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Vigo Presses Riverford Veg Box Review What are we putting into the mouths of our children? Could you re-home some chickens? Articles from River Cottage, FarmLink, Lye Cross Farm and The Organic Feed Company Competitions courtesy of Baleno, Avon Bulbs and Unwins Plus: Country news, diary, green issues and wildlife rural issues | livestock | equipment | poultry | fieldwork | diversification | gardening 1 The Artists’ Garden Art Exhibition 2 – 18 September Celebrate September – Food, Arts & Crafts Weekends 2 – 4, 10 – 11 & 17 – 18 September Real Ale & Cider Weekend 23 – 25 September Apple Day 2 October Autumn Woodfest Sponsored by Stihl 8 – 9 October

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R_Autumn 185x270_Advert.indd 1 24/08/2016 15:02 inside this issue

Country news 4 Lye Cross Farm 6 A farmer's view GET IN TOUCH thelandsman Rural issues 7 Think Media (UK) Ltd After the vote The Granary & Sawmill Property 8 Tickenham Court Lower Bradley Washing Pound Lane | Clevedon North Somerset | BS21 6SB Review 10 Riverford Veg Box www.thelandsman.co.uk twitter.com/landsmanlife FarmLink 11 What are we putting into the mouths of our children? Editorial Green issues 13 Rebecca Hacker What does Brexit mean for sustainability? [email protected] The Organic Feed Company 15 Art Editor The advantages for organic feeding Christy Walters Livestock 16-17 Designer Pregnancy diagnosis in sheep, pigs and cattle Laurie Edwards Competition 18 Production Win a Baleno Ascot Ladies Jacket Rachael Ellway Veterinary practise 19 [email protected] The liver fluke T. 01275 400778 Poultry 21 Advertising Could you re-home some chickens? Sandra Hardie [email protected] Equipment 23 The Artists’ Garden Art Exhibition T. 01460 55105 New equipment

2 – 18 September Contributors Fieldwork 25 Benjamin Barber BVetMed (Hons) MRCVS Spreading it about a bit! British Hen Welfare Trust Making a country living 26-27 Celebrate September – Food, Arts & Crafts Weekends Colin Knapman BSc (Hons) Bowhayes Trees FarmLink 2 – 4, 10 – 11 & 17 – 18 September Gillian Dixon Competition 28 Ian Dixon Win a Lilies Bouquet from Unwins Jeremy Hobson Real Ale & Cider Weekend Keith Wheaton-Green Competition 28 Nick Green Win a selection of bulbs from Avon Bulbs 23 – 25 September RHS Garden Rosemoor Diversification 29 River Cottage Vigo Presses Riverford Apple Day Stephen Davy-Osborne Gardening 31-35 Stewart Horne Bring interest to your garden 31 2 October The Organic Food Company Squashes 33 Vigo Presses Grow it, eat it 34 Recipe – Warm salad of mushrooms and roasted squash 35 Autumn Woodfest Sponsored by Stihl Printed by Mortons of Horncastle Ltd Wildlife 36 8 – 9 October Printed on 70gsm Woodfree paper Let nature look after you

Disclaimer Book review 36 Every effort is made to ensure accuracy of The Running Hare by John Lewis-Stempel dates, event information and advertisements. Wild Hares and Hummingbirds by Stephen Moss thelandsman accepts no responsibility for events that might be cancelled and can accept no Country diary 37-38 Great Torrington, Devon. responsibility for the accuracy of any information or claims made by advertisers included in Our country year 39 Tel: 01805 624067 this magazine. The views expressed do not Quince Honey Farm necessarily reflect the views of thelandsman. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part Book tickets online at rhs.org.uk/rosemoor without written permission strictly prohibited. © Copyright 2016. Think Media (UK) Ltd twitter.com/landsmanlife RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262 3

R_Autumn 185x270_Advert.indd 1 24/08/2016 15:02 country news

Wet grassland for farming and wildlife The Avalon Marshes is the part of Somerset’s Levels the designated areas. Although less important for and Moors that lies between the Isle of Wedmore in the conservation these areas are vital to the viability of north and the Polden hills in the south, although the farming. Grassland consultant Charlie Morgan shared name was first coined for the nature reserves created his expertise and experience, particularly focussing on from former peat workings near Glastonbury including soil management and how to maximise productivity at Ham Wall, Shapwick Heath and Westhay Moor. Over the same time as minimising inputs. the last four years it has benefitted from Heritage The second course focussed on the conservation value Lottery funding through the Avalon Marshes Landscape of wet grassland, and in particular fields lying within Partnership scheme. the raised water level areas. Cath Mowat from Natural Much of the focus in the Avalon Marshes has been England shared her expertise on how to conserve on the nature reserves which lie at its heart and on the area’s wet meadows; encouraging wild flowers, its rich archaeological heritage. However, most of the improving conditions for breeding waders and dealing area is characterised by wet grassland which has with problem weeds. been farmed since the area was drained. The loss of Both courses included trips out to look at examples this wet grassland to other forms of agriculture would of current practice, including fields near Mark and on fundamentally change the area’s unique landscape and Tealham and Tadham Moor. The key messages from the wildlife conservation value. courses are now being put together with advice on the So, working with FWAG (the Farming and Wildlife control of specific problem weeds in an edition of “View Advisory Group), two training courses were to help from the Brue” which will be available for farmers and farmers and landowners develop the potential of their landowners in the area. wet grassland. The first course focussed on developing the potential To find out more you can visit www.fwagsw.org.uk of the more commercial areas of grassland outside and avalonmarshes.org 4 country news Good things happen when you go organic! The Soil Association are asking you to go Organic this Organic means higher levels of animal welfare, September, and going organic is easier than you’d lower levels of pesticides, no manufactured herbicides think. Look for the logo this Organic September and or artificial fertilisers and more environmentally you’ll not only be helping to protect our vital wildlife sustainable management of the land and natural and reducing your exposure to potentially harmful environment - this means more wildlife! pesticides and chemicals - you’ll also be helping to support the farmers who work hard to grow our food Visit www.soilassociation.org for more information for generations to come. on events and offers. Major study reveals wild bee decline A recent study, commissioned from the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH) provides even more evidence that harmful neonicotinoid pesticides are devastating wild-bee populations. Exposure to neonicotinoid seed treated oilseed rape crops has been linked to long-term population decline of wild bee species across the English countryside, and new research published today in Nature Communications, reveals the horrifying extent of the negative impact of damaging impact of neonicotinoid pesticides on pollinating these pesticides on wild-bee populations. insects, including bumblebees and honey bees. The paper surveys 62 bee species from the United There are a range of methods which farmers can use Kingdom and links population declines over this 18-year which do not require the use of neonicotinoid pesticides. period to the escalating use of neonicotinoid pesticides. Organic farmers use a system of production which has The results of this extensive new research on the strong benefits for pollinator populations – for example impacts of neonicotinoid pesticides on wild pollinators are a meta-analysis from Oxford University showed on dramatic. It adds to the strong and quickly growing body average, organic farms have 48% more species of of overwhelming scientific evidence which points to the pollinators than non-organic farms. Record turn out for Open Farm Sunday LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) is delighted to and embarks on its new five-year strategy, the focus confirm that for the second year running, more than a on public engagement continues with strengthening quarter of a million people visited a farm for this year’s the reach of Open Farm Sunday, 11th June 2017 Open Farm Sunday. The final visitor analysis released, and beyond. shows that more than half of the 261,000 visitors had On Monday 12th September, LEAF is holding its first never been to an Open Farm Sunday event before and Public Engagement Conference at The Auditorium, one in five had never visited a working farm before. Sainsbury’s, in London, titled How can we make a step The results of the visitor survey indicates that change in public engagement in food and farming? LEAF’s Open Farm Sunday continues to lead the way in engaging the public with farming and the breadth For more information and to book your free place of goods and services it delivers. visit: www.leafuk.org/leaf/home/leaf25/public_ As LEAF celebrates its 25th anniversary this year engagement_conference.eb

5 lye cross farm

A farmer’s view by Nick Green Farming and food production has always been an important part of village life. Ways of doing things may change, and the people doing it might alter but the use of the majority of a rural parish area is still used for food production in one way or another. Consider dairy farming. Old farmers will tell you fifty years ago there were multiple dairy herds in a parish. Now there are very few. That said, more often than not, there are more cows in the same area in 2016 than 1966 but they are needed to feed an ever expanding population with dairy products. Methods of doing things have changed as well. In the 1960’s many villagers would be directly involved with farming and understood what was being done. Those villagers are very much in the minority now. Take dairy farming as an example. There are debates about whether cows should be housed all year, grazed in summer and housed in winter, or grazed outside all year. There are arguments for and against each of these scenarios and unless those joining the discussion understand what each situation entails their argument will often be misplaced. Those with a vested interest in arguing against particular issues are often well organised, vociferous and recognise that the majority of the population don’t realise what is being debated. These factors combined often ensure a farmers well-reasoned and quite acceptable plans for his or her business’ development are quashed or at least sent back to the drawing board. The streamlining of agricultural operations has been helped no end by mechanisation. In years past, even with the advent of tractors, working the land took many ‘passes’ to create a seedbed to sow a crop. Gone are the days of ploughing a handful of acres in a day then taking days of harrowing, dragging and sowing to establish a crop. Now, with high tech tractors and implements many acres of ground can be cultivated and seeds planted in just two ‘passes’ in a single day. A hundred years ago our predecessors would have worked with a team of four horses, walked twelve miles and ploughed just one acre in a day. Now, a tractor driver can have four hundred population estimated to increase from 6bn to 9bn by 2050 horses tucked away under his bonnet and plough over it is unlikely to be achievable. That said, every farmer fifty acres in a day and without walking anywhere. does their best by utilising whatever animal manures are Crops, just have they always have done need nutrients produced on the farm. The only trouble is the neighbours to make them grow. Historically, only nutrients derived complaining about the smell. Which takes us back to the from farm animal manures were used but with the start of this article about the lack of understanding by advent of mineral fertilisers in the mid 20th century a many in rural areas. Everyone wants things produced as boom in levels of production were achieved. There can naturally as possible but aren’t always prepared to put be no argument that this boom helped and does help up with some ‘countryside smells’ a few times a year. As feed the world. However, talk to an organic farmer and farmers, all we are doing is trying to reduce our reliance they will tell you we should be producing everything on manufactured fertiliser and do things naturally like our we already do but from natural sources. In an ideal grandfathers and great grandfathers did. After all, there world that would be great but realistically, with a global is nothing new about recycling on farms! 6 rural issues

After the vote by Stewart Horne The last issue of thelandsman was published just after the EU referendum with its rather unexpected result. I don’t think anyone could have predicted the political fallout which continues for both Labour and UKIP at the time of writing. At least the government managed to sort a new Prime Minister quickly after the post-vote back stabbing! Whichever side of the debate you supported, the world didn’t come to an end in the days that followed the vote subsidies by the South West’s family farms, any change but some of the predicted events are occurring and requires a transition period or many farming businesses some that weren’t are taking place. The pound has fallen and the rural economy will suffer significant damage. against most other currencies which has given exporters More on this as the debate unfolds. a competitive edge but has meant that imported goods Although the UK continues to be a member of the EU are becoming more expensive. The predicted slowdown and continues to send funds to Europe as I write this, the in the economy looks to be happening, leading to the UK government has halted progress on a wide range of Bank of England dropping base rate to an all-time low EU programmes such as Leader, European Development of 0.25%. I struggle to see how this will make a big Fund, European Social Fund and Countryside difference to people looking to borrow to develop their Stewardship projects. I suspect this is about the unknown business or buy a house, given the minimal effect this timescales for the Brexit process and the UK Treasury will have on repayments. The business plan wouldn’t fall not wanting to pick up the costs should contracts go over with this change; I am sure other factors will have beyond the exit date. However, it doesn’t make sense to a greater influence. send money to Europe and not bring as much back as For agriculture, the fall in sterling has had immediate possible whilst we remain a member of the EU. benefits with price increases in most commodities I have heard people say what was the fuss was and a halting of milk price cuts. It will also improve about, things are fine. The problem is that very little the EU subsidy payments if the currency fall continues has changed in the last couple of months; the impact into September. Tourism businesses have also seen will only start to be felt when the UK leaves the EU, an increase in visitors as overseas travel has become develops strategies to replace EU policies and agrees significantly more expensive. Organisations that have its own trade deals. The unknown factor is how long this an interest in the countryside are already trying to will take. Many commentators say it will be two years influence the development of the UK agricultural policy. or so but, although it wasn’t a full member, Greenland In particular, the National Trust and other conservation took three years to negotiate an exit for a population of organisations are arguing for a system of payments 56,000 people and one industry, fishing. I conclude that based on environmental activities rather than a flat it may be 2020 before the UK leaves the EU, meaning a rate land-based payment. Given the dependence on EU long period of uncertainty. Time will tell.

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7 property Lower Bradley Guide Price £675,000

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very limited number of circumstances unless the correct procedure is not followed from the outset. Tenancy agreements With more farmers and land owners looking to find alternative income streams from letting sheds for by Stags Professional Services storage, converting buildings for office accommodation, letting a cottage or off lying bit of land the importance of Like a marriage, landlords and tenants enter into a having a written agreement cannot be over emphasised. relationship with the best of intentions, but things don’t The advantages of a written tenancy agreement are: always go as well as expected and unfortunately, it is not • It will protect the landlord’s position and regulate unusual for problems to arise during the course of the the tenant’s occupation. tenancy. With the prospect of a deteriorating relationship, • All parties know what is expected of them under these problems tend to be compounded if there is no the agreement, particularly with regard to repairs tenancy agreement to which the parties can refer in order and maintenance, rent and term. to remind themselves as to what was agreed at the outset • A good agreement will contain provisions as to how and often agreements are between family members, a dispute is to be resolved should one arise. which can only make the situation worse. • A written agreement can help prove your You can’t prevent a tenancy arising by not giving a circumstances with regard to inheritance tax. written agreement; if someone is in occupation and Stags Professional Services has extensive experience money has changed hands then a tenancy has almost in all landlord and tenant matters affecting rural property, certainly arisen. Whether it is residential, agricultural in particular the preparation of tenancy agreements and or commercial there are varying consequences for dispute resolution should problems arise. not having a written agreement and, in the worst case scenario, with commercial or business tenancies security If you require information on tenancy agreements or any of tenure may have been given, meaning that it may only other professional matter, contact Stags Professional be possible to recover possession of the property in a Services on 01392 439046 or e: [email protected] stags.co.uk

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9 review

When trying new recipes it generally Riverford Veg Box involves purchasing a whole list of Vegetarian – 3 meals for 2 people £33.95 ingredients in fairly I received a Recipe Box from Riverford Organic Farmers large quantities which, you may not use again or, use which provided all the ingredients and recipes for 3 before the sell by date. The Recipe Box provides just the vegetarian meals for 2 people. right quantity for each recipe so there is no wastage and It was very well presented with 4 compartments; all the recipes provide ample helpings for 2 people. the largest contained the vegetables and a cold pack It was good to know that everything provided was for ingredients which needed to be refrigerated such organic and where practical sourced locally, even a as butter and cheeses. This was insulated with fully couple of organic eggs were included which were needed recyclable sheep’s wool. The other 3 compartments in 2 of the recipes. were labelled with the recipe number and contained the Each week a choice of 7 Recipe Boxes is provided smaller components such as vinegars, flours etc. including ones with meat recipes so you can decide in I found the recipes extremely easy to follow and it was advance which one to choose. very time saving to have everything weighed out ready In conclusion, if you like to try out new and exciting to go in tiny containers and bottles. Even herbs were recipes without having to purchase large quantities of provided, the only items you need are store cupboard ingredients I would suggest that you give this a try. They items such as cooking oil and salt and pepper. are particularly suitable for individuals, busy families or The beauty of this scheme is that it encourages the couples where these measured items mean there is no user to try ingredients which may not be familiar and wastage. Healthy, fun and great value for £33.95. explains preparation in quick easy steps, for example, I hear too that on your second order you get a free cook how to deal with globe artichokes. book. I’ve already placed mine!

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10 farmlink What are we putting into the mouths of our children? by FarmLink There was uproar amongst the chattering classes in the middle of August as the Department of Health slipped out a very watered down version of the Childhood Obesity Strategy. What had been hailed as one of the most important pieces of legislation by the previous Prime Minister Mr Cameron had effectively been sidelined by the new incumbent Mrs May. But what’s the issue? Why should it take a Government and legislation to bring the current epidemic of childhood obesity under control? grow up in an era of having freedom to go out on our Why can’t people just eat properly and exercise bikes, play football, play in woods and build dens had enough to work off the calories they have consumed? no problem burning off calories. With the exception of The first answer that nearly always tops the pile is ‘it’s feral children or those lucky enough to live in a situation too expensive to eat healthily’. Poppycock. It’s cheaper where they can go out to play after breakfast and turn to buy fresh food and prepare it yourself than pay for up for dinner and tea obesity still isn’t a huge problem. the privilege of someone else preparing it and half For the majority who are confined to four walls, a small cooking it. So if it’s not price what is it? Laziness, lack of garden and the occasional foray to the swimming pool awareness, lack of time, a lack of understanding what the odds are stacked against them. And this is where calories are being consumed and how much is being the greatest effort is needed. Using the ‘steps needed’ burnt off? Or a combination of any or all of these? calculation, a daily diet of breakfast cereals, ready made There is no argument about availability. There are lasagne for lunch, sandwich for tea, a few treats through so many supermarkets we are all spoilt for choice. the day and a can of coke and the number of steps to Thinking about vegetables, you might be lucky and still work it off is over 11,000. Quite a task if the child is have a local green grocer. Or even more lucky and have confined to the house. space to grow some yourself. This is when it starts The answer to this predicament is simple. Achieving to get interesting. Get a child to sow a seed and you’ll it isn’t. There has to be a wholesale change in how and have trouble stopping them harvesting the crop before what we feed our children combined with a concerted it is ripe! If that enthusiasm can be harnessed with effort to get them to be more active. Getting our purchased goods then the obesity strategy could be self children involved with preparing fresh food at home and effected, with no Government intervention. becoming more active would be a great place to start. So, how do we start? Educating the parents is a good It really doesn’t matter whether food is organic, non- place to start. The calories contained in a burger, fries organic, in season or travels half way around the world and coke is roughly equivalent to 6500 adult steps. This before arriving on their plates. They are refinements is no mean feat to cover this distance so the alternative for the future. What is important now is that they eat is to cut down on the consumption. A difficult call when something better than a ‘ping’ meal smothered in sauce compared to a healthy salad option. Likewise, a bar of laden with preservatives and calories. Will the stick of chocolate and fizzy drink on the run to school or work legislation really be better than the carrot of education? does no one any good so thought needs to be given to The farm based charity FarmLink firmly believes allocating time to a healthier breakfast. carrot is better than stick. School and farm based We can pontificate whether organic or non-organic lessons addressing food, farming and the environment food is best for you. At this stage the variation doesn’t are delivered to over 35,000 primary school pupils each make a great deal of difference. The deal is getting year. It is a programme growing year on year hoping healthier food into the younger generation. in its own way to help children help themselves in the Society has provided no favours in ensuring children challenge of finding a healthier way of living. For further have enough exercise, Those of us lucky enough to details go to the website www.farmlink.org.uk 11 [email protected] 01392 368724 www.offgridsystems.co.uk

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12 green issues What does Brexit mean for sustainability? by Keith Wheaton-Green

David Cameron stated to EU leaders that a feeling that migration is out of control was the primary reason for our referendum result. The South West had a high proportion of leave voters, despite being arguably the least affected region by migration. But even here, there are numerous eastern European voices and Polish food shops. Personally, I like the Poles and they are rightly respected for their matter of fact work “it’s no problem” ethic, but they came over in such numbers within such a short space of time that the UK population swelled by 1.25%. Increases in population and the density of UK conurbations puts increasing pressure on SW house prices and also on planning authorities to accept more development. We value the distinctive rural nature of the SW and do not want to become like the South East. So it is a plus that Brexit has probably put a break on continued rapid population change. consequences led to frustrations and Brexit. Perhaps That is, providing we won’t be swapping young EU migrants we have unblocked the dam. We seem to find ourselves for retired expats returning from Spain no longer entitled to once again tussling with Germany for a Europe-wide free Spanish health care and who may increase pressure understanding of the key principles of good governance on our social and health services. of our continent. They, as the biggest nation, expecting to UK farmers receive 60% of their income from EU dominate, while plucky UK builds alliances on the side. agricultural and environmental subsidies and it is However, in defence of Germany, on my travels around unimaginable that the UK government will not swap Europe to renewable energy conferences and on holiday, those for UK subsidies; but will they be equal? There will I have on numerous occasions found myself the only be uncertainty in the immediate future that is bound to Brit amongst a group of Germans who have always discourage investment in new ventures. Local produce spoken English, even to each other, to keep me in the is more sustainable than imports with their high food conversation. I consider this generous and charming. miles and a reintroduction of tariffs on Spanish and Dutch Some German politicians are now stating that young salad vegetables would improve viability of local veg. British citizens – 75% of whom voted remain – should Consumers might have to pay more but it would definitely be given the right to dual British/German citizenship. benefit our farmers. They say the drawbridge should not be pulled up on Our fisherman will be pleased to take back control the generation that want freedom to live and work of our waters as many have been critical of the EU’s anywhere in Europe. Perhaps they, like us, have a ‘sustainable fisheries policy’ in practice. Keeping out world view strongly influenced by their history. We talk Spanish industrial scale fishing boats can only be to the about how positive inward migration from our former good of our SW fishermen, provided they are overseen by colonies has been to our culture and wealth, knowing legislation to prevent the natural tendency to overfish. that – despite the good things you could say about the This may be controversial, but I have been told that empire – essentially it was about a transfer of resources a Catholic upbringing predisposes people to accept and wealth from around the world into the UK that being told what to do and that this goes some way to still benefits generations that had nothing to do with it. understanding the politics of the EU. Certainly we Brits Perhaps Germans think that several previous attempts to do not like being told what to do and that explains in part dominate the continent of Europe ended badly and that, our antipathy to the EU and the comments of Merkel given the relative size of their country, they now need to and Junker. be inclusive and generous to the rest of Europe if they are EU reliance on central principles and inflexibility to have a pleasant future. Let’s hope this influences their to adapt these quickly to cope with unforeseen thinking in the Brexit negotiations. 13 Organic Feed as Nature Intended

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of organic feeding Meat, milk and eggs from organically reared animals can be guaranteed to be drug and chemical free. by Joanna Palmer of The Organic Feed Company 2. Environmental concerns The strict rules governing organic farming ensures Organic produce is becoming increasingly more that any negative impact on the environment from food accessible with greater consumer choice providing production is greatly reduced. Soil is key to organic a healthy, traceable and sustainable alternative. The farming and its balance can easily be upset by the use Organic Feed Company nutritionist Joanna Palmer BSc of chemicals. Instead of artificial fertilisers, organic crops Hons explains why more people are choosing to grow, are grown using manure from organically fed animals raise and eat organically. and chemical pesticides and herbicides are replaced Going organic isn’t simply about growing and eating with careful crop rotations to control weeds and pests. food that hasn’t been treated with chemicals; it is a In addition, the less intensive farming methods at the ‘whole system’ approach to farming and food production. forefront of organic food production mean that wildlife Understanding the core principles of organic farming is allowed to flourish. is key to appreciating the benefits of this approach to 3. Taste producing food and rearing animals organically. Speak to any organic farmer and they’ll say their meat Organic farming… and produce tastes better than that grown conventionally. • aims to produce food of the highest quality with As no artificial growth promoters are used, animals grow minimal processing; at a slower rate, which is believed to make their meat • does not use Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), richer in flavour. When it comes to organically fed poultry, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, growth promoters layers feeds high in natural yolk colourants produce eggs or synthetic colourants and preservatives; with a golden yolk which are thought to be richer in taste • works with natural systems and cycles through than those from hens fed on diets that contain artificial As used by all levels, from the soil, to plants and animals; yolk colourants. • protects the soil by encouraging sustainable crop 4. Animal Welfare rotation and cultivation techniques as well as the The welfare of animals is a major consideration use of recycled nutrients in the form of composted to people when making dietary choices. Consumer manure and vegetable waste; awareness of mass production techniques driven by • ensures livestock reared organically enjoy the the media has led many to choose organic as the higher highest welfare standards; welfare option. All organically-reared animals must: • encourages biodiversity and protects sensitive • Be able to free range (when weather and ground habitats as well as encouraging recycling and conditions are not harmful to health) Pesticide FREE GM FREE Chemical FREE minimising pollution and waste by maximising • Have plenty of space (i.e. lower stocking densities) - the use of renewable resources; helping to reduce stress and disease The Organic Feed Company provides organic, high quality feeds for a variety of animals • promotes ecologically responsible production, • Be fed a diet that is as natural as possible and free including poultry, goats, sheep, pigs and cattle. processing and distribution chains, helping to support from genetically modified ingredients the local economy and reduce the need for excessive • Not be routinely treated with drugs or vaccines Whether you are converting your smallholding to organic or want tasty organic eggs from your transportation of raw materials and produce. • Never be given hormones which increase growth back garden hens, then The Organic Feed Company has a product to meet your needs. The stringent practices and certification of organic or productivity food also applies to organic animal feed, meaning that • Not be produced from cloned animals farmers are able to rear livestock and produce food that The Organic Feed Company formed a partnership with is chemical free. Dorset-based River Cottage in 2004 to supply its natural So why go organic? and fully organic feeds to animals on the farm. This 1. Personal Health association embraces a 100% natural organic philosophy Many people are concerned about the rising level of which, along with full Soil Association approval ensures Contact our friendly nutrition team today chemicals they are exposed to and believe that the use full traceability of the highest quality produce. for more information on 01362 822 903 of some chemicals in food production can be harmful or visit www.organicfeed.co.uk to health. Organic animal feed uses ingredients that Find out more about feeding your animals organically are grown without the use of chemicals and cannot by visiting www.organicfeed.co.uk or call the friendly contain any medication or artificial growth promoters. nutritional helpline on 01362 822 903 15 livestock

Pregnancy diagnosis in sheep, pigs and cattle by Gillian Dixon

Knowing whether your animals are pregnant and how fault with her or the ram. If several ewes are revisited, it many offspring they are carrying can assist greatly indicates the ram is sub-fertile and needs swapping out in the choice of ongoing care you give them. Careful quickly to avoid disappointment come lambing time. observation around and following service will often give Even with a small flock, it is worth scanning your ewes, you a rough indication of whether your sow, ewe or cow so you know who is expecting singles, twins, triplets or took to her mating, so you are likely to have a good idea in even more, and can split and feed the flock accordingly. advance. However, even on a small scale, to confirm your The timing of scanning is fairly critical: too early and the suspicions it can be cost effective to employ a scanning growing foetus will not be visible on the screen giving technician or your vet to ‘PD’ (Pregnancy Diagnose) your false negatives; too late and your scanning technician will livestock. The method used varies slightly with each only be able to tell you whether she is or isn’t in lamb, but species as discussed below. not how many as they will be difficult to differentiate on Sheep: a ewe will only allow the ram to mount her the screen. when she is in season, approximately once for a few Ideally, the ram will have been taken out at least three hours every 17 days. At tupping time, it is possible to use weeks prior to your scanning visit. We contact our scanner a raddle harness strapped to the ram with a coloured as the rams are put in and he likes to come 70-90 days crayon attached such that he leaves a mark on the rump from that date. On scanning day, we gather the ewes and of the ewe each time he mounts her. After 17 days, the pen them ready for his visit. Your scanner will most likely colour is changed by the shepherd to see if the ram arrive with a purpose-made trailer that he will wheel into returns to ewes he has already marked. If he does not, position adjoining your pen. Your job is to keep the sheep one can assume they are in-lamb already; if he does, loading onto the scanning platform up a ramp so he is then she did not conceive the first time – this may be a not left waiting. The technician will sit obscured from the 16 ewe’s view and as each comes into position, he will hold an ultrasound probe with a little lubricant against the groin area of the ewe and can view how many lambs she is carrying on a monitor screen in front of him. It is very quick and can be done in a couple of seconds. Ewes are then marked with a colour spot according to how many lambs they are carrying and let off the ramp while the next one loads. If raddle marked at tupping, you should also have an idea in which 17 day period she is due to lamb. Your scanner can often indicate by the size of the lamb on the screen whether she will be early or late in the lambing period. The cost is reasonable considering travel to and from your property, set up and scanning time, and undertaken in much the same way as for sheep, except is likely to be in the order of £60 for up to 100 ewes. Our that the ultrasound equipment is usually hand-held and scanner, Devon-based Colin Ottery, is worth employing the sow scanned while having a calming feed in her just for his educational and entertainment value, let alone pen rather than encouraging her through some form of his scanning services! handling system. An external hand-held probe, attached Ewes scanned as ‘empties’ can be given another chance to a monitor by a long tube, is pressed pointing upwards if they are first timers, or perhaps sent down the road if in front of the pig’s hind legs towards her uterus, again they are repeat offenders. Either way, they do not need with a little lubricant to aid contact. Pigs can carry the extra feed destined for pregnant ewes and can be anywhere up to 20 piglets along two uterine horns, so sent out to over-winter on grass and hay alone. Six weeks it is not normally possible to tell exactly how many she prior to lambing, ewes carrying multiple lambs can be has as they cannot all be viewed on the screen at once separated off for extra rations. If ewes expecting singles (and she is not likely to stand still for long enough) so are overfed, you are likely to have difficult lambings with scanning is used more to confirm whether she is or isn’t overfat ewes struggling to pass large lambs; conversely, in-pig. Farrowing should take place within 24 hours of her if multiple carrying ewes are underfed, your flock may service due date (three months, three weeks and three suffer from nutritional deficiencies such as twin lamb days after service). disease, so getting it right and acting on scanning results Cattle: again, observation of bulling signs (as discussed is important. One final benefit of scanning and knowing in the May/June issue) or lack thereof should give you what you are expecting is at midnight when a ewe has just an indication of whether your cow is successfully in-calf. popped out a lamb; if you know she is scanned for a single Ultrasound PD of cattle differs a little from sheep and you can confidently go back to bed – or prepare to adopt pigs in that the probe is used internally. With the cow on an orphan or triplet from another ewe. restrained in a head lock or cattle crush for her safety Pigs: pregnancy scanning sows and gilts is usually and that of the scanner, a gloved arm holding the probe only undertaken on more commercial units, but certainly is inserted an arms-length into the cow’s rectum. The has its benefits to the smallholder as well. Observation probe is pointed through the rectal wall towards the of the sow’s behaviour 17-24 days after service should neighbouring uterus and the image viewed on an external let you know whether she has conceived or come screen or goggles worn by the vet or scanning technician. ‘hogging’ again. If you are not confident, then scanning is The majority of bovine pregnancies are single calves, but occasionally twins are observed or malformations which allows the vet or owner to take further precautions. Following scanning, a cup of tea and water to wash down equipment never goes amiss. To find your nearest scanning technician, speak to your vet, neighbouring farmers or take to social media to ask for recommendations. A search on YouTube will bring up some video clips of scanning so you know what to expect before your visit.

Gillian farms with her husband Ian in West Devon and they run Introductory Livestock Keeping courses for smallholders. See www.southyeofarm.co.uk, email [email protected] or tweet @southyeoeast for further information. 17 STOP it Naturally with

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18 veterinary practise

from the liver to the bile ducts and not all wormers will treat all stages – it is important to talk to your vet before The liver fluke purchasing a wormer to treat fluke in order to make sure you have the right one for the job! by Ben Barber, Synergy Farm Health Before the animal consumes the fluke while grazing pasture, the parasite needs to develop within the mud Parasites! They are a constant annoyance to our animals snail, a creature commonly found in wet boggy areas and require managing all year round. As autumn draws that are prone to flooding. Bearing this in mind, a useful near our attention shifts from the gut worms and flies preventative measure can be to cordon of such areas that plagued us during the summer to the liver fluke that found on your land with the aim of restricting your appear in the colder month – a parasite that can affect livestock from both the mud snail and its unwelcome many animals including cattle, sheep and camelids. guest, the fluke. The symptoms of a liver fluke infestation can vary A diagnosis of fluke in the early stages can be difficult massively. If large numbers of fluke are ingested over a at times as many of our tests will only look at mature short period of time, a rapid severe form of the disease adult fluke and will miss immature fluke that can cause can be seen caused by damage to the liver, which can severe disease. If you suspect fluke as a cause of death potentially lead to death of the animal. Alternatively a slow in your animals, a post mortem is the easiest way to get chronic form of the disease can occur where fluke that a diagnosis. When making a decision on using wormer are ingested mature and travel to the bile ducts. This will for prevention of fluke, apart from speaking with your present itself as animals losing condition and sometimes vet it can also be useful checking ‘The NADIS Forecast’, scouring, normally later on during the winter months. an internet service which provides the likelihood of fluke Treatment is often easily achieved by administering being a problem in your area based on the current climate; a wormer specifically designed to combat flukes. The see www.nadis.org.uk/parasite-forecast wormer used must also combat the correct stage of If you have any questions then please contact your vet fluke. Fluke will be at different stages as they progress for further advice. The Red Ruby Devon - part of farming’s future Profit from Grass

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20 poultry Could you re-home some chickens? by British Hen Welfare Trust

Chicken keeping needn’t be arduous, time-consuming or expensive – instead these birds are hugely entertaining and rewarding in more ways than one. Ex-commercial hens in particular, which are the birds re-homed by the British Hen Welfare Trust, are the ideal starter hen for novice keepers. First things first, the chickens will need their own coop. This can be a purpose-built house or a converted shed, outbuilding or even a child’s Wendy house. However the coop must contain nest box facilities, perching provision and a pop-hole as essentials. Both wooden and plastic coop houses make perfect homes, though the latter is easier to clean, particularly when it comes to red mite. The Eglu Cube Chicken Coop is a plastic house deigned to house up to 10 birds. It is easy to clean and has a slide-out droppings tray for an easy daily poo pick. When it comes to the area surrounding the coop, keepers can either attach a run or keep the chickens in quality, nutritious complete feed for your flock and the a larger enclosure with either fencing or an aviary style short pellets are readily accepted by all birds whatever boundary. Generally speaking, the more there is for them their background. As a guide, the average adult hen will to see and do, the happier they will be. A storm shelter need 100-120g of feed per day which can be rationed or or covered area should be provided; the birds will thank administered via a feeder large enough to hold feed over you for this on a wet and windy day and it can also be several days. used for feeding outside in wet weather and double up One thing to be aware of as a new keeper is that it is as a sunshade and/or as dust bath for the birds when illegal to feed your birds kitchen scraps unless they are the sun pops out. from a vegan household. In any case, chickens thrive on Minimal cleaning out is required on a daily basis – just a well-balanced diet and should therefore only be given don some rubber gloves and remove droppings and any a range of nutritional treats specifically designed for wet patches. A more thorough clean can be carried out them; this will help to maintain good egg production too. once every two weeks, or every week if you’re really There are a number of health supplements which keen. The clean should include sweeping out bedding, keepers can give their chickens if they feel it necessary. using a paint scraper to remove debris, and putting down Chicken Vet have developed a number of these products, a fresh layer of bedding. Dengie Fresh Bed is an ideal including their Multivits which provide a boost during the bedding for chickens and consists of chopped straw with colder winter months and are also ideal for use when added pine oil, which will make your coop smell lovely first re-homing ex-commercial chickens. It can help them too. It was developed in association with the British Hen cope with the change in their environment and also aids Welfare Trust and the chopped, dust extracted straw new feather growth which puts demands on their bodies. bedding is ideal for ex-commercial hens, or ex-bats as Other than that, chickens really do look after themselves they are affectionately known, in particular. – yes it takes a certain amount of commitment, but the Ex-commercial hens will have been fed on a layers rewards far outweigh any inconvenience. Ask anyone mash, so will not recognise pellets as food when they who has eaten a slice of feather-light Victoria sponge, first arrive home. They should therefore be fed on a or enjoyed a simple omelette made with fresh-from-the- Layers Crumble, such as the Smallholder Range which garden eggs; even poached egg on toast becomes sublime is available in either a 5kg or 20kg bag. Other chickens when made with eggs from your own flock! though can be fed with Layers Pellets straight away – also available in the Smallholder Range. It is a high For more information visit www.bhwt.org.uk 21 HALSEof HONITON 01404 42121 West End, Honiton, Devon EX14 1JZ www.halse.co.uk email [email protected] SALES • SERVICE • SPARES The Machinery Specialists Independent Specialists Sawing logs made easy – and safe!

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New equipment by Ian Dixon As I wandered through the lanes of the Devon County Show looking for interesting innovations to write about, or dare I say revolutionary or even just useful, there were two notable items which deserved a second look. The first was an electric quad. Now I know what you’re thinking, I have lost my marbles and that anything without a diesel engine can’t be taken seriously; well, wrong on both counts. The thing that drew me to the quad initially is pure canine madness. Every time we start a single cylinder engine on the farm, such as chainsaw, strimmer, lawnmower or the quad, our dogs go berserk! We had a builder recently who used an electric cement mixer and the ubiquitous lining up for barkarge and wheel gnashing (the precursor to starting our petrol one) disappeared. This made me think that I like the idea of electric vehicles; they have been an electric quad could be interesting, so I looked into it a around for well over 100 years now and battery little more. technology has improved immensely, but you do need The Ecocharger quad is designed and built in the to forward plan a bit more and remember to put it in UK. There are, as far as I can see, three models: a two charge. But I guess that only takes practice and, much as wheel drive, a two/four wheel drive switchable, and a six we all now remember to put out our recycling box every wheeled half quad-half trailer version. week, we’ll remember to plug in the quad. More details The upside of this is that they are quiet and super from Ecocharger. economical to run given the cost of electricity used per The second item of interest is made by Ritchie. It is mile over petrol. Range is acceptable for the average a weight transfer frame which fits on the three point day’s work too. However, they are more expensive to linkage of a tractor and uses one of the tractor spool buy in the first place, possibly about 30% more, but if valves to add the weight of the tractor to the implement you take into account the cost of operation and servicing mounted on the linkage. This may sound a bit barmy but costs over a petrol powered one, it all starts to make read on… sense. Custom versions can be built to order too, try Say you have a slot aerator, to which you need to doing that with well-known Japanese makes! If you use add weight in order for the implement to penetrate the electricity from a renewable source to power it, it is ground effectively. You may end up with a couple of greener too. This is a great product and I’m sure we will tonnes on board to make it work properly, so now you be seeing more of them in the future. need a larger tractor to lift the implement and its ballast. With a weight transfer system you can transfer the weight of the tractor onto the implement without having to carry all the extra weight. You will obviously need four wheel drive in this instance as by the very nature of the beast it takes the weight off the rear wheels so the front axle will be doing a fair bit of work. However, by using a smaller tractor and less implement weight there will be less overall weight and less compaction of your soils, particularly on headlands. Now, no farmer buys a tractor to do just one job, so it would be foolish to say that this device saves you money on machinery costs, but it may just mean that the 125hp tractor stays in the shed and the 60hp one comes out to play using less fuel. The Mid Devon company, CJ Saunders at Whiddon Down, have this unit available with a slot aerator for hire at just £60 per day and it is well worth a look for other ground implements such as mole ploughs etc. The retail price for the weight transfer frame system is £1490. 23

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Few would argue that spreading farmyard manure (FYM) can do anything but good in most situations. As to what might be the best sort, John Reid, writing in 1600, had it that “Horse manure is for stiff and cold ground; sheeps for hot and dry;…pigeons and poultrie-manure for cold and moist; rotten saw dust for dry…” In the days of John Reid (and for many years since), it was For all, way back in 1600, John Reid further suggested traditional to use the time after harvest and into the winter that the following might improve less-than-perfect land to spread the dung removed from the cow byres and stables “ashes for cold, stiff and moist; old woolen rags for poor in the spring of previous years. Undoubtedly convenient and dry; lyme is most excellent for moorish and heathy in terms of time and being able to get onto the land, some land; hair of beasts for dry and stiff ground…rubbish of might say that the all-important microscopic beasties and buildings for stiff cold grounds; salt for cold and moist bugs necessary to take the FYM’s goodness into the soil but use it moderately, for it destroys vegetables on dry don’t work as actively or efficiently during the winter. ground, especially at first, but when melte by winter rains, Many people put off spreading manure or compost it fertilizeth.” until November hardens the ground. Spread over frost, Reid’s advice was undoubtedly correct as all the however, the manure simply traps it on the surface in a components of the (sometimes bizarre-sounding) sort of sandwich and nothing can ‘work’ your precious top ‘ingredients’ he suggests contain the basic elements of dressing as the invertebrates are all deep underneath in what one might expect to find in a modern day bag of the soil – so it just lies there until late spring when it is general purpose artificial fertilizer; notably, nitrogen, dug or ploughed in having had little chance to realise its phosphate and potash. There is, though, no point in full potential. adopting a random “chuck it on – it’s bound to be doing In the garden, get your boots muddy, but get the some good” approach. No matter whether the intended manure (and compost) out on the land before the frost; improvements to one’s soil are to be made organically or that way it will help keep the land warm and the bugs artificially, on farms and smallholdings it will pay to bring and beasties can break it down and take it into the top in the expertise of an agronomist, whilst in the garden, the soil. By February/March what remains can be worked in, purchase of a soil testing kit will ensure that you replace leaving a bed perfect for planting. As a farmer, whilst a only those nutrients that are actually lacking. good covering of FYM will add nutrients and structure to But, to finish where we started, spreading well-rotted the soil once it has been ploughed in, if you are claiming FYM by hand on small plots is not only good for the soil, any sort of government grant (particularly with regard to it’s good for the soul – and after several backbreaking set-aside land), it is as well to check what fertilizers can hours, one can retire indoors for a Radox-infused bath or cannot be used. with the feeling of a job well done!

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Bowhayes Trees by Stephen Davy-Osborne Five months pregnant with their third child, Fiona and Howard Hughes upped sticks and said farewell to the rat race as they embarked on a new business venture to bring the family closer to its natural roots.

Since taking over Bowhayes Trees at Venn Ottery in the wanted to do something that was a bit more worthwhile lush rolling countryside of East Devon at the beginning and hands-on that made us feel we were engaging again of 2014 the family has not looked back. Instead they are with the outside world. We both love the environment enjoying a real growth to the business as they expand to and really wanted to do something that sparked our offer more lines, while their two eldest children, Madeleine interest again rather than just being a job – something and Sebastian are settling in well at the village school. that we wanted to be more involved in.” The couple come from a background of business Cautiously they began researching options and came management along with sales and marketing, being across the tree farm, which had been established in the employed by large corporate firms right around the early 1990s by a former member of staff from Bicton, world. They even spent some time working in Australia. who had passed it on to a former student. The farm But the lure of a simpler life, connected with nature, was started as a specialist nursery propagating fast-growing just too strong and they began planning their escape hybrid willow and poplar and has grown from there. from the corporate world. The willow and poplar is mainly used for screening, “Howard was up working in London and just spending coppicing, windbreaks and land regeneration in farms, far too long – far too many hours commuting - away smallholdings and other country businesses. It also from the family and we just got to the point where we boasts ten acres of cider apples. wanted to do something different. It’s a typical cliché – “We decided it was absolutely right, a perfect fit for our but to redress the work-life balance,” said Fiona. “We family and our skill set,” said Fiona. “It was a good, well 26 established business and we were very fortunate that the team of guys who worked for the previous owners were happy to stay on. They have been an absolute lifeline for us to get us up and running and established and have been really good at sharing their years of knowledge and helping in that transition period. They’re still with us and are now part of the extended family. “We had been a little bit daunted, but we had talked about it for many years and it wasn’t something that we came to overnight, we had considered it all very carefully. There was a lot of work we put into reviewing the business and putting together business plans to make sure it was sustainable. It was daunting in that respect, With the rise in foraging interest and the desire to but also exciting. Howard enjoyed refreshing his rusty be more self-sufficient, they have found more people skills of tractor driving, picked up many years ago, and are expressing an interest in growing their own fuel or other aspects of farm management. I was pregnant with being able to have a small orchard of trees from which my third child, Imogen, when we took over the business to harvest their own food. The family has also embraced and moved into the property, so ironically I went back to the brave new world of online by completely upgrading work when I was about five months pregnant - when most the website they inherited to offer a broader product people are giving up and going on maternity leave. range, including a fantastic range of our country’s best “I think a lot of our friends and family thought we were loved trees and hedging as well as planting sundries slightly mad but at the same time slightly envious of our and a one-stop-shop of information and advice for those move to the country life. But now they see how happy we considering which species would best suit them. are and that we are making a go of it. Neither of us have To celebrate the relaunch of their website they are looked back since we have been here – we really love it. offering a promotion of 15% off any orders placed before It has definitely been the right thing for us as a family.” the end of October as they prepare for the bare root Having spent the first couple of years learning the season from November through to April. ropes and getting to know the business the family has Despite the new website, the team are still on hand, now begun looking at ways of developing the business. and welcome, the chance to discuss requirements and Still sticking with their core products of willow and ideas with would-be buyers over the phone so the family poplar they found more and more of their customers can offer some tailored advice. Howard even offers a were coming to them looking for other species such as local delivery service where possible, which allows him hawthorn, blackthorn and dog rose for hedging as well to get out and about and see what is working best for his as fruit trees and ornamentals. These especially have customers and offer them further advice. proven popular with smallholders that have come to the “Being here in Devon has been absolute bliss,” said family for advice. Fiona. “People would come and stay with us during that “Although we will still believe strongly in our core first year that we were down here and would say how products of willow and poplar - we have understood that relaxed we seemed – particularly Howard. He had been some of our customers are also looking for other things working ridiculous hours and everyone would say how too,” said Fiona. “We have been looking at ways that we much more healthy he looked just to be outside all day. can offer that too.” He laughs that his office is now sitting in a tractor instead of in a grey building amongst hundreds of other people and there is something very special about that. The children adore having all of this wonderful countryside around us. “Devon is just stunning and the amount of things it can offer us as a family – all that outside space to run free and explore around the orchard is just so special. And having the beaches on our doorstep is wonderful - obviously when you finish work you can pop off down there and have some fish and chips, it really is very lovely - we’re very lucky.”

For more information call 01404 812229, email [email protected] or visit www.bowhayestrees.co.uk. 27 WORTH ONE OF 6 UNWINS VIBRANT £25.00! WIN LILIES FLOWER BOUQUETS

Wow! Unwins Seeds has launched a NEW flower order delivery service, with stunning bouquets for every occasion. The Unwins Vibrant Lilies Bouquet is an exceptional bouquet that gives colour like no other with its bright and vivid array of petals. Coloured in shades of the rainbow, this lily bouquet is the ideal present for those who like to add a splash of colour to their home.

This hand-arranged bouquet is just one of the many bouquets that are available on the Unwins Seeds website www.unwins.co.uk. Seasonal bouquets will be available year round. All bouquets are dispatched by first class post on the day you order them (orders placed before 2pm).

To be in with a chance of winning the Unwins Vibrant Lilies Bouquet (pictured), simply email your contact details to [email protected] with your answer to this question: What free gift do many of the Unwins Flower Bouquets come with? For a clue, visit www.unwins.co.uk/flowerdelivery a) Flower food to extend the life of the flowers b) Packet of flower seeds that can be planted to remind a loved one of your gift. c) A gift message for the recipient d) All of the above

One entry per household. Closing date is 17 October 2016. Please include in your entry if you do not want Unwins to use your personal data to contact you by electronic means (e-mail or SMS) with info about products or services.

1 OF 3 FANTASTIC BULB SELECTIONS FROM WIN AVON BULBS WORTH £50

Avon Bulbs is a small reputable family owned company based in Somerset offering a good range of the more spectacular but garden worthy flower bulbs in the biggest sizes available. We have an enviable reputation on the show circuit. We won a Gold Medal at the 2016 RHS Chelsea Flower Show and have won Gold Medals at every Chelsea Flower Show over the past 24 years We have also won Gold Medals at RHS February Show, Malvern, Birmingham and Hampton Court. We know that the lucky prize winners will be delighted with the selection we have chosen but if you are not one of them please take a look at our website to see what we have to offer. To be in with a chance to winning a selection of our fantastic bulbs, simply email your contact details to [email protected] with your answer to this question Q: How many Gold medals have Avon Bulbs won at the Chelsea Flower Show? A: a) 20 b) 29 c) 35

Visit us at www.avonbulbs.co.uk or call us on 01460 242 177

One entry per household. Closing date is 17 October 2016. Please include in your entry if you do not want Avon Bulbs to use your personal data to contact you by electronic means (e-mail or SMS) with info about products or services.

28 Diversification Vigo Presses Nearly ten years ago Paul Courtney set out on a journey; little did he know that in years to come that journey would turn full circle. In 2006, and with a desire to try his hand at making apple juice, Paul purchased a small apple press and crusher from Vigo Presses in Dunkeswell, deep in the Blackdown Hills. His parents had recently purchased 10 acres of the old Whiteways orchards next to their family home in Whimple, Devon, and were selling the fruit in bulk to a large cider maker in Shepton Mallet. It Mavis and Amanda had between them 25 years of was hard work picking up nearly 20 tons of apples by knowledge of the sector, and along with Jan, who runs hand and the frustration at seeing little return on their the warehouse, they remain vital members of the team. hard work was leaving a bitter taste. It set the family Paul’s experience in his logistics role brought thinking that they could perhaps cut out the middle man; operational experience to Vigo Presses and the business they could grow, harvest and make something tastier thrives on selling equipment and providing support and themselves to sell at the local farmers markets. guidance to potential cider and juice makers setting It became clear quite quickly that if the family wanted out on their journey of cider making. “We understand the operation to be commercially viable they would need the challenges people face when first setting out so we to invest funds in more equipment. With the help of the have expanded the range of products at Vigo Presses to team at Vigo, who provided guidance and support to support most people needs; including additional services ensure that the Courtneys’ were investing in the right and literature to get people on the ‘orchard’ ladder.” equipment, the family were able to up-scale and launch Paul says “There is nothing like sharing one’s own ‘Courtneys of Whimple - Cider Apple Products’. With the experience to help others to make the most of their fruit. production facility now fully operational they expanded It’s becoming increasingly more important that we save their product range to include cider and chutneys, and manage our orchards creating a biodiverse habitat, making the most of the produce they were growing. we can only do this by engaging like-minded people The business supplemented his income and, until 2015, to manage healthy orchards for the whole community Paul was still employed full time in a logistics role, with to enjoy whilst creating some tasty and wholesome all his available spare time ploughed back in to the family products with minimal food miles. Many people have business. Without enough hours in the day it was becoming access to a fruit tree or local orchard from which they increasing difficult to grow the business and hold down a can try their hand at making delicious products. full time job, so Paul started to consider his options. It’s equally important to engage children at a young It was in September 2015 that Paul and his wife age through enrichment, encouraging them to question Linda decided to take a leap of faith and made a bid to where their foods came from.” purchase Vigo Presses, the company that had supported The Courtney family make around 6,000 litres of them back in those very early days. As they say, the their award winning ‘Silly Cow Cider’ along with apple most valuable asset to any business is its people and juices every year, all from their own orchards, which fortunately three members of the team stayed at the are traditionally managed to encourage a plethora of business after the transfer of ownership. wildlife. It’s still very much a family affair, with four generations, from Great Pa down to Paul’s daughters Annabel and Jessica, all playing an important role in keeping the business a success. Vigo Presses not only offer a broad range of equipment to process your fruit and manage your orchards but are also happy to help with technical questions and assistance to set up and fund School and Community Orchard and Juicing projects.

For further information, Paul and the team can be contacted on 01404 890093 or by email [email protected] 29 Spring Flowering Bulbs: hornhayes ursery CELEBRATINGT 25 YEARS GROWING n IN DEVON Plant yours today! Buy direct from the nursery Monday to Saturday. Visit us for our arboretum, fruit, ornamental and hedging demonstration areas and our expert advice Full range of ornamental, fruit and hedging trees, plus select range of shrubs Consultancy from Kevin on all aspects of planting and land management Buy online or by phone, friendly advice always given T. 01884 266746 | thornhayes-nursery.co.uk Nearly all the plants we sell are propagated & grown by us. Dulford | Cullompton | Devon | EX15 2DF Our staff are happy to offer advice & there is a café at each garden centre serving delicious food & drinks.

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30 gardening Bring interest to your garden by Colin Knapman One of the best ways to add interest to your garden and bring changes throughout the year is by adding pots, containers and hanging baskets. There is a huge choice of these available nowadays from garden centres and online websites. Apart from the traditional terracotta pots, there are various glazed coloured finishes and plenty of realistic looking plastic and fibre glass lightweight containers. Most terracotta pots are frost resistant so they can be used all year round but it’s worth checking when you buy. With a bit of imagination you can visit the auction rooms or reclamation centres to pick up all sorts of unusual objects suitable for planting in. The more popular items are old chimneys, wooden wheelbarrows, cast iron baths, butler sinks and galvanised feeding troughs, but there is no restriction as to what can be used as long as it can contain sufficient soil for the plant to thrive and there is good drainage. Large containers can be planted up with small ornamental trees, formal topiary shrubs or even an obelisk with a climbing plant; these look stunning when used in pairs either side of a doorway or framing a view. They are obviously permanent features but if you want more flexible seasonal interest then use smaller pots or hanging baskets. These can be moved around the garden when in flower and carried back to the preparation area for overwintering or replanting for the next season. Other advantages of using containers are that you can manage the soil pH levels to suit the plants and the tender plants you love can be moved to the greenhouse Containers and pots can be used particularly where during the cold weather. planting in the ground is not possible but where you still Bright coloured containers create focal points and want some colour to brighten up an area; for example, the choice of flowers can be coordinated to match the at the base of trees where the roots have taken over container, or paint terracotta pots to match the garden and there is no space left for extra planting, or to add shed, fence or other woodwork. interest to a large patio. Placing them alongside a path Spring bulbs and summer annuals are the natural choice or driveway always look impressive and inviting, while for containers as these plants look so untidy once they have groups near the kitchen door planted with a selection of flowered and need to be moved out of sight. Succession herbs and edible flowers are very convenient. Window planting can then take you throughout most of the year boxes are not seen so much nowadays but are ideal using the same pots but changing the soil completely. if you have limited space or want to obscure a view; Hanging baskets need the same treatment as any this also applies to hanging baskets which can frame a other container; you can cram lots of plants into the window and look good from the inside. small space as long as they are in good soil but don’t Pots and containers are very versatile so try a few out forget to feed and water regularly. Simple irrigation and see the difference they can make; start this autumn systems can be set up to save time and even linked to a by planting some with plenty of spring bulbs. timer. Seep hoses, laid around each plant, are another alternative for larger containers and raised beds as they Colin Knapman BSc (Hons) of CK Garden Design – give a regular trickle of water. 01425 655038 www.ckgardendesign.co.uk 31 “Have a taste of the good life” Ferrymans wide range of products and accessories give you the choice and flexibility that you want.

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32 gardening

Squashes by Peter Earl, Fruit and Vegetable Garden team leader, RHS Garden Rosemoor We are all familiar with the big orange pumpkins that abound at Halloween, but not so recognisable are the squashes, close relatives of the pumpkins, which are a huge range of more than 100 different varieties. All shapes, sizes and colours and most are exceptionally tasty and nutritious compared to the stringy, watery flesh that is hollowed out for the Jack O’ Lanterns. Squash fall into two main groups. Summer squash grow on compact bush plants and are eaten when the fruit is immature with soft skins, such as Patty Pan or Custard Squash. Winter squash is a much more varied and interesting group, generally growing on vigorous vines and with hard skins. They need some good autumn sun to ripen fully. If you want to try growing pumpkins or squashes, then sow the seed individually into small pots, inside, from mid-April, then plant outside into rich fertile soil after the last frost (end of May), spacing plants about one metre apart. Look after the young plants until established, then they should look after themselves and will thrive, given plenty of sunshine and moisture. Some of my favourites are: Crown Prince, with distinctive blue/grey skin and orange flesh, which keeps very well and is very tasty. Turks Turban, although not one of the best eaters, it is worth growing for its amazing appearance, which is as its name suggests. ©RHS/Peter Earl ©RHS/Peter Little Gem, a small dark green, tennis ball sized squash ideal to scramble over a fence or frame and delicious boiled whole and eaten with butter. If you want some fun, try personalising your pumpkins Buttercup, another fine, nutty flavoured dark green by putting your name or a face on it! With a sharp point, squash with orange flesh, ideal for roasting. just scratch your design carefully onto the immature Butternut is probably the most well-known squash pumpkin. The fruit will callous and heal the scratch and can be found in most supermarkets – look out for marks as it grows and will leave your design indelibly the variety Barbara. marked on the ripe pumpkin.

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33 gardening

by Will Livingstone Grow it, eat it River Cottage

“How do you stop slugs?” is undoubtedly the most Clubroot – affecting the cabbage family, clubroot wilts frequently asked question. leaves and distorts root growth. Prevent it from entering It is true of course that slugs and snails are one of the your garden by using sterile compost and clean trays most destructive pests, but there is a seemingly endless and pots. Burn infested plants and crop rotate. list of pests and diseases that can thwart your quest for Mammals – rabbits are one of the most devastating produce perfection. Here is a small selection of the most of all garden pests, particularly affecting rural areas. common pests and diseases and my preventions. Rabbit fencing is essential to prevent clear felling of Aphids – avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilizer, as it your young seedlings; dig fencing down at least 12 can encourage soft fleshy growth which is susceptible inches to prevent burrowing or simply lay the netting to pest attack. Try to encourage natural predators by on the ground and pin it down. The netting should be at growing plants that will attract them; leaving a wilder least three feet above the soil surface. Gun control can area of your garden can even encourage ladybirds and be effective and end in delicious results. lacewings. Inspect plants regularly, rub off infestations Nutrient deficiency – magnesium and calcium deficiency and wash plants in a soft soap and water solution. A are the most common, usually seen as yellowing leaves strong jet of water can also dislodge them. and stunted growth. Adding a variety of composted Blight – look out for brown spots appearing at the base plant material to your heap will enable a wider variety of of potatoes and tomatoes in mid- summer. Blight usually nutrients to be put back into the soil. Using seaweed and occurs in damp, warm weather so good ventilation comfrey feed can add essential trace elements. and ample spacing can help. Avoid growing tomatoes Slugs and snails – healthy plants are more likely to and potatoes in close proximity because it can easily recover from pest damage, so be aware of the health jump from one to another and be sure to burn infected of your plants and always protect the most vulnerable. material. Sometimes potato tubers can be saved if you Keeping the garden tidy can dramatically reduce habitat remove infected foliage immediately, and removing the for slugs and snails. It’s advisable to pick up piles of lower leaves of tomato plants can prevent spread. weeds and keep edges tidy. In my experience, physical Caterpillars – removing egg clusters from the barriers usually aren’t that effective but beer traps can underside of leaves before they hatch is the most work. When you dig over a bed make sure you knock efficient way of preventing infestation. Companion out the clods and rake over to prevent slugs from planting with Nasturtium and Calendula can lure the crawling in and laying eggs. If all else fails you can use butterflies away from your crops. Fleecing and netting organically approved slug pellets sparingly. can prevent butterflies from landing but just be aware that this can create more work. Follow Will on Instagram @willgrow 34 gardening

Warm salad of mushrooms and roasted squash

This substantial salad is something of a River Cottage classic and a great way to bring together two of autumn’s finest ingredients, mushrooms and squash. Blue cheese is quite delicious here but you could use other cheeses – shavings of Parmesan, a hard goat’s cheese such as Ticklemore, or a firm ewe’s milk cheese such as Berkswell would also work well.

SERVES 4 1 small squash, such as butternut, Crown Prince, onion or Harlequin, or ½ larger one (about 1kg) 12 sage leaves, bruised 4 garlic cloves, thickly sliced 100ml rapeseed or olive oil A large knob of butter 300g open cap mushrooms, thickly sliced A small bunch of rocket 150g blue cheese, such as Harbourne Blue, Dorset Blue Vinny or Stilton, crumbled Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Dressing 3 tablespoons rapeseed or olive oil 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (ideally apple balsamic)

Preheat the oven to 190°C/Gas Mark 5. Peel, halve and deseed the squash. Cut into 2–3cm chunks and put into a roasting tin with the sage leaves, garlic, all but 1 tablespoon of the oil and a generous seasoning of salt and pepper. Roast for about 40 minutes, stirring once, or until soft and coloured at the edges.

Put the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a frying pan with the butter and place over a medium heat.

Throw in the mushrooms along with a little salt and pepper and fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they are cooked through and any liquid they release has evaporated.

For the dressing, in a small bowl, whisk the oil and balsamic vinegar together with some salt and pepper.

In a large bowl, combine the still-warm (but not hot) cooked squash and mushrooms with the rocket and cheese. Add enough dressing to dress them lightly (you may not need it all), toss together and serve.

This recipe features in ‘River Cottage Veg Every Day’, published by Bloomsbury Publishing plc, and available from rivercottage.net.

35 wildlife Let nature look after you by Sally Welbourn, DWT Communications Officer

How often do we say to ourselves, ‘I need some fresh air’? organised programme of ‘ecotherapy’ they can reduce their Or do you often enjoy the feeling of taking in a stunning need for medication and develop more confidence.” view, or the smell after a rain shower? The project also aims to help those in long-term It’s not a coincidence that those things make us ‘feel’ unemployment with AQA qualifications in horticultural better – because it has now been proven that spending skills being available for participants. time outside with nature can benefit our wellbeing Project Greengage in Swanage will be sited at a former considerably. Benefits to our health, both physically and plant nursery site and will focus on growing pollinator friendly mentally can be reaped from spending time in the great plants, and herbs and vegetables, to promote healthy eating. outdoors – whether it’s on our own, or with other people. “We hope that the new Greengage project will offer a new In response to this, Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) has lease of life to people in the local community by improving created a new wellbeing ‘hub’ in Swanage, Dorset. The their current quality of life and rekindle their hope for the project, called Greengage is being led by DWT Community future. Ecotherapy and therapeutic horticulture can help Conservation Officer, Briony Baxter, who is also a qualified people to grow, as well as wildlife!” added Briony. psychotherapist with 10 years’ experience in private Dorset Wildlife Trust has already received tremendous practice and the NHS. “Having run a similar project to support for this project, and has raised £14,500 so far, but this in Devon, I have seen the real and lasting difference needs to raise another £3,000. You can pledge to support it can make to people’s lives,” said Briony. “There are Greengage at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/greengage and also numerous studies that show when someone with help us to use our wonderful natural environment to turn depression or anxiety, for example, becomes involved in an people’s lives around. book reviews

The Running Hare – The Secret Life of Farmland by John Lewis-Stempel Over the course of a year, Lewis-Stempel observes in poetic detail the natural history of a traditionally managed wheat field. He sets out to rent an arable field, along with an adjoining wood and some pasture and while his conventional neighbours regularly spray off weeds and insects in their crop to maximise production, Stempel actively encourages threatened arable wildflowers, birdlife and his cherished family of hare to occupy his plot with seemingly little loss of yield. He uses bygone methods to plough, plant and harvest his corn, stands wheat stooks in the field to dry before taking home to feed to his cattle and leaves the ground untilled over winter to allow nature to fully claim any spilled grain and seeds before he reluctantly turns it back to grassland the following spring. This is a thoroughly insightful country read, although (perhaps deliberately) the reader is left feeling saddened that this is a landscape which we are close to losing in today’s modern, demanding world. Published by Doubleday | £14.99 hardback

Wild hares and hummingbirds - The Natural History of an English Village by Stephen Moss The “watery wonderland” of the village of Mark on the Somerset Levels is the stage for this delightful study of the natural world and its inhabitants through the course of the four seasons. For a region devastated by flooding during its winter months in recent years, Stephen Moss takes a closer look at the wildlife that calls the Levels its home throughout the year, from the chilly winter months to the long summer season heralded by the return of swallows. Noisy, nesting rooks, soaring buzzards making the most of thermals, the controversial sett of badgers and even tiny sparrows, each has captivated the author as he explores their rich and varied habitat. Then of course there are the hares - known for causing quite the spectacle during a certain month of the year – and the hummingbird hawkmoth that has journeyed more than 1,000 miles across Europe from Africa to the author’s very own buddleia. But Moss also warns his readers of the dangers of global warming, and just what is at stake. Publisher by Vintage | £9.99 paperback 36 Streamcombe Cookery School Waterless toilets for remote Dulverton - Exmoor - Somerset sites. High and low use. Breadmaking Fish cookery Culinary techniques  Garden studios Game & seasonal food  Summerhouses Indian and Italian  Remote work locations plus  Rural churches Team building Private groups  Allotments  Community Orchards Day courses from £125  Parks [email protected] 01398 322873 01686 412653 [email protected] www.streamcombecookery.co.uk www.natsol.co.uk Silky Fox Saws DORSET DOWN FAST FINISHING LAMBS OFF GRASS Silky Fox Saws Foxley Estate Offi ce, Mansel Lacy, Hereford HR4 7HQ Tel: 01981 590224 Secateurs and Hedgeshears in superb Fax: 01981 590355 high quality tempered Japanese steel plus… the world’s fi nest pruning saws www.silkyfox.co.uk ATV’s NEW & USED Quads for Sale, Trailers & Equipment Supplied, Near Axminster Dorset Down Sheep 2016 HORSE HAYLAGE Breeders’ Association Agricultural & General Engineering 5ft Quadrant Double Wrapped Square Bales Havett Farm, Dobwalls, and Fabrication work undertaken Discount for Large Quantities Liskeard PL14 6HB Winkleigh, West Devon Area Tel: 01579 320273 SIMON DUFF ENGINEERING T: 01837 810 355 | M: 07764 150 950 [email protected] 01460 220731 www.dorsetdownsheep.org.uk E: [email protected] KING of the PRIME LAMB BREED www.axe-atv.co.uk

country diary July/August Diary

2-18 September 8 September The Artists Garden: Art Exhibition Traditional Silver smithing RHS Garden Rosemoor. For details visit www.rhs.org.uk/ Spend the day creating your own unique silver ring with gardens/rosemoor a decorative surface using traditional hand skills. For details visit www.dorsetruralskills.co.uk 3 September Building and Maintaining your own Website 10 September With Devon Smallholders. e: training@ Levels Best Farmers Market at Willows & Wetlands devonsmallholders.co.uk www.devonsmallholders.co.uk Visitor Centre Levels Best Farmers Markets at the Willows & Wetlands 3 September Visitor Centre at Stoke St Gregory 10am-2pm. Bee Keeping - Taster Day www.englishwillowbaskets.co.uk At Buckfast Abbey, cost: £25 Visit www.buckfast.org.uk 10 & 23 September & 21 October 8 September & 10 October Breadmaking at Streamcombe Cookery School Chainsaw Competence A hands-on day learning the art of breadmaking. Call Ian City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 Award in chainsaw maintenance on 01398 322873, [email protected] and operations. www.devonsmallholders.co.uk or visit www.streamcombecookery.co.uk 37 country diary

16-18 September Autumn Splendor Flower Festival Over 80 arrangements will adorn the rooms of the house For details visit www.fordeabbey.co.uk

22-24 September 15 October The Glamping Show Textile Market - Willows & Wetlands Centre Whether you are an established operator or planning Fabric Remnants, Haberdashery, Yarns, Linens, to launch a glamping business; a visit to the Glamping Quality nearly new clothing, 10am - 2pm For Show will pay dividends! www.theglampingshow.com details call Joslyn on 07889 731973 23 September or [email protected] Hedge Laying The course will cover hedge laying methods. For full 15 October details visit www.crestdevon.co.uk Introduction to Plant Pathology This one-day classroom-based course is designed 23-25 September for people who wish to understand the roles Real Ale and Cider Weekend and functions of pathogens in crops and Supported by the North Devon branch of CAMRA. gardens. email: [email protected] For details visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor www.crestdevon.co.uk

28 September & 26 October Sedgemoor Livestock Market Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle-15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows. Stock to be booked in with the market office by 18 & 29 October 21 Sep. Licences to be obtained from Truro Trading Welding Day Standards on 03000 200301 or swenglandtblicensing@ Arc MIG and gas welding, for hobby, beginners or apha.gsi.gov.uk Sale commences 4.30pm refreshers. For details visit www.dorsetruralskills.co.uk/

1-7 October 22 October Smallholding School An Introduction to Sheep Keeping A week-long selection of courses. Cost: £395 for the A beginner’s guide to sheep keeping. Tel: 01837 810274 week (£770 for a double booking) Tel: 01837 810274 e: [email protected] or visit www.southyeofarm.co.uk e: [email protected] or visit www.southyeofarm.co.uk 22-23 October 2 October Pumpkin Weekend Apple Day Get ready for Halloween at Rosemoor. For details visit Rosemoor’s Apple Day is organised in conjunction www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor with Orchards Live, Thornhayes Nursery. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor 22-30 October Wild About Gardens – Half Term Fun. 14-16 October Crediton, 21-23 Axminster, For full details visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor 28-30 Okehampton Equine Events at Mole Avon Town & Country Stores 22-30 October Great special offers, local equine attractions and Playful Pumpkins for Halloween specialists will be in store offering help and trusted Loads to do for the children over the half term break, advice - ask in store for details or keep an eye on both inside and outside. www.fordeabbey.co.uk Facebook and Twitter. 29 October 15-16 October Living with Livestock Autumn Antiques & Collectables Fair This course gives you the opportunity to consider what it Devon County Antiques Fairs organise another of really means to have sheep, pigs and cows. Get a clearer their popular events. For details visit www.rhs.org.uk/ idea of what animal and breed might best suit you and gardens/rosemoor your land. For details visit devonsmallholders.co.uk 38 our country year Quince Honey Farm In the dead of night this autumn more than 60,000,000 bees that have been gorging themselves on Exmoor’s lush purple heather will be transported back down into shelter for their rich honey to be harvested. Family-run Quince Honey Farm at South Molton is behind the logistical exercise that takes place over several nights in mid-September to bring the 1,000 hives – each containing an average of 60,000 bees – back down to the lowlands for the cool winter months. The hives have spent the summer spread out over the moors from Exford to Molland and Withypool up to Minehead and Dunster. This allows the bees to enjoy the lush heather high up on the moors. But with autumn setting in, cooler temperatures and windy nights just around the corner it is important that the hives are brought back down to shelter, not only for the honey to be harvested, but also so the hive stands a greater chance of being able to maintain its core temperature of 35.5 degrees Celsius. With the bees back in the hive at sunfall – due to a lack of night vision – the night hours provide the perfect time for the hives to be rounded up. “That’s the best time to bring them home to their apiaries,” said Ian. “We have to try and do that before the sun comes up, otherwise we have got a trailer load of bees on the road which is not very suitable.” The honey farm is home to around 20 hives for visitors to the farm to take a look at, while the others are distributed to around 60 farms around the region from Torrington to No Man’s Land as far east as Rackenford and everywhere inbetween. The farm was established by George Wallace with During a good season, the farm’s five tonne settling just two hives of bees in 1949 and over the years the tank is filled to the brim multiple times over, before the family-run business has expanded and been passed popular honey goes on sale at the farm’s shop. down to George’s sons Paddy and Jon in the 1970s, before grandson Ian Wallace joined the business in 2004. www.quincehoneyfarm.co.uk Now Ian is busy preparing for what is one of their busiest times of the year. “Mid-September is when the heather stops flowering and the temperature starts to drop so there is no real reason for them to be up there,” said Ian. “So it becomes a race against time to bring them back down.” Together with two other beekeepers at dusk they begin rounding up the 1,000-or-so hives from the wilds of Exmoor, which were taken up onto the moors earlier in the summer season. “We try and find nooks and crannies away from where a lot of people would normally go, so they’re not being investigated by people or hammered by the wind,” said Ian. “Porlock to County Gate is wonderful for heather – it is really nice deep purple – there is acres and acres of it and we think the sea mist helps with the nectar yield up there, so that is a great spot for them.” 39