Frank Smith & Co

08/10/2026

Just one week to go until the Cotswold Life Magazine Food and Drink Awards! 🤩

As Headline Sponsor of the awards for the past three years, it is once again a privilege to be judging the Farmer of the Year category and celebrating the farmers who produce exceptional food while caring for the land and supporting rural communities.

Our Managing Director, Frank Smith , has a lifelong appreciation for farming and the people behind it, with enormous respect for the dedication, resilience and innovation shown by those working the land, recognising the vital contribution they make to the countryside.

He’ll be joining fellow judges Giuseppe Dell'Anno, Guy Woodward, Milly Fyfe and Sharon Martin to celebrate the people making an important contribution to the region’s food and drink sector.

We look forward to seeing everyone on Monday 19 October at Cheltenham Racecourse! 🌾🍴

06/10/2026

🚜 For many farming businesses, diversification can create new opportunities and make better use of existing land and buildings.

This could include converting redundant farm buildings into offices or industrial units, letting fields for horse grazing, installing telecommunications masts or exploring the removal of agricultural ties from properties.

Whatever your plans, there can be a range of legal and practical considerations to work through. Our specialist agricultural team can advise on the legal aspects of your plans and, where needed, help connect you with other professionals to provide the wider support required.

If you're considering diversifying your farming business, speak to our team.

✉️ [email protected]
📞 01242 358170

05/10/2026

The Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) is calling for significant tax reforms ahead of the Autumn Budget, warning that the current tax framework could affect investment and security across the tenanted farming sector.

In its formal Budget submission, the TFA has set out a number of proposed changes these include measures aimed at encouraging longer-term farm tenancies. Currently, just 7% of new Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs) last 10 years or more.

From Agricultural Property Relief and Capital Gains Tax to Stamp Duty Land Tax and Universal Credit, the proposals cover a wide range of issues affecting tenant farmers.

Read the full Farmers Weekly article to find out more about the TFA’s key demands. 👇

https://www.fwi.co.uk/business/business-management/tax/tfa-demands-tax-overhaul-in-autumn-budget

​The Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) is demanding sweeping tax reforms ahead of the Autumn Budget, warning that current policies threaten rural

01/10/2026

Who is responsible for maintaining a public right of way? 🤔

For landowners, understanding the responsibilities that come with a public right of way can be complicated. Some duties sit with the highway authority, while others fall on the landowner.

From maintaining gates and stiles to keeping vegetation under control and ensuring paths aren't obstructed, there are a number of potential issues which landowners need to be aware of.

Below, we've put together a guide explaining what landowners and highway authorities are responsible for, and what can happen if maintenance or access requirements aren't met. Swipe through to find out more. 👉

For tailored legal advice on public rights of way and your responsibilities as a landowner, contact our team on 01242 801748 or visit www.franksmithandco.com

30/09/2026

New scheme announced to help first-time buyers onto the property ladder. 🏡

The Government has announced a new “Your First Home” scheme, which would allow eligible buyers in England to purchase a new-build property with a minimum deposit of just 2.5%, alongside an interest-free 20% equity loan.

Household income and a deposit cap will be introduced to exclude those on the biggest salaries and with big savings pots, with the scheme targeted at those who may struggle to buy a home on their own.

Further details, including the cost of the scheme, eligibility criteria, and when it will be implemented are expected to be confirmed by the Chancellor in next month's Budget.

Read more about the proposal below. 👇

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cv8e33gdw17no

29/09/2026

SFI (Sustainable Farming Incentive) funding closes within hours as farmers rush to secure support 🌾

Thousands of farmers have reportedly missed out on funding after applications for a £233 million scheme for England closed in less than six hours, highlighting the level of demand for financial support for farmers adopting measures designed to benefit nature and the environment.

Farming and environmental organisations have raised concerns about the speed at which the funding was allocated, with some comparing the process to the rush to secure Glastonbury or Oasis concert tickets.

The Government said farmers had responded “in force” and confirmed that further funding opportunities are expected in 2027.

Read the full BBC article below. 👇

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3pwlejxrd7do

Farmers fear they may not be able to carry out environmental work because they lost out on funding.

23/09/2026

Making land transactions straightforward 🙂‍↕️

Whether you’re buying or selling a small paddock or a substantial block of agricultural land, the legal considerations can be far more complex than they first appear.

Our specialist rural property team can guide you through the process, helping to keep your transaction efficient, cost-effective and on track.

We consider the details that matter when dealing with rural land, including Government Grant Schemes, sporting and mineral rights, development potential, rights of way and access.

As specialists in rural matters, we take care to minimise disruption to crops, livestock and day-to-day operations wherever possible.

✉️ [email protected]

📞 01242 358170

22/09/2026

How long does it take to sell a home? 🏡

While the national average remains at 42 days, new analysis from Zoopla shows that the picture varies significantly depending on where you are.

Of the 363 local authorities across England, Scotland and Wales, in 180 it's now taking longer to sell the average property than a year ago, while in 145 properties are selling faster.

Some areas are seeing particularly slow-moving markets, in eight local authorities it now takes 60 days or more to find a buyer.

Thinking of buying or selling? Specialist legal advice can help you navigate the process from offer to completion.

Read the full analysis from Today's Conveyancer below. 👇

https://todaysconveyancer.co.uk/half-uk-areas-see-increase-average-time-takes-sell-home-zoopla/

19/09/2026

Just one month to go until the Cotswold Life Magazine Food & Drink Awards 2026! 🎉

As headline sponsor, we’re delighted to be returning to the awards, with our Managing Director, Frank Smith, once again taking on the role of judging the Farmer of the Year category – something he has proudly done for many years.

Reflecting on the category, Frank says:

“I’m always excited to be a judge. Every year I meet remarkable people whose passion and commitment are truly inspiring. It’s a privilege to celebrate the farmers who produce exceptional food while caring for the land and supporting rural communities.”

We’re looking forward to celebrating this year’s finalists and recognising the fantastic work taking place across our farming and food communities.

See you on Monday 19 October at Cheltenham Racecourse! 🌾🍴

15/09/2026

Buying a Livery Yard? 🐴

From the land and buildings themselves to planning permissions, existing clients and the operation of the business, there are a number of legal considerations to understand before you commit to a purchase.

Take a look at our checklist below to learn more about 4 of the key considerations. 👇

With first-hand experience of the equestrian sector within our team, we understand the practical realities that come with buying and running an equestrian business.

So, if you’re thinking about buying a livery yard, our specialist team can help you understand the legal position from the outset.

✉️ [email protected]

📞 01242 358170