As field work ramps up across North Riding and Durham, there’s been a noticeable rise in social media posts and local reports of farmers using handheld mobile phones while driving tractors. With more machinery on the roads at this time of year, it’s a good moment to remind everyone of the legal and safety implications.
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving a tractor on a public road carries exactly the same penalties as using one in a car. If stopped, you will receive six penalty points and a £200 fine on the spot. If the case goes to court, this can increase to a £1,000 fine and even a driving ban.
This is particularly important for new drivers in our region. Anyone who passed their test within the last two years will have their licence automatically revoked if they reach six penalty points. One offence involving a mobile phone is enough to lose the licence and require a full retest.
We know that carrying a mobile phone is essential for lone working, emergencies and general farm safety — especially in our more remote parts of North Yorkshire and County Durham. But when you’re on the road, that phone must be out of reach. The law is clear: it is an offence to use a handheld device for any purpose while driving, whether making a call, reading a text or checking an app.
If you genuinely need to take a call, use a hands‑free system and keep conversations short. And remember: modern tractor cabs offer excellent visibility — which means other road users, and the police, can clearly see what’s happening inside.
Whether you’re hauling silage on the A19, moving stock between farms, or travelling a quiet back road near Barnard Castle or Helmsley, the message is the same: don’t risk your licence, your safety or your livelihood. The fine and points simply aren’t worth it.
Welcoming the NFU President to North Riding & Durham
Farm walks remain one of the best ways for members to come together, share ideas and see first‑hand how others are tackling the challenges of modern farming. This summer, we’re delighted to be returning to Piercebridge, where Council Delegate William Maughan last hosted a county farm walk during his time as County Chair.
William will once again open his gates for this year’s County Summer Farm Walk, and we are especially pleased to confirm that NFU President Tom Bradshaw will be joining us. It’s a fantastic opportunity for members to hear directly from Tom as he outlines the NFU’s recent work and how we are preparing to meet the challenges ahead.
The event is kindly sponsored by Procam and Noble Foods, whose representatives will be on hand to take part in discussions throughout the evening. We’ll round things off with a BBQ provided by Robinsons of Wingate.
Please keep an eye on your inbox for your official invitation — and make sure to save the evening of 2 July in your diary. It promises to be a great event for North Riding and Durham members.
The Future of Upland Farming: Discussion at Blakey Ridge
A wet and foggy morning on Blakey Ridge didn’t deter a strong turnout of upland farmers at The Lion Inn, where the challenges and future of upland farming were firmly in the spotlight. The North York Moors provided a fitting backdrop for a conversation that matters deeply to many of our members.
NFU Regional Uplands Chair Dave Stanners made the journey from Northumberland to join us and set out the NFU’s vision for the uplands. He spoke about the work he and the Uplands Forum are doing on behalf of members — from shaping policy to ensuring that the realities of farming in the hills are properly understood by decision‑makers.
Dave highlighted that while progress has been made, significant challenges remain, particularly around support for commons and the lack of clear, long‑term policy direction from Defra. These issues have already been raised at Ministerial level, but as Dave stressed, now is the time to keep up the pressure to ensure upland farmers get the clarity and backing they need.
The session sparked valuable discussion among members, reinforcing the importance of continued engagement and a strong collective voice for our upland communities.