Free Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) tests will be made available to farmers at Bakewell Market and Shrewsbury Market in November.
A PSA test is a simple blood test that can help to detect potential prostate issues early, such as cancer. The test can offer reassurance, highlight early changes, and support you to stay well for your family and your farm.
The tests are being delivered as part of The Farming Community Network’s (FCN) UK-wide partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support.
Members of the FCN team will be in attendance at both events to discuss the Rural Communities Cancer Project and the #NipItInTheBud campaign – which are helping to raise awareness of cancer in farming and rural communities and reduce stigma.
FCN will be working with The Graham Fulford Charitable Trust / MyPSATests to offer free Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing during the events to farmers aged 40 and over.
Attendees will need to book their PSA test in advance via the links below, using the code FCN26:
- Bakewell Market (Monday 23rd November – 8:30am – 1:30pm): https://www.mypsatests.org.uk/Events/?a7f17769-0398-4975-995a-a802f54d139b
- Shrewsbury Market (Tuesday 24th November – 8:30am – 1:30pm): https://www.mypsatests.org.uk/Events/?5f960517-aac1-41df-8f1e-0238ca9e12e2
If you need help booking, please call the friendly team at MyPSATests on 01926 419959.
Earlier this year Jeremy Clarkson revealed his prostate cancer diagnosis, which has encouraged many within the farming community to be more aware of the signs and symptoms of cancer and to get themselves checked.
During the events The Farming Community Network will also be giving out copies of its new publication in England, ‘A Guide For Farming Families Affected by Cancer’, which has been developed by people within the farming community who have direct experience of living with cancer and undergoing cancer diagnoses, treatment and aftercare. A digital copy of the publication can be accessed here: https://fcn.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Guide-for-Farming-Families-Affected-by-Cancer-digital-pdf-1.pdf
In July the Rural Communities Cancer Project team brought PSA tests to 80 farmers during the NSA Sheep Event at the Three Counties Showground: https://fcn.org.uk/blog/2026/07/29/over-100-farmers-receive-prostate-and-skin-cancer-checks-at-nsa-sheep-event/
Meg Elliott, Bagshaws Auctioneer and Valuer, Market Associate, said: “I am delighted that Bakewell is one of the first markets to host a PSA testing event. It is an initiative that particularly resonates with us, as the father of one of our colleagues has recently started treatment following a PSA test. Thankfully, his cancer was detected at an early stage, despite him having no symptoms whatsoever, and a full recovery is anticipated. His experience highlights just how important early testing can be and reinforces why we are so pleased to support this event.”
Alex Phillimore, Head of Operations and Communications at The Farming Community Network, said: “Prostate cancer symptoms are not always obvious, and can sometimes go overlooked. With 1 in 8 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, we need to ensure we catch it as early as possible.
“We know how difficult it can be to find the time to book a GP appointment. By bringing these services directly to farmers, we can ensure that prostate-related issues are identified sooner, and that support and help is provided. Early detection truly does save lives – if you are attending Bakewell and Shrewsbury Markets on these dates and are over the age of 40, please do consider booking a PSA test.”
- Read more about the Rural Communities Cancer Project here: https://fcn.org.uk/cancersupport/
- Read more about prostate cancer here: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/prostate-cancer