When the Government announced its unprecedented lockdown measures, restricting people’s movement and closing businesses, many farm diversification businesses were forced to shut their doors. To see how farmers are coping, Abi Kay speaks to North Yorkshire B&B owner Christine Ryder. Martyn Dobinson, partner at accountants Saffery Champness, gives us the low down on the Government support available to help rural businesses to stay afloat.
With Coronavirus prompting the extension of deadlines for BPS and Countryside Stewardship applications, we ask if farm payments are likely to also be delayed, when the window opens in December. Looking ahead beyond the pandemic, we question if the crisis will also force the Government to delay the Brexit transition period, to allow businesses to get back on their feet before direct payments are phased out. We speak to ex civil servant and head of policy and advice at the CLA, Judicaelle Hammond.
A video of three-year-old Barley Brook Sellar showing her Border Leicester ewe Ethel at the first Online Agricultural Show has caused an internet storm. Barley was showing her sheep as part of young handlers class for children under eight years old at her family home in Norfolk.
