Author Posts: Sarah Kidby

After the first human case of H5 avian flu was detected in the UK, Farmers Guide spoke to virologist Dr Phillip Gould about this rare species jump, and what farmers should be aware of as H5N1 cases escalate in UK birds.

Peas and beans look set for a good commercial year supported by favourable market conditions confirms Elsoms Seeds’ Jack Holgate.

The National Pig Association has welcomed an announcement from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate but stressed that the industry must continue preparations for a future without zinc oxide products.

In what promises to be a boost for the rural sector, the centre would host events and workshops for secondary school pupils, school leavers and adult learners, as well as existing rural sector workers.

A new report has questioned the government’s readiness to deliver the ELM scheme, and raised concerns about its potential impacts for the farming sector.

Routine testing revealed very rare case of transmission to a human after close contact with infected birds.

As the UK marks its first tumultuous year outside of the EU, Farmers Guide reflects on the current situation – the outstanding threats, opportunities and what the future may hold for British farmers as a result.

A number of farming organisations have called on the government to support British farmers in 2022 after a year of extraordinary challenges.

New cases of H5N1 have been confirmed in Lincolnshire, Cumbria and Berkshire so far this month, as well as a number of new confirmed cases over Christmas and New Year.

As recent research suggests lameness-related issues and endemic infectious disease continue to be the key factors affecting production efficiency on cattle and sheep farms, livestock editor Sarah Kidby spoke to farm vets for their views on health trends from 2021, and advice for the coming year.

Last year, Adrian Bland of Ninezergh Farm began taking steps to tackle increasingly high somatic cell counts in his 120-cow milking herd. Just over a year on, he took part in a recent AHDB webinar to explain the farm’s progress.

Thousands of people turned out to support the tour, which aimed to bring the farming community together and raise money for Garden House Hospice Care in Letchworth.