A Norfolk farming podcast which attracts listeners across the globe has been downloaded more than 200,000 times as it approaches its fifth anniversary. 

Aylsham-based grain trader Andrew Dewing, who had "never listened to a podcast until I broadcast my own", has now recorded more than 240 episodes of his Dewing Grain podcast.

Since its launch in August 2018, it has gathered more than 1,500 monthly listeners, including in the USA, Australia and throughout Europe.

"Our listenership is 90pc UK, which means at least 150 people around the rest of the world listen to our podcast. There is even one in Costa Rica," said Mr Dewing.

"Those sorts of things blow your mind a bit."

Mr Dewing interviews farming guests and gives a report with his opinion on whether world grain markets will go up or down - by analysing the potential impact of weather trends, droughts, trade deals, geopolitical tensions and war.

But first the podcaster had to overcome an ingrained reluctance to let his competitors know what he was thinking.

"That is completely opposite to my entire upbringing in the industry," he said.

"But it has since turned into a phenomenon. You say what you think will happen, and if you are right it is going to make people money and they will appreciate your opinion.

"But if you are wrong, which sometimes you will be, you are putting forward a concept that gives them an opportunity to argue against it and make their own decision. 

"There is always a disclaimer: I am here to tell you what I think is going to happen and what will influence it, but if you decide to trade it is your decision."

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk grain trader Andrew Dewing has recorded more than 240 episodes of his Dewing Grain PodcastNorfolk grain trader Andrew Dewing has recorded more than 240 episodes of his Dewing Grain Podcast (Image: Dewing Grain)

The podcast is primarily aimed at farmers and the grain trade - but it has also embraced a broader audience by chatting with guests ranging from leading farming industry figures to Norfolk characters such as rugby star Tom Youngs, the Earl of Leicester, and Murray Ferguson, a veteran farmer who had also worked for the Secret Intelligence Service.

Mr Dewing is particularly proud knowing that the grain trade listens to his broadcast - as he says he frequently sees his weekly advice reflected in commodity market movements on Monday mornings.