Somerset farmer ditches 8,000 litres of milk due to severe weather

The NFU said most businesses suffer during a cold snap and farming is no different.
The NFU said most businesses suffer during a cold snap and farming is no different.

A Somerset farmer has had to ditch 8,000 litres of milk because his farm was inaccessible due to the recent severe weather conditions.

Recent conditions from the weather front nicknamed "Beast from the East" and Storm Emma caused the Met Office to issue a red warning for snow – the highest level of warning.

The south west of England was included in this red warning, and experienced some of the worst weather.

Mark Wareham, who keeps 150 cows on his farm in Trudoxhill, near Frome, told BBC News how milk tankers couldn't access his farm for two days due to the treacherous conditions.

The dairy farmer said he was hopeful trucks would be able to reach his farm tonight (3 March), and any more delays would severely impact his business.

He told the BBC: "These are pretty extreme conditions that we've experienced - it's been a challenge for everybody.

"The lorries physically couldn't get anywhere near the farm. The roads on the way were blocked and I've only got capacity to store 5,000 litres on the farm and I produce just over 4,000 every day, so I don't have enough to store for several days on end."

He added: "It's a massive impact - dairy farming is tight enough and hard enough is without losing money, but what can you do? You've just got to get on with it.

"We're expecting the tanker to get to us tonight - they've been excellent, on the phone to us every day to keep us informed."

'Businesses suffer'

National Farmers' Union (NFU) President Minette Batters said farmers are "pivotal" in the rural community, particularly during times of adverse weather.

“They will be playing their part to help clear roads, unfreeze water pipes and providing emergency help to those in need, all while caring for their own business and livestock,” Mrs Batters said.

“Most businesses suffer during a cold snap and farming is no different. As many affected farmers will be trying to reach remote parts of their farms, I am urging everyone to remain as safe as possible and take the necessary precautions.

“However in many cases, it is inevitable that business as usual will be disrupted. The NFU is supporting its members to ensure that they have the information to remain safe during this time of severe weather.

“Rest assured, farmers and growers will still be working round the clock to ensure they are able to provide the public with a safe, affordable, traceable supply of British food.”