GET READY FOR A BUSY SUMMER

To work hard and play hard this summer you need the right backup

We are coming up to summer, one the busiest times of year for farmers but that doesn’t mean all work and no play.

There is lots of work to be done plus the need to keep on top of the never-ending paperwork but there is also the chance to socialise at shows, meet other farmers for discussions on the industry’s future and learn, refresh or improve skills.

National Farmers Union Scotland’s president Martin Kennedy is ready for agricultural shows to begin: ‘For two years we have missed the cràic, the banter, and the friendly rivalry of showing our best exhibits in competition, which traditionally plays such a big part in the agricultural calendar.

‘I am looking forward to getting out and about over the summer to meet face to face with as many of our members as possible from across the country and hearing firsthand about the issues affecting them.’

Farmers will be able to meet Mr Kennedy and NFUS’ director of policy Jonnie Hall the shows and at series of road shows this month and in June to ‘Debate Future Agricultural Policy in Scotland’. Farmers and crofters can go along to 12 events across Scotland to learn about and discuss future support arrangements.

In Argyll take place on Wednesday May 25 at Campbeltown Town Hall, and the following day Thursday May 26 at the Rockfield Centre in Oban. Oban, both taking place at 7.30pm

There is still time to book places on British Wool’s two-day machine shearing course at South Glencraggan, Glenbarr, running from Friday June 3 or Auchertyre Farm, Crianlarich Monday June 22. The course teached skills to carry out machine shearing to industry standards; learn the best handling techniques for both sheep welfare and for personal safety. Each course is led by experienced shearers who are qualified through British Wool.

It is going to be a summer full of hard work, good times socialising, learning about future plans for the industry and new skills, along with keeping on top of the paperwork. Like always there won’t be enough hours in the day so make sure you have the right backup with the best suppliers and services on offer like the ones you see here.