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My anticipation for the NFYFC AGM lived up to its usual standards. Some positive messages came from Graham Keating of Yeo Valley, Jim Paice, Minister for Agriculture and other speakers at the Agriculture Forum, this year entitled ‘Explore the future food chain’. Radio 1 DJ’s didn’t disappoint either putting on an excellent performance although the silent disco I got caught up in didn’t do it for me!

We’re just about to begin exams now at Newcastle. Revision is, as usual, slow and steady and it seems there are plenty of different things to do other than revise. My procrastination is definitely not helping me and maybe attending agricultural shows such as ‘North Grass’ is not the best idea. But who can resist a day full of silage and shiny machinery?

Farming Online’s news story about Hovis’ new advertising campaign provided much food for thought. Complaints from farmers about being portrayed as ‘bumpkins’ are fair comments but I wonder how many of ‘Joe Public’ look at farmers as multi-skilled, business people? Not many I wouldn’t think.

A good talk to round off our Soil Management for Crop and Livestock production module last week came from farmer and agronomist Jo Franklin. It’s great to see someone so progressive within agriculture and switched on running her own business. She gave us some great ideas from what she is achieving on her farm especially with regards to nutrient management which I’m sure will become even more of a talking point in the next couple of years. 

For the coming month, I’m looking forward to attending Northumberland County Show and also Cereals next month too although I wish I was off to the Beef Expo. Roll on the 4^th June when exams will be over for this year.

Now, what can I do now to get out of revision?

To read Matty's last article click here.

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