Full Breakdown
Farmer Tom Everall Highlights Mental-Health Strain Amid Heatwave and Rising Costs
7/31/2026, 10:44:05 AM
Farmer Tom Everall’s Struggle in a Hot, Dry Summer
Tom Everall, a 27-year-old farmer from Myddle, Shropshire, spoke to BBC Radio Shropshire about the mounting pressures on his family farm. He described a season with “no significant rain since May” and noted that the dry weather forced crops to ripen far earlier than usual, leaving grains “shriveled up to nothing.” The early harvest, which normally would not occur before August, has already taken place, and Everall said the quality of the wheat is “way down.”
Climate and Market Pressures on Shropshire Farms
Everall linked the agricultural challenges to broader climate trends, citing recent heatwaves that have intensified the difficulty of planning daily work. These price increases compound the strain caused by unpredictable weather.
Harvest Quality and Income Decline
Economic pressures are evident in the farm’s milk revenue. Everall noted that “this time last year, we were being paid nearly 45 pence a litre [of milk]” and that The combined effect of lower crop yields, reduced grain quality, and falling milk prices has left the farm’s income markedly lower than in previous years.
Mental-Health Implications for Farmers
He added that the year has prompted more frequent check-ins with peers, highlighting a growing awareness of mental-health needs within the farming community.
Verbatim Quote
- “This time last year, we were being paid nearly 45 pence a litre [of milk],” — Tom Everall — Tom Everall
