National Trust threat to family farm, Red Tractor pros & cons, how best to manage flood water, calf prices, marathon for #Run1000, & Pub Yields podcast

In this episode, a Norfolk farming family says the National Trust is threatening their livelihood – by refusing to a remove a restrictive covenant.

We examine what farmers in a similar position can do to get covenants removed.

With Red Tractor farm assurance prepared to ratchet up standards, two farmers debate the pros and cons of the scheme.

Does Red Tractor really deliver benefits?

On the markets, calf prices jump as supplies tighten, with many buyers bidding keenly for limited numbers before spring.

As winter floods start to recede, the NFU says a government strategy is vital to give farmers a key national role in water management.

We chase after a Lincolnshire farmer who lost four stone in just nine months before running a marathon for the #Run1000 farm charity campaign.

And we meet the two young farmers from Wales behind the Pub Yields podcast – with top banter for everyone missing a Friday night pint with their friends.

Special guests on this episode include: Norfolk farmer Julie Barber, Roythornes solicitor Tim Russ, Staffordshire farmer Clive Bailye, Surrey farmer Laurence  Matthews, Hertfordshire farmer and NFU deputy president Stuart Roberts, Yorkshire farmer Richard Bramley, Lincolnshire farmer Charles Anyan, and Bridgend farmers Jacob Anthony and David Rees. 

This episode co-hosted by Farmers Weekly chief reporter Johann Tasker with Surrey farmer Hugh Broom and Farmers Weekly livestock reporter Michael Priestley.