Farmers facing uncertain future after Duchy of Cornwall reveals plans to sell Devon land

People living in Bradninch, in Devon, have told ITV News they are "shocked" and "outraged" after being told the Duchy of Cornwall plans to sell the estate's farmland, leaving farming families facing an uncertain future.

The Bradninch estate, near Cullompton, has been part of the Duchy for centuries and was inherited by Prince William after his father became King.

The portfolio of land property and investments has reportedly been valued at more than £1bn, and provides Prince William with a private annual income of £23m.

Multiple farmers are understood to be affected by the move. Full details of the plans are yet to be revealed.

A spokesperson for the Duchy said tenants are being offered the chance to buy their own land.

Dr Mary Ryan and John Palmer, who have lived in Bradninch for 35 years, said people are "furious" at the plans, but many "are too frightened to talk about it."

"They don't know what this means for their livelihoods, about the roof over their heads. Many we have spoken to are just at a loss, and some are furious."

They added: "We know over the last few years, farmers' lives have been made so difficult. The last thing they needed was this."

"It's absolutely outrageous the way it's been handled. People are really upset and worried about whether they may become homeless."

Residents said they are also worried about what the decision means for community assets in the town, such as the wetlands, allotments and football grounds.

One player at Bradninch FC, said: "For the football club, we have four years left on the lease, so we don't know what's going to happen to that.

"We spent nearly £100,000 building a new changing room, and how that works out in the future, we just don't know."

In a statement, the Duchy of Cornwall said: "For many of our farming tenants, this is a genuinely exciting opportunity - and, through our one-to-one conversations, we know the majority are planning to purchase.

"Our priority is to support every tenant through this process with care and respect.

"All tenants are being offered first refusal to purchase their homes and farms, often with a discount, alongside support to help them consider what is right for them and their families.

"More broadly, the wellbeing of our tenants is extremely important to us. Mental health support is available to all tenants, including a dedicated Farming Mental Health Ambassador and specialist support for farmers.

"This is a long-standing service that is always available, not just during this process. We are committed to ongoing, direct communication with our tenants and the local community as plans progress."

The Duchy went on to say they plan to work with the Town Council to transfer community assets into community ownership, keeping them in use throughout.

The Tenant Farmers Association said it is disappointed at the decision taken by the Duchy, but understands the reasons behind it.

Chief executive of the Tenant Farmers Association, George Dunn, said: "Our job is to work with the Duchy of Cornwall and the farmers, so when things like this do happen, we can ensure it's fair and reasonable for all."