Agriculture

Summer brings a special season for farmers, a time marked by anticipation and excitement as they prepare for the show season. At the heart of this period is the Royal Highland Show, a prestigious and eagerly awaited event that stands out as a yearly highlight in their calendars.

John Craven embarks on a sentimental journey back to the quaint Gloucestershire village of Hillesley, marking a significant milestone – half a century since his initial visit as a young reporter for the local newspaper.

As the warmth of summer embraces the landscape, life in the Cairngorms takes on a vibrant hue. Here, amidst the sprawling vistas, Robert’s herd experiences the joyous liberation of open fields.

Throughout the ever-changing seasons, the life of a farmer remains a continuous cycle of tasks and responsibilities.

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 9 – As the first whispers of spring mingle with the crisp air, the season ushers in not just blooming flowers and longer days, but also the miracle of newborn livestock, a time of both joy and relentless work for those who tend them. In the serene surroundings of North Uist, there lies a tiny haven known as Vallay, where Carianne immerses herself in the rugged beauty and the daily adventures it brings. Her primary quest these days involves the meticulous tracking of new Highland calves, born amidst the raw beauty of the island. However,

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 8 – With the approach of summer and the days stretching longer, the MacDonald family busily prepares to round up their expecting Highland cattle on the quaint, secluded island of Vallay, located just off the shores of North Uist. This has become an annual tradition to ensure that the cattle receive their essential prenatal check-up and are supplemented with the necessary vitamins to guarantee their well-being. Over in the scenic Newtonmore, situated within the breathtaking Cairngorms, Jenni is brimming with excitement. After months of planning and construction, her brand new alpaca arena stands completed. Now,

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 7 – In the ever-changing rhythm of life, anticipation and care for new beginnings becomes a central theme for many. For some, it means attending to the needs of their charges every minute of every day. In the quaint village of Inverkip, following a heartwarming and successful pregnancy scan, Rachel and Camy are immersed in preparations. They’re meticulously setting up their sheds in anticipation of welcoming this year’s batch of Park Cheviot Ewes, the cream of the crop from their flock. While the hope is that these prized ewes will deliver their young unaided, Rachel

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 6 – As a new year dawns, it heralds the promise of fresh beginnings and unparalleled experiences. Carianne, accompanied by her steadfast brother-in-law, Alexander, venture with Faillish, their majestic bull, to the renowned Oban Highland Show. Their aspirations are two-fold: they hope not only to earn the honor of a coveted rosette but also to find a discerning buyer who recognizes Faillish’s worth. Yet, amidst these hopes, Carianne grapples with apprehensions about leading the charge.     Meanwhile, in the picturesque South Ayrshire, the lambing season kickstarts sooner than most places. The pedigree Suffolks are

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 5 – As the festive season swiftly approaches, the air is filled with anticipation and the gentle hum of holiday preparations. Yet, amid the enchanting glow of twinkling lights, Scotland’s diligent farmers face the harsh winter, battling the relentless elements to ensure the continuity of their critical operations. In the quaint locale of South Ayrshire, the otherwise serene ambiance is shattered by the sudden onslaught of a bitter deep freeze. John’s farm, nestled gently in this scenic setting, is thrown into disarray. The plummeting temperatures wreak havoc on the vital farm machinery, bringing operations to

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 4 – As the chill of winter begins to spread its icy grasp over Scotland, the landscape is transformed into a picturesque panorama of frost-laden hills and snow-capped mountains. For many, it’s a time to hunker down in the warm embrace of home, seeking solace in the comfort of a crackling fire. Yet, amidst the icy expanses, farmers relentlessly persevere, braving the cold to tend to their livestock and lay the groundwork for the forthcoming year. In the remote reaches of North Uist, Fraser and Carianne embark on a journey to the mainland. The brisk

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 3 – In the picturesque setting of North Uist, the MacDonald family is bustling with excitement and anticipation for an annual ritual that holds great significance in their lives. The event? A challenging journey of leading their 150 pregnant highland cattle from the mainland to the serene tidal island of Vallay. With the island only becoming accessible by foot for a brief six-hour period due to the tides, the MacDonalds are always on a tight clock, having to race against the ever-encroaching waters to ensure all their cattle make it safely across.     Camy,

This Farming Life 2023 Episode 2 – Autumn, with its golden hues and crisp air, heralds a time of both challenges and rewards for the dedicated farmers across the scenic landscapes of Scotland. Nestled in Inverkip, a couple named Rachel and Camy are bravely embarking on their second year of laying the foundation for their very own farm. They’ve taken on the hefty responsibility of a tenancy at the esteemed Dunrod Farm and coupled it with a substantial bank loan. Their dreams soar high, envisioning a future where they boast ownership of a remarkable flock of 5,000 sheep. However, as