Shropshire Farming Talk: David Roberts, of GO Davies

 Fertiliser has been in demand, with a £10 rise expected, but it’s anyone’s guess how things will shift.

The amount of sowing that’s gone in over the last few weeks has been phenomenal.

I can’t remember the last time we sold this much seed at this time of year; it reminds me of when the beet factory was open. 

In theory, this should set us up for a decent wheat crop next autumn—weather permitting—so it may be worth starting to keep an eye on next year’s wheat market. Feel free to ring for a chat. 

I’m often asked, “What is the biggest risk to your business?” and my answer is usually twofold: the weather and politicians. The only difference? The weather is more predictable and tells the truth!

I don’t usually write about personal things. 

But we’ve all heard about Chris Hoy’s prostate issues, and our hearts go out to him and his family. 

There aren’t many similarities between Chris and me — one of us is very athletic, and the other isn’t —but one thing we do have in common is a prostate problem. 

Mine was caught early and is no longer an issue. 

So fellas, quite simply, GET YOURSELVES CHECKED. If this helps just one person, then it’s a job well done.

by David Roberts, G.O Davies (Westbury) Ltd, which has been trading in Westbury, west of Shrewsbury for over 60 years