Jeremy Clarkson's pub hosts farmers concerned about budget

Hedges Law held the 'Farmer's Forum: Weather the post-budget storm' at the Farmer's Dog in Asthall, near Burford, to provide expert guidance to the farming community.

The pub was filled with attendees concerned about the budget's impact and the news that 100 per cent inheritance tax relief for farms will be limited to £1 million.

Agronomist and land agent Charlie Ireland, a regular adviser to Mr Clarkson on farm management and fondly referred to as 'Cheerful Charlie' in the TV show Clarkson's Farm, was present at the event.

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Charlie Ireland and Hedges Law managing director Nikki Poole (Image: Fortitude Communications) The forum also served as a platform for farmers to connect with their peers, share experiences, and find support within the community.

Specialist lawyers from Hedges Law provided advice to help them understand their options to protect their assets.

Hedges Law, which has offices in Chipping Norton, Wallingford, and Summertown, reassured attendees there are ways to manage the changes and that professional help, support, and solutions are available.

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There was also a question and answer session with Hedges Law inheritance planning and asset protection expert Peter Tyrrell and managing director Nikki Poole.

Ms Poole said: "The budget has understandably caused widespread concern within the farming community and it’s vitally important we help people understand there are genuine options and help is available.

"The energy in the room was incredible and there was a strong desire to ensure future generations are protected in the farming community and we reassured our guests that they can mitigate against the changes.

“We’ve heard some alarming stories of how distressed farmers are, we appreciate it’s a really concerning time and that the changes have come as a real shock.

"We know too how challenging it is for many people to have conversations about inheritance planning.

"The forum helped us share the message that farmers are not alone, support is available, and there are effective ways to protect their assets."

Ms Poole said farmers are "rightly" concerned about how they can ensure their farms are passed on to future generations.

She added: "The mood within the farming community has been one of despair, however, there was a strong sense of unity and positivity at the end of our forum.

“There are options available to navigate the incoming rule changes and wills and partnership agreements can be modified to protect hard working farming families.

"Each farm and each family will have its own particular circumstances that we can tailor solutions to.”