THE LONG FEED

The winter feeding routine around the farm is daunting. Feed in the correct order with the right amounts or you will certainly hear about it, with barks, neighs, bleating, crowing and braying all demonstrating disapproval.

The flock get organic pellets and ancient meadow hay, with selenium licks and mineral vitamin blocks available at all times. Pony and donkeys get their hay, and a chaff and coarse mix. Poultry get an assortment of layer pellets, rearing pellets, and chick crumb – don’t get them in the wrong order either! Pups are started on high protein food, four cairn terriers get adult rations, Annie the lab and Bob the collie get a mix of high protein and working dog food and the older dogs get OAP rations. Wild birds get their seeds last.

Finally it’s time to feed yourself. There’s nothing better than eggy bread washed down with a mug of coffee, toasting your toes up against the wood burner. Maybe winter isn’t that bad after all.