Farming Focus

Can changing your relationship with the farm help change your outlook too? In this week’s Farming Focus™, farmer Eddie Rickson shares how a devastating period in his life became a catalyst for reshaping his farm and future. Alongside Dorset farmer and NHS wellbeing coach Ellie Sturrock, Eddie explores mental wellbeing, connecting with nature and making space for yourself.

What opportunities are hiding in the unused corners of your farm? In this week’s Farming Focus™, we return to an episode in which Tim May of Kingsclere Estates and Cornish farmer Dave Oates explore enterprise stacking and Pitch Up! – an enterprise bringing new businesses, people and ideas onto farms. From spare buildings to woodland and hedgerows, hear why looking differently at the assets you already have could create fresh income streams, spread risk and build resilience for the future.

The future of farming is full of opportunity for those ready to adapt. In the latest Farming Focus™ podcast, host Peter Green is joined by Dr Louise Manning and Devon farmer Andy Gray to discuss the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference report authored by Dr Manning, UK Farming: Grasping the Opportunities, and what it means for South West farmers.

To mark Farm Safety Week, we're revisiting one of the earliest episodes of Farming Focus™ because it’s a topic which never goes away. Joined by Cornish Mutual's Paul Mahon and Nick Lay, Devon farmer Fred Collins shares how one experience completely changed his approach to safety and why taking a few extra moments before starting a task could make all the difference.

This week, we're revisiting a popular Farming Focus™ episode exploring the remarkable world beneath our feet.

Recorded live at Groundswell, this week’s Farming Focus™ brings together Cornwall farmer Geoff Williams and Terrafarmer’s Will Marris and Jack Pierce to unpick the successes they’ve seen around soil health, profitability and resilience.

Collaboration is becoming one of farming’s most valuable tools for building resilient, profitable businesses. Recorded live at the Devon County Show in May, this episode of Farming Focus™ brings the latest series to a close. The panel comprising award-winning local farmer Chris Berry, farming facilitator Mel Bradley MBE and Farm Carbon Toolkit’s Becky Willson, pick up on elements discussed throughout the series to explore why working together matters more than ever. From discussion groups to landscape-scale projects, hear practical ideas on learning, sharing knowledge and building confidence through community.

Are you buying or selling livestock this season? In this bonus episode of Farming Focus™, farm vet Esme Moffat and Devon sheep farmer Pete Delbridge share practical advice on managing biosecurity risks when moving stock.

What are the biggest biosecurity risks facing South West farms right now and what simple habits could help reduce them? On this week’s Farming Focus™, Synergy Farm Health vet Esme Moffett and Devon sheep farmer Peter Delbridge join host Peter Green to discuss everything from boundaries and quarantine to testing, vaccination and changing day-to-day routines.

Gifting can play an important part in farm succession planning, but it is rarely straightforward. In this bonus episode, solicitor Tom Mottram and Jilly Greed, a farmer from Devon, discuss tax, affordability and the realities of handing on assets. With plenty to consider, they recommend taking advice early and plan carefully, because decisions made today will shape both your future and that of the next generation.

Solicitor Tom Mottram and fourth-generation Devon farmer Jilly Greed share practical advice and honest experience about preparing for the future. From tax changes to family conversations, it’s a timely reminder starting early can make all the difference.

What can environmental schemes really deliver on farm? This bonus episode ofFarming Focus™, considers what works, what doesn’t and how to make them pay. Returning to the podcast with AHDB’s Dr Laura Underdown, farmer Jonathan Chapman explains, “you’ve got to make a profit… trying to make the most out of everything we’ve got.”

What does natural capital mean and what does it mean for your farm? In Farming Focus™ this week, we look at how putting a value on nature could shape future farm income and resilience. From soil health to biodiversity, it’s about recognising what underpins food production. Speaking alongside local farmer James Chapman, AHDB’s Dr Laura Underdown says, “putting a pound sign on nature” helps bring it into business decisions.

How can data help you stay one step ahead of the weather? In this Farming Focus bonus episode, Met Office science lead Professor Pete Falloon and Riviera Produce farm and sustainability manager David Thomas return to the podcast to describe practical ways farmers are using technology, from soil monitoring to crop planning, to build resilience. Listen now for straightforward ideas you can apply on your farm.

Extreme weather is becoming the new normal for South West farming. In our latest Farming Focus™ episode, Met Office science lead Professor Pete Falloon and Riviera Produce farm and sustainability manager David Thomas explore how to stay operationally resilient, from soil health to smarter planning.

Complementing Chris Walkland’s examination of dairy market volatility and suggestions for how he sees future pricing mechanisms, Christopher and George Courtier explain how they are tolerating the current situation. Controlling the controllable is their answer to rocketing fuel prices and taking a longer-term view, drawing invaluable support from their farmer discussion group. An approach endorsed by Chris Walkland as he sees dairy farmers having to juggle money more than ever before.

Recorded not long after dairy farmers experienced the biggest drop in milk prices for some time, well-known independent dairy commentator Chris Walkland gives his views on the current situation and how markets may fare over the coming months. Navigating the impacts of this recent fall, Devon’s 2025 Dairy Farmers of the Year, Christopher and George Coutier, offer their perspective and explain why the Middle East conflict is beginning to bite.

Peter Green is joined once again by Jane Gurney and Dominic Jones to discuss shifting cultures when it comes to farm safety.

Host Peter Green discusses farm safety with Jane Gurney founder of the Tilly Trailer Pass, and Dominic Jones who is Risk Management Leader at Cornish Mutual.

Farming without subsidies is fast becoming a reality for many farmers. CAAV’s Jeremy Moody and Nick Dymond of St. Piran’s Pork expand last week’s discussion to consider what it means for farm profitability, believing those already making money without support can help the whole industry become price makers not price takers.

Host Peter Green is joined by CAAV's Jeremy Moody and Nick Dymond from St Piran's Pork to discuss the new farm support landscape.

To mark Mind Your Head Week, host Peter Green is joined by farmer James Warwick and Emma O'Sullivan, founder of the DPJ Foundation, to discuss the challenges of farming alone, and the mental health angle of this.

Peter Green is joined once again by beef farmer Wendy Nicholas and farm consultant Jack Pierce to discuss what the Farm Profitability Review means on a farm level.

Peter Green is joined by Jack Pierce and Wendy Nicholas to discuss the Farm Profitability Review.

Peter reviews this year's Oxford Farming Conference with Jeremy Oatey who is Managing Director of Agricola Growers.

Peter is joined by Becki Reay from Kite Consulting to round up series 5. Together, they discuss the themes and topics from across the series.

In this bonus episode Peter is joined once again by Tom Martin and Louise Penn who offer some quick, practical tips for farmers who’d like to inspire young people and connect them with farming.

Peter Green is joined by Louise Wallace and Tom Martin to discuss how to inspire and engage the next generation with farming. There’s a huge opportunity to connect young people with the land—and perhaps even spark future careers in agriculture. But how best to do this?

In this bonus episode, Peter Green revisits the topic of regenerative farming with Tim Williams and Louise Penn to explore its financial realities. They discuss costs, potential savings, and how regenerative practices can strengthen long-term business resilience for farmers

This episode of Farming Focus explores whether regenerative farming is a lasting movement or a passing trend, discussing its practical challenges, mindset shifts, and future potential in the South West.

In this bonus episode we discuss introducing trees onto your farm and how you know which ones are right for your land and your business? Host Peter Green is joined once again by Tom Kemp from Working Woodlands Cornwall and Harry Studholme from the Perridge Estate in Devon.

In this episode we talking about agroforestry and its potential for farming businesses in the south west and further afield. Host Peter Green is joined by Tom Kemp - Director and Head of Forestry at Working Woodlands Cornwall and Harry Studholme - a forester and farmer in Devon, based at the Perridge Estate near Exeter.

Peter Green is joined by Phillip Warren and Matt Chatfield to discuss farmer buyer relationships

This episode of Farming Focus explores how smaller South West farms could prioritise quality over quantity, featuring insights from Phillip Warren of Philip Warren Butchers and Matt Chatfield of the Cornwall Project on meat grading, niche markets, and building strong producer-buyer relationships.

In this bonus episode of Farming Focus, host Peter Green speaks with Ben Andrews and Guy Singh-Watson about water—the resource at the heart of farming and one increasingly under pressure from climate change.

This episode of Farming Focus, hosted by Peter Green, explores how climate change is reshaping UK farming, with guests Ben Andrews and Guy Singh-Watson discussing the challenges of extreme weather, food security, and resilience through innovation, soil health, and biodiversity.

In this bonus episode of Farming Focus, host Peter Green is joined again by Matt Dobbs and Adam Short to explore simple, low-cost ways farmers can get started with digital tools. From easy-to-use apps to practical tips on trialling technology, they share advice to help farmers build confidence without overloading time, budget, or patience.

This Farming Focus episode explores how South West farmers can harness technology, data, and digital tools to improve efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. Guests Matt Dobbs (Agsenze) and Adam Short (AHDB and Devon farmer) share practical insights, future trends, and advice on making farm tech work for south west farmers.

In this bonus episode of Farming Focus, host Peter Green is joined again by Brian Harvey and Andrew Branton to focus on one of the biggest challenges in succession planning—getting the conversation started. They share personal stories, common barriers, and simple, practical steps to help families open up discussions about the future of the farm.

This episode of Farming Focus explores how farming families can plan for the future, focusing on inheritance tax (IHT) and succession planning with insights from accountant Brian Harvey and farmer Andrew Branton. It covers when and how to start conversations, common pitfalls, and practical advice to keep farms in the family for the next generation.

In this bonus episode of Farming Focus, Peter Green talks with Andrew Brewer and Nikki Yoxall about the value of time spent away from the farming business. They share their own off-farm pursuits, from running a fish and chip shop to undertaking a PhD, and discuss how these experiences bring fresh perspectives and benefits back to the farm.

In this episode of Farming Focus, Peter Green talks with Nikki Yoxall and Andrew Brewer about finding balance in farming — from decision-making and work–life harmony to connecting with your personal mission. They explore practical strategies for creating space beyond the business and how clarity of purpose can shape the future of farming.

How could stronger mentorship networks shape the future of farming? Peter Green is joined by Helen Wyman and George Holmes to discuss this.

In this episode of Farming Focus, Peter Green is joined by Helen Wyman from TwoCan Mentor and Dorset dairy farmer George Holmes to explore the impact of mentorship in farming. They discuss how mentorship can build resilience and shape a stronger future for the agricultural industry.

In this episode rerun we look back at series 1 episode 3 and discuss farm safety in the south west. Peter Green is joined by Paul Mahon and Nick Lay from Cornish Mutual. Devon dairy farmer Fred Collins also tells Peter about his on farm accident in 2022.

In this special live episode, recorded at the Devon County Show, host Peter Green is joined by four farmers to explore how to build a resilient farm business in 2025. From business decision-making to personal wellbeing the panel shares real-life insights and practical tips. Guests include Chris Clark (Nethergill Associates), Niall Tewson (Crokers Grange), Amelia Greenway (Springwater Farm), and Rebecca Tonks (St Ewe Eggs).

Peter is joined by Emily Norton to look back on some of the highlights and learnings from this series.

Peter hears more from last week's guest Professor John Gilliland about the ARC Zero Project in Northern Ireland.

Peter is joined by Northern Irish farmer John Gilliland OBE to discuss land use, policy, data and much more.

Peter hears from from Hampshire farmer Tim May about how he has stacked enterprises on his farm over time.

Peter is joined by Hampshire farmer Tim May and Cornish farmer Dave Oates to discuss enterprise stacking and 'Pitch Up'.

Peter speaks to Andrew Sincock about his Nuffield scholarship about maximising organic manures.

From slurry to compost and organic manures, this episode is all about how to get the most from muck.

Peter discusses how to start a farm cluster with Mel Bradley and Ben Mortimer.

Peter is joined by Mel Bradley and Ben Mortimer to talk about about farm clusters, what they are, how they work and the benefits for farmers.

Peter is joined once again by Laura Awdry, Rhian Marchant and Jack Marchant to discuss opportunities for future farmers. Have you heard about any of these?

Peter is joined by Laura Awdry, Rhian and Jack Marchant to hear more about their routes into agriculture and their businesses.

Peter learns more about Jim Bliss's Nuffield Scholarship which was titled: 'Born to be wild? Does the future success of marginal farming lie in the untapped potential of rewilding?’

Rewilding, circular farming and the sustainable farming incentive are all discussed in this episode. Host Peter Green is joined by Jim Bliss. a consultant from Cumbria and Hugo Ellis, a regenerative agronomist.

The importance of planning and how getting the right advice could transform your business.

In this episode we’re talking about how to spend less time IN your business, doing day to day tasks, and more time ON your business, planning for the future.

Peter hears more from farmer Eddie Rixon about his Roots and Rhythms Project.

Peter is joined by farmers Eddie Rixon and Ellie Sturrock to talk about wellbeing and connecting with nature on our farms.

Host Peter Green looks back on 2024 with Jeremy Oatey, owner of the mixed farming business, Agricola Growers, and Robin Jackson, Director of the Rural Business School (Duchy College). The conversation also looks ahead to 2025, exploring the latest innovations, sustainable practices, and the evolving landscape of British agriculture.

Host Peter Green speaks with Cornish Mutual's Chief Executive Officer Peter Beaumont, reflecting on 2024.

Peter is joined by Tom Tolputt, founder of TerraFarmer, and Rebecca Tonks, CEO of St Ewe Free Range Eggs to look back on series 4.

Peter speaks to Katie Hoare about the Women in Ag award that she won in 2023.

Peter is joined by Cornish dairy farmers Kevin and Katie Hoare to discuss methane and the work they have been doing on their farm to capture methane gas and use it as a fuel.

More from Peter's discussion with Abby Allen and Bertie Matthews on the topic of 'thinking differently'.

Peter speaks to Abby Allen and Bertie Matthews about how they 'think differently' about their businesses and the steps they have taken to grow their communities.

More from Peter's discussion with Ben Thomas and Hannah Jones.

Peter discusses mob grazing with Cornish farmer Ben Thomas and Hannah Jones from the Farm Carbon Toolkit.

More from Peter's conversation with Dan Grist and Emily Peters.

Peter is joined by Dan Grist and Emily Peters to explore and celebrate the routes that people growing up in the countryside take - from entering farming to joining the supporting industries or doing something completely different.

More from Peter's conversation with Sally Ann Spence and Joel Williams

Peter is joined by Sally-Ann Spence and Joel Williams to discuss soil health and the role played by invertebrates.

More from Peter's discussion with Geoff Williams and Matt Lobley on the issue of a living wage for farmers.

In this episode we’re raising the question of whether farmers should have a basic income or living wage? Peter is joined by Geoff Williams who farms on the Lizard in Cornwall and Professor Matt Lobley who is a Professor of Rural Resource Management and the Co-Director of the Centre for Rural Policy Research at the University of Exeter.

More from Peter's discussion with Phil Heard and Mark Rees about their respective diversification ventures in Dartmoor and west Devon.

Peter is joined by Phil Heard from Dartmoor and Mark Rees from west Devon to hear about how they have diversified their farm businesses.

More from Peter's conversation with Chris Berry and Graham Eggins.

Peter is joined by Graham Eggins who farms on the Isles of Scilly and Devon farmer Chris Berry to discuss their challenges and opportunities.

More from Peter's discussion with Professor Mike Coffey and Jim Dixon on cattle genetics.

Peter is joined by Catherine Mead from Lynher Dairies and David Fursdon who is on the Cornish Mutual board, to reflect on series 2.

More from Peter's conversation with Dr Amy Jackson

Amy Jackson from Oxtale Communications discusses how to talk about animal health and welfare.

Peter Green is joined by Pete and Jenny Olds from Cornhill Farm in Cornwall to discuss how to put on a successful farm event.

Peter is joined by Steve McLean, Head of Agriculture and Fisheries Sourcing at M&S to talk about connecting with the public. Peter also speaks to Cornish farmers Pete and Jenny Olds from Cornhill Farm.

Peter is joined by Dorset dairy farmer Ian Baggs to discuss his Nuffield scholarship findings.

Peter is joined by Dorset dairy farmer Ian Baggs and Adele Jones, Executive Director of the Sustainable Food Trust to discuss different ways of farming to adapt to a changing climate.

Peter is joined once again by Rachel and Chris Knowles from Trink Dairy and Tim Fussell from Fussel's Fine Foods to talk about adding value.

Peter is joined by Tim Fussell from Fussel's Fine Foods and Rachel and Chris Knowles from Trink Dairy to discuss 'adding value'.

Hear more from George Dunn about new entrants, farm tenancies and diversity in the farming industry.

Peter is joined by CEO at the Tenant Farmers Association, George Dunn, and Cornwall Young Farmers of the Year 2023, Ben and Josh Nicholls, to look at different ways of accessing land.

Bonus material from Peter's interview with Simon Haley, especially on funding diversification ventures.

Host Peter Green is joined by rural business adviser Simon Haley to talk about diversification as well as meeting two Somerset farmers who are working together and have both diversified their businesses.

Peter speaks to Nuffield scholar Chris Manley about the Walk with Me campaign which encourages us all to go for a walk to help our mental health.