Find out why farmers are outstanding in their field

Hundreds of farms will open their gates this weekend to highlight what farmers do and the vital roles they have in protecting and enhancing the environment.
Open Farm Sunday takes place this weekend.Open Farm Sunday takes place this weekend.
Open Farm Sunday takes place this weekend.

Open Farm Sunday, organised by Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF), presents an ideal opportunity for the public to discover the world of farming and find out how the diversity of modern farming impacts on everyone - from food to clothing, medicine, fuel and manufacturing.

It is also just a great day out for the whole family to enjoy the countryside.

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The event, which will take place this Sunday, will raise awareness of some of the lesser known aspects of farming and the huge range of products farmers grow.

These include crops which are used for generating heat and power, cosmetics, perfume and even medicine, as well as producing wool for clothing and fibre for insulation and building materials.

It also offers the chance to show children the sources of the majority of the nutritious and delicious food they enjoy each day which has been grown or produced on British farms ranging from meat and dairy products to fruit and vegetables, cereals, eggs and oil.

Since the first Open Farm Sunday in 2006 it has been organised by LEAF, the leading organisation delivering more sustainable food and farming.

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Visitors to farm on Sunday will learn more about sustainable farming, and get a great insight into the role farmers play in looking after the countryside including woodlands, hedgerows, meadows, ponds and pathways.

They will also learn how farmers manage water and energy resources, care for the health of the soil, create new habitats for wildlife and above all, have a great day out with family and friends.

All types of farms take part in Open Farm Sunday and most events are free. Activities on the day can range from farm walks and trailer rides, through to sheep shearing, milking demonstrations, bug hunts and machinery displays. There will also be a chance to explore the technology and science behind farming and food production and find out about the business aspects of modern farming.

Heading to the countryside to meet a farmer will be a great day out to experience all the sights, sounds and science of the farm.

Details about Open Farm Sunday events taking place across the country are available online at www.farmsunday.org