A MAUCHLINE farmer hopes that a powerful French film can shine a light on the mental health effects of the industry.
A new French film about family, farming, and survival has struck a chord with British farmers - including Bryce Cunningham of Mossgiel.
'Holy Cow' follows a French teenager who is left responsible for his seven-year-old sister and the family’s struggling dairy farm.
Ahead of its UK release this week, the film’s "down-to-earth realism" has resonated powerfully with Bryce Cunningham, a dairy farmer at Mossgiel Organic Farm just outside of Mauchline.
Bryce took over the family business after the loss of his father and grandfather, and says the film reflects the lived experience of countless farmers across the UK.
“It really highlights the relentless pressure from banks, the crushing debt, and the emotional toll on families," Bryce said.
"It’s a crucial narrative for anyone involved in modern farming.
“Losing a parent is hard enough. Losing your home and livelihood at the same time, it’s devastating. This film gets it.”
Bryce also hopes the film will help shine a light on the hidden mental health crisis facing British farmers.
Bryce added: “This is our reality. Suicide rates in our industry are alarmingly high. Mental health is suffering.
"In the UK alone, 400 farms closed last year. That’s 400 families. That’s not just a statistic, it’s a crisis.”
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