BRITISH growers are once more being urged to take part in the annual Open Farm Sunday event to put the public in touch with growers, build trust and help them learn more about what is involved in the supply chain and food production.
Managed by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), the event celebrates its 18th anniversary this year and takes place on June 9th.
Open Farm Sunday Manager, Annabel Shackleton, said: “Opening your gates and sharing your farming stories opens the public’s mind to discover the world of growing. Whatever the scale or type of event you choose to organise, every event matters and every farm can benefit from being involved."
Seeing first-hand how a potato farm is operated encourages people to value the work growers do and to make more informed food choices, while also helping to encourage more young people to enter the industry, she added.
LEAF’s 2024 Open Farm Sunday campaign launches with an on-farm event on March 20th at Bragborough Hall in Northamptonshire.
The free event includes workshops and presentations from education, PR specialists, the OFS team and experienced host farmers. It is a fantastic opportunity for farmers to upskill, meet experienced hosts, share activity ideas, pick up marketing tips and resolve any concerns. Places are limited (two free places per farm) and interested parties can register to attend on the Open Farm Sunday website.
The Open Farm Sunday team is also holding a series of online Zoom meetings between March 27th and May 22nd to provide additional support across a range of topics. From ‘where to start’ and ‘managing visitor numbers’ through to ‘last minute questions and support,’ these 30-minute presentations are followed by a 15-minute Q&A session. Those interested can register here.
