Wheat harvest is 50-60% complete in Shropshire, and milling quality is proving extremely variable, according to Wrekin Grain.

Managing director Stuart Dolphin said Hagbergs ranged from 120-300, with about half falling below 250.

Battalion proved to be one of the worst varieties for sprouting, with some crops growing out as early as July. Alchemy had been another culprit, he said.

“Even now, the wheat is hardly ready, and the straw is still green, but the Hagbergs are low.”

Milling wheat proteins were reasonable, but ranged from 11-13%. “Yields were pretty good, so proteins have been diluted.

“Most samples will get some premium over feed, so it’s important to test everything, and try to keep parcels separate on farm.”

Peas and spring barley had been reasonable, and although farmers were two weeks behind when cutting oilseed rape and winter barley, most had caught up well, he added.