Flagon winter barley has produced some mixed results at Nick Harding’s Preston Farm, Dorset, yielding slightly below normal.

The 45ha (111 acres) averaged about 7.5t/ha (3t/acre), he said. “The rape isn’t fit yet so we’re sat on our haunches for a bit.” He expected to be into the 50ha (124 acres) of rape this weekend (26/27 July). “It’s looking reasonable.”

Although Mr Harding had started harvest slightly earlier than normal, it would be at least two weeks before the spring barley or winter wheat was ready, he said.

Crop: Winter barley

Variety: Flagon

Area: 45ha (111 acres)

Yield: 7.5t/ha (3t/acre)

Crop: Oilseed rape

Area: 50ha (124 acres)