RECENTLY it was great to attend the Devon County Show at Westpoint, one of the highlights of the year for anyone who cares about our rural communities.

With over 100,000 people attending across the three days, the show continues to demonstrate the vital importance of agriculture to our region and the deep connection people have with the countryside.

Walking through the showground, I had the opportunity to meet farmers, rural businesses and representatives from organisations across Devon. These conversations are invaluable.

They provide a direct line to understanding the real challenges facing those who work the land and sustain our rural economy.

From discussions about rising input costs to the pressures of regulatory compliance, the issues raised were both serious and wide-ranging.

Food security remains a pressing concern nationally. The UK produces around 60 percent of the food we consume domestically, but that figure has been declining in recent years.

Our farmers are the cornerstone of food production, yet they face mounting pressures.

Farm income across the UK is forecast to fall to £6.48 billion in 2026, down from £7.7 billion in recent years.

Weak global commodity prices, rising labour costs and declining farm support are all contributing factors. For dairy farmers, after a strong milk price through much of last year, returns are expected to decline into this year.

The challenges extend beyond economics. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and unpredictable.

Last year saw the driest spring on record, resulting in wheat yields of just 7.2 tonnes per hectare, the second lowest since 2010.

Some farms reported their worst harvests ever. Climate volatility is no longer a future threat but a present reality that our farming community must navigate every season.

What strikes me most about events like the Devon County Show is the resilience and innovation on display.

Despite the difficulties, farmers continue to invest in new technologies, explore sustainable practices and find ways to diversify their businesses.

I met producers developing new product lines, embracing automation and seeking to build stronger relationships with local consumers. This entrepreneurial spirit is something we should all celebrate and support.

Central Devon is one of the most rural constituencies in the country. We have some of the finest farmers producing food to the highest standards.

Our agricultural sector is not just about economics but about community, heritage and the landscape we all cherish.

Supporting farming means supporting the people who shape our countryside and contribute to the character of Central Devon.

The Devon County Show remains one of the best opportunities to hear directly from those driving our rural economy. It serves as a reminder that behind every policy discussion and economic statistic are real people working hard to feed the nation.

I left Westpoint with a renewed appreciation for their dedication and a clear sense of the priorities I need to champion on their behalf. These conversations will continue to inform my work representing Central Devon in the months and years ahead.

Facebook: Mel Stride MP X: @MelJStride Instagram: @melstridemp Website: www.melstridemp.com

Mel Stride

MP for Central Devon