The AEA have announced, "as is usually the case", registrations of agricultural tractors started the year slowly, with just 475 machines logged in January. 

That is 26% fewer than in the same month last year and is one of the lowest figures for the opening month seen in recent years.

Agricultural economist at the Association, Stephen Howarth, said, "Figures have fluctuated from month to month recently, so it is too early to say whether this is an indication of things to come in the year ahead."