The United Kingdom has recorded the highest number of farm worker deaths in a decade, with 22 fatalities in Wales, England, and Scotland during 2025-26. This figure is second only to construction, which saw 27 deaths in the same period. However, the rate of fatalities within the agricultural sector is seven times higher per 100,000 workers and 21 times more likely than the average across all industries.
Margaret Owen, whose husband Islwyn died after falling into a slurry pit, described the situation as "getting worse and worse." She noted that four people within a four-mile radius of her home had died in recent years, calling the situation "scary."
Owen stated that her husband, a farmer, was exceptionally careful and always wore a helmet, recognizing the inherent dangers of farming. She recalled knowing something was wrong on the day he died because he was late for dinner.
Following her husband's death, Margaret Owen had to sell their farm stock and arrange for other farmers to rent most of their land. She described a period of prolonged grief, saying, "For over a year I had tears coming every day, and I thought I'm going to be like this forever. But it's getting easier."
She has remained in Llanycil and found solace in focusing on positive memories and staying busy by caring for horses. The article does not specify if any of these deaths were in the US.