Farmers are facing a new hardship after the worst winter in recent history, in the form of hay shortages.

Prices have risen by as much as 40% as demand outstrips supply, and some farms are having their supplies stolen.

Farmers are under severe pressure to find enough to feed for their own animals before they can even consider helping nearby businesses. There are also many horse owners who rely on farmers for their hay supplies which will get used by the farmers before they consider selling any.