ORKNEY’S ANCIENT LIFEBLOOD

The draw of Orkney’s ancient history can never be underestimated when it comes to attracting visitors, protecting traditions, and celebrating our culture. So much has changed since the raising of our striking standing stones, that it is sometimes hard to see ourselves in these timeless treasures left behind for our wonderment.

But, through the sands of time, one constant has remained. Farming has shaped and moulded these islands for the past 5,000 years.

Spanning as far back as Skara Brae itself, Orkney’s agriculture continues to be the lifeblood of our community.

The agricultural industry in Orkney is known mostly for its livestock products, particularly beef and lamb. The county also boasts a dairy industry resulting in delicious milk, cheeses, ice cream, yoghurt and even milkshakes!

Orkney was once considered a cornerstone of the British egg industry, with 50million eggs produced annually in the years following The Second World War. Sadly, major storms in the early 1950s led this sector collapse, as hundreds of hen houses were obliterated.

Novel developments include the rearing of rare-breed pork in Sanday, an enterprise which has attracted attention from Michelin Star establishments.

Providing strength and sustenance to our economy and our dinner tables, farmers are the guardians of our rich natural landscape. To this day, much of our cultural calendar revolves around agriculture — from ploughing matches to young farmers’ concerts; from show week through to the harvest homes.

Indeed, the climax of the Orkney summer is almost universally considered to be our agricultural show season each August.

Show week brings together the very best of Orkney cattle, sheep, horses, goats, poultry and pets. For many, the local shows in Sanday, the East Mainland, Shapinsay, St Margaret’s Hope, and Dounby, are a time for fun and relaxation, with activities for all the family on offer.

The week culminates, on the second Saturday in August, with County Show — one of the biggest days of the year in the Orkney calender.

An opportunity for farmers to showcase their best livestock ahead of breeding and sales, the shows are also a platform for Orkney’s industry — much of which is built around farmers.

As the president of the 2023 County Show put it: “It’s a reminder of the importance of the agricultural community, which has shaped and moulded these islands for some 5,000 years.

“It’s an opportunity for farmers to showcase what they do best.

“It’s an opportunity to celebrate our agricultural heritage, and it’s very important to keep our traditions alive. “