Farmers Weekly Podcast Ep 315: Vaccine call as bluetongue surges

Sheep farmers are being urged to consider vaccination as a surge in bluetongue cases causes serious losses across south-west England.

We have the latest on the worsening outbreak, the risks associated with livestock movements and whether vaccination makes financial sense.

See also: The five non-negotiables of a resilient dairy business

We also examine the impact of extreme heat and drought on this year’s harvest.

Soil scientist Danni Robb explains why high temperatures can damage grain yields, how warmer nights affect crops and what growers can do to improve resilience.

Plus, we discuss forage shortages, chickpea prices, straw and wool insulation, and the latest farm commodity prices.

And Louise visits the winner of the 2026 Silver Lapwing Award – and sees how farming goes hand-in-hand with outstanding environmental management in Gloucestershire.

This episode is brought to you by crop protection specialists Certis Belchim.

This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker.

To contact, sponsor or advertise on the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.