Prince William prunes apple trees while discussing farmers’ mental health
19th January 2026
Prince William visited an orchard in Herefordshire, trying his hand at pruning apple trees while speaking with farmers about mental health.
Last week, the Prince of Wales visited Bridge End Farm, run by John and Laura Bowler, to discuss mental health challenges facing the farming community.
Prince William, who is the patron of We Are Farming Minds, warned that British farmers are in a “vicious circle” when trying to juggle their mental wellbeing and trying to successfully manage their businesses.
Prince William posted online: ‘Farmers contend with multiple external pressures and considerable uncertainty, which makes supporting their mental health and wellbeing so important. Thank you to our hosts John and Laura for sharing their stories.’
During the visit, the Prince of Wales also had a chance to try the farm’s cider and try his hand at apple tree pruning at the farm’s orchard.
A spokesperson for the We Are Farming Minds charity said that it was an “absolute privilege” to welcome its patron, HRH Prince William, to Herefordshire.
“It was incredibly special to spend time with Prince William and to see first-hand his genuine interest, understanding and support for the farming community and the work of We Are Farming Minds.
“Having the opportunity for him to meet and hear directly from the farmers we support meant a great deal and reinforced just how important it is to keep conversations around mental health in farming open, visible and ongoing.”
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