Bluetongue: Now's the time to prepare
Across Yorkshire, our sheep and cattle sectors are a vital part of the rural economy and the success of many family farming businesses. With bluetongue cases continuing to rise across England and Wales and recent warm weather creating ideal conditions for biting midges, preparation is key. The NFU is encouraging livestock farmers to act now rather than wait until the disease is on their doorstep.
Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools available to help reduce the impact of the disease. Farmers are encouraged to speak to their vet about the options available and whether vaccination is appropriate for their herd or flock, particularly for breeding stock, young animals and higher-value livestock.
Livestock should also be monitored closely for signs of bluetongue, including fever, lameness, excessive drooling, swelling around the face, mouth ulcers, reduced milk yield and reproductive problems. Sheep often show more obvious signs than cattle, but all keepers should remain vigilant. As bluetongue is a notifiable disease, any suspected cases must be reported immediately.
Practical steps can also help reduce the risk from infected midges. Avoiding wet, sheltered grazing areas where possible, considering housing vulnerable animals during peak midge activity, and discussing suitable insecticides or repellents with your vet can all form part of a sensible risk management plan.
Inspiring the next generation at Halifax Show
The Farming Hub at this year's Halifax Show was a tremendous success, giving families a hands-on opportunity to learn more about modern farming and food production. Children enthusiastically completed a range of interactive activities, including milking Annabelle the Cow, planting seeds, digging vegetables and identifying different wool types, helping them better understand the journey from farm to fork. The wider Hub featured attractions including a sheep-shearing competition, the hoist-the-bale challenge and the popular 80 Years of Farming exhibit. The event demonstrated the value of agricultural education and the importance of engaging the next generation with our industry.
The Hub's success was made possible through strong collaboration between NFU staff and partner organisations, including Calderdale Young Farmers, the Farming Community Network, Field Nurse, the Moorland Association and Hird's Vets. Special thanks go to Group Secretary Emily Mitchell and colleagues from the Honley and Halifax offices whose hard work helped deliver a fantastic day for visitors and farming families alike.
Practical parasite control advice at Skipton Mart
Continuing the theme of supporting resilient livestock businesses, farmers and industry representatives also gathered recently at Skipton Mart for a joint event hosted by AHDB, NFU, Carr's Billington and Elanco focusing on anthelmintic resistance and parasite control. Independent veterinary pathologist Ben Strugnall of Farm Post Mortems Ltd provided practical insights into worm burdens and parasite-related disease, while Roxanne Winstanley of Elanco discussed targeted treatment strategies and responsible wormer use.
The event generated valuable discussion on monitoring parasite burdens, slowing the development of resistance and protecting livestock health, productivity and the long-term sustainability of farm businesses. As pressures continue to grow across the sector, events such as these play an important role in ensuring Yorkshire farmers have access to the latest practical advice and technical expertise.