Western Morning News (Saturday)
Helping drive forward farming innovation
FORWARD-THINKING Westcountry farmers wanting to take their businesses to the next level are being urged to apply for an innovative scheme.
After a successful first year, the Prince’s Countryside Fund is once again working in tandem with New Holland Agriculture to offer three lucky recipients the free use of a New Holland machine for a year.
The ‘Up to Speed’ scheme is open to any British farmer who can justify how the loan of a cutting-edge tractor or telehandler will help them to succeed in the industry.
This may be a new entrant who could use the machine to kickstart their business, an existing farmer who is looking to become more efficient on-farm, or a farmer who is looking to develop and/or diversify their current enterprise.
JB Gill, former JLS band member, farmer and ambassador for the Prince’s Countryside Fund, explained: “A year ago I launched the Up to Speed scheme with the Prince’s Countryside Fund and New
Holland and recently I heard firsthand how much difference the New Holland machines have made (and still are making) to the businesses of the 2020 winners.
“It is an incredible opportunity for farmers, so do consider applying! Good luck and I look forward to meeting the inspiring winners of Up to Speed 2021.”
There are three different New Holland machines available for loan: a Boomer Compact tractor, a T6 tractor and a TH telehandler. Applicants must be aged 18 and over, with a British driving or tractor licence, a UK citizen with a UK passport and a resident in the UK.
Rob David won the loan of a New Holland T6.165 tractor through the 2020 Up to Speed scheme and is encouraging other farmers to put their names forward. “In May, I took on some extra land, which I would not have considered without the New Holland tractor,” he said. “Since then, the extra land has allowed me to buy some cattle and more breeding ewes too.
“The tractor has given me so much more freedom, saved me time and money – and just made life much easier! In the nine months I’ve had the tractor so far it has enabled my business to grow. I’d urge everyone to apply!”