Midland Farmers to host farming rally in Melton Mowbray

Farmers and supporters of British agriculture will gather in Melton Mowbray marketplace on Monday 9 December to celebrate and defend the sector amid growing challenges from the government’s Autumn Budget.

The Midland Farmers group, formed in response to Labour’s controversial fiscal measures, is hosting the event in the heart of Britain’s rural food capital.

Melton Mowbray, known for its world-famous pork pies and Stilton cheese, symbolises the country’s rich agricultural heritage.

See also: Scots farmers gather to press Holyrood for proper funding

“This is more than a rally; it’s a call to action,” said farmer and group spokesperson Simon Orson. “During Covid, farmers were hailed as key workers. Now, we’re treated as expendable.

“No farmers, no food – it’s that simple.”

The rally follows the farmers’ mass demonstration in London on 19 November, where concerns were raised about the impact of inheritance tax (IHT) changes on family-run farms.

The Labour government’s Budget, which farmers say fails to deliver on promises to support British farming, has left many in the industry struggling.

“Labour said they backed British farming and wanted a budget of growth, but we’ve been misled,” said Mr Orson.

“The average household income for a farm business is just £22,200, and rising costs are making farming unsustainable.

“This is not a nine to five job – it’s a five to nine job, fuelled by passion and dedication to feed the nation.”

Food security threat

The event aims to highlight the economic and food security risks posed by diminishing farm incomes, climate pressures, and reliance on imported food.

Organisers note that 60% of Britain’s food is homegrown, but warn this figure could plummet without urgent action.

“Every £1 invested in farming adds £7.40 to the economy. Yet if that £1 isn’t there, the knock-on effects will devastate rural communities and beyond,” Mr Orson explained.

The gathering will feature expert speakers from the agricultural and food industries.

Free parking is available at Melton Mowbray Market (post code: LE13 1JY), with other parking options signposted around the town.

Attendees are urged to arrive by 11:30am to show solidarity for a sector that impacts every Brit’s plate.