Mr S. Wooldridge of Kemp's Farm Peldon, who farms 300 acres of corn in Peldon, Fingringhoe and Blackheat, estimates that 25 per cent has been flattened by the weather this year.

Manure put on the land increased the yield of corn, but made the heavier crop more susceptible to the ravages of the elements.

"Usually we begin harvesting about the end of July, but this year we have only just begun.

Apart from the weather, Mr Wooldridge says he has to contend with courting couples and youngsters who trample his corn at Blackheath.

Only people living around towns do this kind of thing." "A combine harvester, however, will pick up most of the flattened corn, although there will be a slight loss of quality.
"Things should not be too bad if good weather comes. If not, it may upset schedules for the coming season.
Date: c15 August 1958