Jeremy Clarkson's farming venture has hit another snag as his Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds grapples with a bovine tuberculosis (TB) outbreak. The former Top Gear star, who has documented his agricultural struggles in the hit Amazon series Clarkson's Farm, now faces the grim possibility of losing cattle to the disease.
The outbreak was confirmed after routine testing revealed the presence of TB in some of Clarkson's herd. Under UK farming regulations, infected cattle must be culled to prevent further spread—a devastating blow for any farmer.
Impact on Clarkson's Pub Plans
The TB scare also casts a shadow over Clarkson's latest business venture: a pub on his farm. The establishment, which sources produce directly from Diddly Squat, could face disruptions if the outbreak affects livestock used for meat and dairy.
Clarkson, never one to shy away from controversy, has previously criticised government policies on bovine TB, calling for more effective solutions to protect farmers' livelihoods.
What’s Next for Diddly Squat Farm?
With the farm already battling unpredictable weather and bureaucratic hurdles, this latest setback adds to the challenges Clarkson has faced since swapping cars for crops. Fans of Clarkson's Farm will no doubt be watching closely to see how he navigates this crisis.
Bovine TB remains a significant issue for UK farmers, with thousands of cattle slaughtered annually. The disease not only impacts livestock but also threatens rural economies dependent on farming.
