Farmers say erratic summer weather could drive up cost of harvesting

West country farmers say erratic summer weather is affecting their crops.

A wet August has left crops standing in damp ground which lowers the quality of the yield.

This could mean higher prices in the shops or farmers taking the hit.

Farmers test the moisture in crops regularly to make sure it is suitable for harvesting.

The recent wet weather means farmers are forced to work longer hours as they have fewer opportunities to harvest their crops whilst they are dry.

The unsuitable conditions are affecting some crops with sections of wheat no longer suitable for bread-making.

This wheat must instead be used as animal feed.

Many farmers are unable to wait for the ideal conditions to harvest their crops.

Harvesting crops when they are wet means farmers are forced to pay more to dry them.

The National Farmers Union says the extra cost to farmers is one reason agricultural subsidies should continue after Brexit.