Robert Nelstrop
Westfield Farm, Branston Heath. 1,800 acres including some rented land.
Robert is the fourth-generation farmer in the Nelstrop Family, who have been farming on Branston Heath since 1881. Due to the need to rotate crops, Robert can only plant potatoes every 7 years so about 8% of the farm area is potatoes. The farm also produces cereals and sugar beet.
“For some time, the economics of farming have been very disappointing. Cereal prices have been diabolical and sugar beet prices have suffered a dramatic reduction. However, I am optimistic about the future of my business and have confidence in agriculture.”
“I believe we are in for a very interesting season this year – dramatic weather patterns have wreaked havoc on our potato crop and affected yields badly. However, I am sure that good prices paid to growers will reflect the poor supply situation.”
“My father was one of the founder members of Branston and we have enjoyed a good trading relationship over many years. Seeing the on-going success and growth of Tesco and Branston over the years has given me the confidence to invest in my potato enterprise and I plan further expansion in the coming years. Membership of the Branston Producer Group ensures that I have access to the specialists I need to grow the best crop of potatoes that I can.”
