Dorset farmer Paul Carter had cut 180ha of winter wheat with 240ha remaining at Sherbourne Castle Estates.

Zebedee was yielding 10t/ha, Robigus was coming in just over 10t/ha, and Claire was at 9.5t/ha. Bushel weights were at 72–78kg/hl and yields were up on last year.

He said: “The quality is good with a nice bold sample and a good berry size.”

Having started wheat harvest on 7 August last year, he said things were ahead this year. He expected to finish in nine to 10 days depending on the weather, however he did not think the early harvest affected the quality of his crops.

“At the moment we’re pleased but then you never know what is around the corner.”

• Crop: Winter wheat
• Variety: Zebedee, Robigus and Claire
• Area: 180ha
• Yield: Zebedee 10t/ha, Robigus just over 10t/ha, Claire 9.5t/ha
• Quality: Bushel weight 72–78 kg/hl