Back British Farming - This month the NFU has been busy arranging and delivering the Back British Farming campaign. Alongside the usual Westminster activity, we are also inviting MPs and Councils out on farm across the country to encourage them to support farming. Look out for the trademark wheat pin badge in PMQ’s and on social media as well as banners across the countryside.
Ploughing Matches - As we move through September your Group Secretaries are attending a series of popular ploughing matches including Laughton and District, East Sussex and Hurstpierpoint & District Ploughing Match. Please do use the opportunity to stop by the stands and say hello! We will be meeting Leader of East Sussex Council at Laughton and District along with MP for Lewes, James MacCleary. These meetings provide a fantastic opportunity for us to raise topical issues and promote the excellent work of East Sussex farmers.
Bluetongue - In August, East Region Livestock Board Chair, Hugh Broom visiting Hailsham market with vet Nick Pile to discuss Bluetongue. The APHA Bluetounge Map has been updated to show Hot Zones to denote the density of reported cases as well as the triangles still denoting confirmed cases. Those who have been following this disease will know that the county looks steady at the moment. The message remains the same “please make sure you vaccinate all susceptible stock.” Vaccine supplies are available but supply responds to demand so, if you have not done so order from your vet.
Rural Crime Week of Action - It has also been Rural Crime Week of Action, Sussex Police have arranged to promote awareness on the subject of livestock worrying. County Chairs, Martin Hole and Frans De Boer, have written to Sussex Police Chief Constable, Jo Shiner to ask for a more consistent response to hare coursing incidents. The letter is being sent to Chief Constables across the country and is co-signed with the NFU National Officeholders.
County AGM - Please save the date for the County AGM which will be held at Montague Farm on Tuesday 24th November in the evening.