Peace

Calving and Lambing 2025 is such a contrast to that of 2024 – wall to wall sunshine has meant the team can get calves and lambs on the ground without battling the elements. It’s a well-oiled machine now with returning student Maggie Brown making sure night checks are done with a beady eye and the pens are all bedded, fed, watered, lambs full and shed swept before the day shift arrive.

Ewan and Jack are assisted by Logan and Emma during the day, with ewes lambing inside and out at the moment, there needs to be clear responsibilities. Calving is now 80% complete with close attention from Cameron and Imogen assisted by Joe this year. The only curveball being a surprising number of caesareans needing to be performed. Something we try to avoid, but when necessary, we have the amazing Ainslie from Eden Vets and his team on standby.

All of the Spring cereals and pulses have been planted, completing the operation earlier than we began the previous year. Soil is warming up and conditions near perfect, so now it’s a game of wait and see. We have tried to avoid ploughing where we can to reduce soil disturbance, so there are some fields we hope the crop gets away before the clover and grass companion crop.

At the end of last month Sam had the opportunity to join the Pickups 4 Peace 19^th convoy to Ukraine in a vehicle sponsored by Borders Machinery Ring, spurred on by Trump’s “Whitehouse moment” with President Zelinski.

Often there seem very few things we can do as individuals to help our European neighbours. Politicians and leaders of Europe are all making the right noises to support at arm’s length so as not to trigger the looming fear of retaliation. Meanwhile we try to ignore the realities of a war against free speech and democracy which is happening only two day drive from us.

P4P is a charity sending pickups to Ukraine to help in a humanitarian capacity enabling rapid extraction of injured soldiers to receive medical attention. Most of us rely on similar vehicles for mundane farm roles and the thought of providing a fitting end for a truck that has served well on the farm, to finish its days out in a valiant dash, is one we would all be proud to facilitate.

The trip provided an opportunity to learn more about the conflict, history and above all – the people. A nation who would be forgiven for being distracted by the seriousness of the situation, the hospitality and welcome received was humbling to say the least. Meeting the most fascinating and intelligent people, who were only ever keen to repeat their appreciation for the support which the UK provides morally and physically.

So in short – We can do something to help – not only grab a truck, load it with essential supplies, meet a truly engaging group of people and drive a few miles in the same time it takes to plough a good field but, also show the Ukranians some support and demonstrate that they are not alone – you will be in awe of the country and its people!