Farmers and growers from across Yorkshire and the Humber are being urged to attend the third annual Masstock SMART Farm Exhibition which will be held at Bishop Burton College on Thursday the 9th February.

The event, which will be hosted by the College in its Olympic-standard equine arena, will feature keynote speakers Meurig Raymond, current Vice President of the NFU, Nick Oakhill of Greencore, and wheat genetics expert Bill Angus.

College principal Jeanette Dawson believes the event is a must for all growers who are keen to ensure their businesses are healthy enough to meet the challenges of climate change, sustainability and unpredictable market forces.

She said: “The event is offering a programme of speakers who will give delegates a real insight into how business leaders are preparing for the challenges facing the industry.

“They will hear about how research and development can deliver tangible benefits, alternative energy sources and market dynamics as well as genetics.

“I think the programme will lead to lively debate and plenty of new ideas for attendees to think about.”

Last year’s event saw Countryfile presenter Adam Henson visit the College and speak to visitors about his experiences. Adam also joined in a Q&A session with some of the College’s agriculture students.

This year, Meurig Raymond will examine the need for dynamic R&D, collaboration between industry and research organisations and the NFU’s views on CAP reform proposals.

Nick Oakhill of Greencore will discuss market dynamics in relation to the arable sector and give an up-to-date picture of Ensus and other ethanol plant activity, while Bill Angus of Angus Wheat Consultants will take delegates through wheat genetics as the industry looks towards 2030.

He will also look at issues such as Orange Blossom Midge and other areas for improvement. Bill will help growers see how understanding and implementing the latest thinking in genetics can help deliver financial benefits.

Alongside the keynote speakers delegates will be able to browse displays of machinery, agrochemical manufacturers, plant breeders, precision agronomy and mobile seed cleaning, as well as attend lectures on oil seed rape, the new HGCA list and new agronomic challenges and nitrogen sources and different approaches for the future.

These lectures will be delivered by Masstock’s own Philip Marr and Colin Lloyd.

“I think anyone who is growing food in the Yorkshire and Humber region should come along to the event,” said Masstock’s John Moore. “It’s quickly becoming one of the most important fixtures on the farming calendar and they are certainly going to be educated and entertained in equal measure.”

If you would like to attend the Masstock SMART Farm Exhibition please contact Hazel Dawson at Masstock on 01759 301144 or email: hazel.dawson@masstock.co.uk