For many businesses, combines were rolling weeks ahead of what we would normally expect, reflecting another season of challenging and unusual weather patterns. While many crops have now been safely gathered in, it has been far from a straightforward year.
Our thoughts are particularly with livestock farmers who continue to face severe grass shortages. A prolonged lack of rainfall has left many businesses using winter forage far earlier than planned, creating understandable concerns about feed supplies and costs for the months ahead. We also extend our sympathies to those who have suffered the devastating impact of farm fires this summer. The loss of crops, machinery, buildings and livestock can be heartbreaking, and it is a reminder of the risks many farm businesses face during the busy harvest period.
On a more positive note, it has been wonderful to catch up with so many members at our county shows over recent weeks. These events provide an invaluable opportunity to showcase British agriculture, engage with the public and celebrate the incredible work carried out by farmers across Worcestershire. Thank you to everyone who has given their time to support the shows, represent the industry and stop for a chat.
We’re also planning a public engagement event to celebrate Back British Farming Day on 9 September. The plan is to “Take the cow to the bull” at Birmingham New Street Station . We are working with Network Rail to get permission for this to go ahead, but as soon as it is confirmed, it will be great to have as many members join to talk to the public about the importance of British Food and Farming. Please get in touch if you can help, even for just an hour or two on 9th September.
We also have our next county meeting on 16 September, which will include a fascinating tour of Weaving Machinery. It promises to be an excellent opportunity to learn more about a successful local business, hear the latest NFU updates and spend time with fellow members. Please do register for catering purposes.
Bromsgrove members met with their MP Bradley Thomas recently. It was a good opportunity to raise issues and concerns with their MP. He agreed to ask some questions on bovine TB, the launch of the next SFI, actions from the farm profitability review, the County Council’s proposals to sell county holdings and the time taken to renew gun licenses on our behalf. We have a meeting with Chris Bloore, Redditch MP on 18 September.
We held a very enjoyable FCN social evening at the Camp House Inn, Grimley on 18 August. This was an informal gathering to catch up with friends and a great opportunity to meet fellow farming families and remind everyone of the support available from the Farming Community Network. A buffet supper was provided by a mental health and wellbeing micro grant from Worcester County Council. Over 50 members and their families enjoyed the evening on the banks of the River Severn – thanks to all who came and to Margaret Herbert for her great work with FCN.
FCN’s FarmWell is a one stop resource to help you and your farm business stay strong and resilient. For confident advice and support, do reach out to FCN on 03000 111 999.
As always, thank you for your continued support of Worcestershire NFU. I hope the harvest is completed safely and successfully, and that we receive some welcome relief in the form of rain in the weeks ahead.
County comms
Please join the NFU Worcestershire Facebook page or WhatsApp group where I post updates on what’s happening in policy and in the county. Just email me if you would like the joining link. [email protected]
I look forward to seeing you across the county soon.