Farmers struggle to put food on their own table

So says Milly Wastie of the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution’s Lincolnshire branch.

The charity distributed £70,000 to 54 farming families in the county last year and expects to help a similar number with a similar sum this year, when it makes a final winter fuel payment to beneficiaries in the weeks ahead.

“It’s ironic to think farmers work so hard to put food on our tables when they can’t put food on their own. There’s a perception the farming community doesn’t need help, but these people work so hard and it’s unappreciated,” Milly said.

“This year increases in input costs and severe weather made it a difficult year for many,” she continued.

As part of its fundraising, the Horncastle and Coningsby Branch of the National Farmers Union held its annual sweepstake, which saw New York Farmer Douglas Laird come closest to guessing the correct price for wheat feed, £123 a tonne compared to the real price of £120. Duncan Laird was presented with the Ray Curtis Memorial Trophy and a cheque for £150 with RABI also collecting a donation for £150. NFU Horncastle and Coningsby also donated £2,250 from their annual dinner dance in 2013.

“It’s wonderful to receive continued support from the NFU branch and farming community in Lincolnshire. All funds raised will make a difference to Lincolnshire farming families by providing items such as household goods, mobility equipment, emergency grants and food vouchers,” Milly added.