The crop yielded 3t/ha (25cwt/acre), measured with a weighing machine, off the farm‘s heavy land just off junction 18 of the M4.

“We reckon 30cwt/acre (3.7t/ha) is a good yield for us,” adds Mr Shiles.

“But considering how dry it was at the back end of last autumn, it‘s quite reasonable for what we had.”

Establishment technique was largely to blame, reckons Peter.

“We put the Shakerator through it before drilling, which was probably the worst thing we could have done.

“But they always call rape the come back kid, and, although it took a while, it did come back.”

The combine is moving up to 49ha (120 acres) of more Winner on the Cotswolds on Tuesday (July 27), which is expected to fare better.

“We didn‘t till it as much and the land was spread with biosolids, so the crop got away well in autumn,” says Peter.

“It‘s incredible how the biosolids held the moisture – the seed planted into cake looked massive, while just next door would be one still at cotyledon stage.”

There are concerns for the winter wheat – the only other arable crop on the farm‘s 219ha (540 acres).

Saddle gall midge has been found to be infesting a 28ha (70 acre) field of Savannah.

“I think we‘re lucky because it looks like it came in June and doesn‘t seem to have cut off the supply of sap to the ear,” says Peter.

“I understand if you get an infestation in May, you may as well write off the crop.”