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Persistent rain is making life difficult for Manx farmers

Image: Ballakeen Farm, Jurby. Via Facebook

'All we're asking is for the rain to ease'

Seemingly never-ending rain is said to be making life for Manx farmers particularly difficult at the moment.

Weeks of wet weather have saturated the ground at a time of year when the calves and lambs are on their way.

This week marks the Farm Safety Foundation's annual Mind Your Head campaign, focussing on suicide risk and prevention for young people in the industry.

Manx Radio's Farming Correspondent Kirree Kermode says its a tough time of the year, and the poor weather makes it even harder:

"For the first time ever we are seeing fields flooding that have typically been the driest fields on the farm." - Ballakeenan Farm, Jurby

In a recent post on social media, Ballakeenan Farm in Jurby laid bare the issues being faced by the Island's agricultural sector in light of the weather conditions.

Sharing an image of its ewes gathered together using a hay bale as a wind break, the farm said: 'It’s the side of farming that lingers long after the lights go out! The responsibility, the helplessness, and the quiet worry that follows you home. We know so many farmers are struggling with the same relentless weather right now, and our hearts are with them.'

'All we’re asking now is for the rain to ease. Just a break. Just a chance.'

If you or someone you know is struggling, you can find help and advice HERE.

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