Photo: from National Trust: Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker
walling.There are a lot of foundations around the 600 acres that reflect the things that have gone by over the years and the way that the shepherds used to work the land. So I’d look at reinstating some of those.
“I’d also keep on with those heritage animals, the stock that’s there, the Welsh Black cattle and the mountain sheep. I would run it very traditionally, but I’d invite people to come and experience that world.”
So what misconceptions does Baker think people have about countryside life and farming?
“It’s maybe a bit rose-tinted,” Baker admits.“It’s not as bucolic as people imagine. Our countryside goes on in winter.The tougher months are really challenging. People think things only happen in springtime, when the birds are tweeting and the flowers are out, the lambs are bouncing around.
“But let me tell you, it’s very hard work, it’s a tough life, and it’s not a job, it’s a lifestyle. Families are wrapped up in this constantly, and they work together. I think the togetherness and the community are very strong in the rural community.
“I think the biggest misconception is that people don’t understand where our food comes from or how it’s produced and the effort level.You only have to try and grow cress (an edible herb) on the window, think about a bit of food production, and then ask yourself the question, are you still doing it?
“And if you’re not still growing cress on the window, why not? A lot of people can’t be bothered, so be thankful to the people that are producing your food.”
National Trust: Our Dream Farm With Matt Baker comes to Channel 4 on Saturday, March 15
mccarthyholden.co.uk | 57
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting