NFU: Shed Talks

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksHow do farmers shape their businesses in a world of drought and flooding?British farmers are living with two extremes, drought and deluge. Last winter left fields under water and crops undrilled. By summer, much of England was in drought. Huge parts of the country still are, yet the Environment Agency is now telling farmers to prepare for floods.Hosts Luke Cox and Bizza Walters draw on their own experiences of combinable crops and livestock businesses, to unpack what this means for every sector. This can mean dwindling winter forage, poor crop establishment, irrigation-dependent horticulture and a record year for wildfires.Tim Pratt, farm manager at Wantisden Hall Farms in Suffolk, explains how he has redirected millions of cubic metres of water into farm reservoirs rather than letting it be pumped out to sea, and why he is already growing fewer onions and potatoes. He makes the case for 15 to 20 year guaranteed abstraction licences so farmers can plan and invest.Shropshire farmer and Nuffield Scholar Kate Mayne, who is also clerk to an internal drainage board, shares how farmers in the Severn catchment are working together to capture water in the wet months and use it in the dry ones.NFU Water Specialist Mark Betson sets out the NFU's key asks. They include secure water for food production, simpler reservoir planning, flexible licences, and fair recognition and payment for farmers who store floodwater to protect communities downstream. In the Westminster Section, Scott Pepe, Neeve McGinty and Sanjay Dhanda reflect on party conference season and look ahead to the Budget, including the NFU's call to extend the Annual Investment Allowance to reservoirs and water storage infrastructure.Listen now and let us know: what one change would make the biggest difference on your farm?NFU Online: https://www.nfuonline.com/TIm Pratt: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/tim-pratt-abaa5851Kate Mayne: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kate-mayne-9724ba50 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksAs the NFU’s Back British Farming Day campaign leads the political and media agenda for agriculture on September 9, the show takes a closer look at what is needed for the industry to continue to grow and be resilient. The deep dive into the big issues impacting British farming right now comes as the NFU published it’s Ready to Grow report and called on government to turn the tide and secure a future for British food production by setting ambitious targets for homegrown food. The report offers a route away from a growing food security crisis. Hosts Naomi Williams Roberts and Jacks Weaver pose the question: “As British farming is vital to food security, rural communities and the environment, how do we make it resilient, and what must change?" They are joined by Joe Stanley, Head of Sustainable Farming at the Allerton Project and fourth-generation farmer Esther Rudge from Ballingham Court Farm, a 350-acre mixed enterprise with Hereford beef cattle, sheep, root crops and renewables. Plus, the NFU’s team in Westminster lift the lid on an extremely busy and high-impact summer of campaigning with farm visits with the Prime Minister, Defra Secretary and Farming Minister. And they explain more about the NFU’s leading role in Back British Farming Day and explain its purpose. They also look ahead to a packed party political conference season across the political spectrum as the NFU represents British farming among the country’s current and future decision makers. For more information please head to the below links:NFU Online: https://www.nfuonline.com/Ballingham Court Farm: https://www.ballinghamcourt.co.uk/The Allerton Project: https://www.allertontrust.org.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksIn this week's episode of NFU Shed Talks, hosts Josh Redford and Naomi Williams-Roberts mark Farm Safety Week with powerful stories and practical advice that could save lives.Agricultural mechanic Ben Smith shares how losing an eye in a farm accident transformed his outlook on safety and why wearing the right PPE is non-negotiable. They're also joined by Lucy Saker from RABI, who introduces FarmersAid, a new initiative featuring a free app designed to guide bystanders through the critical first minutes after a serious farm accident.In Westminster, Scott Pepe and Joe Osborne discuss the latest developments in the Labour leadership race, the NFU's ongoing lobbying work, and why inviting MPs onto farms remains one of the most effective ways to influence agricultural policy.The episode also features Ed Lanning, a second-generation poultry farmer from Devon, who shares how he returned home after Harper Adams University to transform a struggling family farm into the top-performing unit in his processor's network. He reflects on the challenges of taking over the family business and why the future of farming depends on giving the next generation the confidence to lead.To find out more please head to the below links:NFU Online: https://www.nfuonline.com/Farm Safety Week: https://www.nfuonline.com/news/farm-safety-week/FarmersAid: https://farmersaid.org.ukDevonshire Poultry: https://www.devonshirepoultry.co.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksIn this episode of NFU Shed Talks, hosts Bizza Walters and Luke Cox celebrate the achievements of those recognised in the King's Birthday Honours, shining a spotlight on the individuals making a difference across British farming and rural communities.They are joined by NFU member Milly Fyfe, who has been awarded an MBE for services to farmers and family nutrition. Milly shares the story behind No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents, which she launched during the pandemic, and discusses The Countryside Kitchen, her field-to-fork education initiative based on her family farm in Northamptonshire, which is helping to connect young people with food, farming and nutrition.In the Westminster section, the team unpacks the latest political developments, including the appointment of Stephen Morgan as the new Farming Minister, replacing Dame Angela Eagle. They also discuss the implications of the Makerfield by-election result and what it could mean for the wider political landscape, before exploring the key provisions of the Police Reform Bill and its relevance to rural communities.To mark Pride Month, Bizza and Luke speak with Erin Napier, an NFU policy graduate and member of the NFU's LGBTQ+ network for staff and members. They are also joined by Ben Andrews, who shares his personal experience of growing up gay in a rural community and reflects on how attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people in farming have evolved over the years. Together, they discuss the progress that has been made, the challenges that remain, and the importance of creating a farming sector where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to thrive.NFU Online: https://www.nfuonline.com/about-us/inclusion-diversity-and-equity-being-one-nfu/AgRespect: https://www.agrespect.co.uk/our-stories/ben-andrews/Ben Andrews: https://www.instagram.com/bentheoandrews/No Fuss Meals for Busy Parents: https://www.nofussmealsforbusyparents.com/Milly Fyfe MBE: https://www.instagram.com/millyfyfe/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksIn this week's episode of NFU Shed Talks, we celebrate one of the biggest feel-good stories in recent farming history as the Hawkstone Farmers Choir reflects on its unforgettable victory on Britain's Got Talent. From raising awareness around mental health to shining a spotlight on the farming community, the choir's journey has resonated far beyond the stage.The team also takes you inside the recent Shed Talks Live event in Wiltshire, exploring the resilience, creativity and optimism driving the future of British agriculture. Through inspiring conversations with farmers embracing 'side hustle' diversifications, we hear how businesses are evolving through new ventures, community engagement and a willingness to think differently.In Westminster, the discussion turns to the policies shaping the sector, with a deep dive into proposed water legislation, the role of regional water authorities and the practical concerns farmers have around permitting, regulation and future planning. The team also unpacks the latest political developments and highlights the NFU's ongoing advocacy work on behalf of members.Whether it's a Golden Buzzer triumph, innovative diversification projects or navigating the changing political landscape, this episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience, ambition and community spirit at the heart of British farming.For more information on today’s episode and to stay up to date with all things NFU, visit NFU Online or for more information on todays guests, head to the below:The Hawkstone Farmer ChoirInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehawkstonefarmerschoir/?hl=en-gbWarren Farm SomersetWebsite: https://www.warrenfarmsomerset.co.uk/Instagram: @WarrenFarmSomersetTikTok: @WarrenFarmSomersetMee BlueberriesWebsite: https://www.meeblueberries.co.uk/Instagram: @MeeBlueberriesFacebook: @MeeBlueberries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksIn this week’s episode, hosts Naomi Williams-Roberts and Josh Redford are joined by Herefordshire flower farmer Rozanne Delamore, owner of The Ledbury Flower Farmer, to discuss her experience volunteering with Flowers from the Farm at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show.Rozanne reflects on speaking with the public about British-grown flowers, the importance of engaging consumers at high-profile events, and the growing support for locally grown blooms. The conversation also explores how NFU members can get involved and help champion British flowers across the sector.Shifting from flowers to technology, the episode also features Tim Gordon, co-founder of Best Practice AI, who discusses how artificial intelligence is beginning to shape the future of farming.Tim explains how AI tools can support farmers with decision-making, planning and day-to-day farm management, while also addressing concerns around data ownership, accuracy and overreliance on emerging technologies. He shares practical advice for farmers looking to make the most of AI’s potential, while stressing the importance of verifying information and using technology as a support tool rather than a replacement for experience and judgement.In the Westminster section, Scott Pepe and Joe Osborne provide an update on NFU lobbying work linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict, including the news that red diesel duty will be cut by more than a third until the end of the year.They also reflect on recent political developments, including calls from some Labour MPs for the Prime Minister to step down, despite Sir Keir Starmer insisting he remains focused on leading the Government.The team also looks ahead to the next Parliamentary session following the King’s Speech, breaking down the key Bills expected to impact NFU members. As part of a new series of deep dives, the episode begins with a closer look at the European Partnership Bill and what it could mean for the farming sector.For more information on today’s episode and to stay up to date with all things NFU, visit NFU Online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksIn this week’s episode, hosts Bizza Walters and Luke Cox are joined by David Wheatley, founder of Petit Peonies, and Cambridgeshire potato grower Luke Abblitt from Farmer Luke Potatoes to explore how social media and direct-to-consumer sales are helping farmers reconnect with customers and take greater control of their businesses.David shares how the disruption of Covid, combined with a devastating farm fire, forced him to rethink his business model, ultimately leading to the creation of a thriving direct-to-consumer peony business now selling around 100,000 stems every year.Inspired by David’s success, Luke explains how he adopted a similar approach with potatoes, building a loyal customer base through postal deliveries and local sales while reducing reliance on volatile wholesale markets.The conversation explores whether direct sales are becoming more than just a niche opportunity, and what this shift could mean for the long-term resilience and future of UK farming businesses.Looking beyond the UK, the episode also features Helena Lawi, Gender Specialist at Farm Africa, who discusses the organisation’s work supporting women farmers in Tanzania. Helena explains how improving access to finance, training and agricultural inputs is helping women move from subsistence farming into the cash economy through crops such as sunflower and sorghum.She also highlights why meaningful empowerment depends on involving men and wider communities in the conversation, helping to shift attitudes, support women into leadership roles and create lasting change at farm level.In the Westminster section, Neeve McGinty and Ruairi Hodges reflect on the fallout from the local elections and what the political changes could mean for rural communities and farming policy. They also break down Parliament’s prorogation ahead of the King’s Speech, the rush to pass legislation before the session ended, and two significant NFU lobbying wins linked to the Devolution Bill and the Crime and Policing Bill.Members can save up to 50% on tickets to Farm-Fest – NFUonline - log in required: https://www.nfuonline.com/account/login?returnUrl=https%3a%2f%2fwww.nfuonline.com%2fnews%2ffarm-fest-2026%2fFor more information on today’s episode, head to the links below:To stay up to date with all things NFU, please head to https://www.nfuonline.com/Petit Peonies website: https://www.petitepeonys.co.uk/Petit Peonies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petitepeonys/Farmer Luke Potatoes: https://farmerluke.co.uk/Farmer Luke Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmerluke.co.uk/Farm Africa: https://www.farmafrica.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksWith the latest developments in the Middle East continuing to impact UK farming, this episode opens with Jack Watts unpacking what it all means for farmers on the ground, right now.Hosts Jacks Weaver and Mike Greenwood-Wilkins catch up with Ellie Maguire and James Florey, two farmers who have swapped the yard for the spotlight as part of the Hawkstone Farmers Choir. From recording auditions on their phones to earning a golden buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent, they reflect on their journey so far, the challenge of preparing for the semi-finals with limited rehearsal time, and the reaction from the farming community.The episode also features Tom Beach, founder of Autonomous Agri Solutions and a Warwickshire-based NFU member working at the cutting edge of agricultural robotics. Tom explains how his Robotti system is already being used commercially to drill and weed crops without a tractor, and shares insights from deploying the technology across the UK and beyond. The conversation explores the gap between innovation and adoption, the commercial realities of robotics, and what still needs to change before more farmers can justify making the leap.In the Westminster section, Ruairi Hodges and Neeve McGinty discuss the NFU’s recent Food and Farming Fellowship visit to Bromstead Farm with ABP, offering insight into how the scheme is helping to connect policymakers with the realities of modern farming. They also cover the NFU’s lobbying efforts in response to the conflict in the Middle East, including key policy asks of the government as the situation continues to affect markets and input costs.Finally, they break down what prorogation means in practice following the local elections, and what members can expect next, without getting lost in procedural detail.For more information on today’s episode, head to the links below:Watch the Hawkstone Farmers Choir Golden Buzzer moment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IExSagWpe0 - Hawkstone Choir clip courtesy of Britain's Got Talent/Syco EntertainmentFarmFest: Members can save up to 50% on tickets to Farm-Fest – NFUonlineTo stay up to date with all things NFU, please head to https://www.nfuonline.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksWith Great British Beef Week just around the corner, Shed Talks takes a look beyond the farm gate and into the less visible parts of the supply chain that underpin the beef sector.Hosts Josh Redford and Naomi Williams-Roberts sit down with Dave Stringer, the Butchery Apprenticeship Trainer at Dovecote Park, which provides British beef, veal, and venison to Waitrose nationwide. Dave talks about Dovecote Park’s fully funded and bespoke training programme, designed to tackle the challenge of sourcing and retaining skilled labour in specialist areas such as butchery. He also discusses how strong uptake from women is helping to broaden participation in a part of the industry that has historically been male-dominated.The hosts also speak with Rob Lewis, a beef and sheep farmer in Wales who bought his local pub, the Triangle Inn, in 2022. Rob explains how he uses the pub as a direct route to the beef market, from rearing cattle and working with trusted local abattoirs and butchers, to serving the finished product in his pub, giving customers a clear line of sight from field to plate.Josh then connects to Sweden to speak with Jörgen Eriksson, a dairy farmer taking part in an event called Kosläpp, or ‘cow release’, in May. After videos of cows being let outside for the first time in spring went viral on social media in recent years, farmers in Sweden have started hosting events where visitors can watch their cows being released onto pasture in person, with the largest events welcoming around 10,000 people. Jörgen explains how a Kosläpp event works and why people enjoy them so much. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to NFU Shed TalksShed Talks becomes Bed Talks as hosts Bizza Walters and Luke Cox sit down with Harry Thompson, head of brand development and marketing for the Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co – the first company to offer a full wool mattress that is traceable back to the farm and certified by Made in Britain. Harry reveals why the company decided to create this mattress and their relationship with the farmers who supply the wool.But before that, Bizza and Luke open by discussing the recent amendment to livestock worrying laws. They chat about the new and stronger powers the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act has given police to stamp down on the crime and the impact livestock worrying has had on farmers across the country. Farmer William Dawe joins them to share his experienceof a devastating attack on his farm in Devon and his reaction to the law change.In Westminster, the team shares insights from a Core Standards Event in Parliament before moving on to discuss a Rural Funding Roundtable held in Westminster. The importance of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is covered, as is the National Rural Crime Network. Finally, this section closes with an update on the NFU’s lobbying concerning the ongoing situation in Iran on behalf of members.To learn more about the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act and the NFU’s efforts to secure changes, please follow this link:https://www.nfuonline.com/news/private-members-bill-on-livestock-worrying/The National Rural Crime Network website is here: https://nationalruralcrimenetwork.net/And for everything you need to know about the Wrought Iron & Brass Bed Co’s British wool mattresses, go here: https://www.wroughtironandbrassbed.co.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.