Young farmers

Two aspiring farmers who took part in the inaugural Nuffield Farming Trust's Next-Gen Scholarship, a project aimed at opening up the prestigious scheme to a younger audience, talk to Jane Thynne about their experiences

12-year-old Bella and Vicky the calf stole the show outside Westminster hoping to highlight the importance of farming's next generation of farmers following the Government's family farm tax

"There is still a great deal of uncertainty about the future of agriculture in Wales"

Olivia Shave is a shepherdess and the founder and director of Ecoewe which offers a range of sustainable products derived from the family’s flock. Olivia has launched the #Ruraleducationmatters campaign and a petition to revise the national curriculum and introduce comprehensive rural education in UK schools

"Family farms are at the heart of a thriving rural economy, and farming plays a crucial role in delivering on priorities like nature recovery, climate mitigation, and clean water"

The event is separate to the NFU's lobby being held on the same day, but organisers stressed the events were 'complimentary' and not in competition with one another

NFYFC's YFC agri chair Luke Cox said the proposed tax and wage changes 'threaten the continuity and viability of farm farms and rural diversification businesses'

Ian farms in partnership with his family near Knutsford, Cheshire. They manage 700 commercial pedigree Holstein/Friesians on 445 hectares (1,100 acres). Replacements are home-reared and cows are on a composite system. Ian is a representative for Sainsbury’s Dairy Development Group and sits on the AHDB Genetics Advisory Forum

Scottish Young Farmers have created a music video for mental health awareness

Patterned ties are helping young handlers overcome fears.