Both Nick and Ian Davidson of Milton of Clola, Peterhead, Aberdeenshire were pleased to have oilseed rape completed after three months and yet another day yesterday of very wet weather.

Father Ian Davidson was aware of other neighbours yet to finish and said, “We’re lucky to have it in.” but with winter wheat and spring barley still to do, son Nick Davidson was still waiting. “I’m twiddling my thumbs waiting for the weather.”

Despite suffering hail damage the 28ha (70acres) of swathed Mendel oilseed rape came in last Friday [3 August] at just over 3.7 t/ha (30cwt/acre).

Three weeks after spraying with Roundup (glyphosate) Nick finished his 36ha (90 acres) of winter barley on Saturday at 17-19% moisture content. He didn’t expect record-breaking yields.

Mr Davidson had 26ha (65acres) of Oxbridge and Prestige spring barley and 20ha (50 acres) of Riband winter wheat which were both still to be harvested, which he expected to begin in another fortnight. Both crops suffered heavily with disease.

He was pleased with progress so far, “It’s a good feeling to have done what we have.”

• Crop: Oilseed rape
o Area: 28ha
o Variety: Mendel
o Yield: 3.7 t/ha

• Crop: Winter Barley
o Area: 36ha
o Moisture: 17-19% contents.

*Harvest Highlights 2007 is sponsored by RAGT