At the time of writing we seem to be on top of things in terms of workload, with a sporadic start to harvest.

We started cutting winter barley on 18 July and OSR on 28 July. A couple of years ago this was uncommon in our area, but it now appears to be the norm.

Yields of both these crops didn’t break any records this year and the OSR yields are disappointing after some promising looking crops in the spring.

See also: Harvest 24: Late drilling and grazing yields 10t/ha winter wheat

About the author

Annabel Hamilton

Annabel Hamilton farms 1,030ha of arable in the Scottish Borders with her parents. The arable area grows 65% winter and 35% spring crops. She is Basis and Facts qualified and runs a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. The farm finishes more than 300 Limousin cattle a year.  Follow Annabel on Twitter @annabelhami11

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Never has it been so apt that looks can be deceiving. In the end our OSR averaged 3t/ha. The disappointing yield is made up for by a competitive OSR contract.

We recently hosted the NFU Scotland (Lothian & Borders Region) Summer BBQ and Farm Tour.

A very well attended event with the sun shining showing the crops and the cattle in all their finery.

Dad and I tag teamed the farm tour, along with handling a vast number of questions which brought about some thought-provoking discussions which as always makes you think about your farming practices and how we can improve.

If you’ve not hosted events on farm before it can be a daunting task – after all you are opening up your business to the elements.

But for me it is so worth it, its enjoyable, interactive and a showcase for Scottish agriculture.

I have been awarded a place on this year’s Worshipful Company of Farmers advanced course in agriculture business management, starting at the end of October.

I’m following on in dad’s footsteps after he took part in the course in 2008.

Another rung on the learning ladder, as well as stepping out of my comfort zone which I think is good for you every now and again.

Our local country show took place at the beginning of the month, and having caught up, I was able to attend.

Another event for catching up with old friends and seeing the finest livestock Berwickshire has to offer.

A special mention to my sister Rosie and her partner Andrew, who came second with a pair of prime lambs and first and second in the multibreed group with a pair of blue texels. Well done team.