I had the enormous pleasure and privilege to have been invited to speak at the latest of the Prince of Wales's series of Summer Schools, held at his Cotswold farm and at Highgrove (17th - 19th July 2007). It was on the subject of 'Farming & Food'.

I felt slightly the 'odd man out', among the speakers, as I was not an integral part of the developing farming and food culture. I was talking about the role of homeopathy in welfare and positive health on the farm. Nonetheless, I found the course most illuminating and inspiring.

A diverse group of delegates and speakers were gathered, all of whom had a great deal to contribute. Among others, they came from retail giants, retail innovators and pioneers, the organic world, DEFRA, school food buyers, caterers, the European Commission for Agriculture & Rural Development, Young Farmers, the Soil Association and the NFU.

The Wednesday evening was spent as a guest of the HRH The Prince of Wales at Highgrove, both walking his magnificent private gardens and for a splendid dinner (local and organic). The Prince of Wales characteristically gave his vision of sustainable farming and the problems besetting the world, in agriculture and in climate. His Grace The Bishop of Liverpool gave an inspiring after-dinner speech on his work with sustainability education in Liverpool.

All agreed it had been a very worthwhile and positive experience and elected to continue contact and to hold further meetings. Much deliberation took place, about possible resolutions ot take forward. The series of Summer Schools convened by the Prince of Wales, of which this was only one topic, appear to be a powerful force for positive change and imaginative thinking.