AS WE pass the halfway point in the year, it seems sensible to reflect on the year so far. Once again, the rural and agricultural communities have shown their resilience to carry on during unprecedented times. While I know that we are all hopeful that the worst will be behind us, we should all still be mindful of not relaxing too soon.

Our sister company Harrison & Hetherington was the first company in the UK to host online Pedigree livestock Auctions. There is a feeling that Coronovirus has helped focus people’s minds, reminded them of what is important, and that with increased work flexibility and technological advancements, people are able to work from any location. As a result, I have seen an increased demand for farms and rural properties which offer people more freedom and space. Traditional land sales are completing promptly at the expected levels and to ensure that we continue to trade using all methods, on Friday 10th July we hold our first on-farm socially distanced auction. All interested parties have been asked to pre-register with the office and interest so far has been good.

Whilst sales are very important, my team must also complete a high number of Countryside Stewardship Grant Applications which are due before the end of the month. Natural England/ RPA announced very early on that they would not be visiting farms and would require additional information prior to granting approvals.

In considering your farming enterprise, it is important to look ahead and to the way the current infrastructure grants should be applied for. This should be on basis as to where you imagine strategically you want your business to be in 5 – 10 years. In the last few months there has been increased publicity in terms of the benefits of carbon storage/sequestration and the potential market this area could create.