter to Frontline Events, which is based in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, the council confirmed that the applicants have told the council’s planning department that the proposal for change of use from agricultural

to sports and leisure had been withdrawn. It added that the council will not need to make a decision on the application. The letter, signed by Tracy Darke, the council’s assistant director of economy and place, said: “We acknowledge your communication advising that the above application is being withdrawn. No determination will now be made in respect of this application.” The application had provoked many comments on the council’s planning portal, with both opponents and supporters making their views known. Opponents had recently included the Greete Parish Meeting and Hope Bagot Parish Council. Greete Parish Council made the point that solar farms being built, or proposed to be built in the area, would add much more traffic to local roads. Heritage experts had asked that there should be no determination of the application until the results of the required assessment has been submitted to the local planning authority, or it should otherwise be refused. The proposal had attracted 153 public comments, with 78 objections and 74 in support.

Owners of vineyard raising a glass to top quality after a successful harvest Owners of a vineyard are celebrating after a very successful harvest. Husband and wife team Russell and Janet Cooke, of Kerry Vale Vineyard, said they are delighted with the quantity and quality of their grapes this year. Picked over three days by the family, their workforce and a team of local volunteers, the group brought in 12 tonnes of grapes from the four-acre site on the Shropshire/Powys border. Owner Russell said: “The last month has been incredibly busy, but also very exciting. “Harvest time is the culmination of a year’s worth of work on the vineyard, and determines our future wine production capabilities. “This year’s harvest has been very successful and I’m really looking forward to tasting the fruits of our labour, once the pressed grapes have been turned into wine.” The vineyard, located just outside of Montgomery, has been very lucky with the weather this year, said Russell. “Our lovely warm summer with just the right amount of sun and rain at the necessary times has led to good growing conditions, resulting in a fantastic yield and high quality grapes with a good sugar content.” Kerry Vale Vineyard has harvested three grape varieties this year – Rondo, Phoenix and Solaris. Each grape variety ripens at different times which means grapes could be harvested over four weeks. These grapes will go on to make a range of red, white and rose, sparkling and still wines. Russell and Janet said they would like to extend a huge thank you to all the volunteers that helped them this year.

University’s new courses Students applying to start at Harper Adams University in Shropshire in 2023 will have access to 10 new-look courses. Employers from across the agrifood and broader sectors have been looking to Harper Adams to source future talent with the right business skills, knowledge and mindset to help them succeed. In response to demand, the university is set to offer three new business programmes. Business management will shape graduates who can excel in any business. Agribusiness management will guide those who wish to work in the agricultural industries but are seeking an education to help them drive forward their business ideas. And food business management will

nurture talent from bespoke artisan production through to global retail. For those who want to focus fully on food, food science and innovation cover a broad range of themes including consumer needs, nutrition, production, new product development, supply chains to marketing approaches, research, and development, and issues of sustainability. Graduates will be equipped with the necessary practical, theoretical, and technical skills to help address current and future global food challenges. Rebecca Payne, head of the food land and agribusiness management department, said: “The food and agribusiness academics within the university have worked hard to develop their degree routes to weave in the challenges of the global sustainability agenda.

“When our graduates leave us they’re ‘match fit’ and ready to meet these dynamic and changing needs on behalf of their future employers.” The university’s six engineering routes have been fully refreshed to recognise the changing technologies, techniques, and challenges of the future. The new programmes have been developed with industry experts to make sure they are forward looking and innovative. Professor Lydia Arnold said: “Our courses have been refreshed to enable students to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world. We have worked with industry, schools, current and past students, and our own research teams to make sure that all our programmes are inspiring, forward looking, and linked to the needs of employers.”

Couple to hold special reunion

A New Zealand farming couple, who over 40 years hosted more than 200 UK agricultural students and visitors, are inviting them to a special ‘friendship reunion’.

Geoff and Ailsa Neilson farmed near Dunedin. They plan to travel to Wales in the new year to meet up with the many friends they have made through their long association with the Welsh Agricultural College in Aberystwyth, now the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences. Between 1977 and 2019, the Neilsons opened their home and their sheep and beef farm to students – offering them the valuable experience of working on a New Zealand farm, and seeing different aspects of the industry. Down the years, the couple has stayed in touch with many of their students and visitors, and subsequently forged friendships with their families too. Making what will probably be their last major trip to the UK, Geoff and Ailsa have decided to hold one large gathering and will host a friendship reunion with a continuous afternoon social commencing at 1pm and a reunion dinner in the evening in Aberystwyth

Geoff and Ailsa Neilson from New Zealand

on January 21. In 1997 a Welsh Sheep Strategy was formed and included a scholarship for Welsh sheep farmers to come to New Zealand to look at various aspects of farming, food processing and marketing. All the names of the past students and scholars are recorded in the farm’s visitor book, and the couple is keen that as many as possible have the opportunity to join them on the reunion day. To ensure their invitation reaches as many friends as possible, Geoff and Ailsa have issued an appeal for those whose contact details may now be out of date to get in touch.

Geoff said: “The dinner will be complimentary for our former students and visitors, their partners and families, and we look forward to meeting up again with as many of our friends as possible.” One of those past students is Alun Jones, chief executive of Menter a Busnes, who is helping the Neilsons with the reunion’s arrangements. Alun said: “They are an amazing and very welcoming family, and I learned so much. It was a wonderful experience.” For more details, contact Geoff Neilson at geoffailsa@gmail.com or Alun Jones at alun.jones@menterabusnes. co.uk

Storage reminder is offered Owner Russell Cooke

“We really couldn’t have done it without them,” said Janet. “We have such a lovely group of vineyard friends and we all had a fantastic few days picking together. “It’s such a satisfying feeling to see your bucket filling up with grapes as you pick. “If you have an interest in wine, it’s a great way to understand how the process begins and how the grapes are grown.”

Following a notable increase in the demand for urea fertiliser, agronomy firm Hutchinsons is reminding growers to ensure they store and handle it correctly. Strict regulations govern the transportation and storage of all fertilisers. The firm’s fertiliser and crop nutrition specialist Rob Jewers says farmers must be careful to abide by these rules, particularly when storing both urea and ammonium nitrate products. Urea is relatively inert compared with AN, but he warns that regulations prohibit the two from

being transported or stored together. Failing to follow the appropriate storage guidelines could risk farmers failing ACCS or Red Tractor inspections, not to mention increasing the risk of significant losses in the event of an incident. He said: “Urea has been more competitively priced than ammonium nitrate this year, by quite some margin. “One kilo of AN nitrogen was priced at around £2.60 at the end of September, whereas a kilo of urea nitrogen worked out to be about £1.90, so we

have seen more demand for it. There may well be farmers who haven’t bought urea before, or haven’t used it for a long time, that perhaps aren’t aware the two shouldn’t be stored together.” The reason urea and AN cannot be stored or transported together is not because there is a danger of them spontaneously reacting with each other, more the fact urea is an organic material that acts as a carbon source – CO2 produced in the Haber-Bosch process gets added back into the ammonia to produce urea.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Advice given on work checks Agricultural employers will now need to adopt new digital right to work checks for British and Irish nationals or revert to cumbersome manual in-person checks. Global mobility and immigration advisers Vialto Partners said it is no longer possible for the sector to rely on the virtual checks introduced by the Home Office under its ‘Covid-19 adjusted right to work checks’ concession. Digital right to work checks will, said Cleo Als, a senior manager at Vialto Partners, speed up those checks, making them less

cumbersome for employers and less disruptive for employees, particularly for businesses with large and multi-sited workforces. Right to work checks are a requirement for all UK employers who must ensure individuals they wish to employ have a legal right to work. Employers face a fine of up to £20,000 for each employee if they are found to be working in the UK illegally. Right to work checks are required for all British and Irish nationals as well as EEA and NonEEA nationals.

The Home Office wishes businesses to conduct right to work checks for British and Irish nationals via an authorised Identification Service Provider with accredited Identification Documentation Verification Technology, although it will not be essential. Cleo said: “Right to work checks exist to reduce the risk of employers employing staff that do not have the right to work in the UK. Traditionally, they would be conducted in person with an employer or HR adviser checking a passport or identity card.”

‘Safeguard your soil to succeed’

Welsh farms are losing 5t/ acre of soil every time the thickness equivalent of a one-pence coin is eroded from fields left bare in the winter.

“That soil isn’t replaced, and that’s your livelihoods being washed away; you need to keep that resource on your farm,’’ forage and grassland specialist Charlie Morgan warned farmers attending an open day at Dolygarn, a Farming Connect demonstration site at Llanbadarn Fynydd, Powys. Mr Morgan has been advising livestock farmer James Powell with reseeding decisions at Dolygarn through the farm’s project work with Farming Connect. Mr Powell has switched from growing winter grazing crops of stubble turnips and rape for his sheep to sowing a rape, Italian ryegrass and berseem clover mixture (Clampsaver II), which not only provides autumn/winter forage for finishing lambs, but grazing in the spring and a silage crop. This grass-based crop has the ability to ‘anchor’ the soil, to reduce soil and nutrient run-off. It also allowed Mr Powell to double his income from lamb sales. He produced 7,843kg of lamb on 4.7ha, returning £16,845 in sales, compared to 3,500kg of lamb worth £7,500 from a comparable acreage of stubble turnip and forage rape. Earthworm count in the soil hosting the Clampsaver was 50 per cent higher than in the brassica field. It was fol-

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James Powell with Highlander crop

lowed in the rotation by a permanent ley of Highlander, a long-term mix formulated for upland farms, with additional herbs and red clover; this has transformed soils and feed availability. Using filtration equipment simulating an inch of rainfall an hour, similar to what might occur during a thunderstorm, Mr Morgan showed farmers how, by improving the soil profile, it was now better able to absorb water – not only preventing flooding of towns and communities at lower levels, but holding onto that water to allow its use by plants during times of drought. “Soil will hold water reserves and, through a combination of capillary ac-

Delighted to return to his home county base, he is assisting in servicing clients in Shropshire, Staffordshire and Lincolnshire. Sarah Williams and Ellie Jones have both recently received the results of their studies, each achieving BSc degrees with 2:1 on the REALM. Sarah returns to Balfours, having previously undertaken her placement year in 2021 and is now thrilled to have returned to the job she loves. Coincidently both girls grew up near Welshpool and have an affinity with the countryside. Meanwhile Bertie Phillips, whose family farm hops in Herefordshire,

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tion and growing the right type of multi-species leys, provide grazing during the exceptionally dry conditions we have seen this year,’’ Mr Morgan said. The Highlander ley was grown without any artificial fertiliser – only manure generated by the pigs contract-reared at Dolygarn. Mr Powell is also using trees to protect soils and provide shelter belts for his stock. Shelter belts planted at the farm in the 1970s have now matured, and are being felled for timber, providing income for the business. They will be replaced with planting schemes that are 50 per cent conifers and 50 per cent native broadleaf species.

Firm invests in the future Investing in the future, Balfours has made four appointments this summer. Toby Galliers, Ellie Jones, Sarah Williams and Bertie Phillips are all proteges of Harper Adams. They will be based at the company’s headquarters at Shrewsbury’s Oxon Business Park. Toby, who hails from Shropshire, graduated from Harper Adams University in 2021 with a degree in Rural Enterprise and Land Management (REALM). He worked both his placement year and a year post graduation at a Cheshire-based firm of land agents.

Upper Farm, Longnor, Shrewsbury, Shropshire. SY5 7PP Mark Downes 07989 964883

joins the Balfours team on placement from Harper Adams’ REALM course. He is assisting associate partner, Jack Cooper, with estates and projects throughout Shropshire. Business manager Craig Varley said: “All are at the start of their careers, albeit at different stages. “With two partners, Richard Jones Perrott and Frances Steer, both on the RICS examination board, we are confident that we can provide the rounded experience and targeted training required to achieve their goals – while being mutually beneficial to Balfours and our clients.”

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

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This new unit delivers the functionality of a six-wheel drive vehicle to a workhorse SSV. It will present new job opportunities in multiple sectors including farming, estate management, and facilities maintenance. This combination ensures the Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10 can handle everything from hauling machinery to transporting workers and equipment to job sites. It provides owners with the comfort, power and performance that is expected from a Can-Am Traxter. The new SSV enhances the comfort and control of the original Can-Am Traxter with the help of its longer wheelbase and triple axel design.

Terrains This spreads the weight of the vehicle so that it treads carefully across multiple terrains. This ability is complemented by the performance of the 82hp V-twin liquid cooled engine from Rotax and ensures that no destination is out of reach. The Can-Am Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10 also provides owners with class leading towing, payload and cargo capacity that come in at 1,360kg, 771kg and 454kg respectively. These capacities are aided by the extended cargo box, which allows it to carry more goods and equipment. The integrated design elements include the LinQ quick-attach system, built-in anchors, tie-down points and recesses for easy box separator solution. This makes it easy to customise the vehicle for the job at hand.

BRP is expanding its Can-Am off-road side by side vehicle (SSV) line-up with the addition of the new Can-Am Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10

In addition, its 40-litre fuel tank makes it a work-ready vehicle that can spend hours performing without the need to come in to refuel. When it comes to the interior, the SSV’s roomy and intuitive cockpit has been designed by Can-Am’s R&D team with functionality and comfort in mind. This is highlighted by the cab pillars being pushed forward, an open-dash configuration, and a truck-inspired VERSA-PRO bench seat. This accommodates up to three adults and flips up for additional space in the cab. James Dalke, BRP commercial manager UK and Ireland, said: “The Can-Am Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10 has been designed to be used across multiple industries and terrains, which means it will never be out of work.” Mr Dalke added: “In addition, we believe this SSV will instantly improve job productivity and efficiency through its ability to carry and tow more and access hard to reach areas that other SSVs might not be able to reach. “It is also the next logical addition to our innovative utility SSV line-up. “We look forward to it helping open up new sales opportunities for our growing dealer network, which, in turn, will help us grow our share of the utility market.”

Key machinery trends come to fore at major showcase Farm machinery dealers are noticing significant changes in demand for new kit, driven by the move towards regenerative farming, robotics, and data-based decisions, bosses have said. And visitors to the Midlands Machinery Show on November 16-17 will be able to see the latest and most popular options first hand. Low disturbance tillage is becoming increasingly popular with growers as they continue to move away from ploughing and embrace modern regenerative farming practices. “After root crops or pigs there is certainly a place for ploughing to reset the land, but many growers are moving towards regenerative systems which leave the soil profile and structure intact,” says Chandlers managing director Gavin Pell. “Some modern subsoilers have very low surface disturbance and can be used to alleviate compaction without disturbing the soil profile. For example, with the HE-VA Stealth a disc makes a

cut and a leg passes through. The soil profile is not inverted.” Farmers are looking for low disturbance direct drills that don’t compromise on quality of the seedbed, in particular good seed to soil contact, said Dani Bond, general manager at Mzuri. Ms Bond said: “The Mzuri Pro-Til and iPass drills use tines to generate a small amount of tilth which the seed is placed in and efficiently reconsolidated to maximise germination rates. “The flagship Pro-Til one-pass drill offers strip tillage and direct establishment into stubble and cover crops and remains a popular choice with growers looking to reduce establishment costs compared to conventional systems.” The Midlands Machinery Show is a platform for agricultural businesses to showcase their latest range of tractors, machinery, services and technology to farmers, machinery operators, contractors and landowners. To register for free entry to show, visit midlandsmachineryshow.com

MACHINERY FEATURE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Trusted line-up gives The 100 per cent electric Corvus Terrain all the capability and EX4 has now arrived strength you require Trusted by farmers and landowners across the UK and globally, the Polaris RANGER UTV line-up gives you the capability and strength to overcome any task with features such as all-wheel drive, VersaTrac Turf Mode and electronic power steering.

Now there is a 100 per cent electric 4x4 utility vehicle that is truly built from the ground up for serious work. That is the promise from Corvus, Europe’s first manufacturer of 4x4 UTVs. And the Terrain EX4 lives up to all the expectations. This is an electric 4x4 capable of successfully tackling the toughest working days thanks to its off-road capabilities. The engine is a 13kW AC induction 48V motor capable of hauling a payload capacity of 620kg and the EX4 has a towing capacity of 755kg in low and 479 kg in high. The cargo box is steel with a 300kg load capacity and there is more space for you and your gear with a front storage boot and convenient under seat storage to keep the essentials handy. The Terrain EX4 achieves 40km/h/25mph and can be driven on roads, making it ideal for a quiet, non-polluting everyday work vehicle. It offers high load capacity, lower maintenance and high vehicle durability with the precision power needed for smooth or rough terrain. There is a dual power selector for ‘Range’ and ‘Power’ which allows you to select electronically the right driving mode for the most demanding jobs. With less maintenance and no fuel costs, UTV electric vehicles are significantly more affordable and cost-effective than traditional petrol or diesel-powered vehicles. The 15kW lithium-ion battery on the EX4 is designed for quick and convenient charging. From the start of its rapid acceleration, the EX4 is whisper-quiet and as an off-road vehicle offers an

The Terrain EX4 achieves 40km/h/25mph and can be driven on roads, making it ideal for a quiet, non-polluting everyday work vehicle

enjoyable driving experience throughout the working day. With a ground clearance of 309mm and the choice of 4x4 and 4x2 power, even the most difficult terrain becomes accessible. All Terrain EX4 models are approved to EU T1a standards and equipped with automotive safety windshield glass, three-point belts, indicators, headlamps and brake lights, horn, mirrors and windshield wipers. There are three versions of the Terrain EX4 with a cab and other accessories available. Prices start at £25,499 for the EX4 Base EPS, £26,499 for the EX4 Pro EPS and £28,499 for the EX4 CAB EPS. Colour choice is white, orange or green.

Polaris’s top-of-the-range, petrol RANGER XP 1000 model delivers class-leading capabilities and premium comfort for those who work hard, all day. Available in 3-seat and CREW models to sit four to six riders, the RANGER XP 1000 is factory equipped to take on the toughest terrain, even when loaded with equipment or tools. Thanks to its powerful ProStar 1000 double-cam overhead engine, the XP 1000 boasts a huge towing capacity of 1134kg and 454kg cargo bed capacity, whilst 33cm of ground clearance, 27.9cm suspension travel on the front and rear, and on-demand four-wheel drive help to overcome any obstacle.

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switch on the dash allows you to switch between work, standard and performance settings to suit your ride, whilst the premium paint finish, 12-inch alloy wheels and huge 27-inch Maxxis tyres make it look bolder and more stylish than ever before. Keep the elements out by adding a fully enclosed cab system comprising a windshield, doors, rear panel and roof, or add handy accessories such as a heater and defrost system, light bar, audio upgrades, plow, winch, as well as hundreds of Lock&Ride storage solutions for the cargo bed. Available with and without ABS. Starting at £17,699 excluding VAT.

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Duncan Brassington dealers for the CORVUS machine, offering a full service, maintenance and repair service. Also a good addition to the Corvus product is the White Rock Quad Bike Trailers, which again is a robust and well built trailer, we have many sizes available and in stock.

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Showcase’s date revealed LAMMA will open the doors of the NEC in Birmingham on January 10-11 to farmers and industry professionals for the UK’s leading agricultural machinery, equipment and technology show, the organisers have announced. Visitors can now register for their free tickets. “We look forward to welcoming the farming community back to LAMMA once again,” said Nichola Bell, head of events for Agriconnect which organises the event. Nichola added: “With sustainability, production efficiency and food security at the top of the industry’s priority list, LAMMA is the perfect place for farmers and business owners to find the right tools and strategies help them achieve their goals.” The LAMMA team said it expects that more than 700 manufacturers, dealers and distributors will fill 11 halls at the NEC. The event will be showcasing the latest products, knowledge and services available to farmers and producers across the arable, horticulture and livestock sectors. Visitors can expect to see a return of familiar features such as the Farm Safety Zone, the ability to earn CPD points and a wide range of seminars on contemporary topics in agriculture. The Future Farming Trail, formerly known as the Farming 4.0 Trail, will also highlight exhibitors and products at the show with the potential to revolutionise the industry. Those wanting to be the first to know updates about the show can sign up for a newsletter on the event’s website.

Perfect tool for toughest of jobs

Trade expert at conference

COMMERCIAL FEATURE The Kodiak 450 is the perfect all-round, mid-sized ATV combining easy to use technology, outstanding durability and Yamaha reliability that enable you to take on the toughest jobs in extreme terrain. Add all-day riding comfort, low stress automatic transmission and a roomy riding position and you have a machine that punches well above its weight. The popular Kodiak 450 utilises a compact body design, making it better at moving in tight spaces, especially small gates. The riding position makes this an ideal ATV for farm work, whilst the unique lower sitting position of the Yamaha helps the rider to feel in the ATV, rather than on top of it, which improves handling and stability. The high torque 421cc 4-stroke EFI engine drives through Yamaha’s acclaimed Ultramatic automatic transmission for a smooth and effortless ride – and Yamaha’s industry-leading On Command

drive system enables the user to switch seamlessly between 2WD and 4WD when required, at the push of a button. The Kodiak has a class leading 120kg rack carrying capacity and 600kg towing capacity – together with a factory fitted WARN VRx25 winch which has the ability to pull more than 1134kg in total. This

enables the Kodiak to take on a wide variety of work in all conditions. This winch also features a load-holding mechanical brake to give better control when dragging heavy loads – and with 15m of steel rope, the winch is equipped to handle a range of duties in the forest, field, or farm.

One of the UK’s leading authorities on international trade policy will speak at Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales’ (HCC) annual conference. David Henig, the director of the UK Trade Policy Project at the think-tank European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE), is the latest presenter to sign up for the prestigious HCC stakeholder event held at the Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd, on November 10. ‘Food Security, Sustainability and the Future of Farming: how Wales can be part of the solution’ is the title of largest annual conference of the Welsh livestock and meat sector. The event will discuss the key challenges facing consumers and producers alike and focus on the impact of rising prices, the new trade environment after Brexit, the effect of Russia’s war in Ukraine and global issues of food security and the challenge of climate change and biodiversity – and how farming ‘The Welsh Way’ can provide solutions and best adapt to future consumers’ demands. Mr Henig said: “I will be talking specifically about what happens in the short term regarding UK trade and will be addressing globalisation and trade changes that will have a direct effect on the UK as a whole and, in particular, UK and Welsh farmers.” Mr Henig co-founded the UK Trade Forum, which brings together UK trade policy experts and has previously worked for the UK Government on EUUS trade negotiations and China-US issues. He has published analysis on global trade issues, such as the impacts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

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LAND WANTED

W. B Daw and Son are a family run mixed farming business based in the West Midlands We are looking for arable land for combinable crops and potatoes from annual to multi-year agreements. FBT’s or Contract/Share Farming Arrangements. •A broad rotation incorporating cover crops and organic manures •Wide range of cultivation and establishment methods •Grain storage, cleaning and drying with renewable heat •Modern, well-equipped machinery •Environmental schemes established and maintained Please contact Sam 07525 670 703 or James 07885 467 487 to discuss any opportunities.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

MACHINERY SECTION SPONSORED BY RVT

Technology aids nitrogen decisions With pressure mounting on farmers to measure and reduce their impact on water quality, Trinity AgTech has launched an enhanced module within their natural capital navigation tool, Sandy, to specifically support farmers to optimise nitrogen use and reduce nitrate leaching in real-time. Utilising more than 300 data points, the module has the potential to protect water through a substantial reduction in nitrate leaching and reduce costs by analysing each farm and field’s nitrogen uptake efficiency on a daily basis.

“Sandy’s dynamic water protection module will help all farmers to manage and reduce their impact on water quality, while also saving money through a reduction in nitrate wastage,” explained Dr Milad Toolabi, director of artificial intelligencemachine learning (AI-ML) advanced analytics at Trinity AgTech. “Sandy’s forecasting and scenario analysis capabilities can alert farmers to the optimum time and quantity of nitrogen to apply. This allows a precision approach to applications, contributing towards a cost

saving and a reduction in water pollution risk.” Having already been adopted by farms across Europe, UK farm trials have indicated improvements not only in terms of financial savings and efficiency but also for farm sustainability. “Reducing nitrogen usage also reduces carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from fertiliser applications, which significantly improves a farm’s sustainability or carbon score,” says Dr Toolabi. He added Sandy connects information already gathered

from the farm, such as soil data, regionality, crop information, application and management practices, alongside external metrics including weather data, to enable farmers to make realtime, evidence-based decisions. “Integrating with farm management software such as Gatekeeper and Muddyboots, farmers can use Sandy to map out the financial and environmental impact of immediate and future decisions,” he said. “Ultimately, it will help farmers profit from decision making, which is key for a sustainable, resilient business.”

Vet chief is thanked for work in key role As Wales’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Christianne Glossop, stands down after 17 years in the role, the Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths has thanked her for her “outstanding contribution” to animal health and welfare.

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Professor Glossop is Wales’s first Chief Veterinary Officer following the devolution of animal health and welfare powers in 2005. She was appointed after spending time in the State Veterinary Service, now known as APHA, dealing with the Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak of 2001 and then bovine TB. Lesley Griffiths said: “Christianne’s contribution to animal health and welfare in Wales is immense.

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Difficult “During her time as CVO she has dealt with a number of difficult animal disease outbreaks such as avian flu, the impact on Wales of the 2007 foot and mouth outbreak in England, as well as tirelessly working with her team on the TB Eradication programme. “In Wales we now have an Animal Health and Welfare Framework and key Programme for Government commitments on animal welfare set out in our five year plan. “The new Sustainable Farming Scheme will include modules focussing on animal health planning and biosecurity, aligning with the ambitions set out in Framework. “And we now also have a school of veterinary science at Aberystwyth University, the first in Wales, which Christianne is closely involved with. “There is so much for Christianne

P.W. Powell

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Massey Ferguson 7720 2017, 2680 hours, Dyna-6 Air brakes, Guidance ready, Full suspension Excellent condition Wales’s Chief Veterinary Officer Christianne Glossop is standing down after 17 years in the role

to be proud of during her time as CVO, I will miss her knowledge, advice and support and wish her the very best in her future endeavours.” Christianne Glossop said: “It has been a huge privilege to be the first Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales – it has been my dream job. “With the devolution of animal health and welfare powers it was a once in a generation chance to de-

sign the approach here in Wales, and I will always be grateful to have been part of that. “We have faced many challenges, including the 2007 foot and mouth disease outbreak in England, closely followed by the first case of Bluetongue into GB, and the continuing threat of avian flu, but I have been very fortunate to have an excellent team of vets and officials working

alongside me throughout. When I started in the post there was no hub of veterinary education and research in Wales and now we have the school of veterinary science in Aberystwyth, and so much more besides, which shows how far we’ve come in that time. I’m so very grateful for the opportunities I’ve had as CVO, and I look forward to the next chapter of my career as a vet.”

Massey Ferguson 7618 2014, 6200 hours, Dyna-6 Full suspension, Front linkage 2 electric & 2 manual spools Very good condition Hydraulic winch Good condition

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Features will help with data Field and farm management app fieldmargin has added new features to help users comply with assurance schemes and regulatory requirements. Records can now be annotated with weather, the start and finish times for each task, and the operator or team member who carried it out. “There’s more to farm records than simply keeping track of progress, or analysing performance,” says head of product Camilla HayseldenAshby. “Farm assurance and new regulations, be they legal obligations or environmental requirements, also rely on good record-keeping. Assessors and watchdogs expect farmers to have quick and easy access to this type of information.” The new features, now available on fieldmargin’s web, iOS and Android apps, allow users to record wind speed, direction, temperature and other weather factors for each field task completed. Start and finish times for each operation can also be added, while the app will also record which user was responsible for completion of each task. Data can be uploaded retrospectively, said Camilla. She said: “We’ve all been there – you’re in such a rush to get something done before the weather changes that any delay – even the couple of minutes it takes to open the app and record the information there and then – feels like too much.” Camilla said the new data features comply with farm assurance requirements for schemes from the likes of Global GAP, Red Tractor, Soil Association, Organic Farmers and Grower, and various supermarket protocols and marketing initiatives. Founded in the UK in 2014, fieldmargin is used by farmers in more than 170 countries.

THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Resilient systems will be put in the spotlight Farmers will have the chance later this month to see what leading crop production firm Hutchinsons is doing to build resilient farming systems. The firm says to help growers meet the challenges of rising costs, changes to support, and increasingly extreme weather events, it has been at the forefront of investing heavily in developing services and technologies that have been tested at a farm scale level across its national network of Helix farms. Visitors to the Hutchinsons stand at Croptec on November 23-24 will have

BY IAIN ST JOHN the opportunity to find out how these services and technologies can help to build more resilient farming systems that harness natural processes and reduce the need for artificial inputs. A company spokesperson said: “Hutchinsons are leading the way in trialling and testing agroecological farming practices on a farm scale level through the Helix Agroecology farm. A year into the project, there are many learnings about how these may be adopted onto your farm in a practical but also profitable and sustainable way. “Soil health is widely recognised as a

cornerstone of sustainable farming systems. However, it is key to understand your soil before making any significant structural or operational changes. “Hutchinsons soil scanning system, TerraMap provides the most accurate and repeatable soil mapping available. Now this can be aligned with the most comprehensive soil analysis to give an unrivalled soil nutritional and management service, TerraMap Gold. “The Omnia Digital Farming platform has continued to evolve and develop offering a range of innovative new developments using farm data, such as Cost of Production and Yield Performance mapping, Terramap, Carbon mapping, and

E-Seed. The most recent of these is the Business Performance planning module which uses this data to cost out a range of potential cropping and machinery scenarios in terms of both financial and CO2 equivalent performance. “Omnia also now provides a management platform to complete all of the SFI Soil standard requirements in a functional and easy way, allowing you to improve your soil health and gain your SFI Soils Standard payment. To ensure it remains up-to-date as scheme requirements change, updates are already planned to accommodate the wider release of other SFI measures in the future, such as the Advanced Standard due in 2024.”

Firm’s team ready to assist New offices and more team members are the commitment Lely Wales is making to develop new business and service existing customers throughout the country. The new Lely Center Wales was officially opened in September with a hog roast attended by many existing customers and new dairy and beef producers looking to farm smarter in the future. The new offices are at Hafod, Peniel, and the phone number has changed to 01267 232318. The new Lely Wales team has been announced. Clive Thomas, sales representative, has been with Lely for two years and previously worked in tractor sales for more than 20 years. Dafydd Jenkins, sales representative, is new to Lely who previously worked for a big brand country store before joining the team. Ifanwy Leonard, farm management support, is also new to Lely, and joins from a big brand country store and previously worked for a Lely Center Wales customer. Rhodri Lorenz, a service engineer with five years’ experience, will be a cus-

LLANSILIN TRACTORS AGRICULTURALENGINEERS 01691 791460 www.llansilintractors.co.uk

MF 7726S. 2019, Dyna VT,3900 Hours, Front Linkage, 50 Kph, Air Brakes, 4 Spools, Guidance Ready. MF 7722S. 2019, 2300 Hours, Dyna VT, New Tyres all round been on row crops MF 7722S. 2019, 2500 Hours, Dyna 6, Exclusive, Front Linkage, Full Guidance. MF 7719S. 2019, 3100 Hours, Front Linkage, Dyna VT. MF 7718S. 2020, 1900 Hours, Dyna 6, Front Links & Pto. MF 7718S. 2020, 2100 Hours, Dyna 6, 50Kph, Air Brakes, 4 Spools, Eco Pto. MF 7616. 2013, 8100 Hours, Front links & Pto, Air Brakes. MF 5470. 2008, 4300 Hours, MF Loader, Front Links & Pto, Front Suspention. MF 6490. 2009, Front & Cab Suspention, Front Links & Pto. MF 8670. 2012,7000 Hours, 50Kph, Front Linkage, Front Axle and Cab, Suspension, Guidance Ready. John Deere 1365 Trailed Mower, 2011, Very Good Condition. Manitou 1050R Skid Loader. New Hands/Foot Control System, 2022, C/W LWC 5ft Bucket, As New Condition. Herbst Low Loader Trailer. 2017, 16 Ton Gross, 21FT, Tandem Axle.

Tractor run for charity

The team is ready to assist customers

tomer of Lely in the next coming months with Vector feeding system. Tom Windsor, service engineer, has been a member of the team for five years, and his family milk with robots on their family farm. Jack Cox, now general manager, previously worked in the truck industry and has a longstanding history of working within agriculture. The firm said that by adding three

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new members to the team, and investing in a new office and service base, Lely is making a major commitment to Welsh agriculture, enabling its technology and support to move dairy and beef farmers forwards through the challenging times faced ahead. “We look forward to hearing from any dairy or beef producer who’s interested in embracing this new technology,” said general manager Jack Cox.

Scores of tractors drove around the South Shropshire countryside in a bid to raise money for charity. The Corvedale Tractor Run saw up to 100 vehicles taking part, all to raise funds for Culmington Village Hall and the MS Society. Peter Caine, who had suggested the event, said that the route was about 30 miles long – setting off from Seifton Farm in Culmington, and finishing at the same venue. Mr Caine, who was taking part in his own 1958 Massey Ferguson, said they were grateful to Pat and John Turley for providing the field to host the start and finish of the run. The event also included catering from Andrew Francis with the drivers able to fuel up on a variety of cooked breakfast baps from 8am before setting off at 10am.

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TRACTORS MF7724SExclusiveSpecDyna6,2018,Guidanceready,3270hours ...........£65000 MF8S265EﬃcientSpecDyna7. ExDemo. Bigsavingonnew.............................. POA MF5712SLc/wMFLoader,2017,Suspension,Excellentcondition.................£43000 MF5455Dyna4c/wTrimaLoader,2009,VTidy..................................................£25950 MF8S225 Dyna7,Fullspec,New................................................................................. POA

TELEHANDLERS Merlo33.7,2019,BSS,PUH.......................................................................................Duein Merlo32.6,2008,BSS,PUH,Lowhours..................................................................Duein Merlo40.7. 2009,BSS,PUH,Nicemachine ........................................................£19,750 TRACTORS

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MF 7724S Exclusive Spec Dyna 6, 2018, Guidance ready, 3270 hours...........£67000 MF 8S 265 Eﬃcient Spec Dyna 7. Ex Demo. Big saving on new...............................POA MF 5712SL c/w MF Loader, 2017,Suspension, Excellent condition................£43000 MF 5455 Dyna 4 c/w Trima Loader, 2009, V Tidy..................................................£25950 MF 8S 225 Dyna 7, Full spec, New..................................................................................POA

MF 8S 265 Eﬃcient Spec Dyna 7. Ex Demo. Big saving on new...............................POA MF 5712SL c/w MF Loader, 2017,Suspension, Excellent condition................£43000 MF 5455 Dyna 4 c/w Trima Loader, 2009, V Tidy..................................................£25950 MF 8S 265 Dyna 7, Full spec, New ..................................................................................POA MF 7726 D6 Exclusive Spec, 4500 hours,..............................................................£Due in

Merlo 33.7 , 2019, BSS, PUH....................................................................................... Due in Merlo 34.10, 2012, BSS, 5500 hours 10m boom.................................................£24,500 Merlo 40.7. 2009, BSS, PUH,.................................................................................. £19,750

NEW & USED MACHINERY

New Strimech Buckets and Grabs ex stock MF 9280 AL Delta Combine, 2012, 30ft Power Flow, Excellent condition..........£POA Strimech Manure Fork, Manitou Brackets, Done little work.................................£1250 McHale C470 long Body Straw/Silage Bedder/Feeder, 2015...............................£7500 Lely Lotus Stabilo 900 Tedder. 9 metre Excellent...................................................£7500 Vicon 523 4 Rotor Tedder............................................................................................£2950 New McHale F5500 Round Baler, c/w Chopper...........................................................POA New Browns Hydraulic Swinground Post Hammer.................................................£4950 2 x 800/65-32 Combine Tyres and Wheels [ as good as new]

NEW & USED MACHINERY

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Merlo 33.7 , 2019, BSS, PUH....................................................................................... Due in Merlo 32.6, 2008 , BSS, PUH, Low hours.................................................................. Due in Merlo 40.7. 2009, BSS, PUH, Nice machine,....................................................... £19,750

NEW & USED MACHINERY

New Strimech Buckets and Grabs ex stock MF 7274,Combine 2004, 25ft . Auto level,Tidy combine........................................£POA Strimech Manure Fork, Manitou Brackets, Done little work.................................£1250 McHale C470 long Body Straw/Silage Bedder/Feeder, 2015...............................£7500 Lely Lotus Stabilo 900 Tedder. 9 metre Excellent...................................................£7500 Vicon 523 4 Rotor Tedder............................................................................................£2950 New McHale F5500 Round Baler, c/w Chopper...........................................................POA New Browns Hydraulic Swinground Post Hammer.................................................£4950 New Fleming 7ft Hyd,tipping transport box, [ shop soiled]....................................£950 Kuhn Hyd Vari width 5 furrow plough, Very little used ..............................................POA

MF7274,Combine2004,25ft.Autolevel,Tidycombine........................................£POA 01952 463840 StrimechManureFork,ManitouBrackets,Donelittlework.................................£1250 McHaleC470longBodyStraw/SilageBedder/Feeder,2015.............................. £6950 LelyLotusStabilo900Tedder.9metreExcellent.................................................. £7500 Vicon5234RotorTedder........................................................................................... £2950 NewMcHaleF5500RoundBaler,c/wChopper.......................................................... POA NewBrownsHydraulicSwingroundPostHammer................................................ £4950 NewFleming7ftHyd,tippingtransportbox, [shopsoiled] ....................................£950 Kuhn HydVariwidthAutoReset5furrowplough,Verylittleused...................£11000 GrainBucket1.7cumetreBucket,Pin&Cone...........................................................£600 www.keithdaviesagric ultural.co.uk

Trevor Davies 07976 735441 Keith Davies 07970 105257

a member of our team on 01743 283334 or 01952 241316

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

A milestone is celebrated Some important milestones were celebrated at this year’s Newark Vintage Tractor & Heritage Show. And one such milestone included the 50th anniversary of a true workhorse – the Massey Ferguson 1200. The MF 1200 was the first articulated four-wheel tractor to be manufactured in Britain. It can be credited with changing the concept of agricultural engineering, despite some early production blips. The tractor was powered by a Perkins six-cylinder diesel engine giving 105hp, with its box-like body featuring a steelnosed bonnet and integral cab – and of course, the central pivot giving it the articulation and manoeuvrability it’s renowned for. These icons of their time were exhibited at the Newark Vintage Tractor & Heritage Show this month, with one long-time collector sharing his passion for this more unusual tractor that came into his possession some 20 years ago. “I like to see and show my tractors in what I call their working clothes,” said 79-year-old Peter Tack, who keeps himself busy between his haulage company and his collection in Crowland, Peterborough. “Everyone has their own preferences; I like something different, that you might not see many of, and I choose to keep them how they look after a working life.” “I was looking for a bigger fourwheeled tractor through a dealer,” he explained about how he first became interested in the MF 1200. “They didn’t have exactly what I was looking for, however, they asked if I would be interested in seeing a Massey Ferguson 1200.”

Stable outlook for beef sector BY IAIN ST JOHN With tight meat supplies worldwide and the crisis in Ukraine adding to concerns over food security, the latest market update by Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) forecasts a stable long-term outlook for production in the beef sector in Wales. And that is despite current inflation issues affecting both farmers and consumers. HCC’s Monthly Market Bulletin analyses latest cattle census data from the British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS), concluding that supplies onto the market may increase slightly in the next six months, but that thereafter steady production patterns will resume barring unforeseen events. According to latest figures, the total number of cattle and calves on the ground in Britain stood at eight million head as of July 1 – an increase of 0.3 per cent on the year, but 0.5 per cent smaller

A stable long-term outlook for production in the beef sector in Wales is forecast

than in July 2020. Beef cattle numbers recorded an increase of 0.7 per cent to 5.2 million head, whilst the dairy herd contracted by 0.6 per cent – a continuation of the trend seen in recent years. Looking in more detail, the comparatively plentiful supply of cattle of 12-30 months of age largely destined for beef production would indicate strong pro-

duction volumes in the short term. However the census figures suggest that the contraction in both the beef and dairy breeding herds due to increased throughput of older cattle could act as a limiting factor on further growth in beef production. Visit meatpromotion.wales for more details and information about the figures.

‘Get ahead on emissions’ Dairy farmers have been urged to “get ahead of the curve” when it comes to implementing technical efficiency measures to help reduce their carbon footprint, instead of waiting for policy to catch up. This was one of the take-home messages delivered to around 70 farmers who attended an open-farm dairy day organised by SAC Consulting, part of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), in Wigtownshire. The ‘Chewing the Cud About Dairy Cows and Carbon’ event centred around equipping farmers with knowledge and tools to practically implement on their farm, which would help reduce emissions and drive overall productivity. During visits to different workshops over the course of the day, farmers heard from a range of experts offering advice on improving soil health and nutrient management planning, to calf rearing, feed efficiency and renewables opportunities. The workshops took place on the host farm Culscadden, where Peter and Sarah Simpson have built up their milking herd to 1,000 cows, breeding all their own replacements and selling 750 Angus beef cross calves to Marks and Spencer, annually. “Climate change is massively important to us as a society and to us as farmers who are going to have to farm in the new environment and we have a role to play in reducing our emissions and being part of the solution, both in terms of sequestration and reducing our own emissions,” said Sarah. “We see real opportunities that we can provide, in producing a climate friendly solution to what the supply chain requires.”

KIDD TRAILED 450 STRAW SHREDDER Capacity 4.50 m3 Swivel chute 270 degree Rear remote control to tail gate & floor conveyor allowing easy loading. Can be used for straw, silage, hay and haylage of any shape up to 5ft wide Drive line protected by shear bolt, also slip and overrun clutch WEST MAELSTROM 10T REAR DISCHARGE MUCK SPREADER 10 Ton , year 2022 Wooden extensions, Slurry door, LED Lights 580/70 R38 Tyres, Wide angle PTO, 14mm Marine bed chain & sprockets ROOT CHOPPER BUCKET 2 Meter wide, 1.6m cube capacity, 1100mm deep Left or right discharge, Single auger, Hydraulic door, Available with 13 blade root chopper and stone trap PRODIG SHEAR GRAB Available in widths of 1.5m, 1.8m & 2.2m. Hardox tines & cutting blades Nickel chrome plated hydraulic rams PRODIG SHEAR BUCKET Width 1.8m & 2.2m, Large capacity bucket Wide opening shear to split round bales with plastic film & net retainer

CURRENT STOCK

New

More stock available on www.wm-agrieng.co.uk

TYM T555, 55hp, full cab, manual..............................POA TYM T455, 45hp, Loader & bucket ............................POA TYM T395, 39hp, full cab, air con, turf tyres .............POA TYM T255, 25hp, rear & mid PTO .............................POA Concept PK300 Power harrow ....................................POA Concept MT280 Flail mower ......................................POA Corvus Terrain DX4 Cab EPS T21..............................POA Kidd Bale shredder 450 ...............................................POA Kidd toppers 6ft & 9ft .................................................POA Moulton yard scraper....................................................£820 Moulton Silage pusher .................................................£840 NC I-Series 1850-14 Silage Trailer, 14Ton..................POA Prodig BH500 bale handler .........................................POA Prodig 1.8m shear grab ................................................POA Storth 10m dribble bar .................................................POA Storth 20ft lagoon stirrer ...........................................£2,800 Merlo 34.7, 2014, 4000hrs, boom suspension .............POA Manitou MLT731, 2004yr............................................POA JCB 530/70, 1997 ........................................................POA Ballast 10ft roller ......................................................£1,200 Dragon Bale trailer 25ft ............................................£4,000 Fleming topper 9ft as new ........................................£2,400 Fleming 6T tipping trailer .........................................£3,500 Herbst 16T low loader, 2017yr..................................£8,600 Kubota Single rotor rake 2019yr ..............................£4,200 Kuhn 4410 lift control plain mower ............................POA Major 750 rotor spreader ..........................................£2,800 NC 1855-14 silage trailer, 14T, 2009yr, hyd door.......POA Teagle Tomahawk 8500 Straw bedder 2013.............£5,300 Twose 6.3m Cambridge rolls ....................................£4,850 Weaver 3m tine drill ....................................................POA

SALES, SPARES, SERVICE, HIRE

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For For Sale: Sale:

ready to go. £25000+vat

-John Deere 7530 Premium Full Spec 50kph, -*Due In* JCB 526-56 2008 6500hours

Auto quad. YOM: 2011 Front Linkage and PTO 13,429hours £36500 +vat -Various JCB Loadall and John Deere -Due in JCB 526-56 Agri 2011 Tractors Coming into stock. call -Due in JCB 536-60 Agri Super 2008Please 7500hours. if you are looking for anything -*SOLD* JCB 536-70 Agri Super, 2015, 6500 hours *SOLD* -Choice of strimech loader attachments available. Part exconsidered considered Part ex Tom: 07951291545 Tom: 07951291545

Grassland farm is available for sale

Used

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

• Service and on site repairs on Telescopic Handlers • Air Conditioning Servicing & Repairs on Site Telephone

Wayne Bowen 077919 00051 www.matbro-man.co.uk

Old Hall at Willey near Presteigne

A productive grassland farm is for sale by private treaty through McCartneys. Old Hall at Willey near Presteigne is an attractive and productive grassland farm. McCartneys said: “The property includes a Grade II listed, four bedroom farmhouse, together with a range of modern and traditional farm buildings, with conversion potential subject to planning consent, and approximately 215.91 acres of productive grassland and woodland. “The property offers prospective purchasers the opportunity to purchase a private farmstead which requires complete renovation, which may have development potential for alternate uses, such as residential, tourism etc, subject to obtaining consent. “Old Hall is considered not only to be suitable to deliver conventional livestock and arable enterprises but also provides an opportunity to capitalise upon the natural assets of the holding and deliver environmental benefits. “The topography and nature of the land may offer additional biodiversity and natural capital opportunities and provide prospects for possible income generation and capital growth in future. “The farm benefits from a plethora of biodiversity in the form of permanent pasture, mature woodland, trees, hedgerows, watercourses and areas of natural regeneration which may provide environmental oppor-

tunities including mitigating carbon in the future. Old Hall is situated within a scenic area of north west Herefordshire, and within a short distance from the quaint Welsh border town of Presteigne. “The town features a variety of independent shops and provides a range of amenities including cafes, restaurants, greengrocers, and family butchers. “Further afield, the local market towns of Knighton, five miles, Kington, 10 miles, Ludlow, 15 miles, and Hereford, 26 miles, provide a wider range of shops, schools and services. “The farm offers a unique opportunity to purchase a substantial farm of 215.91 acres together with a Grade II listed farmhouse, a range of traditional and modern farm buildings, as a whole, or in the seven lots as follows: “Lot one: Farmhouse, range of modern and traditional buildings, and approximately 52.39 acres of grassland and woodland. “Lot two: Farm buildings and approximately 38.38 acres of grassland and woodland. Lot three: Approximately 36.58 acres of grassland. Lot four: Approximately 34.43 acres of grassland and woodland. Lot five: Approximately 21.60 acres of grassland. “Lot six: Approximately 18.09 acres of grassland. Lot seven: Approximately 6.18 acres of grassland.” Further details from McCartneys LLP’s Kington office on 01544 230316 or Gareth Wall or Beth Gilbert on 07974 143336.

Company strengthens team with its new appointment Allflex Livestock Intelligence has appointed Jack Thomas as the company’s monitoring business development manager in Wales. Jack will be responsible for overseeing sales of the company’s SenseHub livestock monitoring systems throughout the whole of the country. Jack hails from Cowbridge where he was brought up on his family’s mixed beef and sheep farm. Having graduated from Shropshire’s Harper Adams University in 2017 with a BSc degree in agribusiness, Jack spent two years working for MSD Animal Health as a member of the company’s on-farm sheep and calf health team. He subsequently spent 12 months as a business development manager for KiwiKit before spending another two years with the AHDB as part of its HerdAdvance project to improve the health and performance of Welsh dairy herds. Jack joined Allflex in the summer and is responsible for the sales of the SenseHub livestock monitoring system to dairy and beef farmers throughout

Wales: the SenseHub system uses intelligent neck collars and/or ear tags to constantly monitor the subtle movement and behavioural patterns associated with rumen health, fertility, and general well-being. The data generated can then be used by herd managers to proactively improve their herd’s performance, productivity and profitability by improving the accuracy of heat detection and providing early warnings of the onset of any underlying health, nutrition or heat-stress related issues. Paul Mitcham, Allflex’s monitoring manager, said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Jack to the Allflex Livestock Intelligence team and look forward to working with him to improve our scope and reach throughout Wales. “With the sustainability and viability of livestock farms coming under continued pressure from rising input prices and an ever-more demanding legislative burden, SenseHub has a useful role to play in improving the fertility and health indices of all dairy and beef herds.”

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Access to land ‘still key’ Area payments have “hobbled” farming’s tenanted sector for more than 15 years, says the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV) in its latest Annual Agricultural Land Occupation Survey, for 2021. This is the latest in the CAAV series of surveys going back to the late 1970s showing decisions about the letting of land. The survey also reviews the varied lengths of FBTs being granted and the reasons for them, showing how good use can be made of their freedom of contract to suit business circumstances. The CAAV says as area subsidy payments, single and basic payment, have paid people to occupy land, so they have reduced activity in the let sector. Amid current policy discussions concerning agriculture and as Basic Payment is lost, making full use of the tenanted sector is an important part of the changes required to tackle British farming’s productivity challenge, says CAAV secretary and adviser Jeremy Moody. He said: “Access for proficient farmers, existing and new, to land is a key constraint on raising productivity. “The CAAV is actively looking at ways to tackle the stasis in land occupation reported in our surveys, with answers lying in areas such as taxation and housing. “We are pleased to continue to contribute on these themes to the work of DEFRA’s Agricultural Productivity Task Force and elsewhere.” The full survey can be seen on the CAAV website at www.caav.org.uk/resources/free-publications

New faces join board at group

Insight given on varieties

BY IAIN ST JOHN Menter a Busnes has welcomed several new members to its board, including, for the first time, two young non-executive directors. Earlier this year, the leading independent economic company created a post to give an ambitious person under the age of 30 valuable board and governance experience and the opportunity to contribute to the direction and development of the company. Following a rigorous selection process, the company’s board appointed two young non-executive directors – Elin Havard and Erin Gwenlli Thomas. The board’s chair, Fflur Jones, said Menter a Busnes had recently reviewed its governance arrangements. “As part of that review, we identified that our board was not quite reflective of the society Menter a Busnes seeks to represent and serve, in that we did not have younger people under the age of 30 on the board. “The board also agreed that as an or-

Dylan Owen, Dr Prysor Williams, Elin Havard, and Erin Gwenlli Thomas

ganisation renowned for its support to budding Welsh businesses and its own entrepreneurship as a company, Menter a Busnes should offer the opportunity for younger board members to join our ranks. This would give young and aspiring members of our communities the chance to grow and gain experience of board membership, but also to bring

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their own unique perspectives and experiences as younger people to the board. “After a competitive process, we were delighted to appoint Elin Havard and Erin Gwenlli Thomas to the board.” Erin and Elin are among four new directors who have taken their places at the board table, and include Dr Prysor Williams and Dylan Owen.

More than 60 maize growers and contractors from across the north west had an insight into the latest varieties and growing techniques when Hutchinsons opened the doors to its Carlisle Maize Regional Technology Centre in Cumbria in September. It is the 13th year Smalmstown Farm had hosted the maize trials, which are tailored to finding new ways of maximising the output of maize grown under film and open ground in the more marginal growing conditions often experienced in northern and western parts of the country. “Although conditions have generally been pretty good this year, our climate in this area can be less conducive to warm-season crops,” explained Hutchinsons agronomist Jim Clark. “Up here, many growers establish maize under film to mitigate some of the early season risks from cooler temperatures in spring, but the technique creates its own challenges and requires considerable investment, so maximising crop output is vital to secure the future of maize growing in such areas.” Mr Clark expected the Carlisle maize plots to be harvested around the end of September into early October and said yield and quality results would then be analysed over the autumn. With over 17 varieties on display both under film and in the open, visitors to the trials day had plenty of opportunity to look at the performance of established and new varieties showcasing a range of early to late maturities. The trials demonstrated the latest varieties under film from a range of leading plant breeders.

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TAG Allscott Sales Team Tallis Amos Group has confirmed three Sales appointments for it’s new deppot in Shropshire at Allscott between Shrewsbury and Telford. Thee announcement follows TAG’s confirmation in July that it had been apppointed as the John Deere dealer to cover Shrewsbury and Newport in Shrropshire. The new depot is due to open soon.

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Company is boosted by experts’ appointments Agri-tech veterans, Scott Millar and Louise Rix, have joined Trinity AgTech in farmer-facing roles as customer success managers. Both coming from agri-tech businesses, their new positions will see them support new and existing farm customers to measure and optimise their natural capital assets using Trinity AgTech’s smart natural capital navigator, Sandy. As a gateway between Trinity’s products and services and the end user, their cross-sector agricultural expertise means improved, tailored support for farmers who are looking to build their business resilience, profitability and sustainability. Mr Millar has spent a decade working in business development, and hails from rural roots, having graduated from Hartpury

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University with a degree in agriculture and land management. He will be supporting Trinity’s livestock and dairy customers in his new role. “I believe credible and high-quality carbon and biodiversity scoring and optimisation will play a key role in advancing farmers’ needs for higher profitability and sustainability and Trinity has the most robust system in the market to help farmers achieve their maximum potential,” he said. Also bolstering the team’s expertise with over 10 years working in customer-facing roles working directly with farmers is Ms Rix. Coupled with a strong background in agriculture, Ms Rix joins Trinity AgTech to support the company’s arable and horticulture customers.

Advice service is hailed a hit A free service offering farmers biosecurity advice to prevent the spread of TB has been rated excellent and useful by the majority of farmers who accessed it. Sarah Tomlinson, technical director at the TB Advisory Service (TBAS) – which offers livestock farmers in England free biosecurity advice to protect their animals from TB – said she was delighted to share a report highlighting the success of the service between 2017 and 2021. She said: “The report shows 2,280 farms were visited and 2,400 farmers were given over-the-phone advice from TBAS over the four-year-period with 90 per cent rating the service as excellent and 92 per cent saying the recommendations given to them were very useful. “This is really encouraging as it shows TBAS has provided value to thousands of farmers and has hopefully empowered them to see TB as an infectious disease that they can take steps to control, rather than something completely out of their control.” Mrs Tomlinson said the service is designed to show farmers while there are things they can’t control, there are things they can control on their own farm. She explained: “TBAS is proactive; we’re trying to reduce the risk of the next TB breakdown on a farm by helping farmers to implement certain measures, but it’s also a tool to go onto a farm where there is a breakdown.” The report found the five most com-

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Sarah Tomlinson

mon recommendations given to farmers at the end of a visit were: install wildlife cameras; use the ibTB website prior to purchasing animals to ascertain the time of a farm’s last TB breakdown; add barriers to the bottom of gates and doors; use electric fencing to protect routes of entry; and feed animals in badger-proof troughs. “Each farmer was given four recommendations and the report shows 43 per cent had completed three of them by their six-month follow-up call, and just over half had completed two of the tasks,” said Mrs Tomlinson. She is keen to remind the industry that TBAS is available to all farm businesses in England and TB susceptible species including camelids and goats.

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Scholars’ presentations will look at a variety of issues The Nuffield scholars who will this year present the findings from their study travels have been announced by the Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust. The scholars will make their presentations at the Nuffield Farming Conference. The event will take place at Cardiff City Hall on November 23-24. This year will be the first time new scholar presentations will be made in person at the conference since 2019. Tickets to attend this year’s Nuffield Farming Conference and Annual Dinner are now available to purchase

on the Nuffield Farming website, along with additional event details. Scholars will make presentations on a variety of farming issues including biodiversity for the future of fruit farming, managing landscapes to produce sustainable venison in the UK and latest investments in technology and innovation. Microbiological food safety in fresh produce and how to encourage an ethnically diverse workforce in the agricultural, farming and veterinary sectors are also two of the topics up for discussion.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Solar ‘is still a bright idea’ Installing solar PV technology is a ‘no-brainer’ for farmers thinking about investing in long-term energy security and could pay for itself within two to three years, SAC Consulting has said. Senior renewables consultant John Farquhar has reported a surge in interest from farmers looking to take advantage of this ‘low-risk, high reward’ investment. He explained traditionally, solar panels would return around 5p/kWh exported to the grid, but over the last three months, in response to rising electricity prices, he has seen this increase to over 15p/kWh. He said: “Over the last three months our team has been receiving five to 10 calls a week from farmers enquiring about solar PV installations. “With the export tariff rate unlikely to drop for the foreseeable future, farmers could make their money back within two to three years, whereas before they would have been looking at around seven years. “Solar installations are very straightforward from a planning point of view, and we would suggest looking at roof-mounting panels on sheds. “Dairy farmers have traditionally been very quick to invest in solar, due to often high refrigeration costs, but we are seeing a spike in interest from livestock farms with lower input costs, looking to take advantage of selling electricity back into the grid.” Poultry farmer John Seed of Woodend Farming Partnership invested in a 75kW solar roof-mount on his farm in July this year, which he explained has offset power costs by at least £27,000 a year.

Birthday delight for leading ﬁrm BY IAIN ST JOHN Yoghurt giant Muller launched a birthday cake flavour to celebrate 30 years being headquartered in north Shropshire. Residents of Market Drayton were the first to try the new product after a stand was set up under The Buttercross in the town. This year marks 30 years since Muller opened its production site in Market Drayton, which is home to the Muller Corner, Mullerlight and Muller Rice, and houses about 800 employees. And to celebrate its milestone anniversary, the company made an exclusive batch of Muller Corner Birthday Cake flavour yoghurt with a raspberry layer and cake pieces. Only 200 pots were made nationwide and residents were the first to sample the product before the dairy company gave its social media followers the opportunity to win a limited edition pot. Pam Walgate, a laboratory co-ordinator with Muller Yoghurt & Desserts in Market Drayton, spent the day meeting

Pam Walgate celebrated 30 years of Muller in Market Drayton

local people and helping to hand out free products. She said: “I can distinctly remember our first branded products coming off the first production line back in 1992, it was such a proud moment for us all. “Obviously the business has grown and developed over the last 30 years into one of the most loved, recognised and

trusted brands in the country. But what hasn’t changed is that we are still a family-owned business, and close-knit group – it is so much more than just a job. “It was a pleasure to hand out our exclusive birthday cake Muller Corner to the people of Market Drayton and to thank them for being so welcoming to our business for the last 30 years.”

Investment move ‘easier’ Planning investment in farm plant and machinery will be easier following the recent Financial Statement by former Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng, an industry expert has said. After years of fluctuations when it has been as low as £25,000 and was due to revert from £1m to £200,000 from April 2023, the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) for plant and machinery has now been set permanently at £1m. That means that all qualifying investments up to £1m can be set against tax, rather than written off over years. Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser at the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV), welcomed the announcement. “CAAV has talked to the Treasury about the need for greater stability in the AIA, especially given the uncertainties of today’s supply chains,” he said. “Farmers should be able to make a timely investment for good reasons, not just to get a tax relief, but the difficulty has been knowing when to invest and whether the that the allowance would be available. A farmer can now decide to invest in robotic milking machines, for example, and not be at risk should they not be delivered until next April.” The new Government has also committed to making a policy statement on agricultural productivity, picking this sector out as important, alongside digital connectivity and planning, said Mr Moody. He said: “I see this as essential after the last 30 years of falling behind competitor nations.”

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Innovative trial flags up the benefits of additive An innovative trial exploring if a new slurry additive can improve nutrient availability in digestate has shown a 20.3 per cent increase in available nitrogen content and a 29 per cent reduction in dry matter solids after the first year. The new Digest-It slurry additive from Origin Fertilisers is a live liquid biological bacteria that has been used in digestate for the first time and has been well proven to significantly reduce ammonia emissions and increase ammonium nitrogen levels in slurry. The trial took place at a 1.2MW anaerobic digestion plant in Lincolnshire. The 20.3 per cent increase in ammonium nitrogen was shown after a 12-week period following the application of Digest-It. A further 29 per cent reduction in oven dry solids

has translated to the digestate being easier to pump, which in turn has reduced machinery wear and fuel use, along with shortening filling times. As an outcome of reducing solid content, the digestate has a thinner consistency and is therefore easier for the plants to absorb following application to the soil. Plants aren’t using as much energy to search for nitrogen, and nitrogen losses through volatilisation are reduced. Callum Norman, speciality sales manager at Origin Fertilisers, who was involved in the trial, said while the headline increases make excellent reading, the wider benefits of applying Digest-It shouldn’t be overlooked. He said: “The treated digestate had less nitrogen content than the untreated product.”

Company set to have new chief Llyr Roberts has been announced as the new chief executive officer of Menter a Busnes. He will succeed Alun Jones who is stepping down after 20 years as head of the leading independent economic development company. The company employs 150 people and specialises in tailored support for new and growing businesses throughout Wales and beyond, including farming businesses. A founder and managing director of strategic development consultancy Blwbo Limited, Llyr has a very successful track record designing and evaluating major strategic initiatives and assisting high-profile organisations in delivering their business goals. A fluent Welsh speaker, Llyr has worked with a range of clients, including UEFA, Football Association of Wales, Welsh Rugby Union, Sport Wales and Public Health Wales. Llyr delivered key strategic initiatives and was responsible for the development of the last two strategic plans during his 10 years in Welsh football – a period of unprecedented success for the game in Wales. For Llyr, taking up the position is somewhat of a return to his roots, as early in his career, he worked as a senior consultant with the not-for-profit company, which is based in Aberystwyth with offices throughout Wales. He said, “I’m delighted to be returning to Menter a Busnes, an organisation that has

Llyr Roberts

been at the heart of Welsh economy and culture for over 30 years. “There is an excellent team ethos at Menter and Busnes and the organisation is well placed to serve and support individuals, businesses and communities across Wales. I’m looking forward to working with the team to ensure that our high-quality services are accessible and outcome focused. “One of my initial tasks will be to reflect on how the company continues to support the Welsh Government’s commitments in its Programme for Government. I would like to see Menter a Busnes align itself with that vision and look at business opportunities in sectors for the future. We are in an excellent position to help shape the future of Wales.”

Loader feature will help save operators time, says firm Fendt has developed a new front loader with a dedicated valve block, new weighing function, greater flexibility of movement, and heavier load carrying capacity. The Cargo 6 will be available on the new Gen7 700 Vario tractors and is the first Fendt loader to be fully independent, making it possible to use all the tractor valves with the loader attached. Fendt’s Ed Dennett said: “It is a function that will help in so many situations. Having a loader with three independent functions – lift, tip and

a third valve – without using valves needed for other implements will save operators time and enable tractors fitted with this loader to be more versatile. “A clever new hydraulic locking function enables tools to be changed in any position with the added benefit of an easy-to-use mechanical lock and without having to crowd back the loader fully. Maintenance time has also been considered by positioning all hydraulic components in the cross beam to reduce dirt and mechanical damage.”

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022 | THE FARMER

Barn to become a machinery garage after approval given Plans to convert a barn into a garage which specialises in repairing farm machinery have been approved by councillors in Mid Wales. An application by David Thomas to change the use of agricultural land and a building on land at Lledrod, north of Llansilin, was discussed at a meeting of Powys County Council’s planning committee. Councillor for the area Aled Davies had “called in” the application to be decided by the committee. But due to him having a prejudicial conflict of interest, Councillor Peter Lewis who

represents the neighbouring ward of Llanfyllin, spoke on the application in his place. Councillor Lewis said: “I believe that rural businesses are the backbone of our communities in Powys and must be supported.” He stressed the need to keep farm machinery maintained especially during times of increased work, such as harvest. “The granting of planning consent will allow us to move forward with our business, which provides a valuable asset to the local farming committee,” David Thomas said.

Climate change affecting birds

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Climate change is already having an impact on the bird species found on the Welsh moorlands of Rhug Estate, bosses have said. The moorlands are one of the most important areas of upland habitat in the country. A recent study has shown while certain bird species are thriving, there are others that have seen significant declines. Following a successful application to the Welsh Government, the Rhug Estate, along with Llanarmon and Rhiwlas North Wales Moorland Partnership, has been able to carry out a survey of breeding birds on these moorlands. Ornithologist Keith Offord has extensive experience of the Berwyns going back 45 years. Last year he set about expanding the usual surveying as part of the project so that Rhug Estate could learn more about the bird life on the moors. Most strikingly, comparing the situation today with 45 years ago there have been significant declines in certain species with corresponding increases in others. In the meantime, there are some species which appear stable. Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate, said: “We value Keith’s expertise in this area and appreciate the extensive survey work he has already carried out. It is heart-wrenching to learn of the species we may never see here again as a result of how the climate is changing.” The species which have declined, or are now absent, are Golden Plover, Ring Ouzel, Red Grouse, Black Grouse, Snipe,

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Edwards & Farmer Ltd, Chatford, Bayston Hill, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY30AY

A Meadow Pipit. Photo by Keith Offord.

Wheatear, Dunlin, Merlin, and Curlew. One very obvious common factor for many of the birds which are declining according to Keith Offord, is that they are specialist upland species which are on the southern limit of their UK range. Species showing an increase in numbers include Carrion Crow, Common Buzzard, Red Kite, Hobby, Raven, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Blackbird and Wren. Those whose numbers are stable include Hen Harrier, Kestrel, Cuckoo, Whinchat, Stonechat, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Reed Bunting. Despite declines in some species, others are managing to thrive perfectly well, a good example being the Meadow Pipit.

Worries grow over the quality of school meals Children face a deterioration in school meals due to shortages and increasing prices, a survey suggests. More than 90 per cent of the 99 school meal providers polled by Laca The School Food People across England and Wales said they are experiencing food shortages, with more than 60 per cent saying this has not improved since May. Bread, fish, cheese, pasta and potatoes are the items most affected. The survey also found that prices have risen by a further 30 per cent since May. This is in addition to the 20 per cent price increases Laca members reported in May, compared with April 2020. According to the survey, some caterers have experienced 50 per cent price increases since May.

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The survey also found 28 per cent are now using more processed foods to cope with rising costs, while almost 35 per cent are considering switching from British meat to meat from abroad. The survey found 52.2 per cent expect the quality of school meals to continue getting worse over the coming weeks and months. Laca is calling on the Government to increase funding per meal for both Universal Infant Free School Meals – currently £2.41 – and Free School Meals – currently £2.47 – to address the current cost of living crisis and for this to increase annually with inflation. Chairman of Laca, Brad Pearce, said: “Despite the best efforts of our members and dedicated frontline staff, the school meals industry is on its knees.”

USED

TRACTORS & MACHINERY

Kubota MGX 135-III, 67’ 7,800 Hrs, Only used on Drawbar work, 520 & 240 Tyres, Front Sus, Front Weights, Dromone PUH.......................................................................... £24,950 Pottinger 5 furrow auto reset Plough (vaiwidth).............................................................. £4950 Choice of two KRM Fert spreaders (one basic, one weigh cell)........................................ £3,500 Trailed 4232 Mower Conditioner.................................................................................... £7,750 8 row trailed Kverneland maize drill c/w section control unlocked................................... £19,000 Kuhn 4m Combination Drill- Suffolk’s (Tidy Machine) ..................................................... £7,250 Shelbourne Reynolds 25cu c/w steering axle, Tub Relined (V. Tidy) ................................. £18,000 Kverneland Siloking 12cu tub with twin lift & rear door.................................................... £9950 Opico 6m Grass harrows................................................................................................ £2,950 Bateson Cattle Crowder (Brand New) ............................................................................. £3,500 Kubota M4062 ROPS tractor........................................................................................... £17,500 Kverneland FXJ 3M flail topper...................................................................................... £3250 Vicon RO-M 3 bag spreader (v.tidy)................................................................................. £4,250 Kubota GR2100 48” Cut & Collect, very tidy, fully serviced................................................ £4,950 Ransomes Parkway Plus 2250....................................................................................... £5,500 Kverneland 3232 MoCo 3.2 m, Nylon conditioner............................................................. £6,500 Kubota RTV 900, 62’ plate 2,100 hrs, New Tyres, straight................................................ £5,450 Teagle Dual Chop 8550 Straw chopper............................................................................ £4,750 Don’t forget we are also main dealers for Kubota tractors! We have a wide range in stock from 12170HP, demonstrations available and with 5-year warranty.

NEW KUBOTA M7 TRACTORS FROM £987 PER MONTH @ 0%* (t&c’s apply) For further information on any of the above, or for any service/parts enquiries, please call the depot on the number below. Contacts: Depot: 01743 464100 AG Sales: Grant: 07736599279 Richard: 07375508366 GC Sales: Jez: 07534 158047

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Supplement supports the uptake of nutrients Elanco Animal Health has launched Hemicell XT, a new nutrient-sparing enzyme, to its range for pig and poultry producers. This gut-health enhancing supplement supports nutrient uptake and has the potential to reduce overall feed costs due to the improved utilisation of dietary energy. Agustina Rodriguez, Elanco technical nutritionist consultant, said while there is a temptation to remove the number of ingredients in rations to save costs, it can be false economy in the long-term. Most plant-based raw materials contain undigestible fibres that monogastric livestock cannot breakdown. Hemicell XT offers a solution and advanced formulation compared to existing

market options, bosses say. “The energy-sparing enzyme performs in the same way as Hemicell HT,” said Ms Rodriguez. “But it contains an upgraded carrier that is proven to further enhance diet quality. “This change to the formulation allows for improved flowability and mixing within a ration. It results in a larger, more uniform particle size, offering greater uniformity and reduced dust during application. Hemicell XT also has an enzyme concentration 2.25 times higher than the original Hemicell HT formulation. This accommodates a wide range of application methods, including within complete feeds, premix and speciality mixes. To find out more contact Elanco at elan couk@elanco.com

Survey sparks butterﬂy fears A warm and sunny spell in the summer of 2022 led to increased sightings of certain butterfly species such as the Gatekeeper and Common Blue, but overall numbers are still “worryingly low”, experts have said. Sightings of the Comma, a popular species often found in gardens, increased by 95 per cent compared with last year, according to the results from the annual Big Butterfly Count in the UK. The Gatekeeper – a species often found along hedgerows and woodland rides, as well as in gardens – was the most spotted butterfly during this year’s count, reporting a 58 per cent increase from last year. But experts are worried the overall number of butterflies and day-flying moths are still continuing to decline. Dr Richard Fox, head of science for Butterfly Conservation, said: “We might have expected this summer to have been a much better one for butterflies given the good weather we experienced in many parts of the UK. The fact that more butterflies weren’t seen is concerning and it’s clear that much more needs to be done to protect and restore habitats to aid nature recovery.” Almost 100,000 butterfly counts were carried out Between July 15 and August 7 by the public. The results show an average of just under nine butterflies seen per count, an all-time low in the 13 years since the project began.

Experts are worried the overall number of butterflies and moths are still continuing to decline, with a decline having a knockon effect on the environment

Among the species that bounced back are the Common Blue, up 154 per cent on the previous year and the Holly Blue, with an increase of 120 per cent. Dr Zoe Randle, senior surveys officer at Butterfly Conservation, said: “The vast majority of Big Butterfly Counts are done in gardens, which makes this data especially valuable because this type of habitat is under-represented in many of our other schemes. We can create habitat for butterflies such as the Holly Blue and Comma in our gardens, by cultivating holly and flowering ivy for the former and growing hop, elms and nettles for the latter.” Next year’s Big Butterfly Count will take place from July 14-August 6.

Beavers to be reintroduced on land at estate in spring Beavers are to be reintroduced onto an estate on the border of Shropshire and Staffordshire in the spring. Following the success of its water vole reintroduction, Trentham Estate has submitted plans for a beaver enclosure with the hope of housing up to four Eurasian beavers. The 725-acre estate, near Eccleshall and Market Drayton, has undergone a massive regeneration programme since 2003, which includes steps to increase biodiversity and re-introduce important species. In a bid to help reintroduce the

species, Trentham is working alongside ecologist and author Derek Gow. The project is being supported by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, The Beaver Trust, The Environment Agency and The Canal & River Trust . Alastair Budd, senior director of Trentham, said: “Beavers are one of the most important species in our habitats and we want to help visitors to understand why this once extinct UK native should be back in the English countryside helping to restore our ecosystems and mitigate the impact of climate change.”

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SALES SERVICE PARTS USED

FEEDING & BEDDING

SHELBOURNE POWERMIX PRO 19......................................................... £14,900.00 SHELBOURNE POWERMIX PRO 15........................................................... £8,000.00 SHELBOURNE POWERMIX PRO 13........................................................... £6,000.00 2007 SHELBOURNE POWERMIX PRO 13 ............................................................ POA ABBEY VF1450SD FEEDER ....................................................................... £3,200.00 2004 SHELBOURNE POWERMIX II EXPRESS 11 ................................................. POA 2008 STRAUTMANN VERTIMIX 1050 FEEDER.................................................... POA 2019 SPREAD A BALE MIDI ................................................................................. POA 2019 SPREAD A BALE MIDI ...................................................................... £9,250.00 2013 SPREAD A BALE MIDI ...................................................................... £7,000.00 SPREAD A BALE SBL 100 .......................................................................... £5,000.00 TEAGLE STRAWCHOPPER 8080............................................................... £5,300.00 TEAGLE STRAWCHOPPER 8500............................................................... £3,200.00 KUHN PRIMOR 3570 SHREDDER ............................................................. £5,250.00 KUHN PRIMOR 3560 SHREDDER 2006.................................................... £4,200.00 KUHN PRIMOR 3560 2002 ....................................................................... £3,500.00 KUHN PRIMOR 3560 ............................................................................................ POA KUHN PRIMOR MOUNTED SINGLE SWIVEL CHUTE ........................................... POA MCHALE SHEARGRAB JCB Q FIT ........................................................................ POA ALBUTT SHEARBUCKET 7’6” ............................................................................... POA JOHNSTON 7’2” SHEARGRAB JCB Q FIT BRACKETS ......................................... POA REDROCK 7’2” SHEARGRAB ......................................................................... £800.00 2017 SHELBOURNE CB 300 CUBICLE BEDDER.................................................. POA 2018 SHELBOURNE CB 300 CUBICLE BEDDER PIN &CONE .............................. POA 2012 SHELBOURNE CB 150 CUBICLE BEDDER....................................... £3,000.00 EMILY AUGER BUCKET 2.4M -1.7M3................................................................... POA

TRAILERS

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WELSHPOOL T 01938 553900

ORMSKIRK T 01695 213139

CULTIVATION

(Head Office) RVT SHREWSBURY, Seven Acres, Newport Road, Shrewsbury, SY4 4RR T: 01743 289104

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DALBO 1230 COMPACT POWERROLL ................................................................ POA 2011 ACCORD NGS 301 DRILL............................................................................ POA 2013 KUHN VARIMASTER 113 PLOUGH............................................................. POA DALBO 3M FRONT PRESS .................................................................................... POA KUHN FIONA 3M COMBINATION DRILL ................................................... £3,250.00 MCCONNELL 3M SHAKERATOR ............................................................... £3,500.00 KUHN POWERHARROW HR302 ............................................................... £2,500.00 MISTRAL 3M DRILL ................................................................................... £1,800.00 GREGOIRE BESSON 5 FURROW REVERSIBLE PLOUGH........................... £3,750.00 DOWDESWELL 5 FURROW PLOUGH ........................................................ £2,950.00 RANSOME CULTIVATOR 11FT ...................................................................... £650.00 KRM SMART 3000 POWERHARROW................................................................... POA

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GRASSLAND & HARVESTING

2018 POTTINGER HIT 8.81 TEDDER ........................................................ £9,250.00 2018 NEW HOLLAND PROTED 690 TEDDER ........................................... £7,000.00 2015 KUHN FC 3160TD MOWER......................................................................... POA 2007 JOHN DEERE 228A FRONT MOWER.......................................................... POA 2006 JOHN DEERE 328 REAR MOWER............................................................... POA 2006 JOHN DEERE 1355 TRAILED MOWER ....................................................... POA 2007 KUHN FC313 MOUNTED MOWER.............................................................. POA 2014 KUHN FC313F-FF FRONT MOWER ............................................................ POA 2008 KUHN GA6501 RAKE....................................................................... £7,750.00 2010 KUHN FC 313 MOWER..................................................................... £6,750.00 2013 KUHN VKM 280 TOPPER ................................................................. £4,000.00 2011 KUHN GF 7802 TEDDER .................................................................. £5,500.00 2009 POTTINGER NOVACAT 305 MOWER............................................... £4,250.00 2008 KUHN FC 283 MOWER CONDITIONER ...................................................... POA 2004 KUHN GMD 800- GII PLAIN DISC MOWER................................................. POA LELY 240 OPTIMO MOUNTED MOWER ............................................................... POA KUHN VKM 305 TOPPER ........................................................................... £3,850.00 KRONE 7.70 TEDDER ................................................................................ £3,000.00 2015 DELEKS 2M TOPPER ................................................................................... POA KVERNLAND FOLDING HARROWS ...................................................................... POA GRAYS AERATOR 3M ............................................................................................ POA 10FT ALBUTT BUCKRAKE.................................................................................... POA TWOSE 10FT ROLLER .......................................................................................... POA RITCHIE 3M AERATOR.......................................................................................... POA

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MISCELLANEOUS

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THE FARMER | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

Bill’s plans given praise by RSPB RSPB Cymru has welcomed the new Welsh Agriculture Bill, saying the legislation will “shape Welsh farming and the fate of Wales’s wildlife for generations to come”. Arfon Williams, RSPB Cymru’s head of land and sea policy, said: “Agricultural policies of the past have driven the intensification of farming and failed to protect our wildlife. “As a consequence, Wales is now one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. This matters, not only because nature has an inherent right to exist and thrive, but also because the future of life on earth depends on the healthy soils, clean air and water nature provides.” RSPB Cymru said it believes the new system of support for farmers should ensure taxpayers’ money is used fairly to pay farmers in their actions to tackle the mounting nature and climate emergency. Mr Williams said: “This will help restore our environment and the vital benefits it provides, including our capacity to produce food, essential to our future food security and the resilience of Welsh farming in a changing world. This is a critical juncture at which we must depart from the damaging policies of old and secure a sustainable thriving farmed environment for nature and people.”

Report gives an insight on dairy sector’s costs BY IAIN ST JOHN Dairy farm profits doubled in the milk year to 2021/22 and are set to continue improving this year – although soaring input costs remain a concern to all producers, experts say. Farm accountant Old Mill unveiled its annual milk cost of production report at the Dairy Show. It shows average comparable farm profits among its clients increased to £371/cow in the year to March 31, driven by a combination of slightly firmer milk prices and lower production costs. “The year ending March 31 seems a long time ago,” said Dan Heal, rural accountant at Old Mill. “There have been a lot of changes since then, but from these times of market volatility taking a reflective look at business performance has never been more critical.” Milk income in 2021/22 increased by £80/cow, year-on-year, with modest price increases offset by lower yields, driven by a desire to reduce production costs. “Good forage growing conditions meant a plentiful supply of high quality forage, leading to lower concentrate feed rates,”

Dan Heal, rural accountant at Old Mill

said Mr Heal. “The grazing season lasted well into the autumn, shortening the winter housing period. As a result, variable costs related to labour, bedding, power and machinery all fell.” Even so, there remained a marked difference between the top and bottom 10 per cent of producers, with the gap widening by £137 to £1,234/cow. Of this, £541 related to income; although top 10 per cent yields were 1,334 litres/cow low-

CLAAS CMATIC – Geared for Growth.

er, income was higher. This shows that meeting buyer requirements reaps rewards, as does reducing concentrate usage when marginal litres are uneconomic, explained Mr Heal. Production costs were £693/cow lower among the top 10 per cent, mainly attributed to feed, labour, power and machinery. Mr Heal said: “There is a high focus on efficiency for the top 10 per cent of herds. In contrast, more work is being

done in a less efficient manner among the bottom 10 per cent, which is not generating a return.” However, much of this could be attributed to less efficient set-ups, likely requiring investment to change. Although the top 10 per cent of herds were larger, at 287 cows versus 188 cows, there were a variety of systems and calving patterns in both groups, showing that efficiency relies on the farmer not the system, he added. Last year, milk prices averaged 33.8p/ litre, most fertiliser was bought at sub £300/t and electricity contracts were in the 20p/unit range. A lot has changed since then, so what does that mean for margins in the coming year, asked Mr Heal. On the face of it, milk prices at 50p/litre indicate a marked improvement in margins, but at the same time fertiliser is nearing £800/t and electricity is around 65p/unit. “Inflation has hit the dairy sector hard over the last six months, especially as milk supply is finely balanced,” said Mr Heal. These rising costs and strong cull cow prices have led to more cows exiting the herd; the average herd size fell from 269 in 2020/21 to 250 last year and a forecast 235 in 2022/23. Average feed costs are predicted to increase by £46/cow as prices rise and concentrates are fed to replace forage shortfalls.

Professor appointed to new role at agricultural university Professor David Main has been appointed as the new Pro ViceChancellor (Academic Planning & Resources) at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU). Professor Main, who was previously Professor of Production Animal Health and Welfare at the Cirencester university, is a veterinary surgeon and worked at Bristol Veterinary School before joining the RAU in 2018. He has research interests in science and the practice of knowledge exchange, animal welfare assessment

and improvement strategies, and animal welfare education. His role, which is a new position at the RAU, includes responsibility for the line management of academic staff as well as leading on both UK and international partnerships. He said: “At a time when global challenges are arising from climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and threats to our food supply chain, there has never been a more important time to be working at the heart of food, farming and environment.”

More award joy for charity bosses

The CLAAS CMATIC has proved to be brilliant. The tractor itself feels to have more go in it, presumably because its effectively always in the right gear and is never struggling. Jamie Downing Booth, May 2022 Call MORRIS CORFIELD today for a demonstration. Read the full article

Broseley Tel: 01952 881000 Craven Arms Tel: 01588 673325 Hereford Tel: 01432 809980

Tarvin Tel: 01829 749391 www.morriscorfield.co.uk facebook.com/morriscorfield

Farming charity RABI has enjoyed more awards success this year. It has received the accolade of being named Charity of Year by the Association of Charitable Organisations (ACO). It won the award in the category for charities with an annual income of more than £5 million. The latest award follows RABI collecting two prizes at this year’s Charity Times Awards. RABI finance director David Locke said the charity was delighted with the awards. He said: “Our charity has had an unparalleled 18 months in terms of landmark projects and the introduction of new support services. This hard work and investment continues to make a significant difference to the farming community that we are so proud to serve. “The charity has a strong heritage of providing financial support to farming people. “This year, we have launched timely, responsive grant-giving campaigns to help meet the challenges being faced by many members of the farming community during the cost of living crisis.”

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