Over The Farm Gate

What do you do when a £12,000 loss on a potato contract forces you to rethink the farm's future? Yorkshire arable farmer Callum Stark has transformed a 3,000-tonne potato store into a padel facility, creating a completely new income stream for the business in just three months. In this episode, Callum explains what prompted the diversification, how much the project cost, the planning and practical challenges involved, and whether the numbers are stacking up. We also discuss the wider financial pressures facing the family farm, including planning for a potential multi-million-pound inheritance tax liability.If this podcast has sparked some ideas, be sure to head to the Farm Business Innovation show taking place on November 4th and 5th 2026. It is the UK's only event dedicated entirely to farm diversification, helping farmers and landowners turn land, assets, and ideas into sustainable new income streams.https://www.farmbusinessshow.co.uk/ Message us

Our chief reporter Rachael Brown speaks to farmer, psychologist and one of this year's Nuffield scholars, Sharon May to discusses her research into mental health within the farming community, the importance of relationships and what can be learnt from other countries around the worldMessage us

After Window 2 of the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2026 closed after just six hours, Farmers Guardian's news team discuss what happened, farmer reaction and what needs to happen nowMessage us

Recorded at UK Dairy Day, this episode tackles the big questions facing dairy farmers today - from milk prices to the new Sustainable Dairy Pathway.Farmers Guardian Editor, Katie Jones, caught up with Michael Halliwell (Holstein UK), Lyndon Edwards (AHDB) and Ian Harvey (NFU) on what's next for a sustainable dairy futureMessage us

China is the world's biggest pork producer and consumer — but what does that mean for UK pig farmers?In this week's Farmers Guardian podcast, Katie Fallon hears from industry experts at the World Pork Conference in Qingdao, China to understand China's influence on the global pork trade, the threat of African swine fever and what the UK can learn from China's experience, with insights from the UK's Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss.Message us

Actions speak louder than words. Despite new PM Andy Burnham telling MPs he will focus on farming, and Reform members pledging to ‘back farmers to the hilt', deputy editor Alex Black, head of news and business Jane Thynne and chief reporter Rachael Brown discuss whether all these warm words will bring a positive change for farming.Message us

Sam Stables and Louise Layton join us for an honest conversation about the tougher side of farming. Why in some cases, we are still not always very good at talking about mental health, the importance of opening up when things get difficult, and why simply telling a mate you are struggling can make all the difference. Mental health is not always the easiest subject to talk about in farming, but Sam Stables and Louise Layton know first hand why those conversations matter. In this September episode of For Flock's Sake, the Farmers Guardian podcast, hosts Tom Ryder and Ellie Layton are in Herefordshire to hear from farmer and co-founder of We Are Farming Minds, Sam Stables, and charity volunteer Louise Layton. Sam talks openly about his farming system, mental health struggles and what led him to set up the charity, while Louise shares her experience of supporting her husband Richard through his mental health struggles before his death by suicide. There is plenty of farming in the conversation, from Sam's route into farming and his Duchy tenancy while Louise shares how as a family they have raised over £100,000 in Richard's memory.  Together, they explore the realities of mental health in agriculture, the impact it can have on individuals and families, and what can be done to ensure people do not feel they have to face their struggles alone.  Mental health and suicide support If this episode raises concerns for you or someone you know, support is available.  PAPYRUS HOPELINE247For people under 35 experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned about a young person. Call 0300 102 2470 or text HOPE to 88247. Available 24/7. SamaritansFree, confidential support for anyone who needs someone to talk to. Call 116 123, free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. MindInformation, advice and support for people experiencing mental health problems. Mind's support line is 0300 102 1234, open Monday to Friday, 9am–6pm. CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)Support for anyone who is struggling or affected by suicide. Call 0800 58 58 58, 5pm–midnight every day. We Are Farming MindsFree, confidential support for the farming community in Herefordshire. Call 0808 802 0070 or text 07786 203 130. The support line is available 24/7. RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution)Provides practical, financial and emotional support to people in farming. Call 0800 188 4444, free and available 24/7. RSABI (Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution)Provides practical, emotional and financial support to people working in Scottish agriculture, including farmers, crofters and farm workers. Call 0808 1234 555, free and available 24/7. The DPJ FoundationProvides confidential mental health support to people working in agriculture in Wales through its Share the Load service. Call 0800 587 4262 or text 07860 048799.  Message us

What if you could grow a second crop on half the area and still produce 80% of the yield of a conventional crop? That is the intriguing result from arable farmer Ben Adams' first year of his relay cropping trial, where winter barley grown on just 50% of the area produced 80% of his average yield. Join Ash Ellwood to find out the practicalities of relay cropping, what Ben has learnt from the trial and whether the results suggest relay cropping could have a place in a commercial arable rotation.We also catch up with Thomas Slattery, engagement lead for the Adopt Support Hub discussing what is available through the funding and how growers can access it.Message us

Deputy editor Alex Black and chief reporter Rachael Brown sit down with farmers and NFU representatives Clare Wise and Ian Harvey, as well as NFU Scotland vice president Robert Neill to discuss the latest situation in the rise in Bluetongue across the UK, where we are with vaccine supply, why an emergency fund for fallen stock is needed urgently by Government, as well as an honest discussion on what lessons can be learnt from across the sector including government agencies to ensure we do not have a repeat of the scale of this disease next year. Message us

In this episode of the Farmers Guardian podcast, in partnership with RABI's FarmersAid, Olivia Skeoch sits down with Ben Aveling at Radmore Farm, Northamptonshire, to talk about the day his mother-in-law was seriously injured during tupping — and the two-hour wait for an ambulance that followed. Ben talks candidly about the panic of those first moments, the decision to move her against advice, and how the experience has changed the way his family works around livestock. This episode explores what RABI calls the "platinum ten minutes" and why having the right guidance in that window can make all the difference. Download the free FarmersAid app on the App Store and Google Play - https://farmersaid.org.uk/Message us

Chief reporter Rachael Brown and head of news and business Jane Thynne analyse the ongoing surge of bluetongue in the South-West, vaccine availability and testing capacity, as well as the growing threat of the disease elsewhere in the UK. They hear from a farmer in Cornwall who has been impacted by the virus, and a local farm vet who shares some of the signs and symptoms of what to look out for and highlights the misinformation circulating about the vaccine and the virus itself. Message us

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Choosing the right cereal variety has never been more important. As growers prepare for autumn drilling following an unusual Harvest 2026, should yield still be the deciding factor, or do disease resistance, resilience and market opportunities now matter more? In this episode of the Farmers Guardian Arable Podcast, host Ash Ellwood is joined by Clare Leaman of NIAB and Ted Williams of Agrovista to explore how farmers can make informed variety decisions using independent trial data, practical agronomy and lessons from this season. Message us

This week the FG team looks back on the Royal Welsh Show, Jane Thynne is joined by Paul Williams, NFU Cymru Deputy President to talk about how a new government has brought a boost for farmer confidence and Ellie Layton, Farmers Guardian Livestock Specialist to discuss some of the key show resultsOlivia Midgley also talks to Wales' First Minister Rhun ap Iowerth about the vision for the future of Welsh farmingMessage us

As Andy Burnham is handed the keys to Number 10 Downing Street, the Farmers Guardian news and business team discuss what his Government may mean for farming and the latest announcements from Defra.Message us

Who should pay for nature, and are farmers receiving a fair share of the value created by regenerative farming? In this special edition of the Farmers Guardian podcast, our expert panel which includes three farmers; Dr Nikki Yoxall, Nuffield scholar and Pasture for Life technical director; Harriet Cherry, Groundswell director  and Wildfarmed agricultural relationship manager; and Adel Jones, regenerative farming consultant, explores one of the biggest questions facing agriculture today: how regenerative farming can become a profitable business model while continuing to produce food.The discussion, led by Farmers Guardian's Olivia Midgley, examines whether nature recovery should be rewarded through environmental payments or whether the benefits of regenerative farming already strengthen farm businesses through healthier soils, lower input costs and greater resilience. The panel also explores innovative finance models, including partnerships between farmers and the banking sector, and asks whether supply chains, retailers and brands are doing enough to reward those delivering environmental outcomes. From the practical realities of implementing regenerative farming to tackling greenwashing and ‘regenwashing' and the growing commercial appeal of ‘regen', the conversation looks at where value is created, where it is lost and how farmers can capture more of it. The episode was hosted at Groundswell as part of Farmers Guardian's 100 Women campaign, which shines a spotlight on the women spearheading change in agriculture and driving the sector forward.Message us

Getting your foot on the farming ladder in the modern day can be a tricky business. However, one young couple turned their life upside down to make it work.In this episode of For Flock's Sake, the Farmers Guardian podcast championing young voices in farming, hosts Ellie Layton and Tom Ryder sit down with Will Riddington and Katie Andrews, who relocated from southern England to Northumberland after securing a Contract Farming Agreement (CFA) at Halton Red House Farm, near Hexham, to turn their dream of farming into a reality.From balancing the books and getting to grips with farming in a new area to establishing a pedigree Beef Shorthorn herd, Will and Katie share how a CFA gave them the opportunity to farm without the burden of a mortgage and a limited amount of capital.Got a question, topic or guest suggestion? Get in touch at FGsocials@agriconnect.comMessage us

Join three Farmers Guardian journalists: Jane Thynne, Toby Whatley and Ash Ellwood as they reflect on their time at Groundswell, discussing the ideas, research and conversations that stood out most.  From practical innovations and farmer experiences to the latest thinking on regenerative agriculture, they share what they learned, what surprised them and what deserves closer scrutiny.  The discussion concludes by exploring the bigger question: where does regenerative farming fit in the future of global food production?Message us

With Scottish agriculture at a pivotal point, farmers John McCulloch, David Barron and Kirsten Williams discussed the challenges and opportunities for Scotland's farming sector with Farmers Guardian at the Royal Highland Show.Message us

The latest Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) actions have arrived, bringing fresh opportunities for farmers, but also plenty of questions.In this episode, we sit down with Megan Whatty, Hutchinsons environmental specialist, to unpack the latest developments, explore what has changed, and discuss what the new actions could mean for farm businesses across the country. With funding levels lower than many in the industry had hoped, we take an honest look at where the real opportunities lie, which actions may offer the greatest value, and what farmers should consider as they plan for the future. Whether you're already participating in environmental schemes or are considering your options for the first time, this episode provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions for your business. SpeakersAsh Ellwood - Farmers Guardian head of arableMegan Whatty - Hutchinsons environmental specialistMessage us

Following another fantastic Royal Highland Show, Farmers Guardian takes a look at the highs, the topics of conversation and the challenges facing the farming industry in Scotland, with the First Minister committed to price caps on essential food items and fears over the future of the pig sector.Message us

In this special episode of the Farmers Guardian podcast, FG's news and business team discuss the Prime Minister's resignation, the impact on agriculture and the prospects of Andy Burnham as the next resident of Number 10.Message us

The FG team reflects on the main action from this year's event held at Diddly Squat including budget announcements, celebrity sightings and some encouraging slug statistics.Message us

With a cattle TB vaccine targeted by 2030 as the Government aims to eradicate bTB by 2038, Farmers Guardian livestock specialist Ellie Layton hosted a debate at the Royal Cornwall Show.Farmers and experts debated the next steps for bTB control in England. Guests included beef farmer Paul Westaway, who farms in a high-risk area in Gloucestershire and is a member of the Bovine TB Partnership; Alan Carter, Cornwall dairy farmer and Farmers Guardian columnist and Ed Simmons, veterinary surgeon, British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA). Message us

In this episode of the Farmers Guardian podcast, deputy editor Alex Black and head of news and business Jane Thynne discuss the return of Clarkson's Farm for its fifth series on Prime Video.The news and business team take a look at the key themes of the series, from Jeremy Clarkson's health to the changes to Inheritance Tax and the ups and downs of the farming year, and whether the popular series is still worth a watch.Message us

Farming accounts for around 20% of UK workplace deaths despite making up just 1% of the workforce. In the first episode of our FarmersAid series, in partnership with RABI, Professor Stuart Maitland-Knibb explains why the first few minutes after a serious farm accident are where survival is decided, why fear can stop people from acting, and how the new FarmersAid app is designed to change that.To learn more or download the app, visit www.farmersaid.org.ukMessage us

Jeff and Katie Aiken join Farmers Guardian's Ellie Layton and Tom Ryder for the latest episode of For Flock's Sake.Known throughout the sheep world for their success with the renowned Procters Texel flock, the Aiken family have experienced both the highs of pedigree sheep breeding and the challenge of starting again.In this episode, Jeff and Katie discuss growing up in livestock, life on the show circuit, the family dynamic behind their success and rebuilding at Ainstable Hall with the Coniston flock following the dispersal of Procters.For Flock's Sake is Farmers Guardian's monthly special podcast series shining a spotlight on young farmers, new entrants and showcasing real farming stories to inspire the next generation of British agriculture.Message us

For years, many growers questioned whether oilseed rape still had a future in UK arable rotations. Pressure from cabbage stem flea beetle, difficult establishment seasons and rising input costs pushed confidence in the crop to some of its lowest levels in decades.But after two stronger seasons, sentiment is beginning to shift.So why is oilseed rape making a comeback on some farms? What are successful growers doing differently? And can OSR once again become a reliable and profitable break crop in modern arable rotations?In this episode, we're joined by Nigel Padbury from Premium Crops and Dorset farm manager Tom Baker to discuss the latest thinking around OSR establishment, varietal choice, cabbage stem flea beetle management, crop nutrition and rotational strategy.Message us

The Farmers' Choir stormed through Britain's Got Talent semi-finals at weekend, soaring in to the final as possible winners.With the whole of the UK's farming community behind them, the choir hope to spotlight some of the main issues facing agriculture, such as mental health and isolation. The choir was originally set up by Jeremy Clarkson to promote his Hawkstone beer and cider business, but its members found it was a way to get people off the farm.In this special podcast, Katie Fallon speaks to Katryna and Ben from the choir to find out more.Message us

In the wake of the elections in Wales and Scotland, and the uncertainty over the future of Sir Keir Starmer, Alex Black and Jane Thynne discuss the latest changes in politics and what it means for the agriculture sector.Message us

What does a career in agriculture look like in 2026? On this episode of the Farmers Guardian podcast, students and staff from Myerscough College discuss modern farming careers, college life, the changes in the industry over the recent decades and the opportunities available across the agricultural sector.A massive thanks to David, Rachael, Molly and Josh for their time and to Myerscough College for hosting usTo learn more about the college, and the courses they offer, visit https://www.myerscough.ac.uk/Message us

Livestock auction marts are a vital cog in keeping the rural community turning, with around 130 active auction marts scattered across the UK. Nowhere is this more evident than in Northumberland, the least densely populated county in England.  In this episode of For Flock's Sake, the Farmers Guardian podcast championing young voices in farming, hosts Ellie Layton and Tom Ryder sit down with auctioneers Drew Patrick and Harrison Collingwood from Hexham and Northern Marts in Northumberland.  From breaking into the auctioneering world to building trust and transparency in the ring, Drew and Harrison share their journeys and insights into the job and discuss how marts are evolving, reinvesting, diversifying, and adapting to secure their future, much like the farming businesses they serve.  Got a question, topic or guest suggestion? Get in touch at fgsocials@agriconnect.com Message us

Join us for our second arable special where Farmers Guardian head of arable, Ash Ellwood, visits Duchy of Cornwall's Focus Farmers, Heather and Paul Gorringe. Together, they explore the Gorringes' journey from a conventionally plough-based system to a biologically focused, regenerative system - and lessons they are learning along the way through the Focus Farmer programme. The Duchy of Cornwall's regenerative ambitions are brought to life through its seven ‘Focus Farms', each representing a different landscape and farming system across the estate. The initiative is designed to fast-track progress towards net zero while building a more nature-rich farming future, by trialling innovative practices and technologies. At Lower Blakemere Farm, the Gorringes are putting these ideas into action - experimenting with biological inputs, composting systems, nutrient-rich brews, and adapting small-scale regenerative principles for large-scale arable production. From Stabiliser cattle and mini trucks to bokashi composting, this episode is packed with practical insights and ideas for every kind of farmer. Find out more:https://www.lowerblakemerefarm.co.ukhttps://www.ukminitrucks.co.ukhttps://www.wigglywigglers.co.ukMessage us

In this week's Farmers Guardian podcast, we take a look at the wool industry, touching on its diversity and the problems faced within the industry. We are joined with Harriet Fletcher Gilhuys, textiles researcher at Fashion Roundtable who will talk about the Great British Wool Revival and its support for the farm to fabric journey.  Message us

War in the Middle East is placing a heavy toll on UK farmers. Coverage in Farmers Guardian in recent weeks has revealed the extent and impact of skyrocketing prices to red diesel, heating oil and fertiliser since the Middle East crisis escalated on February 28. The crisis has placed an additional £25,000 on fuel bills for some farm businesses, and others have claimed the UK is lurching into a food security crisis if the Government does not act immediately to support domestic food production. In response to claims that the UK Government is preparing a ‘worst case scenario' for the possibility of food shortages, Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said it is ‘not a concern' for the UK economy at present. But if war in Iran continues beyond the summer, it could place even greater pressure on planting decisions, affordability and the availability of resources. Is the UK really prepared for food shortages? Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said de-escalating the crisis and reopening the Strait of Hormuz is the only way to stop the price volatility experienced by farmers. But as each day passes, and with no signs of a peace deal in sight, the question is how long can farmers withstand pressures on their businesses? And is protesting an appropriate form of action? Farmers For Action co-ordinator William Taylor joins us on the podcast to discuss the impact of the war on UK food producers, the impact of Inheritance Tax on farm profitability, if UK farmers will hold protests, the influence of the fuel strikes of 2000, and the importance of UK Government passing a Farm Welfare Bill to bring about fairness in the food supply chain.Message us

In partnership with the Cultivate ‘Leading Through Change' Conference, Farmers Guardian editorial director Olivia Midgley speaks to chair of Noble Foods, Sarah Dean and fifth generation cider-maker Eleanor Thatcher of Thatchers Cider, about what good leadership looks like in family businesses, the opportunities and threats on the horizon and why weight loss jabs and artificial intelligence should be embraced in food and farming. We also catch up with Andy Venable, CEO and founder of Hillsgreen, who started the Cultivate conference back in 2020Message us

As the first farmer to appear on The Great British Bake Off, Mike Greenwood-Wilkins managed to bring farming to the masses. In this special, Mike talks about his family arable farm and getting funding for a new farm shop which will be his legacy, Government support - or lack of - and, of course, shouting about farming on the nation's favourite baking programme.Message us

For Flock's Sake is Farmers Guardian's new podcast series giving young farmers a voice on the issues shaping the future of British agriculture. Hosted by Farmers Guardian's Ellie Layton and Tom Ryder, both young farmers themselves, the podcast explores the challenges, opportunities and realities facing the next generation, from policy and funding to food production and rural life. In this first episode, Ellie and Tom are joined by Shadow Defra Secretary Victoria Atkins to discuss Inheritance Tax, the future of farm support, animal welfare and whether the Conservatives can win back farmers ahead of the next election. Got a question, topic or guest suggestion? Get in touch at podcasts@agriconnect.comChapters: Welcome to "For Flock's Sake": The Young Farmer Podcast Launch (00:44)Introducing Shadow DEFRA Secretary Victoria Atkins: Personal Journey and DEFRA Ambition (01:24)The Capital Challenge for Young Farmers: A Stark Reality (05:22)Conservative Farming Policy: Axing Taxes, Reviewing Quangos & 'Made in UK' Standards (06:39)Critique of Current Government: The Failure to Listen to Farming Communities (10:13)The Impact of Inheritance Tax & Encouraging Succession Planning (12:48)Conservative Response to Political Opponents & Policy Depth (16:28)Commitment to Rural Communities & Reflecting on 14 Years in Power (20:37)Brexit's Legacy and Future EU Trade Relations for Agriculture (22:52)Animal Welfare Debates: Tail Docking, Bovine TB & Practical Farming Realities (26:24)The Vital Role of Young Farmers' Clubs & Restoring Funding (31:09)Addressing DEFRA's Disconnect: Staffing and Environment Agency Reform (36:09)Food Security as National Priority: Subsidies and Sustainable Production (40:47)Axing the Family Farm Tax: Conservative Pledges and Process (44:48)Engaging the Next Generation in Politics & Victoria Atkins' Enduring Commitment (47:19)Message us

With oil prices rising in response to US action in Iran, analyst Rupert Somerscales speaks to the Farmers Guardian team about the relationship with wheat and oilseed prices, and what the geopolitical situation means for agriculture, and farmers' grain marketing plans.Message us

Thousands of tonnes of perfectly good arable produce never leave the farm gate, due to spoilage, market gluts, or shifting contracts. But what actually happens to that surplus? In this episode, head of arable Ash Ellwood visits a re-distribution site in Merseyside to dig into the true scale of on-farm waste and follow the journey of surplus produce beyond the field.Discover how FareShare and The Felix Project are turning overlooked harvests into vital food supplies for nearly 8,000 charities and why understanding where your crop goes next could reshape how you see value, waste, and opportunity in your rotation.To get in touch with FareShare and The Felix Project, head to: https://thefelixproject.org/ or https://fareshare.org.uk/fareshareandfelix/Message us

Following last week's judicial review into the changes to Inheritance Tax, the Farmers Guardian news team discuss the case and what it means. We hear from Jane Thynne who was reporting in the court room, alongside claimant and farmer Tom Martin, Shadow Defra Secretary Victoria Atkins and businessman Steve Perez.Message us

The Farm Retail Association (FRA) conference focused on making the most of your diversified farm business, whilst focusing on the wider benefits to society - food miles, the economic contribution of farm shops and markets and the national health crisis. Emily Ashworth speaks to tv presenter Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall about farm-to-fork connection and if it really means something, and former FRA chair Emma Mosey, farmer and farm shop owner.Message us

As more deaths are reported on farm, reaching 30 for the year since April 2025, the Farmers Guardian team discuss reporting on these incidents and speak to Jill Hewitt from the NAAC about what the industry needs to change the safety culture.Message us

Farmers Guardian's news and business team reflect on the NFU Conference, from Emma Reynolds speech, more clarity on the Sustainable Farming Incentive Scheme, Tom Bradshaw's re-election to farmer views on the NFU and DefraMessage us

The Farmers Guardian team discuss the latest milk prices, when the market may see a turnaround and the health trends which could drive the milk price of the future.Message us

In the second of a two-part series, Farmers Guardian's Alex Black speaks to Sarah Aughwane from Withers to answer farmers' questions on wills and disputes in light of the upcoming changes to Inheritance TaxMessage us

Lambing is rarely perfect, even in the best-run flocks. In this episode, the Farmers Guardian podcast takes a practical look at navel health in lambs. Along with sheep vet Fiona Lovett and NoBACZ international business consultant, Dave Charles, we explore why problems like joint ill persist, where systems can break down under pressure, and how farmers can reduce risk through hygiene, colostrum management and consistent routines.Supported by NoBACZ HealthcareMessage us

In the first of a two-part series, Alex Black speaks to Carly Russell, partner at Collyer Bristow, about the upcoming changes to Inheritance Tax and what it means for those making succession plans and Mia Willemsen talks to Tom Martin about the granting of an urgent hearing for a judicial review into APR and BPR changes.Message us

Farmers Guardian's news and business team discuss the top news stories, including a look at the impact of Donald Trump's rhetoric on Greenland, protests at distribution centres by farmers and ask where the money is going as bread prices rise with grain in the doldrumsMessage us

Most of the Farmers Guardian team headed to LAMMA Show 2026 to host various panels, talk to manufacturers and discuss the issues that are impacting the industry most.This year saw LAMMA play host to two other major Agriconnect shows too - CropTec and Low Carbon Agriculture.FG's new Agriworks campaign, Future of Farming, also launched with multiple panels on topics such as profitability and succession.Listen to this week's special LAMMA podcast covering all of the above, plus the fight to get farming into schools, the machinery market outlook and how the arable sector is moving forwards in 2026.Message us

The Farmers Guardian news team reports from the Oxford and Oxford Real Farming Conferences and we hear from NFU president Tom Bradshaw as he reflects on the events of his two-year tenure.Message us