Jess Brown-Fuller Visits East Marden Farm to Hear Farmers' Concerns

On 12 May 2026, Chichester MP Jess Brown-Fuller visited a family run farm in East Marden to hear directly from local farmers and National Farmers’ Union (NFU) members about the challenges facing the agricultural community. 

Farming is a vital part of the local economy. In West Sussex, the agri-food chain is worth around £910 million and supports roughly 6,000 jobs, yet the sector faces growing pressure from multiple directions. Conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global fertiliser markets, pushing up prices and creating significant uncertainty for farmers already operating within tight margins. 

 Jess Brown-Fuller MP visited a family run farm in East Marden to hear directly from local farmers and the National Farmers’ Union (NFU).

Closer to home, farmers raised serious concerns about rural crime, including machinery theft, dog attacks on livestock, and hare coursing. The ongoing loss of small abattoirs was also highlighted as a critical issue, with far-reaching consequences for local food infrastructure and food security. 

Jess and NFU members also discussed a range of wider issues, including animal health and welfare, sustainable farming initiatives, and red diesel pricing. 

Speaking after the visit, Jess said: 

"Farmers are the backbone of our local economy and countryside, and I am absolutely committed to championing their interests in Parliament. Visiting East Marden and hearing directly from NFU members about the very real pressures they face, from rising input costs to rural crime, was invaluable.  

I want to thank the NFU and everyone who took the time to share their experiences with me. Local food producers deserve our full support, and I will continue to make their voices heard."