COMPARED WITH the main alternative, the Sentinel treatment plant at about 10,000 plus running costs, a biobed is cheap, and especially so when put into perspective, says Mr Basford.

Much depends on what is already in place, but offset systems should cost no more than 3000 and the galvanised metal grid drive over facility at R&R, with a life expectancy of 20 years, was only about 5000, he says.

“When you look at the value of sprayers – this farm uses two each worth 70,000-80,000 – and the value of chemicals they apply, it is good insurance.

 “Faced with an indefensible pesticide problem traced back to your farm you risk a fine running into thousands of pounds.”

R&R Farms manager Andy Worthington, who is fully in favour of biobeds, says analysis of what has been fed into the offset versions has been quite a surprise.

 “It was a real eye-opener to see the results which showed what might have been going into our dykes. Biobeds have to be the right way ahead. We”re trying to do our best and this is the biggest step we can take.”