The NFU and its members set up near Ozzy the Bull in the train station’s concourse and talked to people about what they do to put food on people’s plates, support communities and the countryside.
This event was one of many planned across the region and wider country for the NFU’s Back British Farming Day as businesses look to build resilience, grow, adapt and innovate at a time of exceptional challenge.
Resilient, thriving communities
The NFU pitch near the 33-foot, 10-metre mechanical sculpture of Ozzy saw farmers set up a stand complete with a model cow and speak to people who had a chance to win a British produce hamper by taking part in a fun farming quiz.
“NFU members thoroughly enjoyed themselves and were able to harness support from people and highlight the value of their businesses that are growing crops, rearing animals and producing spectacular British flowers and plants," said Worcestershire NFU County Adviser Emma Hamer.
“The NFU is calling on government to provide short-term financial support for farmers and growers who have experienced unprecedented pressure following the worst drought in 50 years, soaring fuel and fertiliser prices and bluetongue disease affecting cows and sheep.
“We want to drive our farms forward, build resilient, thriving communities and encourage growth."
“In today’s uncertain world we need to ensure we secure homegrown food production for the future.”
Worcestershire NFU County Adviser Emma Hamer
Farmer Paul Brown said county farms remained vital for our communities, the economy and countryside and Back British Farming Day on September 9 was a great springboard to help put farming and growing firmly under the spotlight.
He said: “It was superb being in Birmingham to speak to people about what we do and how their food gets from farm to fork.”
Tough for everyone
Jeremy Lowe, NFU Staffordshire county adviser, said commuters were interested in where their food comes from and how it's produced.
“I think it’s tough for everyone at the moment but I think people recognise that farmers have had a difficult year with the drought and other issues,” he said.
“With the right policies and investment from government, both local and national, we can build greater resilience into our domestic food production system and ensure farmers and growers can continue producing food for 29 million households, including in Birmingham.
“The NFU will continue to drive for that change so our farms can thrive for generations to come.”
Thank you, Birmingham
Frankie Colwill, who farms at Little Witley, near Worcester, said it was great being in the city and to meet people of all backgrounds with their own food passions and stories.
He said: “Ozzy is an iconic Midlands sculpture, representing the city, the importance of the industrial revolution and giving a nod to Birmingham’s historic Bull Ring as a bustling cattle and livestock market.
“There wasn’t a better place to be than next to Ozzy in the heart of the city, talking to people about food, farming and all we do. Thank you, Birmingham.”