Edd Smith

Third-generation farmer Tim Youngs is converting part of his Norfolk farm from onions and other crops to grape growing and wine production to reduce exposure to increasingly extreme weather and changes in agricultural support. His chalk-rich soil resembles that of France’s Champagne region; the 7.5-hectare vineyard contains 31,500 vines and is intended eventually to produce 70,000 bottles annually, although drought is currently reducing yields. Youngs also criticizes the withdrawal of UK food-production subsidies while farmers in Europe and the United States continue to receive support or insurance. The report also highlights diversification at White House Farm, where fruit farming has expanded into independent businesses, beekeeping and a rapidly growing cider operation.