Clarkson’s Diddly Squat TB Outbreak: Why Diversification Is Crucial for Farm Resilience
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This week, Jeremy Clarkson shared an update that his beloved Diddly Squat Farm has been hit by Bovine Tuberculosis (TB), a devastating blow for any livestock operation. In a short but impactful post on social media, he wrote:
“Bad news from Diddly Squat. We’ve gone down with TB. Everyone here is absolutely devastated.”
It’s a stark reminder that no matter the profile of the farm, no business is immune to unpredictable setbacks, particularly those tied to livestock health or disease. For farmers across the UK, Clarkson’s announcement highlights the dangers of relying solely on traditional farming revenue, and how it’s increasingly risky in today’s world.
The case for multiple revenue streams
Disease outbreaks like TB, extreme weather events, changing subsidy schemes, and volatile markets can all bring core farming operations to a grinding halt, often overnight. When this happens, having alternative income streams is a lifeline.
Diversification allows farms to spread risk, maintain cash flow, and support long-term business sustainability. Whether it’s launching a glamping site, converting unused barns into workspaces or retail units, offering agritourism experiences, or branching into renewable energy, multiple income sources can soften the financial blow when part of the farm business is under pressure.
Lessons from Diddly Squat
Jeremy Clarkson has already demonstrated how diversification can generate major interest and income. His success with the Diddly Squat Farm Shop, TV series, and hospitality ventures (albeit with planning challenges) shows how creative thinking can turn farming into a broader lifestyle and commercial brand.
But even with all this in place, a disease outbreak like TB still hits hard, especially when it affects the animals that are the soul of the farm. This reality reinforces the importance of a well-rounded business model that doesn’t rely solely on livestock or a single commodity.
Ready to future proof your farm?
At the Farm Business Innovation Show, we help farmers and landowners explore new income ideas, connect with expert advisors, and hear from people who’ve made it work. From farm stays to fitness retreats, vertical farming to wedding venues, the opportunities are wide and increasingly necessary.
Join us 5-6 November at the NEC, Birmingham, to learn how to diversify with confidence, reduce risk, and build a farm business that is prepared to endure any unforeseen obstacles.
