51AVÊÓƵ

The UK’s vineyard area continues to climb to meet rising demand as its wines grow in reach and respect, so it is perhaps no surprise the country’s first self-propelled grape harvester has now been bought by an Essex enterprise. Martin Rickatson learned more from maker New Holland, dealer Ernest Doe and buyer New Hall Wine Estate.

Members of the British Guild of Agricultural Journalists (BGAJ) summitted the Yorkshire Three Peaks last weekend, raising thousands of pounds for charity in the process.

Seasonal poultry production is a key enterprise for many farms, and with difficulties sourcing skilled labour, utilising advancements in technology could help increase processing rates and ease production pressures. Tom Woolman considers the infrastructure options available.

Many grain dryers have lain idle this year, but not everyone enjoyed a sub-15% harvest – and the next wet summer may not be far away. With fuel prices looking unlikely to fall far, Martin Rickatson seeks advice from manufacturers on maximising efficiency from mobile units.

One of our good friends once said to us: You should write a book on your farming life. This was mainly due to all our mishaps, bad luck and sometimes stupidity. So I suppose this column gives me the opportunity to keep a note of it all.

Heather Hancock is chair of trustees for The Princes Countryside Fund.

With thanks to the National Pig Association, its March magazine begs an important question or two about business psustainabilityâ„¢ for farmers in all livestock or crop sectors.

With a passion for learning, African farmer Baker Bakashaba has grown his farming business and taken to social media to learn and share information with farmers from other countries. Emily Ashworth finds out more.

James Rutter is the chief creative officer at frozen ready meal specialist COOK

As I look out at the picture-perfect snow covered fields, I’m thankful we’re not lambing for another three weeks.