Life at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester is as jolly as ever after 180 years, but the diverse degrees on offer reflect the challenges of 21st-century farming. Kate Green charts a history of seismic change for the industry and Mary Skipwith talks to students past and present

Even an avalanche couldn’t keep Reuben Owen and his girlfriend Jess Ellwood apart — which is a good job, as TV’s favourite farming couple prepare for Christmas in rural North Yorkshire. Reuben proudly

Artist and designer Luke Edward Hall explains why the Cotswolds is an area that holds a special place in his heart

LIZ FLETCHER on sharing the joy of crafting at Christmas

Establishing crops and hedgerow management are key jobs this month for Joe Stanley

PHOTOGRAPHS BY GETTY IMAGES; WROUGHT IRON & BRASS ...