Farmer Focus: Getting itchy feet about returning to work
Annabel Hamilton © Angus Findlay Arthur is four months old now. May has nearly gone and, I must admit, I am beginning to get itchy feet regarding returning to work.
I have taken a form of maternity leave, which has involved talks with Dad while Arthur watches on, and answering the odd phone call to wagon drivers.
Autumn seed tonnages need to be finalised. Cropping for this autumn needs to be tweaked, and there is a constant stream of emails to reply to.
See also: On-farm grain processing adds value and market
About the author
I am slowly beginning to get some time in the office. My husband Tom and my mother Carol understand the draw the farm has for me.
They are both a huge help looking after Arthur, allowing me time to do so.
It has been hard not being involved in the day-to-day running of the farm, but I know it’s not for ever and that normal service will resume.
In the middle of May we hosted the Holt Farm Tour Group from North Norfolk, consisting of 27 members who embarked on a visit to the Scottish Borders to see what we have to offer in the land of Milk and Honey.
We did a tour around the steading, followed by a trip out to the field where we were drilling vining peas. This was a good chance to see some big green and red toys in action.
Dad and I enjoy hosting groups to the farm – it is a great chance to share our experiences, but also an opportunity to hear what is happening in other parts of the country.
My mother is a local councillor for East Berwickshire, and she recently attended the Border Union Schools Countryside Day.
More than 50 countryside-based industries and individuals shared their expertise and time with 1,200 primary schoolchildren, with opportunities to see food production, farm animals and machinery.
The society should be congratulated on organising this fantastic event, with pupils from more than 60 schools being given an insight into the countryside and agricultural industry.
