Location: Penhalvean, Cornwall
System: Rearing dairy-cross calves to sell as stores (herd of ~20)
At Higher Trelusback Farm near Sithians in Cornwall, John runs a small beef enterprise rearing locally sourced dairy-cross calves to sell as stores, with a herd of just under 20 cattle. Having established the current system in 2019, his focus was on improving cash flow and creating opportunities to develop the farm further. Since starting to work with Promar in 2024, accessing Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) support has helped strengthen the business and increase confidence for the future.
Accessing the right funding support has made a significant difference to John’s farm business. With guidance from Promar, John successfully applied for Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) funding, improving cash flow and helping to create new opportunities for the future.
The starting point: a need to improve cash flow
John established his current beef rearing system in 2019, sourcing dairy-cross calves locally and selling them as stores at 12–14 months. While the system was working, he wanted to improve cash flow and create opportunities to help invest in the farm’s future.
“I needed to increase cash flow and look at being able to make improvements in the future.”
After seeing an online advert about funding support, John contacted Promar. Although he wasn’t eligible for the scheme he initially enquired about, discussions with the team identified alternative funding options better suited to his business, including the SFI.
Working with a consultant who understands the business
For John, working with a consultant who understood both the local area and smaller farm businesses was essential. Having someone take the time to understand his goals and ambitions helped build confidence in the advice being provided.
“I wanted local consultancy from someone who understands small farmers as well as larger farmers. Harriet was interested in the farm and business and not just the value of the land. She listened to what I wanted to do and helped guide me so I could still do what I love.”
Support with SFI applications made simple
Promar provided end-to-end support with the Sustainable Farming Incentive application process, including identifying suitable options, completing the paperwork and providing on-farm advice to ensure the scheme would work practically within the business.
“Harriet came out to the farm and guided me through the entire SFI process, explaining everything clearly and professionally. We walked the farm together, and at no point did I feel rushed or unsure about what was being done.”
The ongoing support has continued beyond the initial application, providing reassurance whenever questions arise.
“Even now, a year later, the service has remained excellent. Any questions I have are always answered promptly whether by email or in person.”
The results: real financial impact
SFI funding has undoubtably helped to delivered measurable improvements for the business, with cash flow increasing and further gains expected over the next 12 months. Changes to grazing systems have also been implemented, and John is now planning to finish some cattle for the first time.
“Cash flow has increased, more possibility of progress on the farm, grazing systems have changed for the cattle”
Beyond the financial benefits, the biggest impact has been greater confidence in planning for the future and considering opportunities that previously felt out of reach.
For John, having a trusted advisor has been key to this success.
“I’d have no hesitation recommending Promar, they do what they say on the tin and it is very straightforward and I can already see the reward!”
Improve the profitability of your farm with Promar’s Farm Business Solutions
We provide a bespoke solution that encompasses all the elements you need to succeed. We can collaborate with your existing bookkeeping and business advisors, or handle everything for you.
Promar supports farmers across the UK with:
- Farm business reviews & benchmarking
- Full accounts service
- Technical advice
- Management accounts
- Succession & staff planning
- Grants and compliance
Whether you run a small family farm or a larger enterprise, the right advice can help you access funding opportunities, improve cash flow and plan with confidence for the future.
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