Northumberland farming event to explore future of agriculture
The future of farming and the changing routes into agriculture will take centre stage at Hexham Auction Mart next month as Farmers Voice returns for 2026.
Hosted jointly by youngsRPS and The Farmer Network, the free event will bring together farmers, veterinary and rural professionals for an open discussion about the opportunities and challenges facing the next generation of the industry.
Taking place on Wednesday, October 14 at 6pm, this year's Farmers Voice will focus on The Next Generation of Farmers, exploring what it really takes to build a future in agriculture today.
Special guest Cammy Wilson, creator of The Sheep Game, will join a panel featuring Harry Morshead of youngsRPS, Kaz Strycharczyk of Black Sheep Vets and farmers Will Riddington and Katie Andrews.
The panel will explore different routes into farming, from succession and taking on the family farm to buying a farm independently and building a career outside the traditional family model.
Discussion will also cover lessons from farming overseas, bluetongue and emerging livestock diseases, and where the opportunities might lie for the next generation.
Harry Morshead, Director and Rural Surveyor, youngsRPS, said: "There isn't one route into farming, and that's something we really want to explore at Farmers Voice.
"Taking on a family business brings its own opportunities and pressures, while for somebody trying to establish themselves independently, the challenges can be very different.
"Farmers Voice is about bringing those experiences together, asking questions and having an honest conversation about where farming goes next."
Adam Day, Managing Director, The Farmer Network, said: "Encouraging and supporting the next generation is fundamental to the future of farming.
“Whether someone is already farming, preparing to take over a family business or trying to find their own route into agriculture, we want them to come along and be part of the conversation."
There will be plenty of opportunity for the audience to put their own questions to the panel, with a supper also included.
Farmers Voice 2026 is free and open to farmers, new entrants, agricultural students and professionals, and anyone with an interest in the future of the industry, but places must be booked in advance.
Tickets can be booked here.