Buckinghamshire farmer highlights importance of County Show
Farmers are hoping to shine a light on mounting pressures the industry faces
A Buckinghamshire farmer has spoken about the importance of the Bucks County Show, describing it as both a social and professional highlight in the agricultural calendar.
Richard Heady, who runs a mixed farm with both arable crops and cattle just south of Milton Keynes in North Buckinghamshire, said the show was a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow farmers as well as the wider community.
Mr Heady said the event was important for both personal and professional reasons: “It’s really important that as farmers we take time to go around the stands, we talk to our vets, we talk to the land agents, the dealerships who we buy our tractors from. So it’s kind of part work, part pleasure. But it’s an opportunity you only get once a year.”
Mr Heady emphasised that such events allow those in the industry to share concerns and present a collective voice to decision-makers.
“Sometimes you have worries on your own farm and you feel like you’re alone. And when you actually meet other farmers and start chatting through you find out we’re all in the same boats and farmers are stronger together. We can then take it to the MPs and and make sure our voices are heard,” he explained.
Local MPs often attend the show, providing opportunities for farmers to speak directly with them.
Reflecting on challenges faced this year, Mr Heady described the impact of difficult weather conditions on harvests.
He also linked financial pressures to mental health issues within farming communities.
“Farmers are are working on their own. They’ve got a huge amount of investment and in years like this, when their crops just don’t produce as much grain as they’re expecting, things get really tough. Finances are really tight,” he said.
“A struggling business just leaves struggling mental health issues and farmers really need their support to keep on producing food and and keep healthy in themselves,” he added.
He also pointed to the importance of the Bucks County Show as a way of engaging the public with farming.
“I think it’s a fantastic shop window for agriculture. We live in quite an urban area here in North Buckinghamshire, but by going to these shows, people can see all the livestock, the cattle, the sheep that are produced in these areas,” he said.
Mr Heady explained that the event also helps to break down stereotypes about farming and showcase how modern the industry has become.
“It’s it’s not all about getting muddy and dirty. It’s about driving big bits of kit using satellites and modern data and hopefully it can make people feel like there is opportunities there for them,” he said.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) also plays a prominent role at the show, and Mr Heady underlined its value to members.
They represent their members and act as a voice for their concerns to be brought to the government.