On Your Farm - 17/10/2010

Alex James travels to Hertfordshire to meet the first of three shortlisted finalists for this year's BBC Farmer of the Year. Jon Birchall has put the environment at the heart of the mixed farm he manages in Hitchin. Alex teams up with fellow judge, former Conservative MP and previous Chair of EFRA Select Committee, Michael Jack to find out whether Jon has what it takes to win the title of BBC Farming Today Farmer of the Year. As well as farming rare breed cattle, sheep and pigs, Jon has introduced environmental measures to improve the biodiversity on the farm. From sewing specific grass seed mixes, to planting over 100 oak trees. Pilkington Farm has not only developed its wildlife but also makes a profit. Alex James and Michael Jack discover how and ask whether more farmers could and should follow suit. Producer: Fran Barnes.