I have had the dream of farming for many years and now feel i need to make some changes and set some goals. I have know substantial knowledge of farming despite having some knowledge of farm machinery and know how to drive / use a tractor. My first goal would be to have some land and house and be a 'hobby farmer' alongside my full time job, then i can make a decission if i want to do it on a larger scale and become 'full time'.

 I would like animals ofcourse, pigs and some poultry (doesn't have to be chickens) but pigs would be my main interest. Also interested i growing veg, spuds, beetroot and whatever else fits in the cycle but not interested to be a grain farmer. I need to learn these skills but how? Would i be wise to try and find a local farmer who can teach me said skills in exchange for minimum wage and me giving him one day of weekend? Ofcourse i want to learn the business side aswell as the practical applications. Any other ideas suggestions for me to learn?

Hoping you can point me in the right direction. Please ask me any questions that may help you give the best advice.

Regards, Tim

 well i mean college on day realease is always good, alternatly work. along side the internet and/or books are always good. Well actully i really recomend a good book or 2 (i have some in mind, but will have to get back to you on titles). There's been a few programs of interest on tv, hopefully you saw old jimmy's programs.

Poultry is fairly easy, shouldn't have any worrys really, read a book, reseach prices/trade, and your set.

pigs.... work on a pig farm, best thing really, either one/couple days a week, or for a fortnight? again books, and prices/trade.

as for veg, no personal experience, but at a guess, either go really big for large machines and employ... or go fairly small, do things by hand a bit, get good storage, promote that it's fresh local produce and sell to pubs and resturants and people in the area.

thats just an idea and my view, take it with a pinch of salt.