Simon and Lynn Pelly
Simon and Lynn are farmers with a difference! Visitors to their farm at Bishop Middleham in Co Durham will see not cows and sheep or even chickens, but North American bison, elk, red deer and a flock of rhea! Theirs is a great example of successful diversification, and how many farmers are adapting to produce new foods, that meet the needs of today’s consumer. Simon and Lynn are also members of LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), an organisation which promotes environmentally responsible farming, and the organisation behind Open Farm Sunday which is held on the 13th June.
New parents, the Pellys, supported by Lynn’s Dad, Stuart and Mum, Daphne, also work extremely hard at protecting the countryside around Farnless Farm, which is part of an Environmental Stewardship Scheme. This means that they work in harmony with nature to protect the land and its wildlife, whilst producing safe, wholesome and affordable food for us all to enjoy.
Simon and Lynn are rightly proud that Farnless Farm is recognised by Defra and the RSPB as being one of the best farms in the North East for wild birds. It is, for example, home to the largest number of Corn Buntings in the region, and Skylarks and Tree Sparrows are just some of the many, many birds that can be seen here. There is also a nature reserve on the farm where rare plants, including orchids and butterflies can be found.
Simon’s passion for bison began in when he was working in America, and he quickly recognised the benefits that farming bison and other ‘alternative’ animals could offer in this country. He was therefore delighted when four years ago, his dream of farming them came true!
Simon has a degree in Animal Science and alongside helping to manage Farnless Farm also runs a business that provides animal housing to the highest welfare standards – a job that takes him all over the world. But Co Durham is clearly where his heart is! Although there is always a never ending list of jobs to do, like mending fences, fixing machinery and maintaining buildings, Simon says nothing beats meeting visitors to the farm and sharing his passion for American bison.
For a great day out and to find out more about how your food is produced and the countryside around you cared for, visit Simon and Lynn at Farnless Farm on the 13th June for Open Farm Sunday 2010.
To arrange an interview with Simon or Lynn contact:
Naomi Barry or Amanda Wadlow
Open Farm Sunday Press Office
T: 01189 475956 M : 07920 098498