I feel sufficient time has lapsed for me to be able to introduce you to a new member of the High Mead Farm team; a characterful crocodile who arrived on the very day our beloved queen passed.

Our Co-Farmers, whose sense of humour should never be underestimated, took one look at her beaming smile and decided that only one name was fitting. ‘Liz’ is now residing happily in our sensory garden, welcoming all who visit. I don’t feel I should comment on the likeness, but I must admit to smiling to myself every time I see her.

Another reason to smile is that October was another very positive month for High Mead. An invitation to Sturminster Marshall Golf Club on their Captains’ Day, culminated in a very generous donation thanks to their fundraising efforts. Numerous competitions and events, raffles and curry nights realised more than £3,500 for the farm!

Pictures: TIFFANY FLEMING

Whilst the current Captains’ charity year is over, we very much hope the new friends we have made over the last 12 months will stay in touch. Indeed, I bumped into one of their members at the farm the following week, as he delivered a donation of stunning hand-crafted walking sticks; one of which was whittled from wood from a 100-year-old tree. Thank you ‘Grumpy’, your skill is much appreciated, as is your generosity.
The sticks were much admired by our visiting Co-Farmers who would not usually have been on site on a Saturday, but this was a special occasion, our Co-Farmer’s Family Day.
A chance for friends and family to visit the farm and see what their charges have been up to. Many of our Co-Farmers travel independently to the farm, so their family only ever get to hear about their exploits; they rarely actually see first-hand what it is that occupies our Co-Farmers’ week. It’s a great way for them to show off all that they achieve and to introduce their loved ones, be they two-legged or four!  The excited chat as they led their parties around the farm, giving detailed explanations of even the most mundane feature, was a timely reminder how important High Mead is to so many. While we have been lucky with the weather this month, the very recent deluge does make the work a little harder and more challenging, but luckily does little to dampen our Co-Farmers enthusiasm! The Family Day was a lovely opportunity for the staff and volunteers to get to know the Co-Farmers’ nearest and dearest a little better, particularly over a delicious buffet lunch. It was super-busy day, and a super, busy day!

Pictures: TIFFANY FLEMING

Save the date: If you would like a chance to tour the farm and see for yourself just what it is that makes High Mead Farm the special place it is, our next Open Day is Sunday, December 18, when we are open to the
public from 10.00am to 4.00pm.