The 146 acres of pasture and arable land with buildings at Roundhill Farm, Kelston, is being let by an owner who would like help on his remaining holding from the new tenant, creating a perfect opportunity for an existing agricultural contractor who wants to step up to own a farm.

“It’s probably as close to the perfect scenario that you are likely to find,” says Ian McMurray, of land agents Carter Jonas. “The holding is being offered on an initial five year tenancy and the landlord’s priority is to support sustainable and viable farming while restoring life and nature to the land.

“The land requires investment to bring it back to a favourable condition. Tenders are invited with a peppercorn rent of £1 for the first year of the agreement. In addition, the landlord is intending to stockproof fence the external boundary of the property and will require the services of a farm contractor for additional management and environmental works on his own holding, which it is hoped the tenant will be able to provide at market rates.

“Slightly more than 26 acres is permanent pasture but the rest has been cropped in the past, although it is currently down to grass or fallow. The landlord wants to see the land progress towards organic status and is also intending to lay on a water supply.

“Most budding farmers will recognise this fantastic opportunity. Here’s an owner offering to help someone else and even provide a supplementary income through contract work while the new tenant gets set up. Most young farmers will want to pinch themselves to make sure it’s real.”

Carter Jonas is also offering approximately 316 acres of pasture land in and around Castle Combe in eight lots for a short to medium term grazing licence.

“The land owner would prefer a certified organic grazier, again reflecting the desire of many land owners to either enhance or retain a higher status for their land,” adds Ian.

“Some people detect a shift away from organic produce in the short term but I am sure demand will return, when land with organic status will be at a premium to meet demand for milk and meat. Both the Kelston and Castle Combe properties will be ready for the upturn, with Kelston also providing just the lucky break someone needs right now.”