Rural Roads Plea From Commissioner
Wales’ roads users have been issued a summer harvest plea by a Police and Crime Commissioner: “Stay safe at this busy time for farmers!” Christopher Salmon, who grew up on a Mid Wales farm, is asking all motorists – including those involved in transporting silage on rural roads – to take extra care as the silage season enters its final weeks.
He asks the public to be patient as they encounter increased agricultural traffic, and asks farmers to be thoughtful of others. Mr Salmon, Police and Crime Commissioner for the predominantly rural Dyfed-Powys, said: “A number of people have raised concerns about agricultural vehicles with me recently.
“I want to ensure that farmers get their silage in and that the public can be safe.
“It’s a frantic time of year for many of those in agriculture; they’ve got to get silage in. I know what it’s like – I’ve been there myself. The weather doesn’t always help – and late nights, heavy loads and massive tractors put pressure on small roads.
“My message to farmers and contractors is: ‘Keep the public on your side!’ My message to the public is: ‘Be patient.’
“Farmers and contractors do their best to consider their neighbours. But, as agricultural equipment gets bigger and the pressures increase, it’s important to take extra care at this busy time – to keep the public behind local farms. That way, I hope farmers can make the most of the weather and have a successful, accident-free, harvest.
“Local people support our farmers, particularly when the pressure’s on. I encourage the public to continue supporting our local farms; they’re the lifeblood of our economy.”