Six Inches of Soil
I just can't help myself! At the beginning of the year, I decided in my infinite wisdom, that it was a good idea to organise a screening of Six inches of Soil. This independent film tells the story of some young British farmers who are standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food - "to heal the soil, our health and provide for local communities". Following on from the critical acclaimed films Kiss the Ground and Common Ground, this is the UK offering on the hot topics of Regenerative Farming and soil health.
Tentatively, I released the tickets for sale.... I needn't have worried, interest in the film was growing up and down the UK and the lure of my fabulous panel was clearly a factor too! The panel consisted of Tom Fairfax of Mindrum Farming Co, Anna Smales of Thornton Farm, Johnny Renner of North Bellshill and finally Nic Renison of Renisons Farm near Penrith who actually features in the film, all local farmers and experts in various regenerative systems. Tickets sold out quickly, the night was a success and some interesting conversations were had!
Summer Showin', had me a blast....
"We'll just concentrate on a few this year" I remember casually saying at some point in May and whilst loading anywhere between 10 and 14 sheep onto the trailer each weekend for the foreseeable. I freely admit that I love it, even the late night, last minute dressing and colouring. But the bit I enjoy most, aside from being in the top frillies, is watching my two sons and how they conduct themselves and handle our sheep in large classes of mainly adults, this is why we show. The experience they gain from learning what goes into producing sheep for showing, from selecting the show team to the time involved in getting them "ring ready" to understanding the various breeds and what judges are potentially looking for in their Champion.
As it happens , we did put out a fairly successful, 4 generation team of Texels this year along with our experienced Suffolk ewe and a cracking Blue Texel gimmer...... We'll just be concentrating on a few in 2025.......... said with my fingers crossed!
Comments