Hundreds of farmers to open gates to public

Hundreds of farmers will open their gates this weekend as part of an event designed to showcase the world of farming to the wider public.

Open Farm Sunday is organised by Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF), a charity that promotes more sustainable farming to create a resilient food system for future generations.

As its 19th year approaches, those in the industry say they feel there is a "disconnect between people and food".

Annabel Shackleton, LEAF's Open Farm Sunday manager, said the event was all about "breaking down barriers, challenging outdated perceptions, and showing everyone just how innovative, diverse and forward-looking farming really is".

David Jones, project manager at The Woodlands Farm Trust in Welling, said the open day shows "how farming plays a part in sustainable living".

He said: "There was some recent research about how disconnected young people were with agriculture so I think it's important that they have the opportunity to come out and see for themselves what happens on a day-to-day basis on the farm."

This research, based on a survey of 2,019 respondents, found that just one in five people believe farming is essential to tackling climate change.

There were also some interesting findings among the Gen Z demographic surveyed.

While 90% of those adults agree that farming is relevant to their lives, 37% of this group believe you have to be born into a farming family to work in the industry - a belief that is considered outdated.

Charlie works at Chandler and Dunn farm in Canterbury in Kent, which has been run by his family for over 200 years.

He said: "I have a real enjoyment when the public come on to the farm and connect with nature and embrace the countryside."

He added it was a "real privilege to share farm with local community".

Charlie hopes the open day will inspire the next generation of farmers.

He added: "We have a family farm here and are keen to have youngsters who want to learn.

"It's a free day with tractor and trailer rides.

"Any food and drink and profits raised will go to the local charity Scope."

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