Countryside lives

Countryside Live, now well-established as the younger sibling to the Great Yorkshire Show, demonstrated the intelligence and strength in adversity of the region's farming community.

A strong set of livestock entries and trade stands at the Harrogate event, and the arrival of a fact-finding delegation from Sweden, proved that Yorkshire remains one of Britain's models of excellence for farming.

Times have been difficult, however, with the economic downturn, cheap foreign competition and the continuing burden of red tape all piling pressure on farmers.

These problems make all the more valuable a decision by Bradford-based Morrisons to invest in Dumfries House farm in Scotland. In agreeing to put 2m into the farm, connected to the historic home saved for the nation by a Prince Charles-led group last year, the retailer has issued an important vote of confidence in British agriculture.

So, too, has Sainsbury, which is spending 40m on its rural supply chain. In a time of rising commodity prices, the supermarket has recognised that close links with farming suppliers are good for business and good for the country. Yorkshire's own agricultural community should be well-placed to compete for a share of this money.

There is still much to be done, however, as rural communities try to move forward after years of a Labour government which failed to provide strong support. If the coalition can renew Britain's love-affair with farming, then it will mean a major long-term economic and cultural boost for Yorkshire.