Farming

Potato production up despite tough year

Published

5 years ago

November 26, 2020

THE TOTAL harvest of British potatoes this year will be 5.3m tonnes according to provisional estimates – up two point eight per cent (2.8%) on last year’s figure but just below the five-year average of 5.4m tonnes.
This estimate by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has been released during a time when growers have battled an exceptionally wet harvest period for the second year running.
They have fared better than last year, as on 10 November it was estimated that two per cent of the planted area was yet to be lifted. This compares with 11 per cent of the crop that was estimated to be unlifted on 12 November 2019.
This production figure follows an AHDB estimate that the planted area this year is the third-lowest on record.
Alice Bailey, Senior Analyst at AHDB said: “This overall net yield sits in line with the five-year national average (2015-2019). Anecdotal reports suggest that yields have been somewhat variable from farm to farm, even field to field. Yet overall, crops are within farm expectations so it is not surprising that the national yield is in line with recent years.
“We saw planted area drop by two-point three per cent this year, yet we are estimating a two-point eight per cent rise in production. This is based on both a slight increase in yields year-on-year and the fact that a large area was left unharvested last year. The unlifted area in 2019 was estimated at six per cent, whereas in 2018 less than one per cent was estimated to be left in the ground and we would anticipate similar this year.”
It was also noted that the estimate could be amended in the coming weeks, with 2.1Kha still to harvest in the East of England, and some members of the 450 strong AHDB Grower Panel still to return their survey information.

WINTER MARKETING CAMPAIGN

Meanwhile, Potatoes Strategy Director Rob Clayton announced that AHDB would be launching another promotional campaign in reaction to the market conditions caused by the coronavirus. This follows on from a similar campaign in the summer that reached 5 million shoppers via catch-up TV, social media and display advertising.
“Since the pandemic hit we have increased the amount of data we analyse from supermarkets and other areas of the marketplace. While potato sales at retail are up eight to nine per cent overall – analysis from Kantar Worldpannel shows baking potatoes lagging behind at a rise of three per cent.
“Jacket potatoes are a fantastic healthy and cost-effective option for families, so we will be launching a winter campaign to inspire shoppers to take advantage of all the great things they can do with bakers,” said Doctor Clayton.

Farming

Bluetongue red markets a ‘step forward’, says NFU Cymru

Published

7 hours ago

July 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

New measures will support farmers under current disease restrictions

NFU CYMRU has welcomed the introduction of Bluetongue approved red markets as a “step forward” in supporting Welsh farmers affected by disease control measures.

The announcement, made on Friday (July 11) by the Welsh Government and Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, means that from Monday (July 14), livestock can be moved from the Bluetongue Restricted Zone in England to designated red markets in Wales. From there, animals can go directly to slaughter at approved abattoirs either in Wales or within the restricted zone.

The decision follows a Bluetongue Roundtable meeting hosted by the Deputy First Minister on Tuesday (July 8), where NFU Cymru President Aled Jones was among those representing the sector.

Speaking after the announcement, Mr Jones said: “I outlined to the Deputy First Minister the serious impact current Bluetongue control policies are having on the Welsh livestock sector. Our members remain deeply concerned about the implications for trade, particularly with the breeding season approaching. It is vital we do more to protect the viability of breeding flocks and herds – and the wider sustainability of farm businesses.”

He welcomed the red market move as a practical improvement, though not without limitations. “In normal circumstances, some animals would be moved for further finishing. The requirement for direct slaughter limits options, but the flexibility this measure brings will support trade in finished stock.”

Mr Jones also raised ongoing concerns about government agency capacity to process testing and licences, and the high costs involved. “The cost of testing is prohibitive except in the case of very high-value animals,” he said. “That’s why NFU Cymru and the NFU have jointly written to the Welsh Government and Defra, calling for urgent financial assistance. That request remains unanswered.”

He urged farmers to discuss vaccination options with their private vets, noting that the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales is considering how vaccine uptake could further ease trade restrictions.

“With the breeding sales season fast approaching, time is of the essence,” Mr Jones added. “We call on the Welsh Government to work closely with the industry to explore additional measures to increase the movement of vaccinated stock.”

NFU Cymru has also been pressing for clearer guidance for cross-border farms. The union has welcomed the publication of updated information by the Welsh Government alongside the new red market announcement.

Farming

Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society launches search for 2026 Ambassador

Published

7 hours ago

July 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Young rural leaders invited to apply for prestigious voluntary role

THE PEMBROKESHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY has launched its search for the 2026 County Show Ambassador — a voluntary role aimed at promoting the Society and celebrating rural life in the county.

The successful candidate will support Society officeholders in representing the organisation at key events, including the Pembrokeshire County Show and other activities throughout the year. As part of their development, the 2026 Ambassador will shadow the current Ambassador during this year’s show and gain hands-on experience of the Society’s work.

Last year’s Ambassador, Alys Owens, was appointed during the 2024 Show. Alys, who lives in Haverfordwest, works for Castell Howell and is an active member of Llysyfran YFC. She previously served as Club Secretary and was awarded Club Secretary of the Year at County level. A talented cornet player, Alys also performs with the Goodwick Brass Band.

Tim Johns, President of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society, said: “The Ambassador role is an important one. Applicants must have strong communication skills and a genuine enthusiasm for supporting the Society. Knowledge of the Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society and the County Show is desirable.”

The role is open to Pembrokeshire residents aged between 18 and 30. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview at the County Show office from 7:00pm on Tuesday, 19 August. The chosen candidate will receive a £200 allowance and complimentary Society membership for three years.

The deadline for applications is noon on Sunday, 17 August 2025. Applications must be submitted online at: Show Ambassador | Pembrokeshire County Show | Pembs Agricultural Society

Please note: Previous holders of the Ambassador role are not eligible to reapply.

Farming

Welsh Conservatives demand Senedd vote on Sustainable Farming Scheme

Published

2 days ago

July 11, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Call for democratic legitimacy as farming unions back scrutiny

THE WELSH Conservatives have called for a final, binding vote in the Senedd on the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), warning that the plan could damage the rural economy and undermine confidence among farmers.

Ahead of a scheduled Senedd debate next Wednesday (July 16), Shadow Secretary for Economy, Energy and Rural Affairs Samuel Kurtz MS said the Labour-led scheme must be put to a vote before implementation.

He said: “Agriculture is vital to the Welsh economy, culture and language, and farmers need clear answers to plan for their future, their livelihoods, and their communities.

“It’s only right that the Welsh Labour Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme is put to a final Senedd vote, to ensure democratic legitimacy and the confidence of the agricultural sector.”

The Welsh Conservatives claim the original plans would have led to the loss of 5,500 farm jobs, a reduction of more than 120,000 livestock, and a £200 million hit to the Welsh economy. They also described the tree-planting and biodiversity targets as “unrealistic.”

Figures highlighted by the party show that farming employs nearly 50,000 people directly, with 230,000 jobs supported across the wider food and drink sector. The industry is worth £2.2 billion annually, with the food sector valued at £9.3 billion.

NFU Cymru president Aled Jones added his support for a Senedd vote, saying: “Welsh farming feeds the nation, cares for over 80% of the land area, and supports our rural communities, language and culture.

“For every £1 of public money invested through the BPS, £9 is returned to the Welsh economy. With 43% of farmers speaking Welsh, our farming families also play a crucial role in underpinning our language and rural society.

“The SFS is the biggest change in farm support for a generation. It is vital the Senedd has the chance to scrutinise it properly.”

FUW president Ian Rickman echoed those sentiments: “The Sustainable Farming Scheme marks a generational milestone for Welsh agriculture. We welcome this debate and are pleased the Senedd is being used to scrutinise such important changes.”

The motion due to be debated reads:

“To propose that the Senedd: Recognises the importance of agriculture to the Welsh economy, culture, language, environment, and rural communities.
Calls on the Welsh Government to bring forward a final, binding vote in the Senedd on its proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme, prior to its implementation, to ensure democratic legitimacy and the confidence of the agricultural sector.”