Family's pride in first-rate flock is clear to see at club open day

A recent Devon farm visit organised by the West Country Lleyn Sheep Breeders Club was a source of inspiration for all, John Adams reports

- John Adams

FIFTY or so Westcountry farmers were privileged to visit Highwood Farm in Culm Davy on Sunday, August 10 for the West Country Lleyn Sheep Breeders Club's open day; where Daisy and Andy Parker showcased their splendid flock of Lleyn sheep and herd of Red Devon cattle both thrifty and sustainable British breeds.

Five generations of Andy's family have farmed Highwood, within the parish of Hemyock on the Blackdown Hills, with its 60 acres of south-facing clay soil at 550-feet above sea level, all in permanent pasture. An additional 40 adjacent acres of rented land complete the holding.

Andy started keeping sheep in 2005 with 20 ewes put to a Charollais ram but, when he married Daisy, the emphasis changed. Daisy loves sheep and lambing and wanted a pedigree flock so that she could breed her own replacements and also do some showing.