Farmers Guardian is to launch a spinoff lifestyle magazine next month, dedicated to the best aspects of living in the country. CountryView will be published alongside Farmers Guardian.
Publisher CMPi, said it is the first time any title in the agricultural sector has produced a weekly lifestyle supplement.
The 52-page glossy will highlight the best of rural life, concentrating on equestrian pursuits, homes and gardens and food and drink, as well as property. Liz Falkingham, editor of Farmers Guardian is editor, Country Life contributor Camilla Edwards is countryside editor and Horse and Hound freelance Sarah Cripps is equestrian feature writer.
Falkingham told Press Gazette: “I think there is definitely a niche between what is a very specialist end of the agricultural sector with B2B titles, and consumer magazines such as Country Living, which is the more aspirational side. This title falls neatly between the two. It looks at the essential role of food and farming within the countryside and the role it plays in sustaining the rural economy.
“Also, it gives us a chance to celebrate and focus on some of the best aspects of rural life, such as food and drink and homes and gardens.” Farmers Guardian carried out research prior to the launch, which showed readers wanted more in-depth coverage of countryside issues such as diversification, rather than a purely lifestyle approach. Feedback from readers also indicated there was room for a magazine which looked at the role of food and farming, such as the growth in regionally branded, high quality produce direct from the farm.
There was a demand for information on how to broaden the scope of rural businesses beyond commercial farming.
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog
