Farmer Event at Bath & West Showground a Huge Success

Mole Valley Farmers had an event January 30. It let farmers see new things and talk with experts. Suppliers were there too. People could attend seminars covering calf health, lamb care, and the economy.

Lyne Berry, a sheep and beef farmer, said the event was fabulous and helped her plan the year ahead. She learned so much there and appreciated the presence of numerous suppliers, which she found very helpful for her business.

Last year’s event was also a big success, drawing experts from the UK and Europe. This year was even bigger, with over 60 suppliers having stands and more than 500 farmers signing up. They also enjoyed special prices that day, including show deals with discounts on rat bait and more. Colostrum and cattle crushes were cheaper too, while Cargill hosted a calf health seminar.

Emily Dawes, who works for Mole Valley Farmers, said they wanted farmers to meet each other and discover new products. Farmers could also listen to experts discuss dairy and carbon footprints. Dawes emphasized that there was something for everyone at the event.

Phillip Potter, a beef farmer, attended with his wife and baby, and they looked at feed and milk powder. He found the event interesting and believes it will help them plan their year. Alex checked out cattle equipment and sheds, while their baby Fred enjoyed looking around, making it a fun family trip.

Ian Chivers, who farms beef in South Wales, said it was great to talk to the people who make the products he uses. He felt the drive was worth it because they really enjoyed the farmer event and he liked talking directly to the source.

Suppliers also liked the event a lot as it let them meet their customers and enjoy talking with the farmers. Nigel Bottom, who works at The Witham Group, said they learned what customers needed, which helps them improve their products. Oscar Hatt, who sells STIHL products, said they got new sales leads and wants to talk to farmers again because he said they know a lot.

Experts, some from Mole Valley Farmers and others from event sponsors like Cargill, held seminars all day. They discussed parasite control and grazing well. Will Hobbs from Barclays Bank talked about the UK and world economies, providing key insights at the talks.

Andrew Lowe, who works at AIE, said the event was useful for them, and they discussed the future of farming. Steve Fry, a sheep and beef farmer, brought his sheepdog Billy and said he learned a lot about things. He liked talking about products there, noting that having everything in one place was good and made things easier.