Robert Kynaston
Robert Kynaston, 50, is not just a farmer, he is also a devoted custodian of the countryside. For the past 24 years he has farmed and nurtured the 242 acres of woodland and fields at Great Wollaston Farm just outside Shrewsbury. Robert is also a member of LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), an organisation which promotes environmentally responsible farming, and the organisation behind Open Farm Sunday on the 13th June.
As a LEAF farmer, Robert is not only committed to producing good food, but he is equally serious about his wider role in caring for the environment. His proudest achievements include the coppice woodland and wild bird crops which have become giant bird tables for a variety of birds including Linnets, Finches and Yellowhammers which feed on the seeds that Robert produces on the farm.
This year he was named by RSPB as one of England’s ten most ‘inspirational wildlife-friendly farmers’. When he is not tending to the land, his time is spent taking care of his herd of 100 cows which supply 1,143,840 pints of milk a year – that’s the equivalent of filling 7,222 baths!
Robert is a third generation farmer at Great Wollaston Farm. Although he initially started a career as an engineer, the lure of the farm proved too strong and he returned to farming when he was 25, a decision that he has never regretted. Of the countless and varied jobs that Robert has to do, he says nothing beats helping a cow to give birth but trimming the hooves of cows is definitely his least favourite activity! Robert also takes great pleasure and pride in hosting farm visits to school children throughout the year.
For a great day out and to find out more about how your food is produced and the countryside around you cared for, visit Robert at Great Wollaston Farm on the 13th June for Open Farm Sunday 2010.
To arrange a visit to Great Wollaston Farm or an interview with Robert contact:
Naomi Barry or Amanda Wadlow
Open Farm Sunday Press Office
T: 01189 475956 M : 07920 098498