Widow whose husband died after falling into slurry pit warns of pressure on farmers
Summary
Margaret Owen, the widow of a farmer who died after falling into a slurry pit in 2024, spoke about the increasing dangers and pressures faced by farmers. Recent data shows farm deaths in Britain rose to 22 in 2025-26, the highest in ten years, with risks much greater than in other industries.Key Facts
- Islwyn Owen died in 2024 after falling into a slurry pit while adjusting machinery at his farm in Bala, north Wales.
- An inquest ruled his death accidental, caused by drowning in slurry and injuries from machinery.
- Farm deaths in Britain reached 22 in 2025-26, the highest number in a decade.
- The death rate for farm workers is seven times higher than in construction and 21 times higher than the average for all industries.
- Factors increasing pressure on farmers include bad weather and Welsh government rules banning slurry spreading between mid-October and January to protect rivers.
- The Welsh environment minister wants to change the slurry spreading ban under the new Plaid Cymru government.
- Margaret Owen said the rising number of farm deaths makes the situation feel worse and is frightening for local communities.
- After her husband’s death, Margaret had to sell farm animals and rent out most of their land but has found some comfort in focusing on positive memories.
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