CHILDREN in rural Malhamdale showed their appreciation for the farming community by arriving at school in their wellies.

At Kirkby Malham Primary School, there was also a special visit from farmer Ian Wellock, who delighted the pupils by bringing along his Brown Swiss calf, Dreamer Snickerdoodle.

The visit - held on Tuesday, when thousands of farmers went to London to protest against changes to inheritance tax - gave the children a unique opportunity to learn more about farming and the vital role it plays in their community.

Executive Headteacher Richard Wright praised the initiative, saying: “The enthusiasm shown by our pupils and their families in supporting our farmers has been heartwarming.

"By wearing wellies to school, children across the locality - at Kirkby Malham and our partner school, Settle Primary -are sending a clear message of respect and solidarity.

"Farming communities deserve our recognition and protection, and this small act highlights the close ties between our schools and the rural way of life that sustains us all.”

Ian Wellock said on Tuesday: Today sees thousands of farmers descend on our capital to debate with our government the proposed changes that will impact our future and future generations.

"Our family, with youngest son Charlie currently the head boy at Kirkby Malham Primary School, represents five generations of farmers, custodians of the land, in Malhamdale. Changes announced in the recent budget could put this future at risk.

“Farmers grow and raise the ingredients for our meals, almost 60 per cent of the country's food is produced by UK farmers, that's over half of everything you eat in a day!”

The event underscored the strong bond between schools and the farming community, fostering a sense of shared appreciation for the work of farmers in Malhamdale and beyond.

Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith met with farmers from his constituency in Westminster on Tuesday as part of the National Farmers Union’s (NFU) mass lobby event.

He said: "Farming is at the heart of our rural communities and plays a vital role in feeding the country and protecting our environment. The event was a great opportunity to hear directly from farmers about the challenges they face – from rising input costs, the need for clear and fair agricultural policies and changes to inheritance tax rules.

“I will continue to work with colleagues across Parliament to ensure the interests of our farming communities are represented. Events like the mass lobby are essential in bridging the gap between policymakers and the people whose lives and livelihoods are directly impacted."