Last month we recorded 17mm of rain this month a complete turnaround with 108mm most of which has been in the form of heavy thundershowers dumping 20mm at once. The water however has run off as quick as it came so we do not have floods or waterlogged fields to contend with.

We have had visitors this month firstly Andrea from London who came for 2 weeks work experience as she hopes to become a vet and is currently studying for her A levels. Here she is learning to milk. Andrea was also on hand when a fresh calved cow developed a condition called "Milk Fever" click to find out more.

 

Also visiting this month was Carol and family from Pennsylvania USA. Carol's husband was seconded from his company to work in their Cheshire site and Carol asked me if she could have a real visit as they had looked at us at their school. Here they are on their real tour.

We have had 7 calves born this month 3 black and white bulls, 1 black and white heifer, 2 angus bulls and 1 Angus heifer 2 of the Angus being twins.

Last month I mentioned the NFU national roadshow trailer click here for a report.

We finished haymaking in July; the silage was not quite ready due to the dry weather in July so we have been on maintenance. Painting the milking parlour and finishing the brickwork on the Lean-to shed that we began last year.

Also we have fitted this trough on the orchard to catch the roof water and due to the rainfall it has certainly been of use.

This month's nature trail features some slugs and grubs click here to see them.

September is going to be busy the oats will need combining. Richardsons are cutting the silage on the 6th and we have bought a bulk feed bin to hold feed for our youngstock that will need collecting and fitting it is 2m wide and 5.5m high so it should be interesting to handle.

Finally Foot and Mouth has still not gone away so be careful if visiting the countryside, we have increased our bio-security by installing this tank for chemical at our front gate to keep a good supply for the mats.

See you next month Phil

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