Growers have a 'once-a-year opportunity' to enthuse the general public about farming by participating in the nationwide Open Farm Sunday event, according to one grower.
Over 360 farms have already signed up to the day, which takes place on 8 June and is organised by LEAF and partnered by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).
“We want to make people positive about farming, rather than getting frustrated sitting behind a tractor in their car. We want them to be more sympathetic,” said Peter Sargeant, managing director for vegetables and salad at G’s Fresh.
G’s has been involved with Open Farm Sunday for seven years and last year welcomed 3,000 visitors to its Ely farm. Activities include trailer tours of the farm and interactive quizzes and face-painting for children.
This year G’s will focus on showing the public the dedicated areas of environmental conservation, including areas of wetland and wildlife nesting areas.
“It’s about getting them enthused about produce and the lengths we go to integrate ourselves with the countryside,” added Sargeant.
AHDB levy payers can order free resources to help them host the event, including posters, leaflets, and children’s art templates. Growers can order resources using one online order form found at openfarmsunday.ahdb.org.uk.
“We’re keen to add to our support for Open Farm Sunday by making fun resources available for those farms that have decided to open up to the public,” said Diane Symes, chair of the AHDB schools and education group.
Peter Kendall, AHDB chairman, added: “We want levy payers to have all the support they need to make sure the visitors get to see first hand the passion that goes into great British food.”
Growers interested in signing up for Open Farm Sunday can do so atwww.farmsunday.org.
The full interview with Peter Sargeant can be read at www.fpj.co.uk.
