The following reasons have all contributed to this decision:

• My workload on the Raleigh Estate has considerably increased as a result of the government’s changes to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief and the subsequent impact on Inheritance Tax.  This has meant I have not been able to get the barn full of logs to dry ready for this winter.
• I have withdrawn from the ‘Ready to Burn’ Scheme, which is an ineffective and not fit for purpose scheme to ensure the quality of firewood sales.  Very few firewood sellers have joined the scheme and the general public know nothing about it.
• Much of my equipment needs replacing and this will require a large capital outlay.  The signals from the Government is to restrict the use of woodburning stoves in the future and this make an investment in the business uncertain at this time.
• I have had problems with staffing, both finding people willing to undertake the work and the rising costs of employing people means I have to increase my point of sale prices to customers or absorb the reduction in profit.
• I am undertaking a Masters Degree in Rural Estate and Land Management at Harpers Adams University in September 2025, which will further restrict my time.
• I’m not getting any younger, it is not easy work and I may have to find another way to stay fit.

I would like to thank all of my customers that I have deliver to over the years.  It is the annual log delivery catch up chats that I have always enjoyed.

I may continue the business for the winter of 2026/27 depending on the above issues resolving themselves.

Best wishes

Nik