What’s in this issue?
This month, we’ve got a special focus on one of the most fascinating and characterful breeds produced in the UK: ‘guardian of the fells’, the Herdwick sheep (which can probably claim its lineage from invading Vikings). Lake District farmer Jo McGrath has hit upon a unique way of teaching visitors about farming, Cumbria and its famous landscape by offering days out with her flock – a chance to chat about farming and the countryside, whilst her ‘ambassador flock’ graze nearby and a few of the tamer ones come in for a scratch and some extra feed.
Also in this edition…
- Farmer and artist Jo McGrath is using her special flock of Herdwick sheep to help visitors understand more about the Lake District and farming.
- The humble cauliflower is finding a new generation of fans in Britain’s kitchens, reports Michael Barker.
- Myriad nifty attachments are available for getting the most out of your compact tractor. James Andrews picks out some prize examples.
- As the seasons turn, Miranda Gore Browne’s food column focuses on delicious British apples, with three scrumptious apple-themed recipes.
- Plus, Lorna Maybery chats to two Somerset cider producers: Harry’s Cider and Thatcher’s Cider, both of whom are keen on sustainability.
- This month, Tracey Colley from the Academy of Cheese recommends cheeses from Somerset, Northern Ireland and Yorkshire.
- How do you make sure you choose the right dog for you? Looking at the original purpose of its breeding, for example hunting or herding, may offer the solution.
- Spotlight on the Indian Game chicken, the benefits of apple cider vinegar as a health supplement for your flock, and the problem of mites.
- Author interview – Editor Martin Stanhope chats to poet, author and TV presenter Pam Ayres.
- In harness - Author Charlotte Reather steps back in time and spends a day ploughing with heavy horses.
- From places to stay and visit, to the best restaurants and pubs serving local food, Megan Allen sees what the Essex countryside has in store.
- Although they’ve been circulating for countless generations, classic fairy tales never fall out of favour. But what we might not always notice is what’s lurking in the background – nature.
