The NFU said the agricultural industry should be “embarrassed” about its health and safety record.

NFU vice president Stuart Roberts said: “The health and safety record of agriculture is something the industry should be embarrassed about. However, I am seeing signs that farm businesses are starting to respond to this issue in a positive way.

“Initiatives such as farm safety workshops are starting to have a positive effect in changing the culture of the industry and I would urge farmers and farm workers to take time to attend. Together, we can help to drive safety forward, reducing the risk of accidents and making our industry the safest it can be.”

Figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show there were 33 farming-related deaths last year. Statistically, agriculture is the most dangerous industry, with 8.44 deaths per 100,000 employed, compared with an all-industry average of 0.45 deaths per 100,000.