He has now cut a third of the 130ha (320 acre) wheat crop with so far good results considering the weather conditions.

Hereward yielded roughly 8.65 t/ha (3.5 t/acre) and the Solstice is yielding 9.88 t/ha (4 t/acre).

But Mr Savidge points out the Claire did not do as well, suffering from problems with sprouting in parts of the laid crop. Other varieties by comparison, remained standing and had no problem with sprouting.

He predicts he has lost 80 to 100 tonnes over the entire farm.

8ha (20 acres) of oilseed rape was drilled on Tuesday (Aug 31) with no problems, he added.