As part of the Farming Connect Mentoring programme, Delyth Fôn Owen and Andrew Rees have recently joined an already full Mentor directory.

The programme provides 15 hours of free guidance and advice on a wide range of topics for farmers and foresters from their peers. Farming Connect is provided by Menter a Busnes and is funded by the Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

Delyth is a passionate advocate for succession planning and communication within farm families, combining her skills as a qualified British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Counsellor and succession planner.

“I feel that I have the qualities needed to support farmers and their families, and I would be delighted to have the opportunity to support and guide farm families through succession planning,” he said.

Andrew and his family farm 320 Spring Calving British Friesian cattle, as well as follow-up cattle and breeding bulls, on 400 acres, as well as 75 acres on a short-term silage making arrangement.

As an interest in soil health, Andrew has been focusing on methods that protect the soil, increase soil biology and reduce reliance on external inputs such as chemical fertiliser.

“I can see so many benefits of understanding and nurturing soil on your farm and the knock-on effects in terms of productivity, animal health and profit, and I would like to help and encourage others to be confident enough to achieve these changes on their own farms.”

Since starting the programme in 2015, it has secured an incredible 4918 hours of free advice for farmers, helping 527 individuals and businesses.

Heledd Dancer, Farming Connect’s Development and Mentoring Manager, said, “We are extremely excited to be able to welcome Andrew and Delyth as members of the Mentoring Team. We now have 65 mentors from across Wales, offering advice on a wide range of topics.”

“Andrew will offer advice on soil health and Delyth specialises in facilitating succession. Sometimes, the best help comes from someone who has been through the mill themselves, and therefore more than happy to share their experiences.”

To access the Mentoring programme, please contact Farming Connect on 08456 000 813 or on their website.