The Farmers Guardian Podcast

Clarkson’s Farm series 5: a look at the series so far

<p>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&apos;s Farm for its fifth series on Prime Video.</p><p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Why the platinum ten minutes matter after an on-farm accident

<p>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.<br/><br/>To learn more or download the app, visit www.farmersaid.org.uk</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Jeff and Katie Aiken: Stockmanship, success and starting again | For Flock’s Sake Ep3

<p>Jeff and Katie Aiken join Farmers Guardian’s Ellie Layton and Tom Ryder for the latest episode of For Flock’s Sake.<br/><br/>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.<br/><br/>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.<br/><br/>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Is oilseed rape making a comeback? Success strategies for UK growers | The Farmers Guardian arable special

<p>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.</p><p>But after two stronger seasons, sentiment is beginning to shift.</p><p>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?</p><p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

The Farmers&#39; Choir are through to Britain&#39;s Got Talent finals - but who are the farmers behind the show?

<p>The Farmers&apos; Choir stormed through Britain&apos;s Got Talent semi-finals at weekend, soaring in to the final as possible winners.</p><p>With the whole of the UK&apos;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.</p><p>In this special podcast, Katie Fallon speaks to Katryna and Ben from the choir to find out more.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Political change: What does it mean for farming?

<p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

From the classroom to the cattle shed - lecturers and students discuss careers in farming

<p>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.<br/><br/>A massive thanks to David, Rachael, Molly and Josh for their time and to Myerscough College for hosting us<br/><br/>To learn more about the college, and the courses they offer, visit https://www.myerscough.ac.uk/</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Inside Hexham Auction Mart with Drew Patrick and Harrison Collingwood | For Flock&#39;s Sake Ep2

<p>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. <br/><br/> 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. </p><p> </p><p>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. <br/><br/> Got a question, topic or guest suggestion? Get in touch at <a href='mailto:fgsocials@agriconnect.com'>fgsocials@agriconnect.com</a> </p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Regen learnings from Duchy of Cornwall &#39;Focus Farmers&#39; | The Farmers Guardian arable special

<p>Join us for our second arable special where Farmers Guardian head of arable, Ash Ellwood, visits Duchy of Cornwall&apos;s Focus Farmers, Heather and Paul Gorringe. Together, they explore the Gorringes&apos; 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.<br/> <br/>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.<br/> <br/>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.<br/> <br/>From Stabiliser cattle and mini trucks to bokashi composting, this episode is packed with practical insights and ideas for every kind of farmer.<br/> <br/>Find out more:<br/>https://www.lowerblakemerefarm.co.uk<br/>https://www.ukminitrucks.co.uk<br/>https://www.wigglywigglers.co.uk</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

The wool industries fascinating farm to fabric journey

<p>In this week&apos;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.  </p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Are UK farmers ready to hold protests?

<p>War in the Middle East is placing a heavy toll on UK farmers. Coverage in <em>Farmers Guardian </em>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?</p><p> </p><p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Disruption from weight loss jabs and AI are opportunities for food and farming sector

<p>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. </p><p>We also catch up with Andy Venable, CEO and founder of Hillsgreen, who started the Cultivate conference back in 2020</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

The Government cannot kick farmers when we are down!

<p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Can young farmers trust the Conservatives? | For Flock’s Sake Ep. 1

<p><em>For Flock’s Sake</em> is Farmers Guardian’s new podcast series giving young farmers a voice on the issues shaping the future of British agriculture.<br/><br/> 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.<br/><br/> 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.<br/><br/> Got a question, topic or guest suggestion? Get in touch at <a href='mailto:podcasts@agriconnect.com'>podcasts@agriconnect.com</a></p><p><br/></p><p>Chapters: <br/>Welcome to &quot;For Flock&apos;s Sake&quot;: The Young Farmer Podcast Launch (00:44)<br/>Introducing Shadow DEFRA Secretary Victoria Atkins: Personal Journey and DEFRA Ambition (01:24)<br/>The Capital Challenge for Young Farmers: A Stark Reality (05:22)<br/>Conservative Farming Policy: Axing Taxes, Reviewing Quangos &amp; &apos;Made in UK&apos; Standards (06:39)<br/>Critique of Current Government: The Failure to Listen to Farming Communities (10:13)<br/>The Impact of Inheritance Tax &amp; Encouraging Succession Planning (12:48)<br/>Conservative Response to Political Opponents &amp; Policy Depth (16:28)<br/>Commitment to Rural Communities &amp; Reflecting on 14 Years in Power (20:37)<br/>Brexit&apos;s Legacy and Future EU Trade Relations for Agriculture (22:52)<br/>Animal Welfare Debates: Tail Docking, Bovine TB &amp; Practical Farming Realities (26:24)<br/>The Vital Role of Young Farmers&apos; Clubs &amp; Restoring Funding (31:09)<br/>Addressing DEFRA&apos;s Disconnect: Staffing and Environment Agency Reform (36:09)<br/>Food Security as National Priority: Subsidies and Sustainable Production (40:47)<br/>Axing the Family Farm Tax: Conservative Pledges and Process (44:48)<br/>Engaging the Next Generation in Politics &amp; Victoria Atkins&apos; Enduring Commitment (47:19)</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

How is the Middle-East crisis impacting agriculture?

<p>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&apos; grain marketing plans.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Arable special: From Field to Food Charity, how surplus crops find a second harvest

<p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>To get in touch with FareShare and The Felix Project, head to: <br/>https://thefelixproject.org/ or https://fareshare.org.uk/fareshareandfelix/</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Farmers take Government to the High Court

<p>Following last week&apos;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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Farm Retail Association patron Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall says people have an ‘appetite for food with a story’

<p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Farm death count reaches 30 in 2025/26

<p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

SFI, farming politics and NFU elections

<p>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 Defra</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Dairy prices - have we hit the floor?

<p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Ask the expert: What farmers need to know about wills ahead of the IHT changes

<p>In the second of a two-part series, Farmers Guardian&apos;s Alex Black speaks to Sarah Aughwane from Withers to answer farmers&apos; questions on wills and disputes in light of the upcoming changes to Inheritance Tax</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Reducing risks and taking a practical look at navel health in lambs

<p>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.<br/><br/>Supported by NoBACZ Healthcare</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Ask the Expert: strategies to protect farmland and estates under new APR rules

<p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Trump, protests and the fight for fairness in the supply chain - Farmers under pressure

<p>Farmers Guardian&apos;s news and business team discuss the top news stories, including a look at the impact of Donald Trump&apos;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 doldrums</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

LIVE from LAMMA 2026 - farm safety, market conditions and the fight for farming&#39;s future

<p>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.</p><p>This year saw LAMMA play host to two other major Agriconnect shows too - CropTec and Low Carbon Agriculture.</p><p>FG&apos;s new Agriworks campaign, Future of Farming, also launched with multiple panels on topics such as profitability and succession.</p><p>Listen to this week&apos;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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Oxford Farming Conference Special

<p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Open Farm Sunday - why more farmers are being encouraged to open their doors

<p>Tuesley Farm in Surrey welcomes more than 3,000 visitors each year on Open Farm Sunday. We meet managing director Jim Floor to find out why, in these uncertain times, such events bring some much-needed positivity.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

A year in farming with the FG team: The highs, lows and everything in between

<p>In what has been a turbulent year in agriculture, the FG team take a look back on the biggest events of the year. But, of course, it is the people that make agriculture, so who scoops this year&apos;s favourite feature? </p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>

Christmas cookalong at Cannon Hall Farm - &quot;Cooking from scratch is something we should encourage&quot;

<p>In this Christmas special, Emily Ashworth heads to Cannon Hall Farm to cook some festive recipes up with the Nicholson family. Sat around the farmhouse table, Rob, Dave, Richard and Roger talk about the farm, and memories of food growing up. </p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2206410/fan_mail/new">Message us</a></p>