Widow whose husband died after falling into slurry pit warns of pressure on farmers

Margaret Owen, the widow of a farmer who tragically fell into a slurry pit, has spoken out about the pressures faced by workers following a surge in farm-related fatalities. Her husband, Islwyn, died in 2024 after he slipped into a slurry pit at their farm in Bala, Gwynedd, while attempting to adjust machinery. The inquest into his death found he suffered asphyxia and serious injuries to his right arm and chest due to the machinery. The body was discovered by a neighbor 90 minutes after he was reported missing.

Recent statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reveal that 22 workers died on British farms during the 2025-26 period, marking the highest number in a decade. This figure is particularly alarming when compared to the next highest industry, construction, which saw 27 deaths during the same period. However, the rate of farm deaths is seven times higher per 100,000 workers and 21 times more likely than the all-industry average.

Margaret recounted the impact of her husband's death, emphasizing that it brought back painful memories when she heard reports of a father and son dying in similar circumstances last week. She highlighted that farming is often a stressful occupation, given the recent ban on slurry spreading during winter months to protect rivers. Islwyn had expressed concerns about the weather and the new rules related to slurry spreading before his accident.

Despite the challenges, Margaret remains resilient, stating that while the situation still feels overwhelming, it is gradually becoming more manageable. She sold their farm stock and has been renting most of their land to other farmers. Her focus now is on cherishing the positive memories of her husband and finding solace in her daily routine, such as caring for horses.