A look at positive face of farming

Five members of the Future Farmers of Yorkshire will discuss the positive side of farming as well as explaining the challenges they face.

The half-hour event begins at 12.30 on Saturday, October 20 at the farming showcase event. 

The group was established by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society to bring together younger farmers, professionals and industry supporters.

Topics for the debate will include: environmental stewardship, local food and food miles, the importance of supporting local businesses and the local economy, producing healthy, fresh, seasonal produce and farm assurance.

In addition, food safety and traceability will be discussed as well as how to get involved in farming as a career.

The panel will include Anna Longthorp, a pig farmer from Howden, Sarah Graham, land agent from Boroughbridge, Malcolm Fewster, dairy farmer from Cleckheaton, James Hopwood, potato buyer and farmer from York, and Duncan Berkshire, a vet from Ripon.

There will also be an opportunity for questions from the audience and all are welcome.

Future Farmers of Yorkshire was launched in November 2010 and is based at the Yorkshire Agricultural Society. It brings together younger farmers, vets and industry supporters.

As reported in the Yorkshire Post last week the vast majority of the parking for this year’s Countryside Live, on the weekend of October 20 and 21, will take place on solid ground.

As well as cattle, sheep and pig judging there will be an array of food and travel stands, as well as displays of rural pursuits and show jumping.