Focus on high price of land

The high price of land and gaining access to start-up finance were highlighted as the two biggest challenges to those wishing to break into the agricultural industry, according to a survey by NFU Scotland.

The survey, focussing on the challenges facing the next generation of farmers and crofters, also pinpointed accessing grants, and securing opportunities for education, mentoring and advice as areas of concern.

Mark Donald, NFU Scotland’s New Generation committee chairman, said: “The next generation of farmers and crofters is critical for the future of Scottish agriculture.”