'We make more money from weddings now than farming'
Summary
Many farmers in Somerset are now earning more money from weddings and other non-farming activities than from traditional farming. Due to challenging weather and new government taxes, about three-quarters of farmers rely on these extra services to support their income.Key Facts
- Farmers faced a tough year with unusually bad weather: a very wet winter and a very dry spring.
- The government introduced new inheritance taxes on farms, leading to protests.
- Many farms have lost grants for sustainable farming, causing financial challenges.
- About 75% of farmers now depend on extra services to supplement their income.
- Non-farming activities include weddings, helicopter rides, and beauty salons.
- Mike Churches, a farmer in Somerset, now earns 70% of his income from non-farming activities like weddings.
- Some farms have unique offerings, like Godney Farm, which has its own church for weddings.
- Research shows 26% of UK farms earn more than half their income from diversified businesses.
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