To appreciate the unique affection enjoyed by the British farmer, it is necessary to look no further than the bumf put out for British Food Fortnight, a series of harvest festivals, farmers’ markets and barbecues to be held across the country from 20 September to 4 October. ‘Farmers would gain if we could all eat more locally, regionally and UK-produced food,’ it reads, before suggesting some prayers for the brave men who plough the furrow in their Massey Fergussons.

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