Rural News

The trustees of The South Suffolk Agricultural Association have taken the decision to cancel the 2021 South Suffolk Show. This will be only the fourth time in the show’s 133 year history that the event has not occurred over two consecutive years, during which shows were cancelled from 1914 – 1922 due to WWI, from 1931 – 1935 due to the depression and 1939 – 1945 due to WWII.

Feeding, bedding and looking after some 1,200 outdoor sows as well as their offspring is a fairly rigorous task that’s hard on both men and machines. It’s a job that is difficult enough when it’s dry but when the winter weather sets in things can get even tougher, explains Suffolk pig producer Chris Fogden.

CNH Industrial has announced a new immersive ‘infotainment’ experience that promises to offer much more than a live streaming event or showroom – featuring brands New Holland, Case IH and Steyr.

Last year Lemken successfully presented two digital events in German-speaking countries with the Steketee and Azurit as key topics. Following the positive response, the company is pleased to announce today, that the next edition also will be held in English, as well as a German language version. 

Scottish farmer Janet McQuistin speaks to Farmers Guide about rural life, the power of social media in overcoming isolation, and how she finally achieved her dream of farming full-time, despite the opinions of a school guidance counsellor.

Auto Spray Systems has announced the launch of a new breed of autonomous robot – the first of its kind in Europe – which promises increased efficiency and reduce emissions.

The team behind the popular Farmer Time initiative – which links up farmers and schools using digital platforms – is urging farmers across the country to sign up now, as there are 200 schools ready and waiting to be matched.

Donations of chicken equating to 55,000 meals have been shared with some of the country’s most needy charity groups.

Mixed farmer and social media influencer Charlie Beaty spoke to Farmers Guide about why she feels it’s important that farmers show the highs and the lows of farming – not only for mental health in the industry, but also to gain public trust.

Swedish oat drink company Oatly – which has sparked a backlash among farmers for its claims about dairy farming’s environmental impact – has unveiled plans to open its first UK factory in Peterborough in 2023, sourcing oats from UK farmers.

Dorset farmer and Instagram influencer Emma Foot speaks to Farmers Guide about sharing her story with her 17.6K followers, inspiring women in farming and the highlights and challenges of farm life.

For many reasons, the sometimes fragile state of mental health in agriculture is making more and more headlines. Rebecca Wilson and Lizzie McLaughlin, creators of the NEW podcast ‘Boots and Heels’, really wanted to explore why is it that the difficulties faced by the agricultural industry are unique and so prevalent, and how anyone affected can find support.