Once again LEAF are offering all host farmers a range of free promotional materials including posters, leaflets and flyers, branded polo shirts and hi-viz vests. To make ordering easier, farmers can order their printed resources in packs suitable for events of various sizes – small (up to 50), medium (50-250), or large (over 250 visitors).

The new free ticketing system provides a fully flexible way to help farmers control how many people, and who, visits their farm. Farmers will be provided with a web link at which they can upload details on their event and use to invite people. Farmers can also specify the time of opening and include other details such as car parking options. The ticketing system will be free to use for all farmers registered for LEAF Open Farm Sunday and will go live in the next few weeks.

LEAF Open Farm Sunday manager Annabel Shackleton explains:”We know that for many farmers not being able to control the number of people coming onto their farm can be a big barrier to taking part in LEAF Open Farm Sunday. The new system will provide farmers with the peace of mind that they know who is coming onto their farm, and when – eliminating any element of the unknown and giving farmers full control of their event, whether large or small.’

LEAF will also be offering a range of free posters highlighting the role of science and technology in farming. Developed with support from BBSRC, the posters focus on topics such as soil, water and biodiversity. Weather-proof options, posters in Welsh and an accompanying handbook will also be available, as will free booklets and posters for teachers.

New-look branded polo shirts and high-visibility vests will be available for farmers and other members of staff to wear on the day. Available in a range of sizes, the cotton polo shirts will be embroidered with the LEAF Open Farm Sunday logo on the front right pocket and light blue in colour – so certain to stand out. New fluorescent orange high-visibility vests will show the LEAF Open Farm Sunday logo on the back. Orders should be placed by 30 April to ensure they arrive in time for 10 June.

In addition to the new resources, farmers can find support and tips in the LEAF Open Farm Sunday handbook and online at www.farmsunday.org. LEAF and its team of Regional Co-ordinators are also always on hand to answer questions and offer advice.

To find out more about LEAF Open Farm Sunday or to register an event visit www.farmsunday.org