On Sunday 28 September, Essex farmers are bringing the countryside to the heart of the city for a special Harvest Service at Chelmsford Cathedral.
The cathedral will be decorated with corn sheaves and bales of straw, creating a fitting backdrop for the event. At 3:30pm, a grand procession will begin, featuring animals from Barleylands Farm, Young Farmers with produce, and even a tractor making its way into the cathedral.
The service will be attended by farmers, rural clergy, and representatives from agricultural organisations and charities. This year, there is a special focus on the challenges facing the farming community, with a clear message of thanks and support for the vital work they do.
The service will highlight the support provided by farming charities, and The Right Reverend Roger Morris, The Bishop of Colchester, will speak about the legacy of John Joseph Mechi, founder of the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution.
Following the service, thanks to the generosity of Wilkin and Sons, everyone is invited to a special Tiptree Cream Tea to celebrate 140 years of jam production at Tiptree.
The produce donated by Essex farms will be given to the local charity Sanctus to help provide meals for people experiencing homelessness in Chelmsford.
Everyone is warmly welcome to attend this celebration of farming and community and also meet the animals from Barleylands Farm Park before the service.