31st October 2006.

Farmers in Annfield Plain, County Durham have expressed mixed emotions about this year's Velcro crop after the recent stormy weather.

The increase in rain has meant that only the hook plants are likely to produce usable fibre next spring as the loop plants require dryer conditions to form the correct texture for the hooks to adhere to.

However, as most of Europe has been blessed with one of the dryest autumns on record, a bumper loop crop and a lesser hook crop have meant that Europe-wide there will be a shortage of hooks. So while loops have traditionally sold for more euros than hooks, the scarcity of the latter will mean an escalation in the value of the hook crop.

Farmer Giles, from near Greencroft, Annfield Plain says "Looks like we'll be making a bit of money this year, after all!"

Economic Reporter: Mr T. Tenrub