Farming's annual open-day attracted over 170,000 visitors onto farms on Sunday 11 June. Among them were HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, who visited Hampton Estate Farms in Surrey to see what farming delivers, and meet some inspirational young people forging careers in the sector. Shadow Environment Minister, Daniel Zeichner MP, also enjoyed a day on farm, when he visited Michael Sly's event in Cambridgeshire. Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Rt Hon Thérèse Coffey MP, also tweeted her support for the day.
The NFU supplied 25,000 resources to members running events, including activity books, pencils and stickers for children as well as copies of Countryside magazine.
Offering something unique
Visitors were able to learn first-hand how farmers are committed to sustainability, biodiversity, animal welfare, and managing the countryside.
Each farm offered something unique based on the farm’s individual story and time and resources available. This year vsitors enjoyed everything from a simple self-guided walk to a large open day with trailer rides, demonstrations, and fun activities for children.
Activities differed from farm to farm and included: farm walks, nature trails, tractor and trailer rides, demonstrations, pond dipping, activities for children, farmers’ market and farm shops.
Open Farm Sunday is an opportunity to engage your local community, share your farming story, bust any myths about farming and give visitors a positive and memorable experience.
Speaking about the event, LEAF’s Open Farm Sunday manager, Annabel Shackleton, said:
"By taking part in LOFS, farmers continue to help change people’s perceptions and understanding of the industry. It is a truly magical day, bringing farming to life for thousands of visitors.
"We’re calling on all farmers to think about how they can get involved in next year’s LEAF Open Farm Sunday on 9 June and have a real, lasting positive impact in 2024!”