Sir Ashley Fox, MP for Bridgwater, gained an insightful perspective on the mounting challenges facing UK agriculture during his recent visit to Bridgwater & Taunton College’s Rodway Farm at the Cannington campus. The visit provided a firsthand look at the pressures endangering the future of British farming, including tightening funding for educational institutions, concerns over national food security, and a troubling decline in youth engagement with farming careers.
Welcomed by Claire Winson, head of animal and environmental sciences, and George Stickley, farm manager, Sir Ashley toured the commercial farm that doubles as an important learning environment for students preparing for careers in agriculture. Throughout the visit, Claire and George emphasized the urgent need for increased support to sustain the sector.
Sir Ashley was asked to bring key messages back to Parliament: to boost funding for further education colleges, recognize the critical role that British agriculture plays in securing the nation’s food supply, and inspire more young people to pursue farming careers.
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Highlights of the visit included a tour of the farm’s dairy and beef operations, where Sir Ashley met part of the 250-strong Holstein herd. George Stickley detailed the farm’s commitment to animal welfare and product quality, describing measures like ceiling fans that regulate barn temperatures and routine hoof care to prevent disease.
Reflecting on the visit, Sir Ashley said, “I was delighted to visit BTC in Cannington. The courses they offer are vital in equipping our next generation of farmers to thrive in an increasingly demanding marketplace.”
The importance of modern agricultural education was clear, with both BTC and University Centre Somerset playing key roles in training skilled professionals to meet the evolving needs of the farming industry.
Claire Winson added, “We were proud to show Sir Ashley our outstanding facilities, which are among the best in the country for land-based education. Now more than ever, accessible education is essential to nurture the skills and knowledge necessary to secure the future of UK farming and food production.”