![Rupert visits local farmers in Piddington](/sites/www.rupertharrison.uk/files/styles/gallery_large/public/news-gallery/436495875_287102241102783_9153853555272993595_n.jpg?itok=I825BbMk)
It was fantastic to visit two of our local farms with Victoria Prentis MP.
Jo Haw-Cook hosted us on her farm in Piddington, where we were able to sit down with a group of local farmers. Jo told us that her farm has been hit by the worst flooding this winter in over 60 years. It's clear that exceptionally high water levels on the River Ray have been causing a real issue for farmers., exacerbated by the rapid run-off from the huge recent growth of Bicester. We are going to speak to the Environment Agency and Network Rail (due to the nearby rail line) to see what can be done to improve the situation.
It was fascinating to hear Jo's passionate case for better education around local sources of food and a closer relationship between shoppers and the farms they get their food from. We also heard how local farmers are getting to grips with the opportunities presented by the Government's new support schemes and environmental incentives.
At Essex Farm, Peter Deeley showed us around his mixed farming operation. This was a great opportunity to discuss a range of topics, including the Government’s future farming schemes and approach to tackling bovine TB. We even witnessed the birth of a new calf while we were there!
Thank you to the NFU for organising the morning.