Hit TV show Clarkson’s Farm has sparked huge interest in the countryside leading to a boost in the numbers of young people going into farming.
Data from university and college admissions body UCAS reveals that applications from 18-year-olds to agriculture, food and related degrees have risen from around 7,900 in 2019 to more than 9,400 this summer – an increase of nearly 20 per cent.
The number of applicants accepted on to agricultural courses was up 8 per cent compared to last year.
That is on the back of an 18 per cent rise in 2021 – when Amazon Prime first broadcast Clarkson’s Farm – and a 13 per cent rise in 2022.
The show focuses on Jeremy Clarkson’s trials at his 1,000-acre Oxfordshire farm, Diddly Squat.
Its third season broke Amazon Prime’s UK ratings record, with the May premiere streamed by 5.1 million in its first week.
James Eckley, chief officer of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs, said it is very popular with his members.
He added: ‘It has brought the countryside and farming to the public’s attention.’
Brian Evans, senior lecturer in agriculture at Hartpury University in Gloucestershire, which specialises in animal and agriculture courses, said applications rose by 30 per cent this year.
He added: ‘Students have said that the recent spate of farming TV shows like Clarkson’s Farm … have been vital in showcasing to young people the different opportunities and farming way of life.’