‘Get farming message across this harvest’

• Campaign highlights sector

• Public back British growers

• Behind-the-scenes insights

Growers are being urged to highlight the role farmers play as food producers – by harnessing the power of social media and inviting MPs onto farms this harvest.

Huge challenges have been imposed by the Labour government which came to power one year ago this month, says the NFU – including inheritance tax and the sudden closure of the Sustainable Farming Incentive.

But rather than focusing on these negatives, the NFU says the aim should be to showcase the work arable farmers do at harvest time on social media – and invite MPs onto farms to see it for themselves.

NFU combinable crops board chairman Jamie Burrows said: “Being an arable farmer is such a fantastic job, particularly at this time of year when we get to jump in our combine harvesters to bring home the harvest.

Stronger future

“The Your Harvest campaign is an opportunity to showcase what we do in producing the food, fuel and fibre that keeps the nation going as well as thanking you for your support and continuing to back British farming.”

Growers are being asked to share behind-the-scenes insights into the harvest process on social media. This should include the expertise and perseverance required to harvest viable crops in testing conditions, said Mr Burrows.

The #YourHarvest social media campaign content reached more than seven million members of the public last year – helping too raise awareness of the crucial role played by farmers in delivering sustainable food.

“This year, we are going to continue to champion the voices and efforts of farmers and engage the public with the stories behind the food they enjoy every day,” said Mr Burrows.

Authentic stories

“The combinable crops board is determined to keep shining a light on their hard work, sharing authentic stories that connect the public to the origins of their daily meals and the broader agricultural landscape.”

The NFU says hosting an on-farm visits is one of the best ways to get across specific local issues with MPs, as well as informing them about the broader problems impacting farmers up and down the country.

MP meetings are our best hope of changing the current policy proposals, giving policymakers a first-hand look at the challenges and opportunities within British agriculture, says NFU president Tom Bradshaw.

“There is no substitute for getting decision-makers out on farm. Farmers should take every opportunity to engage with policymakers, ensuring that agriculture remains a priority in political discussions.”

Former MP takes Red Tractor role

The Red Tractor farm assurance scheme has appointed farmer and former MP Julian Sturdy to chair its combinable crops and sugar beet sector board.

Mr Sturdy brings more than three decades of hands-on experience as an arable farmer, managing a 300ha arable unit. Red Tractor said he offered a fresh perspective and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

The former Conservative MP for York Outer (2010-2024) said: “As a grower myself, I understand first-hand the challenges our sector faces, from evolving market demands to the need for robust, trusted assurance standards.”

‘Fundamental reset’

It’s been a rocky few years for Red Tractor, with an independent review recommending a “fundamental reset” for the assurance scheme to regain the confidence of growers – many of whom believe its costs far outweigh any benefits.

Red Tractor says the combinable crops and sugar beet sector board plays a vital role in representing the interests of UK growers, processors and retailers while maintaining the integrity of standards across the supply chain.

Pledging to ensure farmers’ voices are heard and drive positive change, Mr Sturdy said: “Together, we can continue to uphold the high standards that underpin Red Tractor and deliver value for British farmers and consumers.”