Open Farm Sunday 2012 Plans Begin

The organiser behind the event, LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) has opened its online registration for Open Farm Sunday today.

Open Farm Sunday has become firmly established as the food and farming industry’s annual flagship event. Reaching out to over one million consumers, it provides an opportunity for consumers to find out about the vital role farmers have in producing safe affordable food whilst caring for the countryside.

Caroline Drummond, LEAF chief executive said, “As a nation we are becoming increasingly urbanised and many consumers are still disengaged with the countryside and the story behind their food – which is why Open Farm Sunday is more important than ever. As well as showcasing the industry, Open Farm Sunday is also a fantastic opportunity for farmers to build bridges between themselves and the public and tell them about the valuable work they do and show them at first hand how the food they enjoy every day is produced.”

“The feedback we get from farmers each year shows the wide range of benefits they receive from taking part in Open Farm Sunday and how much they enjoy the day too! Benefits mentioned include building community relations and raising a farm’s profile through to increasing sales.

“But it is the face-to-face engagement between farmers and the public that is the most important part of Open Farm Sunday – no matter what the size or type of event.

“Be it a guided farm walk at a set time, to a large open day, the choice of event belongs to the farmer. So whether you are opening your gates to 30 or 300 visitors, all events are of equal importance and value. Size doesn’t matter to LEAF – it’s the engagement with the public that really counts,” says Ms Drummond.