We, the Yates family initially had 160 acres, today we are left with 12.5 acres.  Formerly a dairy farm, our family at Earls Farm have been the custodians of this land for over 300 years.  We have farmed, tended and maintained this land for many generations, we are fighting for our heritage, livelihood and family home.

In 2007 the council took a further 8 acres from us and this time they  'assured' us that they would not take any further land from us, our councillors witnessing this assurity. 

In 2020 we were blindsided, when it was seen in the press by a neighbour, that the council intended to build houses on the land - the council didn't even bother to contact us.

Our home is over 500 years old and with original beams, wattle and daub - it is steeped in history. 

The land is also a sanctuary for wildlife including deer, bats, and owls.

We manufacture and distribute barley straw as well as vegan, beauty products within the UK/EU. 

Additionally, we are proud to serve our community with a cattery and a community allotment which supports health and wellbeing, while feeding those around us, including the homeless.

This development threatens not only our livelihood but also the rich heritage of this area and its natural inhabitants. 

More housing in the area of Harwood, Bolton will have a negative, dire effect on our infrastructure in the village - with traffic, schools, and a doctors surgery all currently over capacity.

We are not alone, Defra states that there are over 55,000 tenant farmers in the UK.  

The government states that it is supporting tenant farmers (April 2024) However, at present our farmers are facing life changing times, with no protection.

There needs to be adequate compensation to cover the true costs experienced by tenant farmers who are displaced for housing or energy schemes. This includes having to relocate both home and business.  The present statutory fallback provisions are wholly inadequate and it is alarming that many tenant farmers are treated with disdain by their landlords, receiving little or no communication - adding insult to injury at such a difficult, life changing time.

Our Farmers mental health is being severely affected, many feeling isolated, and not heard. Sleepless nights are being endured, with suicidal thoughts not far away... as they fight to save their livelihood, their animals and their family home - it is a way of life for Farmers.

We urge you to sign this petition to protect our farmers' tenancy rights and human rights, thus preserving our historical land for future generations.