AN ISLE of Wight farm is leading the way in diversification, as figures show more and more UK farmers are adopting the strategy.

Farmers who have successfully diversified have found a way of playing to the strengths of the farm, which includes making use of what they have, whether that’s buildings, landscape, or existing skills.

In the case of Duxmore – a 350-acre family-run livestock farm – all three have been essential to the success of Duxmore Botanics, which makes home fragrance and body care products.

Char Legge started her business on the farm in 2019 and continues to run the growing operation.

Meanwhile, her husband Matt primarily takes care of the agricultural duties, with some help when needed from Char and their three children.

“Things are so uncertain for farming in general, so it’s great to supplement the farming income,” said Char.

“Every part of our brand, from the visuals to the product formulas, is inspired by our Island home.”

The kitchen has long since been abandoned for the growing business; replaced with an old straw barn, which Matt helped convert into a lab.

Once made, the products are provided to stockists on the Isle of Wight and the mainland, as well as being made available for sale from the Duxmore Botanics online shop.

Char said: “My ambition is to be able to grow, harvest and extract botanicals on our farm. The likes of lavender and comfrey would grow well in our climate.”

NFU Mutual’s annual diversification survey shows 37 per cent of UK farmers plan to increase diversification over the next five years ­– up three per cent on 2021’s figures.

For more information, visit NFU Mutual’s diversification hub at www.nfumutual.co.uk/diversification