Rachel Hawkins and her aunt Sue were hospitality consultants brought in to help Jeremy Clarkson open his pub, The Farmer's Dog, in season four of Clarkson's Farm. Their stint lasted just 48 hours before they quit over a disagreement about spending £40,000 on three large "jumbrellas".
Who are Sue and Rachel from Clarkson's Farm?
Rachel and Sue were introduced in the fourth series as the former Top Gear host prepared to launch his Cotswolds pub. Acting as consultants on the project, they proposed several ideas, including installing three large "jumbrellas" to cover the terrace at a cost of roughly £40,000.
Clarkson was taken aback by the price. He responded: "Sorry, you're saying words... £40,000 for three umbrellas. £40,000 for three umbrellas! I'm well aware we need umbrellas, I know that, but I really genuinely believe that's nuts. How have I come around to this point? I just cannot believe I'm 64 and someone has just said to me the price of the umbrellas is £40,000. You can buy a Golf GTI for that."
What caused Sue and Rachel to quit?
The umbrellas were not the only sticking point. Rachel and Sue also voiced concerns that the building was not fit for purpose and that there were not enough staff facilities. After just 48 hours, the pair walked away from the project, leaving fans divided over whether they had abandoned it too quickly.
Did Jeremy Clarkson and Rachel Hawkins make up?
In June 2025, Clarkson posted a photo of the now-installed jumbrellas on Instagram, writing: "Turns out Sue and Rachel had a point." Rachel responded on her own Instagram account: "AND BEHOLD. The EXACT 40k umbrellas that have been the topic of so much discussion. Not blocking the view & providing a year-round weather solution with heating & lighting in order that 75 guests can dine comfortably on the terrace all year round… seems like 40k well spent?"
Where are Sue and Rachel now?
It appears the pair settled their differences with Clarkson, but they have not returned to the programme. They did not appear in the latest fifth season. Clarkson's Farm is available on Prime Video, with a sixth season reportedly in the works.
