Key issues discussed with NFU President in Cumbria

30 October 2026

| 1 minute read

Tom Bradshaw speaking to members at the NFU South Lakes autumn update

Photo: Natalie Edmondson

NFU President Tom Bradshaw visited Cumbria in October to discuss the key issues facing farming businesses with local members.

On Monday 26 October, Tom met over 40 members at NFU South Lakes’ autumn update at Greenodd Village Hall. Topics discussed included food security, food inflation, sea eagles, bluetongue, SFI, environmental payments and trade.

The event also included updates from Sam Hallam of the Lake District National Park on FIPL funding, as well as further updates from Cumbria County Adviser Catherine Stokes and County Chair Richard Pedley.

The following day, Tom continued his visit in Carlisle, meeting a small group of members at Orton Grange Café before attending a larger gathering at Dalston Victory Hall. Chaired by Cumbria County Chair Richard Pedley, conversations focused on the recent closure of SFI, NFU priorities for SFI 2027, EU alignment, public procurement, bluetongue disease, red diesel relief and the Annual Investment Allowance. 

A valuable opportunity

NFU Carlisle Group Secretary Graham Holliday said: “Tom’s visit was a valuable opportunity for Carlisle members to raise important issues directly and share their experiences from across North Cumbria.

“We thank Tom for taking the time to visit and all members who attended, asked questions and contributed to a lively and constructive discussion.”

NFU North Regional Director David Hall said: "Having the President Tom Bradshaw in Cumbria was a good opportunity for him to hear first hand from members about the issues that matter to them. The shambles that was SFI26 was high on members’ minds as well as concerns about the future budget and what will be available to members finishing their HLS agreements ahead of 2028.

“Tom will be back in the county again for the Cumbria AGM, which will be another opportunity to speak to him and hear the latest on NFU lobbying.”

Tom Bradshaw speaking to Carlisle members
Photo: NFU Carlisle

This page was first published on 30 October 2026.

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