< Previous50 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY LinkRiseholme College launches new alumni association to mark 75th anniversary Riseholme College has launched a new alumni association as part of its 75th anniversary celebrations. The specialist land-based college, which has two campuses on the outskirts of Lincoln, is marking the landmark this academic year. Riseholme specialises in agriculture, animal management, engineering and equine, whilst also offering courses in a range of other subject areas, and is using the milestone to reflect on its long and proud history. It has now launched the Riseholme College Alumni Association, and is inviting former students from all years and subject areas to join. Membership of the association includes: · A VIP invitation to a special anniversary celebration event for stakeholders in June · Invitations to other major college events, including its annual Student Presentation Day · A twice-yearly alumni newsletter, including nostalgia and news updates from the college · A Riseholme College Alumni Association pin badge. Riseholme alumni working in industry will also have the opportunity to share their expertise and experiences with current students by delivering talks and masterclasses, as well as offer work experience placements. The college is inviting former students to share old photographs and memories from their time at Riseholme too, some of which will be displayed at the celebration event. Vice Principal Beth Curtis said: “We’re incredibly excited to be celebrating Riseholme’s 75th anniversary this year, and what better way than to launch our new alumni association. “The college has such a rich tradition of training generations of Lincolnshire farmers and other skilled workers, and it’s only right that we invite them to join in the celebrations. It will also be an opportunity for some former students to reconnect with the college and potentially pass on their invaluable knowledge to our current cohort, to help inspire them on their own career paths. We know there are many, many Riseholme alumni who will have incredible stories to share of their time here, and we’re really looking forward to them doing so during this special anniversary year.” UK farmland at risk under system using 1940s data, CPRE report reveals Data from the 1940s is being used to classify and protect England’s most valuable and productive farmland, potentially undermining the UK’s ability to grow its own food, reveals a new report commissioned by CPRE, the countryside charity. The ALC system determines the potential productivity of farmland using data including rainfall measured between 1941 and 1970 and temperatures measured between 1961 and 1980. The new report demonstrates that continuing to rely on the current ALC system is leading to a substantial overestimation of the productivity of land, with much less of it likely to be considered Best and Most Versatile (BMV) land for food production. The situation is particularly critical for lowland peat soils, which produce around 40% of UK-grown vegetables. Climate change impacts could see these vital soils lost in a matter of decades, raising serious questions about the accuracy of their current ALC grades. The government recently launched a long-awaited consultation on a strategic land-use framework for England. While the ALC should form a core part of these deliberations, in its current form it cannot reliably inform the critical decisions that need to be made about competing land uses. Climate change is already drastically reducing the amount of land suitable for food production, with 60% of England’s highest-grade farmland now at high risk of flooding. Meanwhile, land is under increasing pressure for housing, renewable energy infrastructure and nature restoration. Without an updated ALC system incorporating accurate assessments of agricultural land quality, there is a real risk that irreversible decisions will be made about land use that compromise the nation’s ability to produce its own food. © stock.adobe.com/Springfield GalleryLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 51 Supporting the rural community Lincolnshire trailer firm headed by three sisters celebrates 60th anniversary One of the oldest specialist trailer businesses in the UK that counts politicians and TV celebrities among its clients is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Scott Trailers is run by three sisters from the family firm’s base in Walcott. Founded in 1965 by Bevis Scott and his wife Jean, their three daughters Claire Scott, Michelle Harper and Kay Scott are now directors of the business. Adding to the family ties is Michelle’s husband Chris who works in the workshop with their son Jack. Meanwhile, Kay’s two children, Richard and Katie, work part-time at the firm. Politician Douglas Hogg and TV presenter/garden designer Alan Mason are among its former celebrity clientele, as well as current young TV personality and farming protégé Joe Trofer-Cook. It is hugely proud of its relationship with Lincolnshire-based Dyson Farming, owned by inventor, entrepreneur and philanthropist James Dyson, for which it regularly supplies Ifor Williams trailers. With dad Bevis still keeping a close eye on the business, Claire said the fact the firm is such a well-respected family-run operation is a major factor in its success. Virgin Money Strengthens Commitment to Lincolnshire Farmers Virgin Money has reaffirmed its dedication to agriculture by promoting Colin Aitkenhead, Lincolnshire Agri-Business Manager, to Agricultural Director for the same area. His elevation is part of a broader strategy to enhance the bank’s longstanding support for the UK’s farming sector. Virgin Money has built a national team of Agricultural Business Managers serving clients in the UK with a unique wealth of knowledge of the industry and its financial needs. The bank’s promotion of its senior business managers will strengthen its longstanding support for the UK’s agricultural sector. Colin Aitkenhead will now have the opportunity to give his clients in Lincolnshire the assurance of personal, director-level attention at a time of unprecedented challenges for the industry. Oliver Maxey, Virgin Money’s Head of Agriculture for England, emphasised the significance of this promotion: “Colin has been an outstanding asset to our clients, and his promotion reflects the trust both Virgin Money and farming customers have in his expertise. As Agricultural Director, he will continue to provide dedicated, personal support while also shaping and expanding our services to meet the ever- changing needs of our clients.” Two more huge solar farms ‘a slap in the face’ for Lincolnshire County Councillor Colin Davie has reacted to the government’s announcements that applications for both the Heckington Fen Solar Park and the West Burton Solar Project, have been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. Cllr Davie, executive councillor for environment, economy and planning at Lincolnshire County Council said: “Adding two more giant solar farms to Lincolnshire’s countryside, which have strong local opposition, shows that this government has not listened to our residents. These two developments add more than 1000 hectares of solar parks to the county, bringing the total land now allocated for 5 approved developments to around 3500 hectares. A further 6400 hectares are also being proposed in Lincolnshire. Trashing the countryside and putting ginormous industrial developments on agricultural land has understandably caused much local outrage. On top of this, I have no confidence that these schemes help in any way to delivering the affordable energy that we need. Quite frankly these decisions are another slap in the face for Lincolnshire, and the government must start considering the cumulative impacts of all these proposals in our county.” © stock.adobe.com/Soonthorn© stock.adobe.com/Anthony Brown 52 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FARM & COUNTRY LINK Attacked on all sides LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 53 FARM & COUNTRY LINK It’s a tough time to be a farmer and it feels like everyone is an enemy. We break down some of the tough decisions facing farmers, and the reasons behind them. I nheritance tax, bird flu, unpredictable weather and cruel supermarket contracts. It’s a tough time to be a farmer, and this has led to protests all across the EU. The inheritance tax introduced to farmers for farmland came as an unwelcome surprise to many as part of the Labour Government. The tax was introduced as a measure to catch tax evaders who invested heavily in agricultural land and equipment before death and then had their families sell it after as a means to avoid inheritance tax, and in that light can be seen as a good initiative – those seeking to exploit the system should be punished. However, measures that could have mitigated this effect were offered up by the NFU in the form of a clawback scheme, and this has now been rejected by the treasury. The clawback scheme would have seen families of farmers able to slowly take back money paid as inheritance if they continue farming after the death of the family member, whereas the money would be forfeited if the equipment and land was sold within a set period. This would have punished tax avoiders looking to shift on equipment for money, but some argue it would have just prompted them to delay the sale. While few will argue against clamping down on the rich avoiding tax, the system in place still seems unfairly punishing to farmers. Yet again (and this is a theme seen in all sectors of government) it appears to be easier to punish everyone than hold the rule breaking minority to account. This is a system which in itself should change, with courts able to clamp down on rule exploitation by rich people and rich accountants but this is easier 54 Á54 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FARM & COUNTRY LINK © stock.adobe.com/adfoto Givingyourbusinessahelping hand Tofindouthowwecanhelpbuildyourbusinessvisit www.dextersharpe.co.uk Officesin Boston,Bourne,Horncastle, Lincoln,Louth&Skegness CHARTEREDCERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Accounts-TaxReturns TaxPlanning-Book-Keeping Audits-BusinessAdvice KEVIN JOHNSON “For those times when you need a helping hand on farm or on land” 4 Church Road | Wittering | Peterborough | PE8 6AG Tel: 01780 782924 | Mobile: 07860 608825 enquiries@kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk www.kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk •Fertiliser Spreading 12m to 36m •Lime Spreading •Maize Drilling •Grass Mowing with Triple Mowers Gates, Fencing, Garage Doors, Auto Gate Systems, Sawmill, Structures, Hardwood, Softwood, Treated Softwood, Decking, Cabins, Garden Furniture, Aged Oak, Building Timber, Sheet Materials, Tools & Firewood. t: 01522 754207 • e: sales@b-knightandson.co.uk www.b-knightandson.co.uk 30 Main Road, Langworth, Lincoln, LN3 5BJ B Knight & Son Ltd Timber Merchants & Manufacturers Family Business Bringing Timber To You Since 1874 said than done. TV star Jeremy Clarkson, who bought a farm for his show Clarkson’s Farm, once stated outright that he purchased the farm for “tax reasons” but later backpedalled on these claims, suggesting he only said it for PR reasons to sound exciting. In 2021 he told the Times that “avoiding inheritance tax was the critical thing” behind his decision to buy the land. Now, Clarkson champions farmers, at least in the media, but it’s hard not to wonder how much of this is self-serving, and how much his public claims of buying farmland to avoid tax might have contributed directly to the decision to implement this tax in the first place. The government tends to react to obvious loopholes by trying to fix them and may have feared Clarkson’s comments – said in jest or otherwise – would open the floodgates to bogus farm deals. That’s not the only news worrying farmers, however. A proposed carbon tax on fertiliser which could come into force in 2027 has many groups debating over its potential impact on farmers. The Carbon Border Adjustment LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 55 FARM & COUNTRY LINK Mechanism (CBAM) aims to protect the environment, which is in itself a major concern for farmers, but past experiences with neonicotinoids ban in the UK show that rushed out bans and measures to restrict usage of certain fertilisers have impacted farmers negatively in the past and could do so again. The need for some degree of care on the environment is paramount, however. Storms and rainfall have been increasing, with Storm Eowyn battering the region several weeks ago. This led to some fields flooding entirely, and the problems are only worsening – especially with new US- backed climate denial groups opening up in the UK. When it comes to storms, Andrew Chalk, home insurance expert at NFU Mutual, says: “Gale-force winds can rip tiles from roofs or branches from trees, or topple walls, so if it’s safe and you’re able to do so you should think about securing roofs and walls and pruning overhanging branches. Likewise, loose garden furniture or ornaments can be thrown around in storms, effectively becoming battering rams, so tie them down or store them away from the wind. Make sure vehicles are kept in a safe place and ensure windows and doors can be and are shut during the storm. As well as taking the steps above, business owners should have a storm plan in place which ensures the safety of all workers and has a clear plan for maintaining contact. Prepare for power cuts and check any back-up generators are in working order. We know that isolated rural properties and those on the coast are generally most at risk from storm damage, so we urge people in these areas to be especially vigilant.” On the sales and supermarket side of things, supermarkets and wholesalers continue to put undue pressure on farmers that is pushing many into the red. Recent farmer protests at a Morrisons warehouse led the supermarket giant to take out a High Court Injunction to prevent anyone protesting at its sites. This mirrors action seen by the governments (past and present) to crack down 56 Á56 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FARM & COUNTRY LINK ALL LAND ROVER VEHICLES 1948 - 2025 ALL RANGE ROVER VEHICLES 1974 - 2025 on environmental protestors in far stricter ways than has ever been seen before. Often, these protests are framed as uniquely dangerous or disruptive despite being peaceful, and Morrisons is using much of the same language with farmer’s protests, saying that the action “threatens the integrity of the food supply chain.” Though unsurprising at this time, it does suggest a loss of patience from supermarkets toward farmers, and while farmers may rightfully be thinking it is them who should have the moral high ground (and many are those who agree!) it’s worth keeping in mind the political power and money behind supermarkets, and how willing they have been in years past to exploit farmers. Farming seems to be coming under attack from every direction – government, supermarkets, accountants, tax avoiders and even US climate denial groups. It’s a trying time to be a farmer, but it’s worth remembering that the UK cannot survive without its farmers. The food supply is critical to its survival, especially with threats of Russian escalation. The industry is under pressure now, but the country will soon panic if it ever shows signs of collapsing. It’s scant comfort now, but a sign that change may be coming soon. © stock.adobe.com/Jakob © stock.adobe.com/_KUBE_T he Lincolnshire Agricultural Society (LAS) has been at the heart of the county’s rural heritage for over 150 years, championing agriculture, education, and innovation. As it prepares to celebrate the 140th Lincolnshire Show, it’s the perfect time to reflect on its lasting impact and the benefits of being part of this thriving community. LAS membership offers fantastic opportunities for individuals and businesses in farming, food, and rural life. Members enjoy exclusive access to events like the Lincolnshire Show, networking opportunities, and educational initiatives that support sustainable farming and industry growth. The society also funds research and advocates for agriculture at local and national levels. One of the LAS’s most exciting family-friendly events is Countryside Lincs, a fun-filled day designed to bring the countryside to life. Held at the Lincolnshire Showground, it’s packed with hands-on activities, alpaca walks, falconry displays, tractor and trailer rides, and interactive zones where children can learn new rural skills. This engaging event offers the perfect mix of education and entertainment, helping families connect with farming and the countryside. Join us on 6th April 2025 for this wonderful event. The 140th Lincolnshire Show promises to be a spectacular celebration, showcasing livestock judging, equestrian events, show jumping, vintage tractors, and more. Attracting thousands of visitors annually, it remains one of the UK’s top agricultural events, highlighting Lincolnshire’s rich farming traditions. Taking place across two days from 18th-19th June 2025. As LAS looks to the future, its mission remains strong— supporting agriculture, preserving rural traditions, and fostering community connections. Becoming a member isn’t just about attending events—it’s about shaping the future of Lincolnshire’s agricultural legacy. Find out more at www.lincolnshireshowground.co.uk. Become a Member OFFERS & DISCOUNTS •Discounted tickets to our International Women’s Day Event •Discount on Livestock and Equine entries for the Lincolnshire Show •Offers and discounts for local attractions and businesses VIP INVITE TO LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD & GIFT PREVIEW EVENT VIP INVITE TO LINCOLNSHIRE FOOD & GIFT PREVIEW EVENT Regular communication via email and twice yearly printed newsletters from the Society HAVE YOUR SAYHAVE YOUR SAY The opportunity to join our councilThe opportunity to join our council DISCOUNTED TRADE STANDS DISCOUNTED TRADE STANDS •Lincolnshire Business Showcase •Lincolnshire Show •Lincolnshire Food & Gift OPPORTUNITY TO ATTEND EXCLUSIVE MEMBER EVENTS AND VISITS ADVERTISE WITH US Members are able to advertise their business via e-shots and we offer a discounted rate for advertising in our printed newsletters AWARDS The opportunity to nominate an employee for a Long Service Award or an individual for The Rising Talent Award ACCESS TO FUNDING FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACCESS TO FUNDING FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Via the Trafford FundVia the Trafford Fund FREE ADMISSIONFREE ADMISSION • Lincolnshire Business Showcase •Lincolnshire Farming C onference • A FREE family ticket for Countryside Lincs LINCOLNSHIRE SHOW •Two-day admission •Access to Members area with a view of the Main Ring •Dedicated VIP parking NEWS FROM THE LASNEWS FROM THE LAS By becoming a Member you are helping us to achieve our key objective of promoting food, farming and the environment . With your support , we are able to reach over 16,000 young people through our initiatives . BE A PART OF IT Call: 01 522 5229 00 Email : membership@lincolnshireshowground .co.uk Call: 01 522 5229 00 Email : membership@lincolnshireshowground .co.uk Find out moreFind out more lincolnshireshowground .co .uk/membership LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 57 THE LINCOLNSHIRE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY The heart of the county’s 58 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY LIVES Q&A Amy, you’ve been in education for over nine years. What drew you to teaching with LIVES Expert Training? Teaching has always been a passion of mine, but what really drew me to LIVES Expert Training was the opportunity to step up in critical moments, whether that’s in a workplace, a community setting, or even at home. LIVES Expert Training delivers nationally, and in Lincolnshire. It covers a wide range of courses - can you tell us more about what’s on offer? Absolutely! We provide a full spectrum of lifesaving training, from essential First Aid courses to advanced First Response Emergency Care (FREC 3) training. Whether it’s basic CPR, how to use a defibrillator, or handling more complex emergency situations, our courses cater to individuals, businesses, and organisations of all sizes. What’s unique about LIVES Expert Training is that we’re not just trainers, we’re active Community First Responders with real-world experience, which means our training is as practical and relevant as it gets. Q&A The Power of First Aid/Medical Training We talk with Amy, LIVES educator, to learn more about the power of first aid training. make a tangible difference in people’s lives. I joined in September 2023, and the idea of equipping individuals with the skills to save lives was something I couldn’t pass up. Really, we don’t just deliver training; we empower people to LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 59 LIVES Q&A LIVES trained 1,548 people in 2024 – that’s an average of four people every day learning lifesaving skills! What does that figure mean to you? It’s incredible to think that every single day, four more people go out into the world prepared to act in an emergency. Each of those individuals could one day be the difference between life and death for someone in need. The impact ripples through workplaces, schools, and communities, creating a network of people who can step in when it matters most. That number isn’t just a statistic, it represents real lives that could be saved. Beyond training, LIVES as a charity attended 2,230 medical emergencies in 2024. How does booking a training course with LIVES support this vital work? That’s one of the most rewarding aspects of working with LIVES Expert Training, knowing that every booking directly supports the charity’s lifesaving efforts. The fees from our training courses help fund our incredible volunteer Community First Responders, who attend thousands of medical emergencies each year. So, when businesses or individuals choose LIVES for their training, they’re not only gaining essential skills but also helping to keep volunteers on the road, delivering urgent medical care when it’s needed most. What’s the most rewarding part of your role as a LIVES Educator? For me, it’s seeing that ‘lightbulb moment’ when someone realises they have the confidence and knowledge to act in an emergency. It’s also hearing stories from past trainees who’ve used their skills in real situations - from helping a colleague who’s choking to performing CPR on a stranger. Knowing that what we teach can genuinely save lives makes every session worthwhile. Why should someone choose LIVES Expert Training for their first aid and emergency response training? LIVES Expert Training stands out because we combine expert knowledge with real-world experience. Our trainers aren’t just instructors, we’re highly trained medical responders who actively respond to emergencies, meaning we bring up-to-date, hands-on expertise into every session. Plus, by choosing LIVES, you’re not only learning lifesaving skills, but you’re also supporting a charity that’s making a real impact in communities across the country. It’s training with purpose, and that’s something really special. Finally, how can someone book a course or get in touch with LIVES Expert Training? Booking a course with LIVES Expert Training is simple. You can visit our website at live.training.org.uk to browse and book onto available open courses, and all of our programme for 2025 is now live! If you’re a business who need a tailored course and have any questions or need guidance on the best course for your needs, you can email us at training@lives.org.uk or call us on 01507 525 999 . We’re always happy to help! About LIVES Expert Training LIVES Expert Training is a nationally recognised training provider delivering high-quality first aid and emergency care courses to individuals and organisations across the UK. Our team of experienced medical professionals ensures that every course is engaging, practical, and packed with real-world knowledge. Whether you need basic first aid training for your workplace, advanced pre-hospital care training, or specialist courses tailored to specific industries, LIVES Expert Training has you covered. By training with us, you’re not just gaining essential skills, you’re also directly supporting LIVES’ lifesaving work in the community, helping fund volunteer responders who attend thousands of medical emergencies every year. Next >