The combine is rolling today (23 August) at Geoff Alderslade’s West Fellgate Farm, Wardley, Tyne and Wear, but rain is forecast later on.

“We had a good day yesterday, and we’re on at the moment, but it is just starting to spit.”

So far he was more than halfway through harvest, but having only started on wheat last week, he had 75% of wheat left to cut.

“Yields are variable – it’s all Gallant and ranges from 8.6t/ha to 10.5t/ha (3.5-4.25t/acre), depending on soil type.

“Quality has been pretty good, with the odd trailer load coming in below 13% protein. I thought Hagbergs would be way down by now, but they are still over 300.”

Saffron winter barley was also variable, ranging from 7.4t/ha to 9.3t/ha (3-3.75t/acre).

Alienor and Excalibur oilseed rape yielded lower than normal, at 3.5t/ha (1.4t/acre).

“We just need one good dry week and we’d be finished, but it’s hard enough to get a dry couple of days.”

Crop: Winter wheat
Variety: Gallant
Yield: 8.6-10.5t/ha (3.5-4.25t/acre)

Crop: Winter barley
Variety: Saffron
Yield: 7.4-9.3t/ha (3-3.75t/acre)

Crop: Oilseed rape
Varieties: Alienor and Excalibur
Yield: 3.5t/ha (1.4t/acre)