Shropshire Star

Farming charity is called on as much as in Victorian days

Would you know how much of the UK land is used for farming?

Published
Christine Downes is a committee member of Shropshire RABI

In a recent report from The Prince’s Countryside Fund almost a third of Britons surveyed believe it was less than 30 per cent. In fact it is 71.2 per cent, and the land is used by our farmers to grow crops, rear animals, milk cows, produce fruit and vegetables - all to produce food for our table.

The chief executive of the Wildlife Trusts, Stephanie Hilborne, said: “Farmers are the custodians of our countryside.”

Caring in a sustainable way for their animals and the environment is part of living the dream. However the rewards are not encouraging, as farm gate prices in many sectors over the last few years have been at a historic low.

It is encouraging to see the strength of future generations who are embracing change, looking for alternative ideas, with enthusiasm and knowing that it is not always about money, but a lifestyle and a tradition. The national median income is £28,000. Farmers earn £20,000 a year on average, and unsurprisingly levels of borrowing have doubled in the past decade.

Dairying needs a large investment for modern parlours, technical equipment, bulk tanks and cows - little wonder that 66 per cent of farmers have left the profession since 1995.

In these difficult times the farming charity the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution is called upon to support as much as it was when set up in 1860, caring for families, farmers and farm workers on a short term basis after illness, bereavement, family breakdown and offering long term help to those disabled or elderly. If you are concerned about someone, please persuade them to phone the Freephone Helpline 0808 281 9490. The welfare officer who is their contact will help with total confidentially and compassion.

It takes courage to seek help, especially if everything is going wrong, you are battling with the weather, and experiencing sadness and numbness. Talking things over with someone who cares can take away the power of the illness.

We are so fortunate in Shropshire to have the support of many friends. Following their daughter’s wedding David and Cheryl Moseley kindly offered RABI use of their tepee for the’ Taste of Shropshire’ event, which raised £1,220. We met local producers and enjoyed tasting, thanks to Appleby’s Cheese, Hodghurst Meats, The Cake Croft, AppleTeme and Shire Bars. We are delighted The Rag Society of Harper Adams University has donated £2,000, to help local farming people.

Come and meet Kate Jones, RABI regional manager at Minsterley Show on Saturday, August 19. Contact on 07876 492839 or email kate.jones@rabi.org.uk

Christine Downes is a committee member of Shropshire Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution