The Prince of Wales brought a selection of cakes when he met hill farmers in the Yorkshire Dales to discuss the challenges facing their industry. William visited Adam Hunter, 37, who runs Crow Trees Farm in Swaledale with his wife Leanne and their children Annie and Ted, keeping sheep and cattle.
Diversification and Community
Like many farmers in the area, the Hunter family has diversified their business by converting a barn into a bunkhouse that can sleep 27 guests. Mr Hunter invited neighbours Philip Metcalfe, 53, and his son James, 23, who operate Usha Gap Farm and have opened a campsite, along with Michael and Hannah Waggett, both 36, from nearby Satron Farm.
While the host prepared teas and coffees from his all-terrain vehicle, William handed over a box of cakes purchased from a local bike stop, including a brownie and a Twix cake, which he later described as a “calorie grenade”.
Industry Challenges
The Prince asked the farmers about the “headwinds” they face, particularly rising fuel costs. Mr Hunter explained the dual demands of farming and running the bunkhouse: “We are doing the farming, making beds and cleaning toilets, we are doing everything.” He highlighted the strength of the close-knit Swaledale community, where neighbours collaborate.
William, who as Duke of Cornwall is a major landowner, discussed generational differences in farming practices with the group. Addressing the Metcalfe father and son, he remarked: “You clearly have a good relationship, not every generation I have seen has that.”
Farmer Perspectives
After the visit, Mr Hunter told reporters: “He understood the area and understood a lot more than you would think.” He emphasised that farmers maintain the dale’s beauty, which attracts tourists, and without support, no one else would fill that role. “We are the cheapest park-keepers that the government can have. There’s no tourism here without farmers,” he said.
Mrs Waggett, who works in a primary school, added: “It felt like he was on our side.”
Community Hydro Project
Later, William visited Bainbridge, a Wensleydale village, to inspect a community hydro-plant that generates electricity. Since 2011, an Archimedes screw in the River Bain has produced enough power for 30 local homes. Retired engineer Tom Fairey, a director of the plant, said afterward: “He asked a lot of sensible and intuitive questions.”
The Prince also stopped at Hammonds Butchers and spoke with well-wishers on the village green.
