EXTRA Winter wonderland!
Jules Hudson on celebrating a new season at Cannon Hall Farm…
Q What can we expect from Winter on the Farm?
A It’s a lovely, uplifting winter offering reflecting on the year that’s gone and looking forward to the year ahead. Farming doesn’t stop, even through the challenges of winter, and there are preparations for spring. That’s what we’ll be seeing with all our furry friends at Cannon Hall, and we’ll also show what the season means across the country.
Q Where will you be visiting?
A JB Gill has been in Devon looking at an interesting project with water voles. And we’ve got a call to arms to encourage us all to make best use of our natural spaces as places of wellbeing.
Helen Skelton has been in Buttermere while I have been in the Forest of Dean.
Q What animals are you hoping to see?
A We’ll catch up with some who came into the world during Springtime on the Farm. Biscuit the pygmy goat is delightful, and there are lovely donkey foals, Shetland foals and a shire- horse foal, plus the usual faces like Jon Bon Pony and Zander the alpaca!
Q What are farmers Rob and Dave Nicholson up to?
A They’re in Switzerland, making chocolate, so I’m hoping that they bring some back. They will also be cheesemaking – although, having seen their culinary efforts, I’m not sure about that!
Q What can you tell us about Christmas on the Farm, which is coming soon?
A It always has extra sparkle with festive cheer. Emmerdale’s Lisa Riley is coming along, and David Melleney from The Yorkshire Vet is visiting reindeer. Chef Tim Bilton will provide festive fare, while JB, Rob and Dave will see who is the best at gift-wrapping. I think JB will smash it!