Alan Titchmarsh has urged the British public to support farmers this Christmas or “risk losing them forever”.
In a new video for the Prince's Countryside Fund, the TV Presenter highlights that the British countryside is “idyllic”, but the realities faced by those living and working in it can be “harsh”.
Titchmarsh, who is an ambassador for the Prince’s Countryside Fund, says some farmers make less than £10,000 per year.
“It is vital that we ensure our rural communities and family farms have a secure future, and the Prince’s Countryside Fund works tirelessly to do exactly that, helping to lift the weight off the shoulders of farmers across the UK,” he says.
He also speaks to Edward Richardson from regional charity FarmCornwall to find out more about how the Fund supports farming families across the UK.
Mr Richardson says FarmCornwall is witnessing an increase in cases of farmers contemplating suicide due to financial uncertainty and pressure.
More than one agricultural worker commits suicide a week, according to Farm Safety Foundation, which aims to highlight mental health awareness in the industry.
Farmers have also urged the British public to keep their Christmas shopping local to show support for rural and farming businesses.
