October Flown By

Last day of October and at least we have had some good weather over the past week. This has enabled us to put down most of the pipes for the ground source heat pump but there is still a further 200m to go! The electricians are doing the first fix inside the barns, and some of the stonework is being done where the new external doors are going. We are still on target for the beginning of the year but I'm sure the next two months will fly by. Just hope the weather holds up for us to get the outside areas finished.

Am in Warwick today teaching on the Agricultural Law Association Fellowship course. Drove up last night in the dark but was amazed at how many farmers were about making full use of their tractor lights. One farmer was ploughing near Hereford and obviously trying to make the most of the short dry spell we have had.

Will be at the West Wales Law Society Dinner on Saturday night (3rd November) and can't wait for the Agri Academy Brussels trip on 11th November. Will be great to catch with the rest of the group and get a chance to ask questions directly to those making and influencing decisions in Europe on CAP. 

Time Flies

The old adage "time flies when you are having fun" is definitely true. Its hard to believe that a year has already passed since I started Agri Advisor Solicitors. In one sense so much has happened since then it seems a long time ago now but at the same time I still remember vividly all the work associated with setting up the business. We had a little celebration last Friday night and the bottle of champagne which has been in the fridge last year by way of incentive is no more! Mari made us a cake of which I think there may be a few crumbs left.

The business would not have been such a success without the help and support of friends and family. I am indebted to them for giving of their time, and advice over the last year and for enabling me to be able to concentrate on the business.  I am very fortunate because without them none of it would have been possible. I am also extremely lucky to have found a great team of people to work with on a day to day basis.

But why look back, when we can look forward and to be honest I can't wait to see what unfolds in the years to come.

Next week, we will be at the Dairy Event at Carmarthen Showground. Given the issues with milk prices this year and the increase in input costs it is a difficult time for dairy farmers but hopefully the event will give some a well deserved day off from the business (between milkings), and a chance to speak to processors and suppliers to their business. We have specific packages available for dairy farmers which address their individual sector needs so come along and visit us on the Stand on 16th October to find out more.

I have been speaking at a couple of Young Entrant Support Scheme evenings arranged by Menter a Busnes on what to consider when making changes to your business structure in terms of the practicalities, financial implications and legal issues that may be relevant. It was fantastic to have a full room at both the Newtown and Haverfordwest evenings signalling that there will again this year a high take up of the YESS scheme.