Farmers, food producers, Reaseheath College and University Centre students and the wider community came together in Nantwich on Sunday, October 11th for the National Harvest Service.
Held at St Mary’s Church as part of British Food Fortnight, the service brought together representatives from across the farming, food and rural sectors for a celebration of the harvest, with a message of support from Her Majesty The Queen included in the Order of Service.
The event highlighted the changing realities of farming, with contributions from local farmer Andy Venables and Alexia Robinson of Love British Food exploring the pressures facing agricultural businesses and the continuing injustice of food poverty.
Andy’s observations offered a striking illustration of how unusual this year’s growing season has been. Maize was harvested over the August Bank Holiday, while farmers were gathering their third cut of silage in October, a reminder of the challenges posed by unpredictable conditions and the knock-on effects for those working to produce the nation’s food.
Alexia highlighted the issue of food poverty, bringing the focus beyond production to the importance of making food accessible to everyone and recognising the people and resources involved in getting it from farm to fork.
The service was part of a wider programme of National Harvest Festival activities in Nantwich, which included farm-to-fork exhibits, livestock displays, harvest-themed activities and produce displays created by local schools. Produce was also set to be donated to local charities and foodbanks, extending the spirit of the harvest into the community.
Reaseheath College and University Centre supported the celebrations alongside Cheshire Agricultural Society, Nantwich Agricultural Society, The Cheese Shop in Nantwich and representatives of the Diocese of Chester.
The college’s involvement highlighted the role of education and skills development in supporting the future of agriculture, giving visitors opportunities to find out more about land-based courses and careers across the sector.
Iain Clarke, Assistant Principal – Land Based and Sustainability at Reaseheath, who represented the College at the service, said: “The National Harvest Service was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the dedication of those who produce our food and care for our countryside. It also provided an important moment to recognise the challenges facing the industry and the vital role that farming and food production play in our communities and our future.”
“Andy’s reflections on this year’s harvest were a reminder of just how unpredictable farming can be and the skill, knowledge and resilience needed to keep food production moving. At Reaseheath, we’re proud to support the next generation of land-based professionals and help equip them with the skills to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“Events like this also help strengthen the connection between the food on our plates and the people, businesses and landscapes behind it.”
The Revd Canon Anne Lawson, who conducted the service, said: “I am delighted with the success of the National Harvest which took place in Nantwich on Sunday. It was a true celebration of God’s goodness and of the sheer diversity of farming and agriculture in Cheshire. I am grateful to all partners and sponsors for their support, without which the event would not have been possible.”
The Harvest Torch, a specially commissioned iron sculpture created by Devon-based Master Blacksmith Andy Hall, was also part of the wider celebration. Since May, the torch has travelled across Cheshire, visiting communities, schools and agricultural organisations to celebrate the connections between farming, food production and the people and places they support.
The National Harvest Service highlighted the importance of bringing agriculture, education, faith groups and local communities together, recognising not only the work involved in producing food, but also the need to support farmers, champion sustainable food production and ensure the benefits of the harvest reach those who need them most.
