OUR THOUGHTS
From time to time, our experienced consultants take a moment to reflect on recent work, policy news or industry trends. Read what they have to say below and don’t forget, if you’d like to receive updates from us, including news and insights, business updates, and Ceres Publications, subscribe to mailing list.
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Edward Thompson
Aug, 21 2025
As UK farms continue to explore innovative ways to diversify and future-proof their businesses, recreational fisheries are emerging as a compelling option – particularly for farms with suitable topography and water resources.  Why Fishing? Angling is one of the UK’s most popular outdoor activities, with over 2 million regular participants. As interest continues to grow […]
Tim Isaac
Aug, 11 2025The UK Government recently launched a call for evidence to explore how the private sector can play a greater role in nature recovery. This initiative sought views on two key areas: The role of government in enabling and growing private investment in nature. Opportunities to increase investment in environmental outcomes such as water quality, carbon […]
Chloe Timberlake
Aug, 07 2025It is now over a year since the introduction of mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). The Environment Act 2021 stipulates a minimum compulsory requirement of 10% uplift for a 30-year period, however some local planning authorities are requiring a greater uplift to offset development. Around half of BNG requirements are currently delivered on-site by developers […]
Andrew Atkinson
Aug, 06 2025As rural and agricultural business advisors, we welcome the opportunity to review the government’s recently published draft legislation outlining changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), released as part of the upcoming Finance Bill. These reforms represent a significant shift in the Inheritance Tax (IHT) landscape for landowners, farmers, and business […]
Annis Cousins
Jul, 25 2025Welcome to the Ceres Rural Farming Update, a publication that provides independent insights on agricultural issues, from policy and grant funding, to administrative updates and key market information. Read the update here. For a printer-friendly version, click here. Please consider the environment before printing this publication. A ‘PLUS‘ version of this publication is now available to […]
Robert Gazely
Jul, 24 2025As we mark Farm Safety Week—an initiative led by the Farm Safety Foundation —it’s a timely reminder that safety on farms is a year-round responsibility. However, it becomes especially critical during harvest, when many businesses employ new people to support operations, and various areas of risk are either heightened or newly introduced. This often includes students […]
Louise Penn
Jul, 22 2025As advisors working in farming and the food supply chain, we see the challenges our food system faces from the ground up. We understand the pressure on farm businesses, the volatility of markets, and the strain of trying to grow nutritious food under mounting environmental and economic pressures. We’re also in a privileged position, many […]
Robert Gazely
Jul, 09 2025Each quarter, we update you on industry news, topical issues, and safety alerts with the aim of supporting you in achieving best practice on your farm or estate. This edition covers safe use of air compressors, increased fire risks during harvest due to extreme weather, and the need to apply for abnormal load dispensations. It […]
Beth Speakman
Jul, 08 2025There is a mix of relief and concern as Defra has confirmed that autumn muck and slurry spreading may continue within the Farming Rules for Water, but with stricter restrictions and requirements. This follows a High Court ruling which determined that the Environment Agency must place greater emphasis on immediate nutritional need rather than overall […]
Edward Hutley
Jul, 07 2025Capital Grants Scheme Reopens As of 3rd July 2025, the Capital Grants scheme has officially reopened for applications. This round introduces £150 million in funding opportunities for farmers, land managers, and rural businesses across England. Therefore, if you want to benefit, act quickly. This is a first come, first served offer, so early action is essential. In other words, don’t delay, apply […]