Prince William goes farming to handle 'external pressure' in hunting cap

Prince William left the royal routine behind in a hunting cap for a hands on visit to a family run farm in Herefordshire on Thursday.

As Patron of We Are Farming Minds, the Prince got an up-close look at the pressures rural workers face from unpredictable weather to financial strains and the isolation that comes with life on the land.

The organisation provides free counselling, a round the clock helpline, and training aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in rural communities. 

During the visit, William met John Bowler, who had stepped up to run his 190-acre family farm under challenging circumstances. 

The royal got a taste of real farm life and ended up laughing at a cheeky wartime confession from 91-year-old Betty Bowler. 

With her 92nd birthday around the corner, Betty revealed her family once hid an extra pig during World War II to outsmart rationing, leaving him grinning as he wished her a happy birthday. 

John and Laura Bowler could only watch smiling at the royal’s delight in their grandmother’s mischievous tale.

He later posted on Instagram, thanking his hosts for sharing their stories.

The Prince highlighted the importance of speaking up and reminding those in the farming world that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The charity founded by Sam and Emily Stables reflects the real struggles workers face every day.