Farming Today - 02/12/2010

As fertile Lincolnshire receives more than 30 cm of snow, Charlotte Smith hears claims the UK may run short of fresh vegetables unless the weather changes. Farming Today is told that even imports from France and Italy can't save the day, as snow is causing havoc on the continent. Even Christmas Trees are now suffering in the snow. On a trip to the Elvedon estate in Norfolk Anna Hill discovers freezing temperatures make the trees vulnerable to cracking while they are being transported, and icy conditions make it hard to get them out of the ground. And as councils across the country look to sell off their farms, fears are raised that people trying to get a first foot on the farming ladder may now struggle. Somerset County Council will sell more than half of its farms; one tenant describes the devastating impact this has had on his business and his family life. The Council say the sale is essential to reduce a debt of more than £300 million. Presented by Charlotte Smith, produced by Melvin Rickarby.