Animal feed producers on the Isle of Wight are facing a tough winter ahead following long periods of drought this spring.
According to the Matt Legge from the island's branch of the National Farmers Union, the driest spring for more than 100 years has left crop supplies at very low levels.
He told the Isle of Wight County Press that without a good amount of rain in the coming weeks, yields of hay and other feeds will not be sufficient to meet needs from the region's livestock farmers.
Mr Legge added: "Last year, a fair quantity of hay was brought from the mainland but now there are shortages all over the country.
"We are not yet at a crisis point, however, and with a bit of luck, we will get some rain."
However, animal feed manufacturers were boosted recently by the news that members of the European Parliament have backed proposals to reintroduce processed animal protein to feed.
Typical Guttridge equipment used in the animal feed industry includes:
