Shropshire Farming Talk: Illustrating the story of British farming

I have been fortunate to meet some of the various farmers, through touring livestock markets during school holidays buying calves with dad, local discussion groups, Hereford cattle breeding endeavours, studying at Harper Adams, show involvements, professional roles and even running clubs!

From topspec poultry units to progressive dairy set-ups, the rolling hills of beef and sheep farms, to rows of fruit and vegetables, and fields of cereals, pulses, seeds; organic, conventional, and now regenerative, Shropshire provides a perfect ground source for Great British produce.

It’s been interesting to see agriculture evolve over recent decades, reflecting government policy changes, consumer demands/retailer dictation, and personal farming aspirations.

A recent trip to Groundswell, a two-day regenerative agricultural festival held in Hertfordshire, highlighted the link between the soil, our food, and our health, with over 6500 people attending to learn more about rediscovering their land and restoring the soil for future generations, returning to some of the farming approaches of our forebears.

It was great to see local farmers speaking at Groundswell, which was also visited by HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh and the Secretary of State, Therese Coffey, both of whom toured the site to understand the progress being made to deliver a sustainable agricultural future, and the challenges faced. Events like Groundswell and our agricultural shows, illustrate the story of British farming and host all-important peer-to-peer learning and support, which it seems farmers and landowners are increasingly embracing.

I wonder what the landscape will look like in another several decades?

Helen Cork, Account Manager for Jane Craigie Marketing