Andy Pendry hopes to finish combining oilseed rape at Burden Bros’ Old Rides Farm, Eastchurch, Kent, tomorrow (27 July).

“Yields have been a little bit disappointing – but only because last year was so good, we were spoilt,” he said.

The 70ha (173 acres) of Flash yielded 3.5t/ha (1.4t/acre) – well down on last year’s 4.6t/ha (1.9t/acre), but close to the farm’s five-year average.

Castille performed less well, yielding 2.5-2.75t/ha (1-1.1t/acre). “The weather has been against us, more than anything else.”

Mr Pendry expected to make a start on winter wheat on Wednesday. “We’ve got mostly Solstice and Cordiale, but we’ve also got 15ha (37 acres) of Gallant, 34ha (84 acres) of Scout, 18ha (44 acres) of Invictor and 50ha (123 acres) of Paragon spring wheat.

“It all looks well, so we’ve got our fingers crossed.”

Crop: Oilseed rape
Variety: Flash
Area: 70ha (173 acres)
Yield: 3.5t/ha (1.4t/acre)

Variety: Castille
Area: 60ha (148 acres)
Yield: 2.5-2.75t/ha (1-1.1t/acre)