Hannah Jackson, otherwise known as the Red Shepherdess, is urging people to back British farmers
The first-generation young farmer and a member of the generation ambassadors for the National Sheep Association, is originally from the Wirral, Cheshire, Hannah aims to inspire others to make the plunge from town to the country.
She says: “Here in the Lake District, we have a rich history of mixed farming, from cows and sheep grazing, apples and pear orchards, to gentle blowing fields of barley and golden wheat.
“Since becoming a farmer in this beautiful county, I have fallen in love with its traditions, but also love the regions desire to innovate and do things differently.
“I am sure I was born with a connection to animals and wildlife, so I will do everything I can to protect them.
“There has been a real revival in food culture in the UK over recent years, which is partly down to the amazing work farmers do to produce great quality produce and ingredients.
“It is also partly down to the wonderful things that world-renowned British chefs do with the food grown here.
“The prospect of our hard-working farmers struggling for business due to being undercut by cheaper exports from overseas, is a worrying possibility.
“Now more than ever, we need toback British farmers.
“The Agriculture Bill will return to the House of Commons today.
It has just made its way through the House of Lords, where Lord Grantchester added an amendment that would ensure British food standards are safeguarded in any future international trade negotiations.
“Future trade deals could undercut our farmers and lead to much more low-quality food taking over our supermarkets.
“The UK is currently negotiating new trade deals with the US and Australia.
“Farmers in both these countries can produce food under lower environmental, animal welfare and food safety standards.
“From caged hens to hormone injected beef, we cannot let our standards slip backwards.
“As a nation, we should be proud of the high farming and food standards that our farmers love to work to.
“Without them, we would not have the same breathtaking countryside, coupled with our world-beating food and produce.
“That is a good enough reason to ensure that safeguarding these standards is enshrined in law, so that farmers can continue to champion these values.
“Support your local farmers by calling on your local MP to support the Agriculture Bill amendment.
“The future of British food standards is in your hands.
“Visit the Sustain website and use their wonderful tool to contact your local MP.”
