Brexit focus for this year’s Arable Event

The impact on the agricultural community if the UK votes to leave the European Union will be the focus of one of the country’s fastest growing events for farmers later this year.

The Arable Event near Weston Park on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border on June 22 will include a debate on the implications of a potential Brexit led by Simon Ward, founder and Managing Director of Increment Ltd and proprietor of InsideTrack.

It will feature a panel of arable farmers who are for and against the proposal and a leading economist. There will also be a question and answer session for delegates who are undecided to help them make up their mind before the vote the following day.

This year’s seed trial plots will be winter cereals and oilseed rape, highlighting which varieties should be considered with the changing climate.

New for this year will be working farm machinery demonstrating the advantages of minimum tillage and Sinar will run a moisture meter clinic so farmers can check the accuracy of their equipment in time for harvesting. There will also be a wide range of specialist arable trade stands.

The free day-long programme, organised by Wynnstay and GrainLink, runs from 10am to 5pm. Established just two years ago, it is becoming one of the most popular arable events in the Midlands attracting more than 750 visitors last year.

Event organiser Kelly Dolphin said: “The implications of the UK leaving the EU is a question on every arable farmer’s mind. The panel debate will be interesting and informative and will address the issues that the agricultural community is asking.

“It is particularly timely with the referendum due to take place the next day. There will, of course, be the usual programme of activities to bring arable farmers up to speed on the latest developments in the sector and the chance to meet and make new contacts.”

Any organisation interested in taking part can contact Kelly Dolphin on 01939 211256 or email kelly.dolphin@grainlink.co.uk.

For more information, go to www.thearableevent.co.uk. You can also follow it at twitter.com/ArableEvent.